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Welcome to footballwa.net! Here you will find all the latest football news from Western Australia, current tables for the state's top four Leagues, archived tables and results dating back to 1950, the Western Australian Club Directory which includes honour lists and divisional movements for each club and much, much more.
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14.11.2025
WINTER HITS THE GROUND RUNNING AT WANNEROO
After guiding North Perth United to the Amateur Premier Division title last season, head coach Jason Winter has made the decision to move on, and will coach at Wanneroo City in 2026. Winters oversaw the league and cup double at Woodville Reserve in 2025, and along with his assistant Kevin Flavin, they have hit the ground running at Wanneroo Reserve, bring in a number of players, as the club look to bounce straight back to the State League, after relegation in the play-off against Morley Windmills.
Winter said it was a great way to depart United, but he is looking forward to the new challenge. “Last season at North Perth, was brilliant, as good as it gets really,” he said. “They had finished eighth in 2024, and we came on board and settled the ship, and we’ve just done the double and leave them in a good place. It was a tough decision to leave overall, I really enjoyed by time there, and the players have been nothing short of brilliant for Kevin and I, but it’s time for a new challenge, and one I can’t wait to started on.”
With relegated to the Amateurs, Winter knows it will be his job to turn things around, and he is confident they can. “The move to Wanneroo is an exciting one, it’s big club with a great set up and for me personally I live close to the ground which is good, but I’m also aware that there a lot of work to do,” he explained. “It’s a club that’s been struggling for a while on the pitch, and we need to try build a squad and a good culture within the club. They were in the Premier League in 2007, and won the Division One title in 2013, so we want to get the club back to where they belong. Kevin and I know it’s a huge task ahead, but it’s one we are looking forward to.”
The clubs have been busy in the transfer market, trying to build a squad as most have left after relegation, but a few have remained, which is pleasing for Winter, and he has also brought in some players from his former club. “Really pleased to have Asa Sippits, Jordan Rowe, Robbie Sallis and Seb Munoz resign for next season, with them showing great loyalty by committing to the club for the 2026 season,” he said. “We need to strengthen the squad and we’re delighted to bring in some players I knew well from North Perth.
“It’s massive for us to bring goalkeeper Cian Flynn to the club, he’s a great lad on and off the pitch, while Lewis Plackett is a big assist for us, as he can play in numerous positions in midfield. Cian was named Amateur Premier League Goalkeeper of the Year last season, and both lads have been named in the WA Amateur team that is in Malaysia, playing three matches against Malaysia Super League opposition PDRM and Kuala Lumpur City, as well as NPNG from the Selangor State Premier League.
“Thierry Berard is someone who I trust a lot, he’s been with me at East Perth, North Perth and WA state team in Malaysia, and he can also play in various positions, while Zak Thomas, who is also part of the WA Amateur team in Malaysia, is a quality left back and someone me and Kev identified as a player we really wanted, so delighted to have them all on board.” The club will be announcing more signings soon, and the club will be holding its AGM on Monday 1st December, with a new President to be decided. They encourage all members and supporters to come along, get involved, and help the club plan for the future.
14.11.2025
IT'S DO OR DIE FOR BAYSWATER
It is do or die, for Bayswater City in the final Group D game in the Australian Championship on Sunday, when they take on league leaders Wests APIA Leichhardt at Leichhardt Oval. (1:30pm) APIA are in pole position to take out the group, and although they are level on points, they are ahead of Bayswater by four goals. Bayswater were beaten for the first time in the competition last week at MetroStars, which means they need a point to guarantee a quarter-final spot, but a loss could see them pipped by MetroStars.
They could know their fate before kicking a ball, with MetroStars hosting Sydney United 58 at 10:00am, and if they fail to gain maximum points, Matthew Sparrow’s side will progress to the knock out stage. City’s first loss in the inaugural competition was a 2-0 defeat against MetroStars, with second half goals from Jackson Walls and a stunner from Christian Sotira which sealed the win for the hosts and kept their hopes of a quarter final spot alive. City did have their chances, but were second best on the day, and the scoreline could have been greater if not for a great performance from keeper Lewis Italiano.
Skipper Luke Palmateer said luck wasn’t on their side in the loss in Adelaide, but they have moved on. “We went into the MetroStars game knowing a point would progress us through to the next round. In hindsight we sat off then too deep and invited a lot of pressure onto us,” he explained. “We had moments in the game that in previous encounters in the Australian championship we managed to take, ride our luck and pick up a win however that wasn't the case on the day. We were unlucky to concede a deflected goal initially before a fantastic strike sealed the three points for them.”
APIA beat Sydney United last week, which ended the competition for United 58. They opened the scoring midway through the first half, with Seiya Kambayashi combining with Presley Ortiz to break into the left of the box and finished well. United 58 didn’t take long to respond and equalised shortly after. Aidan Milicevic’s free-kick picked out Michael Krslovic, who headed home. But the visitors won it when Dredon Kelly pounced on spilt ball by Vedran Janjetovic to score from close-range.
Palmateer said Sunday is new challenge, and is one of the biggest games in the club’s history. “Going into APIA game, we need to adjust our mindset and look to win more than to consolidate a point. We need to be more aggressive in our approach and look to be more clinical when presented with chances,” the defender said. “This competition doesn't allow you to make mistakes without being punished as the level of quality is a step up from NPLWA. The boys have put the result behind us after a recovery session last night and look to implement a fresh approach for this weekend’s biggest game in the club’s history.”
The last time they played Wests APIA, was in week four at Frank Drago Reserve, when Pat Loughrey’s goal sealed a hard fought 1-0 win. Unfortunately, the Irishman is unavailable for Sunday’s game, after picking up a a second yellow card in last week’s defeat, but Chris Jackson should be back after missing last week. It’s going to be a tough task for Bayswater, but I’m sure they will be up for the fight. Watch the game live on SBS on Demand.
14.11.2025
SKY BLUES IN TOVAR’S SIGHTS
Perth Glory ended their away day Ninja A-League hoodoo in round one, beating the Wanderers in Sydney, and they will be looking for back-to-back wins in the NSW capital, when they travel to Leichhardt Oval to take on Sydney FC on Saturday. (11:45am WA Time) The Sky Blues have had the wood on Glory in recent seasons, in fact the last time Glory beat them was in round 13 in season 2019-20 at the WIN Stadium in Wollongong, with a brace from American midfielder Morgan Andrews giving them a 2-1 win.
Another American, defender Emma Tovar played her home debut for the club last week, and was one of standout performers on the day, and she said she has settled in well in Perth. “My time here has been great and I’m really gelling with the girls pretty well,” she explained. “It’s been a bit of adjustment for me, but nothing I can’t handle, so yes it’s been great.”
The defender who has been called up by the Philippine national team recently, said a chat to their head coach Mark Torcaso, who coached in the A-League at Western United, saw her make the move to Glory. “Yes, Mark put me in touch with Stephen (Peters), and I know of the A-League but I wasn’t too sure about coming over here,” Tovar said. “But once I spoke to Mark and Stephen about Perth, they made the transition easy for me, and they have made me really welcome.”
The 21-year-old said it’s been a good start to the season, with a win against Western Sydney Wanderers and a narrow loss against Brisbane Roar, and they are looking to continue that on Saturday. “We have really had good moments of possession in the last two games, and we need to focus on keeping that possession and being patient waiting for the clear chance going forward,” the former Valencia midfielder said. “Defensively we want to try for a clean sheet, and we’ve also focused on that this week, and I’m confident we can execute well. We’ve learnt a lot from the last two games we’re ready for this weekend against Sydney.”
Glory head coach Stephen Peters said it’s another challenge, but the win against Wanderers has given them some much needed confidence on the road. “It would be great for us, great for our confidence, but we try not to think about things like that in isolation too much, but the enormity of the situation would only hit us if we were to achieve that,” he explained. “They’re a very proud club and have won the competition the most times in its history, so it would mean a massive amount if we were to win at Leichhardt.”
Peters is positive they can improve on their good performance in the loss to Brisbane last week, but they need to be switched on for 90 minutes. “We’re looking to quickly move on from the loss, learn from it and focus our full concentration on Sydney FC now,” the coach said. “Out of the four goals we’ve conceded [this season], three of them were not from open play. One was from a corner and two from throw-ins, so the fundamentals of defending need to be applied there. We need to be switched on during all moments of the game. Overall, we have to have more faith in our defensive system and be braver with it.”
The Sky Blues are still searching for their first win of the season, after draws against Melbourne City and Adelaide United, but Peters knows the quality Ante Juric’s side have. “If you look at those two games in isolation, Melbourne were the Premiers last year and Adelaide finished third, so I actually think those results were pretty good,” Peters said. “Defensively they look well organised and they have quality that can hurt you if you don’t look after those counter-attacks in the right way. They’ve only had an average of 35% possession across the two games… but I believe Ante is a very experienced coach and a winner, so there’s a method to the madness there.”
Saturday will be the 31st game between the two sides, with Sydney claiming 18 wins to Glory’s 10. The last time Glory played Sydney in NSW, was in round 22 last season, and it was heartbreak for Glory, as they pushed for a finals spot. It looked like they had won a hard fought 0-0 draw, but in stoppage time Princess Ibini found the winner. Glory has a clean bill of health after last week’s game, with Ischia Brooking and Tanika Lala added to the squad, but there is still no Georgia Cassidy, and Peters said she is getting closer to a return. “We just have to be really careful, because we have three away games in a row now, so we need to make sure we nail when she’s exactly right and get her some practice minutes before she gets actual minutes,” he said. “Hopefully off today’s session she builds a bit of continuity and starts to push for selection because we all know how much quality she has.”
Sydney FC squad: GK Heather HINZ, GK Tiahna ROBERTSON, 2 Madison AYSON, 4 Tori TUMETH, 5 Kirsty FENTON, 7 Amelia CASSAR, 9 Jodi ULKEKUL, 13 Riley TANNER, 14 Abbey LEMON, 15 Mackenzie HAWKESBY, 16 Willa PEARSON, 18 Amber LUCHTMEIJER, 21 Sarah HUNTER, 22 Alyssa ROSE, 23 Rubi SULLIVAN, 24 Caley TALLON-HENNIKER, 26 Madeleine CASPERS, 32 Bianca GALIC - *One to be omitted* - Ins: MOISE (promoted), LEMON (promoted) - Unavailable: 6 Shay HOLLMAN (leg), 8 Hana LOWRY (knee), 10 Indiana DOS SANTOS (knee), 12 Natalie TOBIN (hamstring)
Perth Glory squad: GK Alyssa DALL’OSTE, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 12 Bronte TREW, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 22 Ischia BROOKING, 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: BROOKING, LALA - Unavailable: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (All Injured)
14.11.2025
IREDALE IN LINE FOR SOCCEROOS DEBUT
Hibernian defender Jack Iredale is in line for a Socceroos debut, after being named in Tony Popovic’s squad for the friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia. The 29-year-old has had to fight for a spot in Australian squad, and at times that hope was miles away, after the defender suffered three ACL injuries on the same knee between the ages of 15 and 18 in Perth. He worked tirelessly with Perth Glory Youth and ECU Joondalup to get his knee back to full strength, and despite no A-League football, the then 21-year-old headed to Scotland in 2017 and signed for Greenock Morton.
Iredale said it’s been tough at times, but he played his 300th senior appearance last weekend for Hibernian, and to be in camp with the Socceroos is a dream come true. “It almost didn’t happen for me before it even started,” he said ahead of the Socceroos matches against Venezuela and Colombia. “When I was going through those setbacks, those injuries, it just solidified the fact that the only thing I want to do is to be able to play football. I know I’ve been through tough times, whether that’s on the pitch or off the pitch. No doubt I’ve got that resilience in me when it’s needed.
“I left Australia when I was 21 and started my professional career in Scotland. I think just last weekend I managed to get my 300th senior appearance. I’ve been away for a while, been grinding at it. I’ve said it a good few times, everyone that knows me and that speaks to me regarding football knows just how much being able to represent my country would mean to me and now being a part of this environment and being able to be involved in the lead up to games, it really does solidify that for me.”
The defender battled his way into the Cappielow Park side, after a stint on loan at Queens Park. He then headed south, and joined English League Two side Carlisle United, where he spent a season, before heading to League One club Cambridge United. His form at the Abbey Stadium caught the eye of fellow Division One club Bolton Wanderers, and Iredale signed a three-year deal with the Trotters. He had an injury interrupted first season with them, but became a regular in their starting line-up, and in 2024 he jumped at the chance to sign for Scottish Premier League side Hibernian, and he hasn’t looked back.
Popovic has added some new faces to the squad for this international window, with fellow Perth defender James Overy, Melbourne City’s Kai Trewin and Derby County defender Callum Elder. Iredale has been playing in a back three at Easter Road, and will be competing for spot with the likes of Cam Burgess – who he’s known for the best part of two decades – Milos Degenek, Kye Rowles and Trewin for a spot, and he is aware the competition is stiff. “We have top, top players (at centre-back for the Socceroos). Obviously, I know how hard that does make it to be able to get involved, but at the same time, it’s got to be motivation,” he explained.
“You need to be at the absolute top of your game to be able to compete with that. Always watching, trying to learn, trying to get better, trying to improve. That’s something that you’ve not really got any excuse not to do when you’re in this environment. You’ve got access to world-class facilities wherever you go. The staff really do make it easy for you to be able to learn and grow. So, watching those guys, they’re top, top players and they’re in the position that I want to be in.”
13.11.2025
CIRCATI OUT FOR AT LEAST SIX WEEKS WITH ANKLE INJURY
It looks like another injury set-back for Socceroos defender Alessandro Circati, after it was reported he would be sidelined for six to eight weeks after picking up an ankle injury over the weekend. Reports out of Italy said the 22-year-old has suffered a ruptured tendon and is likely to be out until Christmas, although there has been no official announcement of the extent of his injury by his Serie A club Parma.
That would mean Circati will miss the Socceroos’ upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia this month, and will also miss key Serie A matches against AC Milan, Hellas Verona, Udinese, Pisa and Lazio. Circati, who played for Perth Azzurri and the Perth Glory Youth side in WA, appeared to hurt his ankle in a sliding challenge and was helped off the field by Parma’s physios late in the first half of their clash against Bologna over the weekend, which they ended up losing 2-1. If the report is correct, it would be a major blow for Circati and the Socceroos.
The centre-back has been in brilliant form to start the season, starring for club and country, and becoming Australia’s youngest captain in 44 years after making a rapid return from an ACL injury. He would join Feyenoord’s Jordy Bos on the sidelines amid a mounting injury list, with Tony Popovic to be without arguably his two most in-form players; although it would give the Socceroos coach the chance to further examine his options in defence and test out some new faces. The Socceroos face Colombia on November 15 in Texas, before taking on Venezuela on November 19 in New York.
13.11.2025
KERR BACK WITH A BRACE FOR CHELSEA
Sam Kerr has started her first game for WSL club Chelsea in almost two years by scoring a brace, before declaring herself 100 per cent fit and "ready to go" for more game time and goals. The former Perth Glory striker returned for the Matildas in late October, in games against Wales and England in late October, but this was Kerr’s first club start since December 2023, leading them to a 6-0 win in the Champions League clash with Austrian side St. Pölten.
It was encouraging signs ahead of Australia's Asian Cup campaign in March, the Matildas captain played the whole game in Austria, and capped it off with two late goals, and she was delighted to be back playing and scoring. “It feels good. It felt like I had to work myself into it but yeah, happy to score," the 32-year-old said post-match. "Of course, I prefer to play more minutes … I feel like today was good. I had a few chances in the first half.
"I'm just happy to be back out here playing in the Champions League again with an amazing team. I'm relishing every moment. I feel 100 per cent but I was out for a while, so I have to build myself up. Today was a good set, and getting some good minutes in the national team was a good set. I'm definitely fit enough, and it's just about getting miles in the legs now. I'm ready to go."
Australian teammate Ellie Carpenter set up Dutch midfielder Wieke Kaptein for the opener on 13 minutes and it was two by half-time thanks to Brazilian-born American forward Catarina Macario. Macario netted her second from the spot in the early in the second half, before Kerr found the back of the net either side of a Lisa Ebert own goal. The fifth was a good turn and shot in the box, before heading the sixth in stoppage time.
Kerr, who scored in the WSL last weekend against the London City Lionesses, said the lengthy lay-off meant the goals felt better than ever, and she hopes there is more to come. “It feels a bit sweeter but it feels a bit weird," she said. "I didn't score for so long that I was like, I haven't celebrated, really. I haven't got that celebration thing yet. I've got to score a few more."
Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor said it’s good to have Kerr back. “It’s really positive especially when coming to a time where it’s really busy,” she said. “We are going to play every three days with big games coming, so it’s important to have the depth and the quality. I thought we were able to apply the gameplan tonight. We created a lot and we got some great goals. It’s always good for the individual and team confidence to be able to do that.”
12.11.2025
WA AMATEUR SIDE START MAYLAYSIAN TOUR WITH A WIN
The WA State Amateur side have made an impressive start to their three-game trip to Malaysia with a 4-0 win against Malaysia Super League side PDRM FC on Tuesday evening. Goals from Daniel Clarkson, Cian O’Dwyer, Chad Samuels and Nathan McManus secured the win, and Head Coach Ein Eric said it was good all-round team performance. “I thought the team began nervously, adjusting to the unfamiliar ground, heat, and overall conditions,” he explained.
“After the opening 20 minutes, they settled into rhythm and gained control of the match. The back line, led by Kwinana United’s Morgan Walter and North Beach Lawson Smith, were well organised, with North Perth United’s Cian Flynn commanding in goal. The team maintained strong discipline in a compact low block, preventing PDRM from finding a way through. Their composure and quick transitions proved decisive, leading to well-taken goals on the counter. It was a good introduction for most who have not experienced the conditions.”
WA were on the back foot early, but started to take control, but didn’t take advantage of their earlier opportunities from set pieces. But that all changed on the half hour, when they hit the front. Clarkson was sent clear and a neat touch and turn inside the box, sent him one on one with the keeper, and the Ballajura player finished with aplomb. They doubled their advantage in the shadows of half time O’Dwyer was played through on goal, and the North Perth United player finished smartly.
They never took their foot of the pedal, and early in the second half it was 3-0. A quick clearance from keeper Flynn was dealt with by the home sides defence, and O’Dwyer and Kelmscott's Samuels combined, the latter finishing low and hard past the keeper. They sealed the win with a fourth, North Beach’s Tom Hart played Olympic Kingsway’s McManus through on goal, and he made no mistake, to seal a comprehensive win. Skipper Josua Marocchi said it was great way to quick off their three games in Malaysia.
“I thought the PDRM side underestimated us a little bit, and were made to pay the price. Everyone was excited for our first game and really hit the ground running from the first whistle,” the defender explained. “We were well organised and prepared for how PDRM played and the coaching staff did a great job analysing with video footage from recent games. This results really sets us up for the remaining games and gives us confidence to take the game to the Malaysian opponents. Really proud of everyone today.” They are back in action on Thursday against NPNG before finishing against Kuala Lumpur City on Saturday.
WA Amateur Squad: GK Cian Flynn (North Perth United), GK Michael Dudek (Jaguar FC), Lawson Smith, Lewis Plackett, Eoin Haverty, Cian O'Dwyer (North Perth United), Joshua Marocchi, Samuel Richardson, Tom Hart, Luke Jones (North Beach), Chad Samuels (Kelmscott Roos), Morgan Walters, Wayne Carter (Kwinana United), Joshua Anderson, Daniel Clarkson (Ballajura AFC), Nathan McManus (Olympic Kingsway), Oliver Sherwood (South Perth United)
9.11.2025
BAYSWAYER CITY FALL TO FIRST DEFEAT IN AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Bayswater City have suffered their first defeat in the Australian Champions, going down 2-0 to South Australian side North Eastern MetroStars in their Group D, week five clash at TC Shutter Reserve on Sunday afternoon. Second half goals from Jackson Walls and a stunner from Christian Sotira sealed the win for the hosts, who are now only three points behind Bayswater on the table going into next weeks final games. The hosts went into the game unchanged from the side that drew at Wests APIA last week, while Bayswater made just the one change from the side that beat Sydney United 58, with Chris Jackson unavailable, and he was replaced up top by Ollie la Galia.
The host opened brightly, and went close to the opener on three minutes, Sotira found space in the box, but he fired straight at Lewis Italiano. MetroStars were in again seven minutes later, Jackson Fortunatow’s curling effort flashed wide of the post, before Mitchell Miller’s snap shot from the edge of the box flew over the top. Bayswater settled and went close themselves on 21 minutes, Jon Corness finding La Galia, but his shot on the run was wide of the target. It was the best period of the game for Matthew Sparrow’s side, and seven minutes later they went within inches of taking the lead. Gyles Davies sent Aidan Edwards down the right, his cross picked out La Galia, who lost his marker and his glancing header was heading for the corner of the net, but Cody Oestreich produced a great save to deny the striker.
Both sides had chances as the game opened up, first on 40 minutes. Davies found Pat Loughrey on the left of the penalty area, and he beat his marker, but his low shot was saved by the alert Oestreich. Moments later MetroStars had their best opportunity. Walls found Sotira on the edge of the box, his shot was well saved by Italiano. The rebound went back out to Walls on the right, who picked out Michael Cittadini, but with the goal at his mercy, he couldn’t find the target. MetroStars were ending the half the better, and in the final minute almost snatched the lead. Hamish Gow found space on the edge of the box, his shot deflected off Declan Hughes, wrong-footing Italiano, but the Bayswater custodian produced a great reaction save to get a strong hand to deny him.
MetroStar, who needed a win to keep their hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals, were out of the blocks after half time and Italiano produced another strong save to deny the lively Gow, and Thomas Visser sent the rebound over the top. But their good start was rewarded with the opener on 52 minutes. Walls was sent down the right, and a great first touch took him clear of Sam Mitchinson, his shot deflected off the unfortunate Luke Palameer, and beating Italiano.
Bayswater looked for a quick response and La Galia was sent clear, but former Perth Glory defender Lachlan Barr got back with a last-ditch tackle to clear the danger. Then form the resulting corner the unmarked Jackson Stephens headed over the top. Sparrow’s side were pressing and Stephens’ ball into the box was pushed around the post by Oestreich, under pressure from La Galia. There were chances at both ends, the lively Sotira fired wide at one end, before Hughes’ free kick was inches away from Palmateer at the other.
Moments later substitute Deegan Brook’s shot on the turn flashed wide of the mark. But on 73 minutes the hosts doubled their advantage, Sotira’s stunning volley from the edge of the box beating Italiano, via the crossbar. With Bayswater pushing men forward, it was leaving holes at the back, and Visser raced clear on a counter attack, but failed to hit the target. Brook should have pulled on back moments later, after he was sent clear, but his lob was over the top.
Chances came and went as both sides pushed, the tricky Michael Cittadini fired wide after another quick break, before Hughes’ free kick from distance was tipped over by Oestrich. Cittadini almost put the icing on the cake late for the hosts, dribbled into the box from the right, but his shot on the run was into the side netting. At the final whistle the home faithful celebrated the win, and it sets up an enthralling final round. Bayswater need a point against group leaders Wests APIA to qualify, but a loss and a MetroStars win against Sydney United 58, could see City miss out on the Quarter finals.
North Eastern MetroStars: GK Cody Oestreich, 2 Lachlan Barr, 4 Noah McNamara, 6 Jackson Fortunatow, 7 Hamish Gow, 8 Christian Sotira, 17 Thomas Visser, 18 Fabian Barbiero (24 Antony Rapuano 83’), 22 Jackson Walls, 23 Scott Nagel (5 Christian D'Angelo 83’) 25 Michael Cittadini - Subs not used: RGK Thomas Divin, 10 Mitchell Miller, 19 Daniel Cavuoto, 20 Lionnel Muhitira, 28 Riccardo Lippiello
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 13 Gyles Davies (27 Deegan Brook 62’), 14 Oliver La Galia, 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jonathan Corness (24 Takayuki Sone 81’), 20 Sam Mitchinson, 26 Aidan Edward (7 Sean McManus 60’), 30 Thomas Southgate (21 Mason Tatafu 81’) – Subs not used: RGK Taylor Rae, 2 Alexander Ishida-Livings, 19 Phillip Radeski - Referee: Declan Woods
7.11.2025
GLORY REMAIN WINLESS AFTER LOSS TO MARINERS
Perth Glory’s poor start to the Isuzu Ute A-League continued after they were beaten 1-0 by Central Coast Mariners in week four at HBF Park on Friday evening. A stunning strike from striker Bailey Brandtman proved the difference, but Glory did have chances, but were wasteful in front of goal, and former Socceroos keeper Andrew Redmayne also made some important saves. It was a third game in a row that Glory have failed to score, and interim coach Adam Griffiths said after a good start they didn’t take their chances, and let the Mariners back into the game after the break.
“We had momentum; we didn’t take that momentum. We had opportunities; we didn’t take that opportunity, and let Central Coast back into the match in the second-half,” he said. “We came out sluggish, naive in terms in terms of our approach. We wanted to play more direct, and we wanted to play over. Players start doing things that they shouldn’t be doing, then they got the goal and that moment changed the game really, because we had complete control the first half. The goal was a bomb, but we should have stopped that. There should have been pressure up onto that ball. We work on those things, and that was just a lack of concentration in that transitional moment.”
Griffiths made the one change from the starting line-up that were beaten by Melbourne Victory last week, with Seb Despotovski coming in for Tom Lawrence, the Welsh striker out due to concussion protocols. The Mariners had struggled in the west in recent seasons, and Glory were on the front foot early, with Despotovski’s shot saved by Redmayne. Adam Taggart was next to test the Mariners custodian on the half hour mark, bursting into the box, but his dinked effort was well saved by the alert Redmayne.
Despotovski and Taggart were a constant threat to the Mariners, as Glory searched for the opener, but it looked like being another one of those nights for the Glory faithful. The Mariners first chance came shortly after quick feet from Nicholas Duarte gave him space in the box, but the striker couldn’t keep his shot down. Glory continued to create chances, Taggart’s glancing header flashed wide, and in the final minute a shot from distance from Rhys Bozinovski was saved by Redmayne. Glory had dominated the first half, the Mariners not having a shot on target, but it was still scoreless at the break.
The visitors needed to lift after the break, and they were more threatening, and Matt Sutton got down well to save Miguel Di Pizio’s shot from the edge of the box, their first shot on target for the night. The second on 57 minutes was even better, with the visitors hitting the front. Brandtman was allowed to cut in from the right past Charbel Shamoon and his shot on the run flew past Sutton and into the net. Glory found themselves having to chase the game again, but the Mariners went close again moments later when Glory failed to clear a corner, but Kenyan striker Sebit Ngor was unable to make them pay.
Glory went to the bench with Adam Bugarija and Khoa Ngo coming on, and the pair looked lively, as Glory went in search of the equaliser, and Ngo’s curling effort flashed inches wide of the post moments after coming on. The Mariners sat deeper and were well-marshalled by Nathan Paull and Bradley Tapp, and Glory throw everything in search of a goal, but Redmayne was really troubled and it was the Mariners taking the points, their second win of the season, while Glory sit rock bottom with only one point, and they enter the international break as one of only two winless teams along with Western Sydney Wanderers.
Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 8 Callum TIMMINS (26 Khoa NGO 66'), 11 Lachlan WALES, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI (6 Brandon O’NEILL 77'), 19 Josh RISDON, 22 Adam TAGGART, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI (21 Adam BUGARIJA 66'), 27 Will FRENEY (7 Nicholas PENNINGTON 53'), 45 Brian KALTAK – Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 24 Andriano LEBIB
Central Coast Mariners: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, 3 Nathan PAULL, 5 Lucas MAURAGIS, 8 Alfie MCCALMONT, 10 Miguel DI PIZIO (22 Arthur DE LIMA 77'), 11 Sabit NGOR (7 Christian THEOHAROUS 84'), 14 Nico DUARTE (21 Abdul FAISAL 70'), 15 Storm ROUX, 16 Harrison STEELE, 26 Bradley TAPP, 37 Bailey BRANDTMAN (9 Ryan EDMONDSON 70') – Subs not used: RGK Dylan PERAIC-CULLEN, 27 Alexi HOURIDIS, 41 Shumba MUTOKOYI - Attendance: 5,889 - Referee: Shane Skinner
7.11.2025
ROAR EDGE OUT GLORY
Perth Glory have been beaten 3-2 by Brisbane Roar, in their first Ninja A-League home game of the season. The match, the first of a double-header at HBF Park on Friday afternoon, burst into life with Grace Kuilamu giving the visitors the lead mid-way through the first half, only for Rola Badawiya to level for Stephen Peters’ side moments later. The Roar took control after the break, with a brace from Dutch import Bente Jansen, and although a late Ella Lincoln set up a tense finish to the game, the Roar held firm to take the points.
“I thought we showed them to much respect early, but once we got to grips to that I thought we were really good, and half time probably came at the wrong time for us, as we were starting to play some really nice stuff, and gaining momentum and confidence,” Glory head coach Stephen Peters said post-match. “But five minutes of madness after the break was disappointing, but I thought the substitute really gave us energy. We got a goal back and almost levelled late. Fair play to Brisbane, but unfortunately, for us, we found a way to lose that on.’
Peters made just the one change from the side that opened the season with a 3-1 win at Western Sydney Wanderers, with Sarah O’Donoghue replacing Susan Phonsongkham, who dropped to the bench. With both sides coming off wins last week it was a cagey opening, but the game burst into life on 21 minutes. Kullamu cut in from the left, and the Matildas teenager shot deflected off the unfortunate Onyinyechi Zogg, and into the net past a wrong-footed keeper Alyssa Dall’Oste.
But Glory’s reaction was instant, and four minutes later the Roar failed to clear the ball on the edge of their box, and a great turn from Badawiya took the American striker clear of her marker and she finished superbly past Matildas keeper Chloe Lincoln. It was a sensational strike from the striker, and it lifted Glory, and they went close to the lead just after the half hour, Tijan McKenna finding midfielder Emma Tovar, whose shot flashed inches wide of the post.
The Roar hit the front seven minutes into the second half, the lively Sharn Freier, who is loan at the club from German side VfL Wolfsburg, got to the by-line on the left and crossed to the back post and Dutch striker Jansen headed home. They added a third moments later, Freier again finding Jansen, whose shot from just outside the box was pushed onto the post by Dall’Oste, but the ball rolled over the line, despite the keepers attempts to retrieve the rebound.
Again, Glory hit back, and Badawiya’s shot beat Chloe Lincoln, but was brilliantly headed off the line by the alert American defender Marianna Seidl, this after the Roar had failed to clear a corner. The Roar looked to have the points wrapped up, but in stoppage time Glory found a lifeline. A ball over the top sent substitute Ella Lincoln clear of the offside trap, and she fired home to set up a frantic finale. Glory went close to the equaliser in the final minute, substitute Bronte Trew found space on the left, and her cross found Zogg, but the defender couldn’t guide her header home at the back post.
Perth Glory: GK Alyssa DALL’OSTE, 3 Emma TOVAR (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 71'), 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 9 Gabby HOLLAR (10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 46'), 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 17 Rola BADAWIYA (12 Bronte TREW 80'), 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE (25 Ella LINCOLN 71'), 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO (2 Mischa ANDERSON 71'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG – Su7bs not used: RGK Jessica SKINNER
Brisbane Roar: GK Chloe LINCOLN, 2 Leia VARLEY (22 Ava PIAZZA 90'), 4 Kijah STEPHENSON (13 Tameka YALLOP 63'), 5 Aimee MEDWIN, 8 Josie STUDER, 10 Grace KUILAMU, 11 Marianna SEIDL, 17 Bente JANSEN, 24 Sharn FREIER, 27 Ashlyn MILLER (15 Keira MEYERS 84'), 32 Alicia WOODS – Subs not used: RGK Tahlia FRANCO, 14 Zara KRUGER, 18 Amali KINSELLA – Referee: Bec Mackie
7.11.2025
BAYSWATER EAGER TO CONTINUE THEIR WINNING RUN
After three straight home wins, Bayswater City sit on top of Group D of the Australian Championship, and they will look to qualify for the knock out stage when they travel to T K Shutter Reserve in Klemzig, South Australia on Sunday afternoon to take on North Eastern MetroStars. (1:30pm WA Time) The two sides met at Frank Drago Reserve in week two, with Gyles Davies goal giving the hosts a 1-0 win. A point will seal their place in the quarter-finals, but the hosts need a win to keep their hopes of advancing alive.
Striker Chris Jackson, who bagged the second in the 3-2 win against Sydney United 58, was rewarded with a spot in the round four ‘Team of the Week’, up front with former Perth Glory and now Avondale striker Bruno Fornaroli. He played a huge part in the win, holding the ball up well and bringing other players into the game, but he also did his defensive work, which would have pleased head coach Matthew Sparrow. Jackson said they had to work for the points late, but was pleased to get on the scoresheet, and they will be looking for more on Sunday.
“To come away with the three points was huge for us against Sydney at home and to top off our three games unbeaten at Frank Drago is an unbelievable effort from the boys. I thought we were excellent for 60 minutes and then took the foot off the gas and credit to Sydney, came back swinging,” the strike said. “MetroStars isn’t going to be an easy game, but this team thrives on big occasions and has shown that on multiple occasions this season already and have the character to win any football match. We will be focused and ready for a battle against a good team.”
Pat Loughrey has been outstanding in all four games, his tenacity and work rate, makes him a nightmare to mark, and he said he had some fun banter with the visiting supporters on Sunday, but it was a great atmosphere and he is expecting more on Sunday in Adelaide. “I thought we completely dominated the game for the first hour and I felt like we were in total control. Then a couple of lapses in concentration meant that Sydney could get back into the game but thankfully we held strong and kept all three points,” he explained.
“Yes, I was getting stick from their supporters in the second half, so I couldn’t let them get away with it when we scored our third, it makes the game more entertaining. Sunday is another huge test, and there are no easy games in this competition and it’s a massive game this weekend against a well drilled Metros side. A point is enough for us to make the quarter, so hopefully we can get that and it will be a more enjoyable flight home.”
Head Coach Matthew Sparrow said they will take a lot of confidence in to Sunday’s game after their last three wins, but knows how dangerous MetroStars can be. “Sunday in Adelaide is a massive opportunity for this group and we go there fully believing we can go and get a result. We know exactly what is required and nothing changes in our mindset — we’ll attack it and play to our strengths,’ he explained.
“We will need to be ready for them whatever they throw at us and it’s important we stay switched on for 95 minutes — but we have absolute belief we have enough to handle those moments and impose ourselves.
MetroStars away is always a tough place to go, but we have full confidence in the players, the game plan and the way we are building — and we firmly believe we can go there, get the result we need and book our place in the quarter finals.”
North Eastern MetroStar: GK Cody Oestreich, GK Thomas Divin, GK Alessandro dos Santos, 2 Lachlan Barr, 3 Lochlan Czapla, 4 Noah McNamara, 5 Christian D'Angelo, 6 Jackson Fortunatow, 7 Hamish Gow, 8 Christian Sotira, 10 Mitchell Miller, 11 Cameron Woodfin, 12 Jake Porter, 15 Donatien Niyonkuru, 17 Thomas Visser, 18 Fabian Barbiero, 19 Daniel Cavuoto, 20 Lionnel Muhitira, 22 Jackson Walls, 23 Scott Nagel, 24 Antony Rapuano, 25 Michael Cittadini, 28 Riccardo Lippiello
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, GK Taylor Rae, 2 Alexander Ishida-Livings, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 7 Sean McManus, 10 Jason Mirco, 12 Anthony Bafobusha, 13 Gyles Davies, 14 Oliver La Galia, 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jonathan Corness, 17 Charlie Garnham, 18 Christopher Jackson, 19 Phillip Radeski, 20 Sam Mitchinson, 21 Mason Tatafu, 24 Takayuki Sone, 26 Aidan Edward, 27 Deegan Brook, 29 Scotlan Morrison, 30 Thomas Southgate – Referee: Declan Woods
7.11.2025
GLORY AIM TO MAKE EMENDS AGAINST MARINERS
Perth Glory have moved on quickly from last week’s 0-2 loss against Melbourne Victory, and interim Coach Adam Griffiths said the squad is focused on making emends, and chase their first win of the season, when they host Central Coast Mariners at HBF Park in Friday’s Round 4 Isuzu Ute A-League (kick-off at 6:45pm). It’s a double-header on Friday, with Glory Women taking on Brisbane Roar in the early game at 4pm.
Despite the results there were signs of improvement in the Victory game, and as they say missed chances cost you in games, and that’s what happened last Friday, and Griffiths said they need to be better in the final third. “I think we were better with the ball, but we need to be more decisive in that final third, taking our actions because that changes games,” Griffiths said. “When we take those moments, all of a sudden, the team grows in confidence, the crowd gets behind you and you start to build as a team. Then at the other end, we need to tighten up at the back.”
Griffiths, who said in his press conference after the loss to Victory, he wants to be a head coach, this after assistant roles at Western Sydney Wanderers and Wellington Phoenix, said the players have responded well in training this week, and they are ready to go. “It’s been positive week and we’ve focused on us, working hard on all the things we can improve and continue to develop,” he said. “The boys are responding really well and there’s a lot of focus in the group.
“We want to achieve some good things for Perth Glory… and improving on some of the areas where we’ve been weak. The boys are enjoying training and we’re looking to grow and take this opportunity. They [Central Coast] are a strong team, like every team in the A-League. They’re well-organised, but we’ve mainly been focusing on how we improve and get better as a team so we can perform to our best.”
Co-Captain Scott Wootton echoed the coaches’ comments, but he believes it was an improved performance. “I thought we started really well, but missed a couple good chances early, which could’ve changed the game, and then we conceded a sloppy goal which gave them the upper hand and they sat a bit deeper, and made it harder to break down,” he explained. “I thought we played well and had a lot of the ball, but we need to be more confident and fluid in possession to be able to break teams down.”
The defender said it’s important to get their season up and running, and they hope to do that on Friday. “The lads are desperate to win this game, it’s a home game and one we’re looking forward to,” Wootton said. “Many people have written the Mariners off this season, after they didn’t make many signings, but they won the Derby against Newcastle and had a strong showing against Sydney, and were the better team against Wellington, which shows they’ve got a steel about them, and want to prove these people wrong, but like I said the lads are looking forward to the challenge.”
The last time the Mariners played in WA, was in round 18 last season when the points were shared. Glory made the best possible start, ahead on eight minutes, with Adam Taggart on target, but the Mariners levelled just after the hour with Haine Eames scoring to give them a share of the spoils. Glory will be looking to go one better on Friday, but they will have to do it without import Tom Lawrence, who sustained a concussion in his Glory debut last week, and miss out as he completes the mandatory safety protocols.
There was more bad news on the injury front with Trent Ostler a doubt due to an ankle injury, while midfield duo Luke Amos and Nicholas Pennington are also still unavailable, along with Sam Sutton, Mark Birighitti and Jaiden Kucharski, the trio look like to be out until after the international break. For the visitors Warren Moon has replaced Mark Jackson at the helm, after his move to Thai club Buriram United. The signing of former Socceroos keeper Andrew Redmayne is huge for them, while up top English striker Ryan Edmonson is a real handful. Their squad also includes former Glory duo Storm Roux and Abdul Faisal, while former Armadale junior Trent Sainsbury is out injured.
Perth Glory squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 11 Lachlan WALES, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 16 Gabriel POPOVIC, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 19 Josh RISDON, 21 Adam BUGARIJA, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 26 Khoa NGO, 27 Will FRENEY, 28 Kaelan MAJEKODUNMI, 45 Brian KALTAK - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: POPOVIC, BLAIR, NGO, MAJEKODUNMI - Outs: 20 Trent OSTLER, 34 Tom LAWRENCE - Unavailable: GK Mark BIRIGHITTI, GK Cameron COOK, 3 Sam SUTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 10 Luke AMOS, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 20 Trent OSTLER, 31 Joel ANASMO (All injured), 34 Tom LAWRENCE (concussion protocols)
Central Coast Mariners squad: GK Andrew REDMAYNE, GK Dylan PERAIC-CULLEN, 2 James DONACHIE, 3 Nathan PAULL, 5 Lucas MAURAGIS, 7 Christian THEOHAROUS, 8 Alfie MCCALMONT, 9 Ryan EDMONDSON, 10 Miguel DI PIZIO, 11 Sabit NGOR, 14 Nico DUARTE, 15 Storm ROUX, 16 Harrison STEELE, 21 Abdul FAISAL, 22 Arthur DE LIMA, 26 Bradley TAPP, 27 Alexi HOURIDIS, 37 Bailey BRANDTMAN, 41 Shumba MUTOKOYI, 42 Laurence TAYLOR - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: 42 Laurence TAYLOR - Outs: 33 James HOURIDIS (not selected) - Unavailable: 4 Trent SAINSBURY (injured), 6 Haine EAMES (injured), 20 Will KENNEDY (injured), 24 Diesel HERRINGTON (injured)
7.11.2025
GLORY LOOK TO BACK UP OPENING GAME WITH VICTORY AGAINST ROAR
After breaking their Ninja A-League away day hoodoo against Western Sydney Wanderers last week, Perth Glory will look to back it up when they host Brisbane Roar in week two at HBF Park on Friday afternoon, (4:00pm) A brace from Gabby Hollar, and another from her fellow American strike-partner Rola Badawiya, which saw them both included in the ‘Team of the Week’, saw Stephen Peters leave with a 3-1 win, the first under the tutelage of the head coach, and he hopes to build on that win on Friday in the first of the double-header on the night.
“It was really good,” he said. “I think we travelled well, we put a few things in place that we were pretty happy with and I think that laid the platform for us to really empty the tank. I was particularly proud of the fact that we managed that [storm] delay in the fashion we managed it. I thought in the first 20 minutes, they [Wanderers] were quite good and posed a few problems
“So, I was quite happy we weathered the storm there, excuse the pun (After the game was delayed for a lightening storm on the night) But it was nice to then take a little bit of control, and I was happy with how we ground that first half out and then the reaction in the second. To be honest, it surprised me a little bit. Scoring the second goal and then conceding a sloppy goal and then the response, but I was very pleased. There were lots of positives for us.”
Last season’s two meetings were both feisty encounters, with the Roar running out 3-0 winners in Round three, with Tameka Yallop bagging a brace, but last time at home Glory prevailed 3-2 at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. Yallop gave the visitors the lead early, but Caitlin Doeglas levelled on the half hour. Grace Kullamu regained the lead shortly after, but Doeglas replied again before the break. It looked like the points would be shared but deep to stoppage time Glory won it. Abdul Massih was tripped just outside the box by Holly McQueen, who was sent off. Massih picked herself up and fired home the resulting free kick to secure the points.
With both teams having started this season with impressive wins, Peters is expecting a tough encounter against the Roar, and if last seasons two games are anything to go by it should be a tight affair. “We’ve got a nice little rivalry building with Roar, I think,” Peters said. “We certainly haven’t forgotten the game there at Perry Park [last season] which was a difficult night for us, but there were also a lot of learnings that we took out of that as a group. Obviously, we got them one back in the return fixture, so I don’t think they will have forgotten that one and I think there’ll be a bit of spice in it.
“They’ve got good pedigree up front and we’re very much aware of that. It’s going to be a tough ask for our defenders, no doubt, but I think if we show the resolve we had [against Western Sydney], there’s no reason why we can’t pose a threat to them. I’m quietly confident, but I don’t want to be too confident because it’s just one win and Brisbane are a very good side. Alex [Smith] is going to have them ready to go and we’ve got to be ready for that. It’s our only home game in the first five rounds, so we’ve got to maximise that.”
For Glory striker Gabby Hollar, the first win on the road in a Glory shirt wasn’t the only thing the American was celebrating, after being back on the pitch after a serious medical issue, which saw her miss a number of games late last season after sustaining blood clots. “It means a lot to be able to be back out there with the girls. It was a weird one,” she said. “It took a little bit to figure out what was going on, but once we did, the medical team was on it right away, and I was out for a little bit, but then I was back, and I could do everything but contact.”
Hollar said it was good to get off the mark last week, and is expecting a stern test on Friday. “Three points on the road, it’s been a long time coming, and it felt really good,” she said. “Scoring a couple of goals gives me a bit of confidence as I haven’t played much football recently. Brisbane will be a tough game, and we know how brutal the travel can be. Everyone was excited how we got the three points last time at home against them, and we will be looking for a repeat on Friday.”
In terms of team news, keeper Jess Skinner returns after illness, the rest of the squad returned unscathed from last week’s win, and Ischia Brooking and Tanika Lala have also been added to the squad. The Roar edged out Melbourne Victory last week, with goals from Dutch midfielder Bente Jansen, Sharn Freier, who has returned to Roar on loan from German club Wolfsburg, with Yallop winning it four minutes from time. it should be a great encounter, with both sides looking to start the season with back-to-back win.
Perth Glory squad: GK Alyssa DALL’OSTE, GK Jessica SKINNER, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 12 Bronte TREW, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 22 Ischia BROOKING, 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG -
*Two to be omitted* - Ins: BROOKING, LALA, SKINNER - Outs: GK Meg PHILLIPS - Unavailable: GK Teresa MORRISSEY, 7 Megan WYNNE, 8 Georgia CASSIDY, 11 Natalie TATHEM, 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (All injured)
Brisbane Roar squad: GK Chloe LINCOLN, GK Tahlia FRANCO, 2 Leia VARLEY, 3 Daisy BROWN, 4 Kijah STEPHENSON, 5 Aimee MEDWIN, 8 Josie STUDER, 10 Grace KUILAMU, 11 Marianna SEIDL, 13 Tameka YALLOP, 14 Zara KRUGER, 15 Keira MEYERS, 17 Bente JANSEN, 18 Amali KINSELLA, 22 Ava PIAZZA, 24 Sharn FREIER, 27 Ashlyn MILLER, 32 Alicia WOODS, 47 Kyla HANSON - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: BROWN, HANSON - Unavailable: 6 Ruby CUTHBERT (hamstring), 7 Momo HAYASHI (suspended), 23 Isabela HOYOS YANEZ (ankle)
7.11.2025
TEENAGER OVERY NAMED IN SOCCEROOS SQUAD
Manchester United academy rising star James Overy has received the perfect pre-birthday present - a maiden Socceroos call-up, despite having not yet played a senior game. The teenage right-back, who turns 18 on Sunday, was a shock announcement in Socceroos coach Tony Popovic’s squad to face Venezuela and Colombia in their final camp of the year.
Overy, who just two years ago was playing in the National Premier Leagues for Perth Glory, impressed in Australia’s under-20 World Cup campaign in October and has reportedly been consistently training with Manchester United’s first team in recent months. He is yet to make his first team debut at Old Trafford, and neither did he make a senior appearance during his time on a scholarship contract at Glory before he moved overseas with family in early 2024.
Overy is one of three West Australians in the squad, with Swansea City centre-back Cameron Burgess joined by another former ECU Joondalup product in Jack Iredale, who plies his trade at Scottish club Hibernian. Iredale has been part of two Socceroos camps this year but has yet to win his first international cap. Parma defender Alessandro Circati will miss the games with an ankle injury, while recent debutant Jacob Italiano is out with a calf issue.
The Australia squad to play Venezuela and Colombia is Patrick Beach, Paul Izzo, Mat Ryan, Cameron Burgess, Milos Degenek, Callum Elder, Jason Geria, Jack Iredale, Lewis Miller, James Overy, Kye Rowles, Max Balard, Cameron Devlin, Jackson Irvine, Connor Metcalfe, Riley McGree, Paul Okon-Engstler, Aiden O'Neill, Kai Trewin, Martin Boyle, Nicholas D'Agostino, Craig Goodwin, Nestory Irankunda, Deni Juric, Al Hassan Toure and Mohamed Toure.
7.11.2025
PERTH-BORN WILLIAMS SWITCHES ALLEGIANCE TO INDIA
India's national team are likely to have Subiaco-born forward Ryan Williams in camp for the third round of Asian Cup qualifiers. The 32-year old, whose maternal grandfather, Lincoln Grostate, played for Western India in the 1950s, started the process of giving up his Australian passport for an Indian one about six months ago. He is currently awaiting a No Objection Certificate from Football Australia to switch his nationality.
Williams represented Australia at youth international levels before earning his only senior call-up for a 2019 friendly with South Korea. According to FIFA Statutes, he can switch nationality since his senior appearance was not in a competitive fixture. Williams’s inclusion in the upcoming camp could be the beginning of a new trend for Indian football, where foreign players give up their passports to play for India.
Williams has played the majority of his club football in England, most notably with Oxford United, Rotherham United, Portsmouth and Barnsley, winning the English Football League trophy with the latter in 2016. For the last three seasons he has played for Indian Super League outfit Bengaluru, scoring 13 goals in 46 appearances and combining with veteran Sunil Chhetri in the final third.
7.11.2025
GILSENAN IS OFF THE MARK WITH GRIMSBY
Midfielder Zak Gilsenan is aiming to build on his first goal for Grimsby Town after a tough spell on the sidelines. The 22-year old left Blackburn Rovers over the summer having climbed the ranks from Under-16s to making a handful of appearances for the first team. But his momentum was disrupted by bad luck with injuries.
Gilsenan suffered another injury setback soon after signing for Grimsby in July. He gained his first start for the club in the mid-week Vertu Trophy clash with Everton Under-21s and managed to get on the scoresheet, scoring the third goal in a 5-3 win. “I’m buzzing, it will probably take me a good few days to wipe this smile off!,” he said post-game. “I am delighted to get my first start and top it off with a goal.”
“It has been very emotional for family, friends who have been by my side. I have had quite a tough time the last year with injuries at Blackburn but tried to stay mentally positive. When I came here, it was like a fresh start and obviously had a setback, which nobody ever wants at a new club. But the staff and everybody involved with the club have been unbelievable with me ... nothing but praise for everyone.”
Gilsenan got an hour under his belt against the young Toffees. “The best I’ve felt in a very long time, to be honest,” he added. “As much as I want to go out there and play, me and the staff thought it was the best thing for me to build up slowly - 20, 30, 45 minutes and today 60. It was my first start in a long time so I think, as time goes on, I was always going to be more confident and start to express myself more on the pitch.”
6.11.2025
WILLIAMS CALLS TIME
Perth Glory forward David Williams has today called time on his playing involvement with the club. The 37-year-old, who joined Glory in July 2022, sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Macarthur FC last season, is close to full fitness, but he has decided to explore some exciting new challenges, and let’s hope he remains at Glory in another role.
“I’ve decided that coming back to Perth Glory in a playing capacity is not on the cards,” he said. “I’ll be stepping away and focusing on myself and what’s next in life. Recovery has been pretty good, and I’ve been working with a great physio in Chris Hutchinson who has got me to a really good level. It’s just got to a point now where I really have to think about what I’m doing. I’m progressing well, I feel good and now I need to open a new chapter in my journey. I’m focusing on myself primarily, but I still want to be involved with Glory in some capacity.”
Williams racked up a total of 228 appearances and scored 51 goals in the A-League starting with Queensland Roar in 2005-06, before North Queensland Fury, Melbourne City Wellington Phoenix, before playing 18 games for Glory. He also had stints overseas with three seasons at Danish Superliga club Brøndby, three seasons at Hungarian club Haladas, before heading to the Indian Super League, with spells at ATK and Mohun Bagan.
He soon became a fans’ favourite, and many will be sad to see the talented striker leave. Williams said the fans were always great to him, and he had a close relationship with them. “I’ve loved my time at the club for the past three years,” he said. “I love the people who are involved at the club and the fans have always been great with me. They’ve always stuck out their hands wanting a handshake and really embraced me since I first got here, so I want to say thank you to them for that.
“Even when the results haven’t been good, they’ve still turned up and the atmosphere is still good. We score one goal and go 1-0 up, or we win one right at the death and how ever many fans are in there, it’s still electric and not many clubs around the league can do that. I still feel a connection to the club and definitely don’t want to lose that. My face will still be around the club and it’ll be something new, but exciting.”
Glory CEO Anthony Radich said the contribution Williams has made both on and off the pitch at the club has been second to none, not only during his time with Glory, but throughout his 19-year career. “David has been an incredible ambassador for the game in Australia and we are fortunate to have him at the club,” he said. “As well as being a very gifted striker who always got fans off their seats, he has been and continues to be, an excellent role model for young players and his invaluable work within the indigenous community is well-documented.
“Obviously it is sad that we won’t get to see David wearing the purple shirt again, but it is fantastic to know that he is not being lost to the game or to our club. To thank David for everything he has brought to Perth Glory as both a player and a person, we will be honouring him at Friday’s double-header at HBF Park and we look forward to him remaining very much a part of the Glory family.”
5.11.2025
TAYLOR MAKES NEW NEST AT SWANS
Lee Taylor is settling in to his new role at Francis Street, after being appointed Head Coach at Swan United for next season, and he is determined to help them bounce back to State League football, after the club were relegated last season. But he knows the quality in the Amateur Premier Division, and knows the challenge that’s ahead of them. “Yes, it’s a big challenge but one I’m looking forward to, I’m also excited to get back into first team football after three years coaching u20s/23s,” Taylor said. “I’ve been lucky to be able to call on some good people for advice on the club and the league we enter next season which has been really helpful.”
Taylor said he’s been really impressed with the work of the club committee, and is looking forward to working with them. “I’ve only been at the club a week or so and it has been a tough couple of seasons, but you can already see the committee are working hard to turn the club around on and off the pitch, it wasn’t that long ago that the club were in State League Division One.
“So, it’s important for the club to get back into the State League. “I’m under no illusions that the league will be tough and it was even clearer when both amateur sides in the playoffs were successful. There’s a handful of sides that have been working to get promoted for a couple of seasons now so it will be a battle all season. If we plan well there is no reason why we can’t go on to have a successful season.”
After coaching stints at Rockingham City, Fremantle City, Gwelup Croatia and Armadale, Taylor can’t wait to get starting in his new role, and he is pleased a number of players have stayed loyal to the club. “We’re lucky that a core group are staying on at the club and I’ve been able to watch some games back, so I’m aware of the areas we need to improve,” he said. “We will look to add in certain areas of the side to make sure we are where we need to be by the time the season starts.”
Swan Vice-President, Mr Ben Kelly said the appointment of Taylor shows real intent that they want to get back in the State League, and put the disappointment of relegation behind them. “The last two seasons haven’t been great for us on the pitch, and the relegation was obviously disappointing. But we’ve still got a really good group of players and people around the club who care deeply about it,” he explained. “Hopefully, dropping back to the amateurs gives us a chance to reset, rebuild, and come back stronger and more united than ever. Our ambition is to get back into the State League and if we can do that in our first season, that would be fantastic.
“Bringing in Lee is a fantastic appointment for the club and a real sign of intent for where we want to go over the next three years. He’s a great coach and an even better bloke. I can see Lee developing the players we already have and attracting others who want to take that next step or get the opportunity to play men’s football in a competitive and safe environment. His experience and leadership will be a massive asset as we look to rebuild and push our way back toward the State League.” The club is seeking expression of interest from players looking to join them next season. Check out the form on their Facebook page.
5.11.2025
NORTHERN IRELAND TO FACE AN 'EXCITING VARIETY OF OPPONENTS': OXTOBY
Northern Ireland women’s manager Tanya Oxtoby says she is “excited” by their opponents in stage one of the European qualifiers for the Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil. The Green and White Army will face Switzerland, Turkiye and Malta in the qualifiers, which are scheduled to run from February to December next year. The qualifiers decide the UEFA nations earning places at the 2027 World Cup – as well as promotion and relegation ahead of the next edition of the UEFA Women's Nations League. The European
Qualifiers league stage is played in the same format as the UEFA Women's Nations League, with teams split into three leagues: League A with 16 teams, League B with 16 teams and League C with 21 teams. Northern Ireland were drawn from League B Pot 2, while Switzerland were drawn from Pot 1. The Swiss – who hosted the Euros in the summer – were beaten by Spain in the tournament at the quarter-final stage.
Oxtoby’s side are up against Switzerland, Turkiye and Malta. “I am really happy with the draw,” Oxtoby said. “It’s a really exciting variety of opponents for us. It will be great to challenge ourselves against a really exciting young Swiss team that I had the pleasure of watching at the Euros (in Switzerland back in the summer). It will be a great challenge for us to pit ourselves against them. Obviously Malta are a team we've played before, and we know what to expect. With Turkey it’s a little bit of the unknown, but again it’s going to be a great challenge.”
5.11.2025
GLORY FORWARD HOLLAR OPENS UP ON GOALSCORING RETURN
For Perth Glory forward Gabby Hollar, being back on the pitch means everything to her, after a serious medical issue cost her a significant chunk of last season. But the American has called her time out of the game a “blessing in disguise” and said she was physically stronger after marking her A-League Women’s return in the best way possible.
Hollar was at the double for Glory in their season-opening 3-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers, the first time she has experienced an away win with the West Australian club. But the match was more significant for the 25-year old as it marked her first competitive game since late January after she sustained blood clots which cost her the final eight rounds of last season.
“It means a lot to be able to be back out there with the girls,” she said. “It took a little bit to figure out what was going on, but once we did, the medical team was on it right away, and I was out for a little bit, but then I was back and I could do everything but contact. “It was difficult. I’m really close with my family, so it’s hard being away from them, but I had my second family here and everyone was super supportive and took care of me.”
Unable to physically compete on the field, Hollar took the chance to hit the gym and work on the technical side of the game. “I spent the last three months getting fit during the season, it was like an off-season before the off-season, but it was honestly a blessing in disguise because I’m fitter than I have been, and got a lot done in that time,” she said.
“It was just a lot of running in the gym, and then also I trained with someone back home, so a lot of technical work. I’m from a small town in Ohio (West Liberty), so I didn’t get much opportunity to play in many instances, but we were just grinding it.”
Hollar found the net five times in 14 appearances last season and said scoring on her return set herself up nicely for the rest of the campaign. “It gives me a bit of confidence. I hadn’t played soccer in a while, but it gives us all the confidence we can to get goals on the road.”
3.11.2025
CIRCATI ADDS TO SOCCEROOS' INJURY WOES
Imposing defender Alessandro Circati has suffered an ankle injury, joining a mounting list of Socceroos under an injury cloud ahead of upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia. Circati was forced off the field 41 minutes into Parma's 3-1 Serie A loss to Bologna on the weekend and looks set to fellow backmen Harry Souttar, Jordy Bos, Aziz Behich and Jacob Italiano on the sidelines.
Circati slid in to make a tackle on Tommaso Pobega and snuffed out the Bologna attack, but his right ankle wobbled and flexed awkwardly when he made contact. The 22-year old stayed down, immediately grabbing at his right ankle in pain before receiving treatment. He was substituted after limping from the field with the assistance of a club physio.
Reports out of Italy say Circati had a sprained ankle, but the Socceroos will clearly sweat on an update on their talented centre-back. Regardless, if there is any doubt over Circati, who has twice captained the Socceroos but is only 13 months on from an ACL tear, it seems unlikely coach Tony Popovic would risk him for the firendlies with Venezuela (15 November) and Colombia (19 November).
2.11.2025
BAYSWATER HOLD OFF A FAST-FINISHING SYDNEY UNTED 58
Bayswater City have made it a hat-trick of wins in the Australian Championship, and moved clear at the top of Group D, after a hard fought 3-2 win against Sydney United 58 at Frank Drago Reserve on Sunday afternoon. The week four clash didn’t start well for the visitors, with Jordan Ivancic sent off after only six minutes. Then first half goals to Davies and Chris Jackson put Matthew Sparrow’s side in control at the break. When skipper Luke Palmateer added a third just before the hour it looked game over, but Ante Juric’s side weren’t finished and goals to Kyle Cimenti and Aidan Milicevic made it close late, and they could have levelled late, but City held firm.
Sparrow kept the same side that beat Wests APIA Liechhart last week, as they looked to cement their place in the knock out stage of the competition, and they were on the front foot early. Then six minutes in the game took a huge twist, with a lunging tackle by Ivancic on Davies saw referee Daniel Cook show the defender a straight red card. The visitors then sacrificed striker Farah Koko, bringing on Gabriel Tilo. But it was one-way traffic for the hosts, and Jackson’s flick from Tom Southgate’s throw flicked off the crossbar, before Davies headed wide at the back post.
United thought they had a penalty on 20 minutes, Michael Krslovic burst into the box, and fell under the challenge of Sam Mitchenson, but the referee was well placed to wave away their protests. But five minutes later, Bayswater’s good start was rewarded with the opener. Hughes picked out Jackson on the edge of the box, and he held off his marker before touching the ball back to Davies, who out muscled Carlos De Oliveira and finished low past Vedran Janjetevic.
Then five minutes later it was 2-0, a poor pass from Aidan Milicevic was pounced on by Jackson who raced into goal and finished with aplomb past Janjetevic. The hosts were well on top and the former Sydney FC keeper Janjetovic was keeping his side in the game, first deny Jackson, before getting down well to palm away Aiden Edwards effort from the edge of the box. The visitors failed to get a shot on target in the first half, the best chance fell to Milicevic late, who got on the end of Michael Krslovic’s cross, but the alert Jackson Stephens got back with a great last-ditch challenge.
Sydney made a doubled change at the break and the lively Ayouk Mow was a threat early, and both sides had early chances. First Pat Loughrey raced down the left, before cutting into the box and his shot was pushed around the post by the alert Janjetevic, and moments later Tilo’s curling effort flashed wide. But on 58 minutes Bayswater added a third. Hughes’ free kick was only cleared to Stephens at the back post, and he sent the ball back into the box and Palmateer rose highest to head past Janjetevic.
It looked like the game was all over, but roared on by their supporters in the crowd, United pulled one back three minutes later. A cross into the box was flicked on by Mow and fellow substitute Cimenti fired home. It was game on five minutes later when United added a second, Mow the provider again, flicking the ball back to Milicevic to score. The comeback was on, and Bayswater looked nervy for the first time in the competition, and Palmateer had to be alert to clear Tilo’s cross from the left.
With the outstanding De Oliveira in the middle of the park, the visitors were sensing a remarkable comeback, but Bayswater continued to have chances to kill the game off. They thought they had a fourth on 74 minutes, Hughes’ free kick from the right picking out Jackson, whose diving header beat Janjetevic, but the flag was up for offside, it looked a close decision. Moments later it looked like they had a penalty after Ollie La Gallia was bundled down in the box after being found by Jackson, but the referee waved away their calls.
The home supporters, in the big crowd, were on the edge of their seats, and Sydney went within inches of levelling nine minutes from time, De Oliverira racing to the edge of the box and his shot was well saved by Lewis Italiano. United pressed right to the end, but couldn’t find the equaliser, and it was Bayswater celebrating another three points, and taking them on the verge of qualification for the knock out stage. Bayswater hit the road next week to take on MetroStars, and a win would secure their place in the next phase.
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 13 Gyles Davies (2 Alexander Ishida-Livings 80’), 15 Jackson Stephens (21 Mason Tatafu 59’), 16 Jonathan Corness (14 Oliver La Galia 59’), 18 Chris Jackson (7 Sean McManus 87’), 20 Sam Mitchinson, 26 Aidan Edward, 30 Thomas Southgate – Subs not used: GK Taylor Rae, 19 Phillip Radeski, 27 Deegan Brook
Sydney United 58: GK Vedran Janjetevic, 3 Bailey Rule, 4 Koya Nakano, 6 Dylan Rose (15 Adrian Knez 84’), 10 Carlos De Oliveira, 13 Jordan Ivancic, 5 Anthony Tomelic, 20 Marco Arambasic (11 Ayouk Mow 46’), 22 Michael Krslovic (9 Kyle Cimenti 46’), 19 Aidan Milicevic (14 Michael Pratezina 76’), 32 Farah Koko (2 Gabriel Tilo 9’) – Subs not used: GK Josip Orlovic – Red Card: Ivancic 6’ – Referee: Daniel Cook
1.11.2025
WE WANT TO PUT IN A PERFORMANCE WE CAN BE PROUD OF SAYS BURGESS
Defender Cameron Burgess say Swansea City will be looking to put in a performance the travelling Jack Army can be proud of when they visit Charlton Athletic today. The Swans exited the League Cup to Manchester City in midweek, but only after pushing Pep Guardiola’s star-studded visitors all the way with a terrific display.
Swansea now return to Championship action and Australia international Burgess hopes the positives from Wednesday night can be carried into another positive display at The Valley. "Wednesday was a good occasion for the club, we went toe-to-toe with top quality opposition, one of the best teams in the world. It was always going to be difficult, but we gave it absolutely everything," said Burgess.
"We can be proud of our effort, and we can take this going in to the league. We've got a busy few weeks ahead of us leading into the international break. As players at this level, that's something we're used to. We just make sure we recover well, train well and that we're always ready to go for the next one. It's another big game at Charlton. I've actually caught a few of their games this season, I'm expecting a tough game, but we want to put in another performance we can be proud of."
"They did really well last season to get promoted, they'll be confident going into the game following their last win, but we'll be looking to also bring confidence from the Man City game. We said in the dressing room after the game, as much as we have been beaten, it's something we can be proud of and we'll look to take the positives into the weekend and be at our best for the fans."
31.10.2025
VALE ALAN VEST
Footballwa.net extends our heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Alan Vest, a true legend of Western Australian football who sadly passed away this week aged 86. Born in Barnsley, UK, on 5 September 1939, Alan played with Boston United and Rugby Town before moving to New Zealand, where he went on to represent the All Whites 17 times.
In 1974, Alan relocated to Perth to take up the roles of WA Director of Coaching and State Coach. Under his leadership, Western Australia won two Marah Halim Cups in Indonesia (1975 and 1976) and famously defeated Scottish giants Rangers 2–1. He later returned to England to manage Rochdale in the Third Division, before coming back to Australia to coach Newcastle KB United (1977–81) and West Adelaide (1982–84).
Alan returned to Perth in 1984, briefly coaching Floreat Athena before again taking on the role of State Coach. He guided Perth Italia to the 1989 Super League title and led Floreat Athena to the 1990 minor premiership. He then began a new chapter in Asia, managing Sarawak FA in Malaysia (1992–98) and Geylang United in Singapore (1998–2000).
Upon returning to Perth, Alan joined Perth Glory as assistant coach, helping the club win the 2002/03 and 2003/04 NSL titles. He later served as interim head coach in 2005/06, before concluding his coaching career with Inglewood United (2006) and ECU Joondalup (2009).
In recognition of his outstanding service to the game, Alan Vest was inducted into the Hall of Recognition category of the Football Hall of Fame in 1996 and then was made a legend in 2016, an honour reserved for only a select few who have made a lasting impact on football in Western Australia. - RIP Alan – a legend of WA Football
31.10.2025
GLORY FAIL TO FIRE IN LOSS TO VICTORY
Perth Glory remains without a win in the Isuzu-Ute A-League, after going down 0-2 to Melbourne Victory in week three at rain-soaked HBF Park on Friday evening. Glory opened brightly but failed to capitalize, with Victory clinical when their chance’s arrived, with former Glory man Keegan Jelacic giving the visitors the lead early, before Spanish midfielder Juan Mata sealed the game after the break.
Interim coach Adam Griffiths made four changes from the side that were beaten 0-4 by Melbourne City last week, in his first game in charge after the sacking of David Zdrilic in the week. Welsh striker Tom Lawrance and Charbel Shamoon came in for their starting debuts for the club, along with Callum Timmins and Will Freney, with Brandon O’Neill, Seb Despotovski and Trent Ostler dropping to the bench, and Jaiden Kucharski out injured.
Prior to kick off there was a moment of applause for former Glory coach Alan Vest who sadly passed away on Thursday. There was a sparse crowd at kick off with rain threatening, but the hosts were on the front foot from the start and should have found the opener on five minutes. Freney made space on the right, and his inch perfect cross found Adam Taggart, but with the goal at his mercy, the skipper couldn’t keep his header down. That miss came back to haunt Glory, with Victory opening the scoring six minutes later.
Good work by Matthew Grimaldi saw the ball find Jelacic, who was given far too much room on the edge of the box and he finished with aplomb past Matt Sutton. Lawrence and Shamoon looked lively on their debuts, but Glory couldn’t find away past a Victory defence who had conceded five last week at Newcastle. With the heavy rain sweeping across HBF Park, the Glory were struggled in the final third, and at the break they had it all to do.
Griffiths made a change at the break with Despotovski replacing Lawrence, and it was a bright opening. Lachie Wales cut in from the left and found Taggart, but his shot on target was tipped over the top by former Glory custodian Jack Duncan. Then from the resulting corner Taggart volleyed wide, and moments later Despotovski’s long-range shot flew wide. It was a better start by the men in purple, but just like the first half Victory hit back and doubled their advantage on 54 minutes.
A quick break saw another former Glory player Jason Davidson race down the left, and his cross to the back post found the unmarked Mata, who fired home. The heavens opened again as Glory looked to get back into the game, and they went close on the hour mark. The lively Wales crossed found Shamoon, his effort beat Duncan, but was cleared off the line by Davidson. Duncan then denied Taggart again seven minutes later, it wasn’t the striker night.
Vergos thought he had added a third for the visitors, but his celebrations were cut short with the assistants flag up for offside. With Glory pressing, more gaps were appearing at the other end, and Sutton was alert to make a smart save to deny Nikolaos Vergos. The rain was getting stronger, but Glory continued to press and went close again late, Despotovski sent into the right side of the box, but his shot hit the side netting. But after seven minutes off stoppage time, it was Victory celebrating their first win of the season, with Glory still searching for there’s.
Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 2 Charbel SHAMOON (21 Adam BUGARIJA 63'), 4 Scott WOOTTON, 8 Callum TIMMINS (20 Trent OSTLER 63'), 11 Lachlan WALES, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI (6 Brandon O’NEILL 84'), 19 Josh RISDON, 22 Adam TAGGART, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE (25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 46'), 45 Brian KALTAK – Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 24 Andriano LEBIB
Melbourne Victory: GK Jack DUNCAN, 2 Jason DAVIDSON, 4 Lachlan JACKSON, 8 Jordi VALADON, 9 Nikolaos VERGOS (29 Oliver DRAGICEVIC 80'), 10 Denis GENREAU (19 Jing REEC 80'), 14 Matthew GRIMALDI (34 Xavier STELLA 69'), 16 Joshua INSERRA (15 Sebastian ESPOSITO 89') 22 Joshua RAWLINS, 23 Keegan JELACIC, 64 Juan MATA (11 Clerismario SANTOS RODRIGUES 69') – Subs not used: RGK Jack WARSHAWSKY, 3 Adama TRAORE - Attendance: 5,295 - Referee: Shaun Evans
31.10.2025
HOLLAR AT THE DOUBLE FOR GLORY
Perth Glory have started their Ninja A-League season with a fantastic 3-1 win against Western Sydney Wanderers at Wanderers Football Park on a stormy Friday evening. A first half goal by Gaby Hollar set them on their way, before fellow American Rola Badawiya added a second early in the second half.
Ella Buchanan reduced the margin for the hosts, but Hollar added her second to seal the win, the first on the road under head coach Stephen Peters. The coach gave debuts to keeper Alyssa Dall’Oste, Emma Tovar and Badawiya, while former Wanderers striker Bronte Trew was on the bench.
The game looked like it wouldn’t go ahead with severe lightning strikes delaying the kick-off for more than an hour, but after referee Isabella Mossin gave the go-ahead to start the game, Glory started well and hit the front on the half hour. Grace Johnston’s corner wasn’t held by Wanderers custodian Brianna Edwards and Hollar fired home the loose ball from close-range. It was a perfect start, and Glory held firm to take the lead into the break.
The visitors were out of the traps quickly after half time, and doubled their advantage two minutes in. Johnston made space down the left, and her cross found Badawiya, and the American, capped her Glory debut with a neat finish. But four minutes later the Wanderers found a lifeline, Glory failed to clear their lines from a corner and in the goalmouth scramble Buchanan scored.
It was game on, and Glory’s poor away form had many thinking the game could be turning, but Hollar had other ideas, and regained their two goal advantage moments later, with the American duo combining. Badawiya found space on the left, and beat her marker, before crossing to the unmarked Hollar who headed home. Wanderers pressed late, but they couldn’t find away past Dall’Oste who made a smart save to deny Alana Cerne.
At the final whistle it was Glory celebrating the win, their first on the road since they beat Central Coast Mariners 2-1 on December 31st 2023. They are back in action next Friday when they host Brisbane Roar at HBF Park (4:00pm), as part of the double-header with the men’s side, who take on Central Coast.
Western Sydney Wanderers: GK Brianna EDWARDS, 4 Poppie HOOKS, 6 Amy CHESSARI (16 Anika STAJCIC 85'), 7 Amy HARRISON, 11 Danika MATOS, 14 Ella BUCHANAN (13 Alvina KOSHABA 75'), 17 Allyssa NG-SAAD, 19 Talia YOUNIS (8 Olivia PRICE 62'), 22 Alana CERNE, 25 Holly CASPERS (24 Nikkita FAZZARI 62'), 37 Ena HARADA – Subs not used: RGK Aimee HALL, 5 Milly BENNETT
Perth Glory: GK Alyssa DALL’OSTE, 3 Emma TOVAR (27 Charli WAINWRIGHT 75'), 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 9 Gabby HOLLAR (19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE 57'), 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM (12 Bronte TREW 57'), 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 17 Rola BADAWIYA (25 Ella LINCOLN 90+4'), 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO (2 Mischa ANDERSON 90+2'), 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG – Subs not used: RGK Meg PHILLIPS - Referee: Isabella Mossin
31.10.2025
CURSE OF THE SOCCEROOS RIGHT-BACK STRIKES ITALIANO
Australia have suffered another injury blow ahead of upcoming internationals against Venezuela and Colombia with right back Jacob Italiano set to be ruled out with a calf problem. The 24-year old defender made a big impression in his maiden Socceroos camp, starting at right-back in games against Canada and the United States in October.
Italiano loomed as a certain selection for the squad that will face Venezuela (November 15) and Colombia (November 19) until injuring his calf this week in training with his Austrian club Grazer AK. The Socceroos will also be without star left-back Jordan Bos, who re-injured his troublesome hamstring last weekend in his Dutch club Feyenoord’s 3-2 loss to PSV Eindhoven.
30.10.2025
VALE MIKE TETLOW
The WA football family is deeply saddened by the passing of WA Hall of Fame Life Member Mike Tetlow, a cherished coach, mentor, and club stalwart at Rockingham City following a lengthy illness. Mike was surrounded by family when he passed away on Saturday 25th October, 2025. Mike first wore the Rocky shirt in the early 1980s, later coaching their youth team and returning years later to guide the 18’s.
His football journey took him to other WA clubs, but his heart never left Rockingham. Beyond the pitch, Mike served the club in many roles, including Vice President, always giving his time, wisdom, and warmth. His legacy is etched into their grounds, especially through the ‘Mike Tetlow Tunnel’, named in his honour. We all extend our heartfelt sympathy to Mary and the Tetlow family. Mike’s impact at the club and community will never be forgotten.
Rockingham City President Mr Fraser Marr said Tetlow was a huge influence to him, and everyone else on and off the pitch. “I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Mike, who had a major impact on me personally, like he did with many others across WA football,” he said. “I first met Mike back around 2000 when I attended the Harvey Fresh summer soccer clinic at Dowling Street in Rockingham and reflecting back, Mike made an immediate impact instantly with his obvious wisdom of the game
“When he set about sharing with the young cohort the idea of team shape, where on the pitch are no risk zones and what we should and shouldn’t be eating pre-game and post-game - which was new at the time. I was then fortunate to be selected for Mike’s 15s state team where again his ability to mentor young talent shone through. His ability to man-manage the entire squad to get the best out of everyone along with instilling a real desire to ensure we left everything on the pitch, meant we got to the semi-finals against all the odds.”
Marr said when he joined Rockingham, Tetlow was a legend at the club, and he went on to see the great man in action, and has learnt so much from him. “Mike’s affiliation with Rocky runs deep, across five decades. Starting as a player, then into coaching after a conversation with George Coffey. He coached our successful youth cup and league winners in 1993 and then again coached under 18 league winners in 2011. He then showed his ability to also support off the pitch by joining the committee as treasurer and then vice president and being inducted as a life member in 2016
“He was always around at the club watching both juniors and seniors’ games, he loved chatting football, with anyone, but what stands out was he always took time to genuinely take an interest in what was happening in people’s lives off the pitch, centred around the fact he always wanted to be a positive impact on your life. His impact goes further than just Rockingham City, with his work for WA state team in the JSA days, along with coaching very successful youth teams at Fremantle City. But the impact he made to me and so many others go far beyond just how to play football.
“He set about ensuring talent always matched work ethic, off the pitch behaviour that would always make your parents proud and that you developed a desire to always strive for the very best. I visited Mike regularly this year and although physically he has been unwell, he was as sharp as ever mentally, providing valuable input as to what Rocky needed to get back on its feet both on the pitch across juniors and state league but also off the pitch within the community. Having him attend the club recently to see the tunnel named in his honour is something that I’ll cherish forever. It’s the very least we could do to recognise the positive impact he made to our club across 50 years.” RIP Mick – From Everyone at Footballwa.
30.10.2025
BAYSWATER AIM TO KEEP WINNING RUN AT HOME INTACT
Bayswater City sit top of Group D in the Australian Championship, and they will be aiming to make it three from three at home in the competition, when they welcome Sydney United 58 to Frank Drago Reserve on Sunday afternoon. (1.30pm) The two sides met in week one, when Bayswater defender Jackson Stephens scored a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw, and many thought that was an upset. Fast forward to week four, and Bayswater sit top of the group, while United are at the foot of the table without a win.
Matthew Sparrow’s side made it back-to-back home wins last week, building on their win against MetroStars, picking up an impressive 1-0 win against NPL NSW Champions Wests APIA with Pat Loughrey on target. United are yet to make an impression in the Australian Championship and are now five points away from a quarter-final spot with three matches left. So, Bayswater will be eager to hold on to top spot, but United need a result to give themselves a chance of knock-out football, so it sets up an enthralling encounter.
Another strong defensive performance, ensured victory for Bayswater last week, and defender Sam Mitchinson said it was an all-round team performance, and it’s fantastic to see a WA side leading the way in Group D, something many people didn’t see coming. “Last week was a massive result for us. APIA are a top side and we knew we’d have to be at our best defensively. The boys dug in really well, everyone worked for each other, and we took our chance when it came. It was a proper team performance and one we can be proud of,” the defender explained.
“Definitely. It’s great to see the club and WA football getting that recognition, but like Matty keeps reminding us, nothing’s done yet. We’re just focused on keeping our standards high and taking it one game at a time. There’s still a lot of football to be played. Sydney United are always tough opponents, and they’ve got a lot of quality across the park. We know what to expect after the draw over there earlier in the group. Being our last home game, we want to put on a strong performance for the fans and put ourselves in the best position heading into the final round.”
Skipper Luke Palmateer was another defender who put in a great shift against APIA, and he was rewarded with a place in the ‘Team of the Week’, but he also said it was a team effort. “APIA are a really strong opponent and made it hard for us to garner possession. They have a talented squad and created several opportunities through patient build up play however we worked extremely hard to withhold their efforts,” he said. “As a group we have all bought in to a work hard first approach and knowing this, an opportunity would arise that if we manage to take it, we could have a chance and gaining something from the game.
“To come away with three points was impressive and is a testament to the work Matty (Sparrow) and Basil (Lenzo) do in organising us as a unit that is hard to score against. To gain a player of the week mention is a nice cherry on top moment, but I would be nowhere near that feat without Jackson (Stephens), Thomas (Southgate and Sam (Mitchinson) alongside me. They are experienced and excellent defenders who read the game so well and make my job easy at times.”
Palmateer said Sunday is a danger game for them, and they can’t get complacent, and he said the coaches want allow that to happen. “We need to stick with the principles that got us to this point so far. Disciplined, pragmatic and with a resilience in knowing that even at this level we can keep clean sheets,” he said. “To think if we win on the weekend, we put ourselves in an excellent position to progress out of the group is still a lot to let sink in. We know however how strong every team in this competition is, especially Sydney United as at times when we played them, they threatened us on multiple opportunities so we need to be aware of their dangers.”
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, GK Taylor Rae, 2 Alexander Ishida-Livings, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 7 Sean McManus, 10 Jason Mirco, 12 Anthony Bafobusha, 13 Gyles Davies, 14 Oliver La Galia, 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jonathan Corness, 17 Charlie Garnham, 18 Christopher Jackson, 19 Phillip Radeski, 20 Sam Mitchinson, 21 Mason Tatafu, 24 Takayuki Sone, 26 Aidan Edward, 27 Deegan Brook, 29 Scotlan Morrison, 30 Thomas Southgate
Sydney United 58: GK Vedran Janjetevic, GK Josip Orlovic, 2 Gabriel Tilo, 3 Bailey Rule, 4 Koya Nakano, 5 Anthony Tomelic, 6 Dylan Rose, 7 Noah Blazeka, 8 Mario Shabow, 9 Kyle Cementi, 10 Carlos De Oliveira, 11 Ayouk Mow, 12 Richard Darko, 13 Jordan Ivancic, 14 Michael Pratezina, 15 Adrian Knez, 16 Anthony Krilic, 17 Tomislav Ozanic, 18 Mark Leonard, 19 Aidan Milicevic, 20 Marco Arambasic, 22 Michael Krslovic, 32 Farah Koko
30.10.2025
GLORY HOPING TO START POST-ZDRILIC ERA WITH A VICTORY
The first game for Perth glory, without former coach David Zdrilic, is a Friday night blockbuster, with Melbourne Victory visiting HBF Park in week three of the Isuzu-Ute A-League. (6:45pm) Both teams are coming off big defeats, Glory losing 4-0 against Melbourne City while Victory were thumped 5-2 by Newcastle Jets, so it’s a huge three points for both. Assistant coaches Adam Griffiths and Tomi Vidovic are expected to take charge of the team until a new head coach is appointed.
Glory keeper Matt Sutton said he didn’t see the departure of Zdrilic coming, but the players are preparing well for Friday’s clash. “Obviously it’s a big shock for the players, I’ve only been here a couple of weeks but we have some strong leaders in that dressing room to lean back on and trust,” he said. “We’re all professionals and it won’t be the last time this happens in the game, and personal opinions doesn’t matter, we have a big game on Friday, and we’ve got to prepare for that.”
Sutton said last week’s loss was disappointing, but they have moved on. He has settled in nicely at the club, the keeper who played at Melbourne Victory and City in the past, joined as an injury replacement. The move to the west came after his former club Western United folded, and the rumour is his former coach John Aloisi is front runner for the vacant coaching role at the club. Sutton said things happened quickly, but he’s delighted to have this opportunity.
“Yes, it was a tough loss, but Melbourne City are a good side, and we’ve knew that and what to expect. They are the champions for a reason, but for us there is no use dwelling on it we move on,” he said. “It was disappointing to leave Western United, but it’s a great opportunity to come here, Perth is a fantastic place and I’ve got a few former teammates in the squad which helps. If you had asked me a couple of months ago, I’d be here, I would have said what you talking about, but I’m super stoked to be here.”
The keeper will come against another former club on Friday, when they host Melbourne Victory, and he knows it’s a huge game for both teams. “They are one of the biggest clubs in the league, and every time you play Victory, here or in Melbourne, you know it’s going to be a big game,” he explained. “Obviously they haven’t started the season well, similar to ourselves. So, it’s a massive game for both teams, but we are welcoming in the challenge.” New Glory recruit Tom Lawrence has been added to the squad for the game, along with youngsters Adam Bugarija and Khoa Ngo, but Jaiden Kucharski will miss out with a groin injury.
Glory chief executive Anthony Radlich spoke on Wednesday regarding the departure of the coach, and he said Perth’s owners “couldn’t see a path forward” under Zdrilic. “What they’ve seen in the pre-season and then what they saw on the weekend from a competitive point of view was probably the most disappointing thing,” Radlich said.
“I won’t go into revealing who we’ve spoken to at this point, but discussions are underway with a number of candidates. We’re looking at high quality candidates (and) well-credentialed candidates. Our real focus is delivering a coach that’s going to play with a clearer playing style, with a clear identity, someone that can get the best out of this squad and ensure that we’re playing a high level of football consistently … and someone that’s able to inspire and motivate both the players and the fans.”
The last time Victory headed west in the league was in week 17 last season, when in front of over 11,000 they left with the three points after a 2-0 win. A tight first half burst into life on the hour mark, with Matthew Velupillay opening the scoring. The visitors wrapped the points up six minutes later with Brazilian Santos bagging the second. Victory coach Arthur Diles will be hoping for a similar result, and a repeat of the pre-season games in Mandurah and Bunbury last month, but he is expecting a tough night in Perth following the sacking of Zdrilic, but he is looking for a positive reaction from his side after last week heavy defeat in Newcastle.
“It makes it a little bit more unknown in terms of what to expect from the opponent and when these things happen, you can get a real positive reaction from a playing group,” he said. “Last week, performance-wise, it was not at the level we wanted. We look forward to moving forward and putting on a better performance than we did last week. Irrespective of what’s happened over there, it’s going to be a very tough game, and one we’ve got to be up for, and we’ve got to make sure we do everything right in our own process and our own performance and worry about ourselves first. If we do that, then everything else will take care of itself.”
Perth Glory squad: GK Matt SUTTON, GK Ryan WARNER, 2 Charbel SHAMOON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 6 Brandon O’NEILL, 8 Callum TIMMINS, 11 Lachlan WALES, 14 Nathanael BLAIR, 17 Arion SULEMANI, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER, 21 Adam BUGARIJA, 22 Adam TAGGART, 24 Andriano LEBIB, 25 Sebastian DESPOTOVSKI, 26 Khoa NGO, 27 Will FRENEY, 34 Tom LAWRENCE, 45 Brian KALTAK - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: BUGARIJA, NGO, LAWRENCE - Outs: 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI - Unavailable: GK Mark BIRIGHITTI, GK Cameron COOK, 3 Sam SUTTON, 7 Nicholas PENNINGTON, 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI, 10 Luke AMOS, 15 Zach LISOLAJSKI, 31 Joel ANASMO (All Injured)
Melbourne Victory squad: GK Jack DUNCAN, GK Jack WARSHAWSKY, 2 Jason DAVIDSON, 3 Adama TRAORE, 4 Lachlan JACKSON, 8 Jordi VALADON, 9 Nikolaos VERGOS, 10 Denis GENREAU, 11 Clerismario SANTOS RODRIGUES, 14 Matthew GRIMALDI, 15 Sebastian ESPOSITO, 16 Joshua INSERRA, 19 Jing REEC, 21 Roderick MIRANDA, 22 Joshua RAWLINS, 23 Keegan JELACIC, 28 Kayne RAZMOVSKI, 29 Oliver DRAGICEVIC, 34 Xavier STELLA, 64 Juan MATA - *Two to be omitted* - Ins: MIRANDA, RAZMOVSKI - Unavailable: 5 Brendan HAMILL (long-term injury)
30.10.2025
PETERS HOPES TO END THEIR AWAY DAY BLUES IN SEASON OPENERY
Perth Glory’s Ninja A-League campaign kicks off on Friday afternoon, and head coach Stephen Peters will be looking to get a monkey off his and the teams back, as they seek a first away win of his tenure when they take on Western Sydney Wanderers at Wanderers Football Park on Friday. (kick-off at 4pm WST, watch live and FREE on 10.com.au)
Results on the road were disappointing, but their home form was good, winning six, and like all WA sporting sides they were unable to replicate that form on the road. The coach believes they have learned some valuable lessons ahead of their first fixture of the new season. “[Winning away] is something we’ve spoken about since we started kicking the first ball here in pre-season, and we’ve very hungry for it and we don’t want to leave excuses in the tank,” he said.
“There are some things that we feel we’re well planned to do better with, so hopefully that proves to be the outcome, we’d be elated with an away win. I’m always excited, especially when you’re the first game of the season proper. I think there’ll probably be more eyes on it given that it’s the first game of the whole season… it’s an opportunity for us to impress. I think everyone is a little bit anxious, but we’re anxious because we know we’re on the eve of the season and we want to fight for three points. It means something to everybody… and we’re raring to get going.”
Glory was beaten by Carlos Vega Mena’s WA State squad in their only public pre-season outing, a result Peters admitted was a disappointing one, but he believes that his side took some valuable lessons from it. “We saw in that game that if you’re hungry and you have a common goal, you can achieve great things,” he said. “They [the WA State Team] did a great job getting the win there. It was a humbling experience for us and I think that we learned from it. Yes, the State Team game was a disappointing result, but everything in the lead up was good and I think our reaction to that game has been good. We’re now super-excited to get started.”
Peters is expecting the Wanderers to be fired up after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, which saw them finish with the wooden spoon, but he wants to start the season on the front foot. “They’re obviously not going to be very pleased that they finished bottom last season,” he said. “I know the coach very well and he’ll definitely be into them about making sure they get a good start and represent what is a very proud football area with a bit of pride.
“We’ve got to be ready for that. There’s no game you walk into where three points are just going to be given to you, so we’ve got to be ready to fight for it. I think if we do that, then we’ll be right in it. I think it’s going to be really tight, arm-wrestle of a game. They have some very good defenders, it’s going to be a battle and it’ll definitely go for 90-plus minutes.”
In last season’s game at the venue, it looked like Glory would leave empty-handed when Amy Harrison gave the hosts the lead five minutes from time. But deep into stoppage time substitute Miku Sunaga was brought down by Wanderers ‘keeper Sham Khamis and Kelli Brown held her nerve to convert from the spot to give both sides a share of the spoils. Glory go into the new season with a number of injuries, with long-term absentees Megan Wynne, Natalie Tathem and Ella Abdul Massih all still unavailable, with Georgia Cassidy is also missing.
The club had a keeper crisis with new signing Teresa Morrissey and Jessica Skinner both injured, and the club have brought in Alyssa Dall’Oste from Western United, on a short-term injury replacement contract. Meanwhile, a number of players are in line to make their A-League debuts for the club, including Emma Tovar, who has been away on international duty with the Philippines, American striker Rola Badawiya and former Wanderers forward, Bronte Trew.
Western Sydney Wanderers squad: GK Brianna EDWARDS, GK Aimee HALL, 2 Janae DEFAZIO, 4 Poppie HOOKS, 5 Milly BENNETT, 6 Amy CHESSARI, 7 Amy HARRISON, 8 Olivia PRICE, 11 Danika MATOS, 14 Ella BUCHANAN, 15 Cushla RUE, 16 Anika STAJCIC, 17 Allyssa NG-SAAD, 19 Talia YOUNIS, 22 Alana CERNE, 24 Nikkita FAZZARI, 25 Holly CASPERS, 26 Siena ARRARTE, 37 Ena HARADA - *Two to be omitted*
Perth Glory squad: GK Meg PHILLIPS, GK Alyssa DALL’OSTE, 2 Mischa ANDERSON, 3 Emma TOVAR, 5 Grace JOHNSTON, 6 Tijan MCKENNA, 9 Gabby HOLLAR, 10 Susan PHONSONGKHAM, 12 Bronte TREW, 13 Naomi CHINNAMA, 17 Rola BADAWIYA, 19 Sarah O’DONOGHUE, 22 Ischia BROOKING, 23 Isobel DALTON, 24 Julia SARDO, 25 Ella LINCOLN, 26 Tanika LALA, 27 Charli WAINWRIGHT, 29 Onyinyechi ZOGG - *Two to be omitted*
Unavailable: GK Teresa MORRISSEY (injured), GK Jessica SKINNER (illness), 7 Megan WYNNE (injured), 8 Georgia CASSIDY (injured), 11 Natalie TATHEM (injured), 20 Ella ABDUL MASSIH (injured)
30.10.2025
OVERY TRAINING WITH MANCHESTER UNITED FIRST TEAM
West Australian teenager James Overy has caught the eye of Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim after returning from the Under-20 World Cup. The 17-year old, who joined the Red Devils from hometown club Perth Glory in mid-2024, was invited to train with the first team several times this week.
Overy “was called up on three occasions by Amorim’s staff to join in with senior training last week. It’s a sign of just how much of an impression has been made on the coaches by Overy, who was the youngest squad member that went with Australia to the World Cup,” reported the Daily Mail newspaper.
Overy first caught the eye when he featured for Glory in a friendly against West Ham United at the age of 15. He has since made six appearances for United’s academy sides and turned out for Australia at last month’s Under-20 World Cup in Chile, where he started against Argentina and Cuba.
28.10.2025
SARDO ELATED TO RE-GNITE CAREER WITH GLORY WOMEN
Defender Julia Sardo went through the full gamut of emotions in the A-League off-season after an uncertain future quickly turned into her worst fears being realised. But after fearing for her future at the top level, the new Perth Glory signing is delighted to have reignited her career back where it all began.
When Western United were placed in hibernation amid financial woes back in September, rendering all their players free agents, Sardo wondered whether her career was over. Without a contract as fellow clubs began pre-season, the 30-year old thought her race was run at the top level after six seasons in the A-League.
“Everyone’s teams were full. I definitely had it in the back of my mind, maybe do I take the summer off, but then once you’re out of the game it’s so hard to get back in,” Sardo said. “It was really hard, you didn’t know if you were going to have a job; this is our life, my career.”
Thankfully, Glory moved quickly to sign her, offering her a chance to return to the club where she made her debut in 2019. “It was really difficult for all of us but the way it happened was kind of meant to be. When we found out about Western, within a couple days I got the opportunity here, which I’m very grateful for,” she said.
“It means everything to me. It’s my job. It’s my passion. I’ve been doing this for 20 years, it would have been really hard if I couldn’t do it this season. I’ll put that on a pitch and for the girls and for the team and show them I really want to be here… The girls have been great, the environment’s been good. I’ve kind of just slided in and fitted in well.”
Equally comfortable operating in midfield or at full-back, Sardo brings plenty of experience to the table through spells with Glory, Melbourne City and Western United. And with Glory having not played finals football since 2019, she said a strong culture was needed to break the drought.
“The belief within the team and the whole system comes from the coaches, everyone within the whole club, the belief that you can actually do it,” she said. “The culture is the most important thing. When I was with Western United, and we went to finals three years in a row, we had that culture. If you don’t mesh with the chemistry, it doesn’t really work for you.”
28.10.2025
SICHEL TAKES THE REINS AT KINGSLEY AMATEURS
Kingsley Westside Amateur Premier Division side will have a new man in the dugout next season, but he is well known to everyone at Chichester Park, with Simone Sichel taking over from Sam Ellis, who stepped down at the end of last season. Sichel returns to the club with a wealth of experience on and off the pitch — both in his native Italy and here in WA. This included a key role in their double-winning Amateur Premier side in 2019 and Kingsley’s early years in the State League. In recent seasons, Simone has been both a player and assistant coach in the State League with Curtin University.
Club President Mr Chris Brady said they are thrilled to welcome Simone back to Chichester Park and his assistant Jessie Higgins, and he thanked Sam Ellis for his work over the last two seasons in the Amateur Premier Division. “A big thanks also to Sam Ellis, who has managed the Amateur Premier side over the past couple of seasons. He stepped up when needed and put in a great shift with the squad — the club really appreciates his efforts,” Brady said. “The club is really excited to have Simone and Jesse heading up our Amateur Premier program next season.
“The club’s identity was Sunday football for decades so the Amateur Premier team is a really important part of our past and future — it’s not just another team. It provides a high-level, competitive option for players who’ve stepped away from State League but still want to stay at the club and play at a high standard, and it also offers another pathway for younger players on the edge of our State League setup.
“The club is committed to restoring the team’s reputation as a consistent and respected competitor in the Amateur Premier League, and having two people who truly understand the fabric of the club and what Kingsley Westside stands for is a huge plus. Simone and Jesse both know what success here looks like and what it takes to get the best out of people — on and off the pitch.”
Joining him is Jessie Higgins, a man who needs no introduction at the club. Jesse was captain of that same double-winning 2019 side and Kingsley’s inaugural State League captain. Jesse returns to the Amateur Premier program after two seasons coaching with the Masters — first as assistant to Stu Green and then as Masters Head Coach in 2025. “Simone and Jesse have presented a clear and exciting vision for the Amateur program, and we can’t wait to see what 2026 brings,’ Brady added. “They’ll be supported by Dylan James, who makes a welcome return as Reserves Coach, to build on an excellent first season with his young squad.”
Sichel said it’s a great opportunity for him, but was thankful for the support from Curtin University over the last couple of years in his coaching development. “A huge thank you to Curtin University Football Club; the committee, the president, all the players, and the assistant coaching staff (Martin, Richard),” he said. “A special thank you goes to Troy (Reid), who first brought me to the club a few seasons ago as a player. I feel we’ve had a fantastic run together since then.
“What Curtin has achieved in the past few years is nothing short of incredible. Every season, at the start, the “experts” had us tipped for relegation, but the results told a very different story. In our first year, we missed the top four by goal difference. In the second, we reached the promotion playoff final. And in the third, we finally got promoted to State Division One. None of this would have been possible without Troy’s incredible commitment and football knowledge. Along the way, we became good friends, so thank you, Troy. It’s been a great ride, and I wish you and everyone at Curtin all the very best for the future.”
Now it’s his time to be head coach at Kingsley, and it’s an opportunity he is relishing. “I’m really excited to be returning to Kingsley Westside, a club that means a lot to me. I spent some great years there as both a player and part of that incredible double-winning Amateur Premier side in 2019, so it truly feels like coming home,” Sichel explained. “I want to thank Chris Brady and the entire club for giving me this incredible opportunity. I’m really looking forward to getting started, and our goals are clear: bring Kingsley’s Amateur side back to where we believe it belongs.”
28.10.2025
MATILDAS PRIDE DENTED IN DERBY
The Matildas UK October intentional window has ended with a disappointing 3-0 defeat by Euro Champions England at Pride Park, Derby on Wednesday morning. They went into the game on the back of a win against Wales on Saturday, but Joe Montemurro’s side were no match for the hosts, especially after former Perth Glory defender Alanna Kennedy was sent off after only 19 minutes. First half goals from Aggie Beever-Jones and Lucy Bronze put the Lionesses in control, and a late penalty from Georgia Stanway sealed the result deep in stoppage time.
"Unfortunately, the direction of the game changed once we went a player down," Montemurro said post-match. “England are a good side and they had a little bit of the ball even before Alanna went down but it did change the opportunity for us to get involved and then we had to change the entire strategy of the game. But England are a good side and good learnings from us, we're just disappointed that we didn't get a chance to show it, but that’s football. There's no such thing as a friendly any more. You can have situations that change the game and that's what happened tonight. We can't use that as excuses and we have to be better, we have to be smarter and I think it's a good learning for us."
The last time these teams met was in the World Cup semi-final in Sydney in 2023, with England winning 3-1, and the Matildas were looking for some revenge in this one. They made five changes to the side that beat Wales, Mackenzie Arnold replacing Teagan Micah in goal, while Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter returned at full-back, Alanna Kennedy started in midfield, and Amy Sayer also returned, with Courtney Nevin, Claire Wheeler, Kaitlyn Torpey and Hayley Raso dropping to the bench. Meanwhile, Sam Kerr took the captain’s armband for the first time since returning from injury. The sold-out signs were up prior to kick off, and it was the hosts who opened the better, with the Matildas on the back foot. The home crowd thought they had the lead on 13 minutes, Beever-Jones, who was a constant threat in and around the penalty area, firing home, but the Chelsea striker’s celebration was cut short by the offside flag.
But the hosts continued to dictate terms, and on 19 minutes the game took a massive twist. A poor touch by Kennedy, saw her give up possession to Alessia Russo who raced towards the penalty area, and Kennedy brought the Arsenal striker down, and the referee had no choice but to send her off. Then from the resulting free kick the Lionesses hit the front. Beever-Jones’ free kick was straight into the wall, but the ball rebounded back to her and she fired home powerfully into the top corner.
It was going to be an uphill task for the Matildas, but Kerr went close to levelling just before the half hour, Ella Carpenters cross found the Chelsea striker, but her first time shot was saved by Hannah Hampton out at her near post. But five minutes from the break England scored a deserved second. A nice passing move on the left, cut the Matildas apart, finding Bronze in the penalty area, and the Chelsea veteran made no mistake from close range, to send the hosts into the shed well in control and having had 73 per cent possession.
Australia hit on the counter attack early in the second half, Kerr’s cross was well claimed by Hampton, with Caitlin Foord ready to pounce. But England looked dangerous every time they went forward, and Arnold was out smartly to deny Russo shortly after. Chances came and went for the hosts, with the Matildas chasing shadows, but Arnold made a good save from Georgia Stanway powerful shot. The Lionesses then lost striker Michelle Agyemang, who was carried off with a knee injury. They also lost Beever-Jones with injury, meaning they would play the last ten minutes with ten, as they had used all their subs.
It looked like that was the end of the scoring, but in the fifth minute of stoppage time the hosts added a third. Missy Bo Kearns raced into the box, but a last-ditch tackle from Katrina Gorry looked like it had dealt with the problem. But VAR asked the referee to have a look at the screen, and she pointed to the spot, which was a little harsh. Stanway stepped up and sent Arnold the wrong way from the resulting penalty, to seal a comprehensive win and give the Matildas plenty to work on. Matildas captain said it was a bad night at the office. "It's tough to go down to 10 men against a good team like England," Kerr said post-match.
“We didn't even get to show what we'd worked on, it's really hard to judge the game because we had such a different plan for the game. I thought to only concede one in the second half, that penalty at the end. I felt that was positive. But it's really hard to judge going down to 10 men, it's disappointing. The positives are that we stuck together as a team. There's no finger pointing, we just got on with it. We conceded three, but it's hard against one of the best teams in the world. It's a journey, were going to have down days like this, but we've had a lot of up days. Joes' been great. There's been a lot of demand on the players, but tonight hurts and sucks, but we're looking forward to the future."
England: GK Hannah Hampton, 2 Lucy Bronze (12 Niamh Charles 45’), 3 Taylor Hinds (15 Alex Greenwood 62’), 4 Kiera Walsh (14 Georgia Stanway 62’), 5 Maya Le Tissier, 6 Esme Morgan, 7 Beth Mead, 8 Lucia Kendall, 9 Alessia Russo (19 Michelle Agyemang 62’, 17 Chloe Kelly 80’), 10 Ella Toone (18 Missy Bo Kearns 62’), 11 Aggie Beever-Jones – Subs not used: RGK Khiara Keating, RGK Anna Moorhouse, 16 Jess Carter, 20 Laura Blindkilde Brown, 22 Grace Fisk, 23 Jess Naz
Australia: GK Mackenzie Arnold, 3 Winonah Heatley, 4 Clare Hunt, 7 Steph Catley (22 Charlotte Grant 70’), 9 Caitlin Foord (26 Remy Siemsen 90+2'), 14 Alanna Kennedy, 17 Amy Sayer (16 Hayley Raso 70’), 19 Katrina Gorry, 20 Sam Kerr (6 Clare Wheeler 69’), 21 Ellie Carpenter, 23 Kyra Cooney-Cross (27 Jamilla Rankin 90+2') – Subs not used: RGK Teagan Micah, RGK Morgan Aquino, 2 Courtney Nevin, 5 Cortnee Vine, 8 Kaitlyn Torpey, 25 Holly McNamara, 32 Michelle Heyman – Red Card: Alanna Kennedy 19’
28.10.2025
ZDRILIC DEPARTS GLORY
Breaking News - Perth Glory have announced that Head Coach David Zdrilic has been relieved of his duties with immediate effect. Zdrilic joined the club ahead of the 2024/25 season, but after a disappointing season, a good start was hoped for, but last weeks heavy defeat against Melbourne City was the final straw.
The club said: “Owner and Chairman Ross Pelligra and the Perth Glory Board would like to place on record their gratitude to David for his hard work and professionalism throughout his tenure at the club and wish him every success in his future endeavours.
“Members of the existing support staff will take temporary charge of the team for Friday’s home game against Melbourne Victory and an announcement regarding the appointment of a new, permanent Head Coach will be made in due course.”
27.10.2025
GLORY WOMEN COACH PETERS TARGETING FINALS IN SECOND SEASON
It has been more than six years since Perth Glory played in the A-League Women finals but coach Stephen Peters is confident the wait will end sooner rather than later. In his second season in the job, Peters is confident he has the necessary tools and resources to bring about an end to Glory’s finals drought, which stands as the current longest in the league.
And having challenged his players to test themselves in the off-season, Peters has thrown down the gauntlet to his players ahead of the season starting proper on Friday. Glory battled poor away form, a growing list of injuries and almost a completely fresh squad last year to finish 10th of 12, 11 points off the top six.
But there were signs of promise, particularly at home where they won more than half their matches, and the progress of several young players. “We want to be playing finals football, at the end of the day. We want to be in the top six, and we want to be in finals,” Peters told 'the West Australian' newspaper.
“Look at Central Coast last season, they finished outside the top two and won the competition. You win that first elimination final, and then you’re in a two-legged tie to get into the grand final. The opportunities are there for everybody. Do we believe we’re good enough? Yes, we do. Do things have to go right? Of course they do.”
Around 80% of the squad from last year have returned this year, which Peters said would significantly aid continuity and consistency. There were less Glory players than usual appearing in the local National Premier Leagues over the winter after Peters challenged some of his players to broaden their horizons.
“There were some cases this season where we sent players to Victoria or to New South Wales to be tested in their NPL’s, which isn’t exactly a great thing for WA football, but it can be a good thing for the players,” he said. “That’s probably a little bit controversial, but that’s the reality.”
“Misha Anderson is an example, she went and played for Northern Tigers this year and she probably got a lot out of that. Grace Johnston went and played for Preston; Tanika Lala played for Bentleigh Greens. Olivia Wood played for Essendon. We told these girls to look for a new challenge outside of WA in the off-season, to push their boundaries a little bit.”
Peters identified the away form as an area for improvement after they failed to win on the road and picked up just 3 points from 12 matches outside of Perth. And he also felt Glory have addressed their goal-scoring woes from last term through the recruitment of Rola Badawiya and Bronte Trew.
“Rola brings a good level of experience… if she’s not going to be scoring, she’s definitely going to be attracting defenders and putting other people in holes,” Peter commented. “Bronte is someone I worked fairly close with in NPL, gives us a completely different athletic profile and some versatility and some range of what we can do in our attack.”
Peters also said the returning Gabby Hollar, who battled blood clots at the end of last season, was a boost and hailed Susan Phonsongkham as like a new signing after she missed most of last season with an ankle injury. “Susan didn’t play NPL this season. She had a very positive off-season, and she’s essentially come back as a different player. That’s almost like a new signing for us,” Peters said.
26.10.2025
SPARROW DELIGHTED WITH HIS SIDES PERFORMANCE
Bayswater City are the first WA team to play in the Australian Championship, and they are putting the NPLWA and WA football on the national map, and moved to the top of Group D this afternoon with a 1-0 win against the unbeaten NPLNSW Wests APIA Leichhardt in Week Three. Head Coach Matthew Sparrow has led them to the league title, and the Top Four Cup Final to seal the Championship. But today his side were outstanding, showing grit and determination to beat a good APIA side, and he couldn’t be prouder of his side’s performance.
“I’m absolutely over the moon with that one,” Sparrow said post-match. “The boys were outstanding from start to finish and showed real desire to get the job done. It’s an unbelievable day for the football club — the players, coaches, staff and supporters who showed up in their numbers today to back the boys. We’ve got a special group of players right now and we’re riding a real wave at the moment.
“To go top of the table is a great reward for all the hard work that’s gone in over the last few weeks. The togetherness in the group is brilliant and everyone’s pushing for each other, which is great to see. Couldn’t be prouder of the lads, but we’ll keep our feet on the ground and look to keep improving each week.” Bayswater will host Sydney United 58 next Sunday at Frank Drago Reserve. Kick off 1:30pm
26.10.2025
BAYSWATER TOP GROUP D AFTER BEATING UNBEATEN APIA
Bayswater City have moved to the top of Group D in the Australian Championship, after a defensive master-class saw them beat leaders Wests APIA Leichhardt 1-0 at Frank Drago Reserve on Sunday afternoon. The visitors dominated possession, but couldn’t breakdown a solid defensive unit, and to be fair keeper Lewis Italiano had a fairly quiet afternoon, which showed how well City performed in front of him. The only goal of the game came ten minutes into the second half with Pat Loughrey turning the ball home via the post.
Jon Corness was outstanding in the middle of the park, and he said the hard work from the group paid off. “It was another hard-working performance from the team,” the midfielder said post-match. “It was a similar story to last week against MetroStars where we had to dig in and defend, but it's something we've shown were capable of doing. We took our chance when it came and did our jobs well all over the pitch.”
City were forced into two changes from the side that beat MetroStars last week, with Aidan Edwards and Chris Jackson coming in for the injured Sean McManus and Ollie La Gallia. Meanwhile the visitors made one change to their side who beat Sydney United 58 last week with Jordan Segreto coming in for Presley Ortiz. It was a beautiful day for football in the west, and it was the visitors who were first to threaten, Jordan Segreto’s shot flashed wide of the target. Bayswater had a penalty shout waved away by referee Niall Gillmor moments later, after Edwards fell under a challenge from Dredon Kelly.
But it was APIA who were on top and Jack Stewart’s snap shot on the half hour was saved low by Lewis Italiano, and seven minutes later Yahya El Hindi’s long-range effort was straight at the Bayswater custodian. Bayswater were struggling to create anything in the final third, but defensively they were solid. The visitors continued to dictate terms and when Selya Kambayashi crossed to Eddie Caspers in the final minute, he couldn’t beat Italiano. The best chance of the half came in stoppage time, a quick break down the right, and Casper’s back hell found an unmarked Cameron Fong, but his shot on the run was saved by Italiano, and at the break it was all-square, and all to play for after half time.
The hosts were out of the blocks after the break, and Declan Hughes’ free kick was almost headed into his own net by Michael Kouta. They were in again moments later, Loughrey’s corner wasn’t dealt with and Chris Jacskon’s shot was blocked, before Jackson Stephens fired wide. But the decisive moment came on 55 minutes, Loughrey forced the turnover on the left, and raced into the box, his cross picked out Jackson, but it was blocked, before the ball rebounded off Loughrey and into the net via the post, much to the delight of the home faithful.
They went close to a second eight minutes later, Loughrey breaking clear at pace, before cutting inside two APIA defenders, but his goal bound shot was superbly saved by Oliver Kalac. Then from the resulting Hughes’ corner they had another opportunity, Luke Palmateer rose highest to head towards goal, it beat Kalac, but the crossbar came to the rescue of the APIA custodian. APIA pressed late, and from Kambayashi’s cut back Caspers shot was superbly blocked by Stephens, before Domenic Costanzo curled an effort over the top from the edge of the box.
It was back to the wall for Bayswater, but they stayed resolute, and despite APIA dominating, they never troubled Italiano. They had seven nervous minutes of stoppage time to hold on, and Caspers long-range shot flew over, and with the final chance, Sean Symon’s shot on the run curled just wide. But at the final whistle it was Bayswater celebrating, moving one point clear at the top, and they welcome bottom of the table Sydney United 58 next week at the same venue.
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 13 Gyles Davies (2 Alexander Ishida-Livings 88’), 18 Christopher Jackson, 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jonathan Corness, 20 Sam Mitchinson, 26 Aidan Edwards (24 Takayuki Sone 72’), 30 Thomas Southgate (21 Mason Tatafu 81’) – Subs not used: GK Taylor Rae, 17 Charlie Garnham, 19 Phillip Radeski, 27 Deegan Brook
Wests APIA Leichardt: GK Oliver Kalac, 2 Seiya Kambayashi, 5 Dredon Kelly, 7 Jack Stewart (23 Domenic Costanzo 71’), 13 Yahya El Hindi (30 Alex Denmead 65’), 16 Sean Symons, 17 Jordan Segreto (14 Max Court 88’), 19 Fabian Monge (99 Franco Farinella 71’), 21 Michael Kouta, 22 Eddie Caspers, 24 Cameron Fong – Subs not used: RGK Alexander Parkes 6 Patrick Flottmann 29 Maksim Kasalovic – Referee: Niall Gillmor – Assistants: Liam Howgate, Lawson Rimmer – Fourth Official: Liam Barclay
25.10.2025
MATILDAS EDGE OUT WALES IN CARDIFF
The Matildas have started their October international window in the UK, taking on Wales for the first time at Cardiff City Stadium, and a late goal from former Perth Glory striker Caitlin Foord gave them a 2-1 win. Courtney Nevin scored her first international goal midway through the first half, but the host hit back early in the second half through Manchester United youngster Mared Griffiths, but Foord sealed the win late. The big selection news was the return of Sam Kerr, in her first game for Australia in 725 days, while for Wales, former Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City midfielder Jess Fishlock played her 166th and final game for her country.
Kerr said it was good to be back, and praised the outgoing Fishlock. “It was really back and forth today, but I thought we played some really good football, and obviously it’s nice to get the win,” the Chelsea striker said post-match. “It was good to be back with the girls, and it’s a massive honour to play for your country. But I’ve grown up with these girls, so it was nice just to get back out there and enjoy some footy. It’s sad to see an icon like Jess go, obviously must of us have had good memories of her in the W-League and WSL, so it was kind of fitting she had her last game against the Aussies as Joe (Montemurro) was her coach for so long. Many people look up to her and respect her here, she’s had an amazing career and it was nice to see her off today with us.’
With Wednesday’s game against England in mind, Matildas head coach Joe Montemurro selected a starting line-up with a mix of experience and up-and-coming talent for the clash, while former Glory keeper Morgan Aquino was amongst the substitutes. It was also a big day for Hayley Raso, the Eintracht Frankfurt striker playing her 100th game, and she wore the armband. The Matildas started on the front foot and went close to the opener on five minutes. Foord burst down the left and cut inside, before picking out Katrina Gorry, and the West Ham United midfielder’s shot from the edge of the box rattled the crossbar.
But sloppy passes were costing the Matildas dearly, and Fishlock went close to punishing them 20 minutes later, after Ceri Holland’s cross from the left wasn’t dealt with, but Teagan Micah saw the ball out. But three minutes later the Matildas found the opener. Foord was brought down on the right of the penalty area, and Nevin’s curling set piece looked to have been turned home by Kerr, but the striker said no and pointed at the Malmo defender saying it’s your goal. Wales were almost handed the equaliser before the break, a poor touch from the usually reliable Katrina Gorry, and Fishlock nipped in and sent Hannah Cain in on goal, but she fired straight at Micah, but Australia headed into the sheds holding the slight advantage.
Wales were on the front foot after the break, and they were level ten minutes in. Again, a sloppy pass was capitalized on by the hosts, and Cain raced forward, before finding Fishlock, the ball deflected off Clare Wheeler to Griffiths who lifting a shot on the turn over Micah and inside the far post. Montemurro went to the bench making triple change, Holly McNamara, Amy Sayer, and Ellie Carpenter coming on for Kerr, Kaitlyn Torpey and Raso.
The changes had an impact as the Matildas pressed for the winner, and Kyra Cooney-Cross’ corner found Amy Sayer, but she couldn’t find the target with her volley. But five minutes from time a sweeping move saw Australia win it. McNamara sent Carpenter away, and she released Cooney-Cross down the right, and the Arsenal midfielder cut the ball back to her WSL team mate Foord, who made no mistake past Safia Middleton-Patel. The pair combined again moments later, Foord sent into goal but Middleton-Patel stood tall to deny her.
The crowd stood as one in stoppage time, as Fishlock left the field for the last time for Wales, replaced by Tianna Teisar. Australia saw out the game comfortably, and now turn their attention to the European champions, England, who they will face on Wednesday morning in Derby. Fishlock held back the tears post-match as she thanks her team mates and supporters. “I'm so happy with our performance today, first half especially I thought we were great,” the striker said post-match.
“To play the way we did I'm super excited for the group. We will evolve, new generation after new generation. Today I was just playing a game at the end of the day, but at the end it sank in a little bit. I don't want to be sad about it because I've had the best time ever. "All the fans, I want to say thank you for always showing up in my career. It has been an honour of a lifetime to play in front of you. Please support the group moving forward. I love being Welsh."
Wales: GK Safia Middleton-Patel, 3 Gemma Evans, 4 Sophie Ingle, 5 Gwen Zimmerman (16 Charlie Estcourt 46'), 7 Ceri Holland, 8 Angharad James-Turner, 10 Jess Fishlock (9 Tianna Teisar 92'), 11 Hannah Cain (15 Elise Hughes 68'), 14 Hayley Ladd, 20 Carrie Jones 82'), 23 Ffion Morgan (2 Scarlett Hill 82’) – Subs not used: RGK Olivia Clark, RGK Poppy Soper, 6 Scarlett Hill, 13 Anna Filbey, 17 Mary McAteer, 19 Mia Ross, 22 Alice Griffiths
Australia: GK Teagan Micah, 2 Courtney Nevin, 3 Winonah Heatley, 4 Clare Hunt, 6 Clare Wheeler, 8 Kaitlyn Torpey (21 Ellie Carpenter 65’), 9 Caitlin Foord (32 Michelle Heyman 90'), 16 Hayley Raso (17 Amy Sayer, 65’), 19 Katrina Gorry (14 Alanna Kennedy 75’), 20 Sam Kerr (25 Holly McNamara 65’), 23 Kyra Cooney-Cross (5 Cortnee Vine 90') – Subs noy used: RGK Mackenzie Arnold, RGK Morgan Aquino, 7 Steph Catley, 22 Charlotte Grant, 26 Remy Siemsen, 27 Jamilla Rankin – Attendance: 11,000 (Approx) - Referee: Stacey Pearson
25.10.2025
GLORY AWAY DAY BLUES CONTINUE IN MELBOURNE
Perth Glory’s first away game of the Isuzu-Ute A-League season ended in another disappointing performance, going down 4-0 to Melbourne City at AAMI Park on Saturday afternoon. There was some cause for optimism going into game, after a good display against Wellington Phoenix last week, but a first-half brace from Max Caputo and stunning late strikes from Zane Schreiber and Kavian Rahmani secured the win for the hosts.
“It was a disappointing start to the game, and they were dominant and won all the second balls. Away from home we have to start games stronger than that, and they were physical and dominated, and we didn’t match them, which is not good enough, and we then gifted them a second goal,” Glory head coach David Zdrilic said post-match. “But second half we tried to pressure them, and we kept the ball a little bit better, but their goals late showed the quality they have in their side.”
Zdrilic started the same side that drew against the Phoenix last week, with imports Tom Lawrence and Luke Amos, both still unavailable due to match fitness. The squad was also without Sam Sutton, Zach Lisolajski, Cameron Cook, Mark Birighitti, Nicholas Pennington and Joel Anasmo, all due to injury. The hosts, who were in action in the AFC Champions league during the week, made the better start, even though players were slipping on an uneven pitch, but they were ahead after only five minutes.
Kai Trewin’s ball sent Matthew Leckie racing down the right, and with Glory looking for the offside flag, that never came, the Socceroo squared for Caputo who finished well past Matt Sutton. After a VAR check, the goal stood, and it was a poor start for the visitors. It looked like Glory’s injury crisis had claimed another victim on the half hour, looking like Brandan O’Neill had suffered a hamstring injury, after slipping on the poor surface, but after treatment the midfielder continued. But four minutes later the injury curse hit again with livewire Jaiden Kucharski tweaking a groin muscle, and was replaced by Nathanael Blair.
The substitute went close to the equaliser soon after, but his header lacked power and missed the target, before Patrick Beach was out smartly to nick the ball off Adam Taggert, as he raced into the box. Glory was struggling in the final third, and constantly gave the ball away, with Taggart continually isolated up top. Then to make matters worse Glory handed City a second goal, two minutes later. A poor back pass from the usually reliable Brian Kaltak, was pounced on by Caputo, and the Australian under-20 striker rounded Sutton, before firing into the roof of the net, leaving Glory with an uphill challenge after the break.
City continued to dictate terms after half time, and striker Benjamin Mazzeo cut inside his marker, but he couldn’t keep his shot down. Moments later Sutton palmed away Aziz Behich’s effort, as they looked to finish the game off. Glory made a triple change, as they searched for a way back into the contest, with Will Freney, Callum Timmins and former City striker Arion Sulemani, replacing Taggert, O’Neill and Seb Despotovski. But it had little difference, Glory struggling to string passes together.
The hosts on the other hand were hungry for more, zipping the ball around and finding holes in the Glory defence, and six minutes from time they added a third. Besian Kutleshi found fellow substitute Schreiber in acres of space in the middle of the park, and he drove forward and fired home from distance, giving Sutton no chance, for his first A-League goal of his young career.
Glory’s best chance of the half fell to Freney, who got on the end of neat move, but his shot flashed just wide of the far post. Then in stoppage time it was 4-0, with another stunner. Takeshi Kanamori sent Rahmani down the left, and he easily cut inside Kaltak and his unstoppable shot found the corner of the net to seal a comprehensive win for City. Glory must re-group for next Friday night when they entertain Melbourne Victory at HBF Park (6:45pm)
Melbourne City: GK Patrick BEACH, 4 Liam BONETIG (44 Besian KUTLESHI 68'), 7 Mathew LECKIE (39 Emin DURAKOVIC 73'), 10 Takeshi KANAMORI, 13 Nathaniel ATKINSON (19 Zane SCHREIBER 68'), 16 Aziz BEHICH, 17 Max CAPUTO, 20 Ben MAZZEO (47 Kavian RAHMANI 73'), 22 Germán FERREYRA, 27 Kai TREWIN, 30 Andreas KUEN (38 Beckham BAKER 81') – Subs not used: RGK Dakota OCHSENHAM, 34 Jayden NECOVSKI
Perth Glory: GK Matt SUTTON, 4 Scott WOOTTON, 6 Brandon O’NEILL (8 Callum TIMMINS 61'), 9 Jaiden KUCHARSKI (14 Nathanael BLAIR 34'), 11 Lachlan WALES, 18 Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 19 Josh RISDON, 20 Trent OSTLER (2 Charbel SHAMOON 86'), 22 Adam TAGGART (27 Will FRENEY 61'), 25Seb DESPOTOVSKI (17 Arion SULEMANI 61'), 45 Brian KALTAK – Subs not used: RGK Ryan WARNER, 24 Andriano LEBIB - Referee: Alireza Faghani
24.10.2025
KERR TALKS ABOUT SELF-DOUBT AS SHE RETURNS TO MATILDAS
It's been 20 months Matildas striker Sam Kerr would like to forget, after a torn ACL and the infamous taxis incident. Speaking on the eve of her return to the side in the upcoming games against Wales and England, the 32-year-old spoke about battling self-doubt, and wondering if those negative feelings would ever go away. But the former Perth Glory skipper said now back in camp with the Matildas, the burning desire is to return the game she loves as she targets returning to the captaincy.
It’s been almost 24 months to the day since her last appearance for the Matildas, and she hopes to be involved in Joe Montemurro’s side to face Wales in Cardiff on Saturday before taking on Euro Champions England in Derby on Tuesday. “There were definitely dark days. I struggled a little bit in the first nine months with a few setbacks and there were a few times there where I was like ‘I don’t know if this will ever go away,” Kerr said.
“But I’ve always had that burning desire, and I’ve had a lot of good people around me that have pushed me to keep going, specifically my partner (Kristie Mewis). As an athlete, you go up and down in self-belief and self-doubt when you’re injured, it’s hard to be away from the game. I’ve always had that burning desire to come back, but there’s definitely been days where I felt, gosh, I might never shake this one.”
Kerr captained the Matildas prior to the injury, and she has a burning desire to regain the armband, and has to build a few bridges with Football Australia and her team mates after her high-profile court case in London in February. During her absence Steph Catley took the armband, and coach Montemurro has made it clear a decision on the captaincy would be made closer to Kerr’s playing return and the striker said she had been given space to enjoy her first days back in camp.
“I think everyone’s just giving me space to just come back in and enjoy myself and be free, come back in and play football,” Kerr said. “But on being the captain, of course, I still feel really passionate about that. I know I have so much more to give for this team in a leadership role, and this team here will make football decisions, and I feel like football-wise I’m one of the best leaders in the team. So, I feel really passionate and proud that I’ve been in that position before, and hopefully continue forward.”
It’s been a frustrating recovery for Kerr, was an issue with a graft in her leg which prolonged her absence beyond the normal 12-month time-frame for an ACL recovery, and one surgeon said it could end her career, but the striker is ready to continue and hopes to lead her country again. “Something else that was going on in my leg that was a little bit of a mystery and no one could figure it out until a later date,” Kerr said.
“I had an issue with my graft, but nothing was showing up on the MRI. It was a mystery, I had pain for 10 months and not that no one believed me, but I was saying I was in pain and everyone was like, we can’t see anything. There was no one that said I was never going to come back, probably only myself, because that self-doubt can be pretty strong at times.”
Keer smiles when she talks about her family, after welcoming son Jagger into the world with partner Mewis, and is currently building a home in Perth (still a few years off completion) and admitted she dreamed of sitting on the future balcony once she retires. Before then, there is plenty to look forward and while she is still building up her match fitness, Kerr was adamant she would be firing on all cylinders when the Asian Cup kicked off at Optus Stadium on March 1.
“I was in the last few (Matildas) camps, I got a little bit of a feel for it, but it’s nice to be back in the squad and preparing to play an actual national team match rather than watching on the sidelines,” she said. “When I last won it, I was a young, 15-year-old kid, so I didn’t even really get to experience what it actually was like and now, looking back, I was living my dream without even knowing it.
“I haven’t really thought about the next few years because I’m just trying to take one day at a time with where I’ve come from over the last year. I just want to play forever; I love this game, this sport, and I love the Matildas, I love Chelsea. I’m in a really good spot right now in football. I’m just trying to enjoy myself.
“The only goal I really have at the moment is to make sure we keep winning with Chelsea and the big one, win the Asian Cup. “But after that, I intend to play on wherever makes me the happiest and makes me play the best.”
24.10.2025
GLORY ALW SQUAD TAKING SHAPE
Perth Glory’s Ninja A-League season kicks off next Friday against Western Sydney Wanderers, and the club have added three more players to their squad, with former junior Matildas midfielder Clancy Westaway (Right), and local duo Meg Phillips (Centre) and Olivia Wood (Left) both signing Youth Development Agreement contracts with the club. Westaway starred for Football Victoria Academy side this season, and the 18-year-old was in the Junior Matildas squad, and is regarded as one of the brightest young prospects in the country.
The midfielder, who was captain of the Football Victoria Academy side, is now looking forward to playing in purple, as she takes the next step on her football journey. “The move was an easy decision, I looked at the available opportunities, but Perth Glory was the club that resonated with me most,” Westaway said. “I wanted to be at a club that not only plays an attacking style of football, but is led by a coach that gives young players a go. I’m grateful for the opportunity to play for the team and it’s an honour to wear the Glory colours.
“I hope to be a valuable contributor to the team’s success throughout the season. I’m really excited to make an impression, showcase my abilities and have the opportunity to make my Ninja A-League debut representing Perth Glory. Last season, the team demonstrated grit and character on the pitch and with the new additions, I believe the team is set up nicely to go further and hopefully make Finals. I can’t wait for the season to begin!”
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis, believes that Westaway has huge potential. “Clancy is a gifted midfielder who combines great technique with a robust approach to the game,” he said. “She’s good on the ball, a hard worker off the ball and has a very high ceiling in terms of where her talent can take her. We’re looking forward to her continuing her development within our squad this year and successfully stepping up to ALW level when given the opportunity.”
Both Phillips and Wood, have signed Youth Development Agreements with the club, and both have been outstanding in the NPLWA. 18-year-old goalkeeper Phillips is a product of the FW NTC, and spent this year’s gaining further senior experience at Fremantle City where she was a key member of the side that lifted the State Cup. Attacking midfielder Wood, meanwhile, starred for Perth RedStar in 2024, helping them to the title scoring 14 goals along the way, a scored a stunning winner to beat Perth SC in the Top Four Finals. Wood spent this season at Essendon Royals who were semi-finalists in the NPLW Victoria having finished fourth in the regular season.
Lazaridis believes that both players have plenty of potential. “Meg and Olivia are former train-on players, who have been rewarded for their efforts with YDA contracts,” he said. “Meg is very composed for a young ‘keeper and has a great temperament, while Olivia is quick, direct and has a real eye for goal. Both players impressed at NPL level during the ALW off-season and we look forward to seeing them continue their development within our senior squad this year.” Glory’s first home game is part of the double-header with the Men’s side, when they host Brisbane Roar at HBF Park on Friday November 7 – kick off 4:00pm.
Perth Glory 2025/26 ALW Squad: 1Teresa Morrissey (GK), 2 Mischa Anderson, 3 Emma Tovar, 5 Grace Johnston, 6 Tijan McKenna, 7 Megan Wynne, 8 Georgia Cassidy, 9 Gabby Hollar, 10 Susan Phonsongkham, 11 Natalie Tathem, 12 Bronte Trew, 13 Naomi Chinnama, 16 Olivia Wood, 17 Rola Badawiya, 19 Sarah O’Donoghue, 20 Ella Abdul Massih, 21 Meg Phillips (GK), 22 Ischia Brooking, 23 Isobel Dalton, 24 Julia Sardo, 25 Ella Lincoln, 26 Tanika Lala, 27 Charli Wainwright, 28 Clancy Westaway, 29 Onyinyechi Zogg, 30 Jessica Skinner (GK)
24.10.2025
BAYSWATER LOOK TO CONTINUE UNBEATEN START IN AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIP
It’s been an excellent start to the Australian Championship for Bayswater City, a draw on the road at Sydney United 58, and a 1-0 win against MetroStars last week at Frank Drago Reserve, leaving them second in Group D. They also have home ground advantage in Round three, when they welcome group leaders Wests APIA Leichardt on Sunday. (1:30pm) Both sides are unbeaten, and in pole position, and the top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, with the highest placed Foundation Club hosting the crossover QF match, but there is a long way to go, with three games remaining after Sunday’s encounter.
Bayswater head coach Matthew Sparrow said it’s a positive start, and he’s been delighted the way his squad have performed so far, especially last week in tough conditions at home. “Yes, really proud of the boys. To put in that kind of performance in tough conditions at home shows how much we’ve grown as a group,” Sparrow explained. “The attitude and togetherness have been first-class, and it’s great to see everyone — starters and those coming off the bench — playing their part and maintaining the standards we’ve set.”
Two Bayswater players have been recognised in the competitions ‘Team of the Week’, with Jackson Stephens selected in both so far, and winning the Goal of the Week, as voted by the fans, for his stoppage time equaliser against Sydney United, while Lewis Italiano’s heroics were rewarded in last week’s win against MetroStars. Sparrow said both have been outstanding this season. “It’s brilliant recognition for both Jackson and Lewis,” he said. “They’ve been outstanding all season and it’s great to see them getting the credit they deserve.
“Jackson’s been so consistent and reliable at the back, and Lewis has come up with some huge moments for us. To be honest, I felt Lewis was a bit hard done by not collecting the Golden Glove at the Football West awards — we only conceded 16 goals all season, which was a club record and one that goes all the way back to the 1950s. That just shows how consistent and solid he’s been for us throughout the campaign.”
Sparrow said the group are looking forward to the visit of group leaders Wests APIA Leichardt on Sunday, and keep building momentum in the competition, especially at Frank Drago. “APIA are obviously a top side and have had some great results, but we’re really looking forward to the challenge. The boys are in a great place at the moment, full of confidence and enjoying their football,” Sparrow explained. “We want to keep building momentum and make sure Frank Drago continues to be a tough place for anyone to come.”
Bayswater City midfielder Gyles Davies said they had to work hard for 90+ minutes to get the result last week, and a clean sheet was vital in the outcome. “Overall, it was a strong and disciplined performance against MetroStars. We knew the calibre of the opponent we were up against and that there would be times when we’d have to prioritise our defensive structure,” Davies said. “As a collective, we trust that if we can keep a clean sheet, we have attacking threats who can create and take our opportunities in front of goal when they arise. Our non-negotiables as a group are work rate, discipline, and a winning mentality; these have been the cornerstone of our success this year, and last weekend was a great illustration of that.”
Davies showed his importance last week, scoring the winner, and was a vital member of the squad that won the NPLWA title this season, and he is relishing Sunday’s clash against APIA, in another tough encounter. “I’m looking ahead to APIA at home this Sunday, we don’t underestimate their quality, particularly given their strong start to the Australian Championship. While we know we’ll be underdogs on Sunday, it’s a challenge we relish and will be up for,” the midfielder explained. “Although we’re pleased with our own start to the Championship, we’re under no illusions it’s still early, and there are plenty of points up for grabs. Much like last weekend, this Sunday presents a massive opportunity to pick up valuable points at home and cement our position in the top two of Group D halfway through the group stage.”
APIA were pipped for the NPL-NSW Premiers Plate by NSW Spirit, but goals from Seiya Kambayashi and Dredon Kelly saw them beat Rockdale Ilinden 2-1 in the Grand Final, to become Champions of the 2025 NPL Men’s NSW competition. They have won both opening games, a 1-0 win in week one, with Jordan Segreto on target, before goals from Wesley Ortiz, Kelly, Sean Symons and Domenic Costanzo saw them convincing winners against Sydney United last week. Like Bayswater defender Stephens, APIA big defender Dredon Kelly has been selected in both rounds ‘team of the Week’, and they have a talented squad, so it sets up a cracking game, and let’s hope the WA football family get behind the game. Get your tickets at - https://www.intix.com.au/event/bayswater-city-vs-wests-apia/information
Bayswater City: GK Lewis Italiano, GK Taylor Rae, 2 Alexander Ishida-Livings, 4 Luke Palmateer, 5 Patrick Loughrey, 6 Declan Hughes, 7 Sean McManus, 10 Jason Mirco, 12 Anthony Bafobusha, 13 Gyles Davies, 14 Oliver La Galia, 15 Jackson Stephens, 16 Jonathan Corness, 17 Charlie Garnham, 18 Christopher Jackson, 19 Phillip Radeski, 20 Sam Mitchinson, 21 Mason Tatafu, 24 Takayuki Sone, 26 Aidan Edward, 27 Deegan Brook, 29 Scotlan Morrison, 30 Thomas Southgate
Wests APIA Leichardt: GK Oliver Kalac, GK Alexander Parkes, 2 Seiya Kambayashi, 4 Nick Azzone, 5 Dredon Kelly, 6 Patrick Flottmann, 7 Jack Stewart, 9 Presley Ortiz, 11 Rory Jordan, 13 Yahya El Hindi, 14 Max Court, 16 Sean Symons, 17 Jordan Segreto, 18 Adrian Ucchino, 19 Fabian Monge, 21 Michael Kouta, 22 Eddie Caspers, 23 Domenic Costanzo, 24 Cameron Fong, 26 Oscar Gonzalez, 29 Maksim Kasalovic, 30 Alex Denmead, 99 Franco Farinella – Referee: Niall Gillmor – Assistants: Liam Howgate, Lawson Rimmer – Fourth Official: Liam Barclay
24.10.2025
BATTEN TO LEAD NORTH PERTH UNITED IN 2026
North Perth United have moved quickly to replace the departed head coach Jason Winter, and are delighted to confirm Chris Batten as their new Amateur Premier First Team coach ahead of the 2026 season. Batten, who led the clubs Reserves to the league title last season, was a popular decision, and knows he has big boots to fill. “The decision was made a lot easier with the backing of the players who wanted me to take the role on. It’s going to be hard to fill the boots of Jason and Flav, but it’s a challenge I’m really looking forward to,” Batten said.
“It’s an honour being given the opportunity to become first team manager and trying to emulate the success we had this season. Thanks again to Jason and Flav for leaving the club in a brilliant position with a number of players staying around to defend their title. It’s a big job but one I’m absolutely buzzing to get started.” His tenure with the Reserves side ended on a high, winning the league, and being edged out in the cup final by Emerald, and Batten said it was a great season. “The Reserves were phenomenal. To go the full league campaign only dropping two points all season is quite remarkable,” he explained.
“Some of the football they played was outstanding. Great that the majority of not all want to stay and also try and defend their own title,’ Batten explained. “We got pipped from a very good Emerald team in the final but that’s football. They were deserved winners of that. Doesn’t take away how successful the lads were though. For a club to win three of the four available trophies really is quite remarkable and I can’t wait to get stated in my new role of first team manager next year.”
North Perth United President Mr. Mark Shaughnessy said the appointment was a no-brainer, and he’s delighted to have Batten as head coach next season. “We’re massively excited to have Chris on board as First Team head coach. He’s been a key part of the club for a number of years, continually proving himself as both Reserve Team coach and First Team Assistant coach,” Shaughnessy explained. “Appointing Chris was a no-brainer - not only did he lead the reserves to an unbeaten season, but there were also huge support and encouragement from the players for him to take over in the week leading up to his appointment. We’re looking forward to seeing what’s in store for the club as we enter a new chapter for North Perth United.”
Shaughnessy said the work former coach Jason Winter and his assistant Kevin Flavin did at the club was outstanding, leading them to the Belt-Up amateur Premier Division title, and he wished them all the best in their new challenge. “Jason and Kevin leave the club on the back of an incredible league and cup double. The commitment and dedication they’ve shown over the past season and in previous years has been outstanding,” he said.
“They’ve spent countless hours planning sessions, organising the team, and working to get the very best out of the lads on the pitch. They’ll be sorely missed next season, but we wish them all the very best in their next challenge. Kevin’s departure also marks the end of his 13-year involvement with the club, during which he’s served as a player, coach, manager, and President. What he’s helped us achieve as a club will likely never be replicated, and while we’re sad to see him go, we know he’ll always be welcome as part of the North Perth United family.”
23.10.2025
STAR IMPORTS TO MISS GLORY’S TRIP TO MELBOURNE
The new season may only be one-game old but Perth Glory are already putting out fires on the injury and fitness fronts with Nicholas Pennington the latest player to miss Saturday’s visit to Melbourne City. Coach David Zdrilic also confirmed imports Tom Lawrence and Luke Amos are still not yet match fit.
And a week after first-choice goalkeeper Mark Birighitti was ruled out, back-up Cameron Cook is now set for a lengthy stint on the sideline after hurting his knee in the warm-up prior to last weekend’s home game with Wellington Phoenix. Sam Sutton (knee), Zach Lisolajski (hamstring) and Joel Anasmo (Achilles) are also currently sidelined.
“Everyone’s different; it depends on what fitness base they come in on. He looks very good and comfortable and fit, he’s got the quality, you see that in training,” Zdrilic said of Lawrence. “He’s had a full week of training with us (and) then it’ll just come down to when we feel he’s ready to come on and how many minutes we can give him.”
There’s less positive news for Cook after the goalkeeper went down pre-game against Wellington and looked distressed in the hands of trainers. “We’re not exactly sure of the exact time frame, but we’re looking around six weeks to a couple of months. It’s not going to be coming back in the next few weeks, put it that way,” Zdrilic said.
After conceding more than 70 per cent of possession at home to Wellington, Zdrilic said facing another ball-dominant team in Melbourne City this weekend presented a different challenge. “The Wellington game is a very different game, and I think you’ll see that with more games that they play, if they continue to play that high line, no other team is doing that,” he said.
“(Melbourne are) good on the ball, they’re good at pressing, that’s why they’re champions. They have varied their press infrastructure a little bit, even the (AFC Champions League) game against Buriram United the other day, they press with a back five and went man on man to match up. They’ve got a very good structure, they’re good with the ball, a very physical team, and powerful.”
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