Fans enjoying the atmosphere in what promises to be an engrossing Grand Final.
Round 1: The Seasons is off and running!
The season is underway and the Bulli hoodoo of choking when it matters has lifted. Bulli FC as Premiers and Grand Final Champions are favourites to take out this year’s title. However, all the other teams will be looking to take a scalp when they meet the double champions in 2019.
Bulli FC 1901 win Grand Final 2018
Can Bulli FC make it a back-to-back double?
Grand Final 2018 as Bulli FC 1901 break the hoodoo.
The Fraternity Cup is won by Corrimal Rangers 3-1 in a convincing manner making them favorites as title chasers. Whilst preseason is often an unreliable indicator over the entire IPL season, the impressive display by Rangers shows they will be serious title contenders.
Ceccoli acknowledges the brilliant goal that ensured a Rangers winCorrimal Rangers win the Fraternity Cup- the new hegemony?
Bulli FC have changed their squad losing a number of players over the offseason. This weekend’s game against Corrimal Rangers will show whether Bulli still have enough squad depth to hold onto the title.
Alvin Ceccoli during the Fraternity Cup Final
Rangers have strengthened their side with experienced defender Alvin Ceccoli- his knowledge of tactics and defensive prowess make him a valuable addition to their squad.
Round 1 The Fun Begins
High optimism in the Blueys camp as they take on South Coast United who struggled last year to avoid relegation.
Explosive start for the Blueys?
New rules now allow clubs to display their cultural heritage. A group of SCU fans fly the flag as they take on the Blueys at Tarrawanna.
The opening scene as the Blueys take on SCU at home.
The Blueys dominate the game from the start apart from the odd but very dangerous incursions by South Coast United.
Byung Kuk Cho sures up the SCU defence
Quality goalkeeping and solid defence keeps SCU in the game as the Blueys gradually gain control of the midfield.
One of many good Jason Bleakley saves keeping SCU in the game.
In the 41′ Cody Wally gets behind the SCU defence and shoots. A desperate lunge by Greg Valic to block the ball manages only to deflect it passed Bleakley.
OG by Greg ValicCody Waller celebrates with fansMate Nimac with a tackle from behind
SCU in the second half break up the rhythm and tempo of the game with a few feisty tackles hoping to pinch a goal on the counter.
Referee Nathan Wotton issues the yellow to Nimac
Tight marking keep SCU in the game as Blueys raids are repelled.
Byung Kuk Cho and Cameron Hansen block a Yusuke Maruyama shot on goal
Blueys supporters go home satisfied with all three points.
Blueys fans lend support to the team hoping to see a second goal
In the end it is the Blueys who come out on top.
Blueys take all three points
Tarrawanna Blueys 1 South Coast United 0
The Sunday game is between Port Kembla and Albion Park White Eagles. White Eagles will be looking to put their previous loss in the Fraternity Cup behind them and start off with a win for the new season. For Port, last season was difficult and disappointing.
Hot and humid conditions greet the players. Port are immediately on the attack and are unlucky not to score in the first few minutes.
Brad Jardine playing against his former club makes an excellent early save
The early Port pressure is rewarded with a goal.
It is new recruit from Tarrawanna, Brad Acev who scores 13′ in to put Port ahead after a sustained dominant opening to the game.
Brad Acev scores through a busload of playersThe game turns into an intense midfield aerial battle as White Eagles attempt a fight back.White Eagles use physicality to break up the play and win the ball and also stop counter attacks before they get started.Recently returned Joel Beattie raids up the flank cause Port Kembla defensive problems as they seek to contain his pace and guile.
Port is able to hold off the threat and win the game convincingly and all three points. It was always going to be difficult chasing the game in the heat for the White Eagles.
Close and hard-fought battle.
Port Kembla 1 White Eagles 0
Round 2 Neighbourly Love
Woonona Sharks take on their arch rivals and neighbours Bulli FC. This will be the opening game for Bulli as their scheduled opening match against the Rangers was washed out. Woonona narrowly avoided relegation last year and are hoping to survive and remain in the IPL.
The ground is heavy and a strong Southwesterly winds howls across the pitch and will make conditions difficult for both teams. The Sharks are hoping this may level the playing field.
Brendan Pattman scores after just 13′Bendan PattmanBurley striker Ben McDonald replaces injured Dylan Lewis
The Sharks put up strong resistance and go to the break one down but still positive they can sneak a goal or two in the 2nd Half.
Bulli gain supremacy in all the one-to-one battles and dominate both possession and territory.
Kenji Takahashi puts pressure on the ballBen McDonald makes it 2-0 after just one minute into the 2nd Half.
The heads drop but Woonona keep struggling as Bulli go for the jugular with their tails flying in the breeze.
Woonona drop off deep and Bulli FC are in full control
Bulli get a 3rd through Kyle Hazelbrook and go into cruise control. Brendan Pattman makes it 4-0 with his brace.
The Sharks look set for another year where they battle to avoid relegation
Woonona Sharks 0 Bulli FC 4
Rangers are at home and flying high after their Fraternity Cup victory take on Port Kembla who ground out an impressive win over the White Eagles in Round 1.
Brad Acev scores after 2′
Port are immediately off the blocks and score just as the crowd are taking their seats with their vino.
Corrimal struggle to contain the early Port momentumMitch Di Pietro raids down the right flank cause Rangers defensive problems.Di Pietro running at the Corrimal defenceBrad Acev scores his brace in the 58′
Rangers pulls one back through a Luke Boersma OG in 86′
OG 86′A tough opening game to the season for Rangers
Corrimal 1 Port Kembla 2
Rangers are next away to Bulli FC on Wednesday night in the Round 1 match that was washed out last weekend. This game will be an important litmus test for both clubs to indicate how competitive they will be in the new season. Will it be blue or red or green?
Bulli FC v Corrimal Rangers Round 1
Corrimal are immediately on the attack.An early penalty shout is waved awayRangers main source of attack is down the right-wingVan Elia v Kenji Takahashi
Rangers switch flanks as Elia is met with well-timed Takahashi tackle
Another penalty shout is waved awayElia slots the loose ball home from close range in the 28′Elia celebrates the goal and Rangers go one up
The early pressure has paid off and Rangers go into the lead.
Bulli FC tighten the marking on EliaStrong defensive Rangers tackles attract yellow as Bulli search for an equalizer
The second half begins with both sides in a testy mood.
Kanaizumi contains the aerial threat of Ben McDonaldAs the yellows mount the reds come out
Bulli FC are a man down and chasing the game. It seems as though Rangers are about to take an important 3 points homes.
The niggling tackles begin to get under Bulli FC skins with time running outReferee loses patience issuing another yellow. This time to Jason Zufic.
Zucco, Rangers big signing this year from Port is given marching orders for another foul. Four minutes of added time as Bulli make one last ditched attempt to get a point.
A 94′ Hazebroek pile driver equalizer and there is no time for a restart.It feels like two points lost rather than one gained.
Bulli FC stay in touching distance of the top the table and Rangers earn their first point.
Bulli FC 1 Corrimal Rangers 1
Round 3: The Battle at the Bottom Begins in Earnest
The Fernhill Foxes take on the Tarrawanna Blueys. The Foxes have only one point and are likely to be involved in a relegation battle this year. Every point is vital. The Foxes are looking to beat the Blueys, the persistent under-achievers, whilst the Blueys are hoping this will be their season. They have performed well in the first two rounds showing both strong defensive qualities and the ability to score a goal and defend the lead. A win today will see them stay at the top of the table on points.
Fernhill Foxes warm up and are ready to battleThe Blueys travelling support
The first half is tight with strong midfields in a duel.
A tough battle to contain the speedy and tricky Yoji OgawaThe Blueys are immediately on the attackMitchell Ferrera with a strong tackle on Yoji OgawaBlueys Flank play causes Foxes problemsA well organised Foxes defence
The teams go in 0-0 at half time.
Blueys tight defence nullifies the Foxes speedy mobilityBlueys defend well as the Foxes look to open the scoringNo 9 Stephen Lloyd puts the Blueys in front from a corner in 72′Jordan Hughes trickery in midfield as Foxes go in search of an equalizer.
The Blueys defence hold tight and they take all three points.
Fernhill Foxes 0 Tarrawanna Blueys 1
On Sunday Olympic take on White Eagles who will be desperate to get at least a point out of the game otherwise they’ll enter in the relegation zone. Olympic need to win to remain joint leaders with the Blueys.
Olympic get an early goal through Matt Floro 6′.
Matt Floro slots the ball passed the White Eagles keeper Brad JardineMatt Floro celebrates his 6′ goal
The White Eagles try to penetrate the Olympic defence with Joel Beattie runs up the flanks as he switches wings and appears to have a free licence to roam.
Joel Beattie raids cause the Olympic defence some problems as White Eagles search for an equalizer.Penalty shout is waved awayLuke Foster contains the dangerous attacking thrust by Valentino Merxhushi
Half-time and its 1-0
Olympic dominate in midfield and in the airWhite Eagles struggle to contain Olympic . Araki Naomichi prepares for another corner.Substitute Ekove D’Almeida scores in the 86′ 2-0
Jamie Wakeling makes it 3-0 in the 90′.
Yusuke Ueda and the Olympic strike force are too strong for the White Eagles
Olympic join the Blueys on top of the ladder.
Wollongong Olympic 3 Albion Park White Eagles 0
Round 4 The table is starting to sort
The Fernhill Foxes meet the Cringila Lions. Both are considered likely candidates for the drop and both are in the relegation zone. The Hill are at home.
Cringila are immediately on the attack and Kyoga Uemoto narrowly misses a headerAlex Mojsoski controls the midfield early on.Mojdoski switches flank as Lions seek an early goalNikola Ristevski makes a great save from a direct free kickThe Hill defence swarm Uemoto as they gradually get control of midfieldElias Ayoub launches a counter attackAnother quality save by RistevskiThe race to stave of relegation is on in earnestNew recruit to the Hill defence as they begin to dominate territoryAleksander Prentoski launches an attackFoxes fans hoping for a goalSecond half and the Hill continue where they left off and look for three pointsNarrow escape for the Foxes as the Lions hit the post on a counter raid
Kerr brings down Takao with a judo throw- there is no way through for the LionsAerial battle
It ends all square.
Fernhill Foxes 0 Cringila Lions 0
Corrimal Rangers have experienced difficulty replicating the pre-season form are at home and up against Wollongong Olympic who are hoping that this season will make up for the disappointment of the last. As they walk onto the field they hear announced over the loud-speaker that the Blueys have a two goal lead over Bulli FC. They will need to win this game if they are to stay on top of the ladder with the Blueys.
Olympic are immediately on the defensive and put pressure on the ball. Mark Every with a perfectly timed clean tackle on Van Elia.Olympic use a high pressing game to nullify the Ben Zucco influence in midfield.Early penalty shout as Van Elia is brought down in the boxHayden Durose with a courageous dive at the feet of EliaElia is dismayed that no penalty is awardedDown the other end Nic Loe makes a fingertip saveDurose dominates in the boxZucco in on the keeperD’Almeda in a one to one with KanazumiRangers double mark UedaRangers break through with a Van Elia goal 67′Sliding tackle as Olympic go in search on an equalizerJohn Martinoski trickery as Rangers scramble to defensive dutyTry as they might but no goal is found. Rangers take Olympic down a notch.
Corrimal Rangers 1 Wollongong Olympic 0
Round 5 Can the Blueys hold top spot?
The Blueys sit on top of the table and are away to Port. Fernhill defeated Bulli FC so one of the potential title chasers can be left behind in the Blueys wake if they win today. Will this be the long-awaited Blueys season? Previous seasons have had false dawns so the fans will be hoping they can maintain their excellent early form.
The Blueys put the Port defence under early pressue. Nathan Belsito blocks an attempted cross into the danger zone.The Port defence scrambles to get into position as Keisuke Hayaski use pace down the left flank and crosses to the tall and burly Stephen Lloyd.Chris Fuentes plucks the ball out of the airA close call for Port as Lloyd fails to make contact on a cross from the right flank.Another high ball this time into Yusuke Maruyama is dealt with by FuentesFuentes intercepts the ball into Lloyd
Will Tarrawanna rue the missed opportunities and be able to break through a determined Port defence?
Port start to pick up some ball and begin counter raids down the right through Fabian LacovelliThe momentum swings as Mitchell Ferraro slides in to stop a flank attackKeeping error gifts the ball to Sandy LowcockSandy Lowcock hammers home the loose ball and celebrates with fellow striker Brad Acev Port go into the break one up.The Blueys go all out to equalize before half. Yusuke Maruyama attempts a scissors kick.Outstretched fingertip save by FuentesAnother close shave for PortSandy Lowcock scores his second 48′ on the counter attackAnd a third Lowcock 57′ goal sinks any hope of recoveryBrave goalkeeping by Fuentes as he wins the ball off HayashiLloyd ponders the missed opportunitiesRed card to William Mobbs for a second yellow gives the Blueys a glimmer of getting at least one backPort defence is too organized and are deserved winners
Port Kembla 3 Tarrawanna Blueys 0
The same old story!? Inconsistent form has cost the Tarrawanna Blueys on a number of occasions including last year. It’ll be interesting to see whether the Blueys can become more consistent and win a trophy this season. Port Kembla FC proved remarkably resilient and well-organized in defence. This season every team appears capable of winning on any given day. The struggle at the top and bottom is intensifying.
Next up is Wollongong Olympic v Woonona Sharks- bound to be a tough struggle with both teams steeped in tradition. The Sharks date back to 1889 and Olympic are 41 years old and still going strong. Both are a testament to the passion of football as we, the soccer fans like to refer to our game.
Woonona Sharks ear-marked by many as relegation candidates open the attack. Wollongong Olympic v Woonona Sharks Round 5Olympic respond with an early goal by Vaughan Patterson with a 10′ driving header. Olympic 1 Sharks 0Sharks dismay at conceding so early.Vaughan Patterson celebrates all too easy?Midfield struggles ensuesKojiro Hori shields the ballBurly Patterson controls spaceJarred Morley helps the Sharks to control a fair share of the ballReferee Nick Ryan with a close eye on the actionBen Wunsch makes a great save off a Matt Floro driveYusuke Ueda makes it 2-0 in 39′Yusuke Ueda celebrates with the bench after scoringOfficial watches ball hoofed over the fence land in the creek.After the break the Sharks tighten up on OlympicJerry Lopez heads a Patterson cross to safetyJai Mellor gets one back 53′. Sharks begin to believe their hard work is about to pay dividends.Sharks take exception at a Jack Keating crunching slide tackleJack Keating fends of Sharks attackSecond Yellow = Red. Sharks have a big chance with an extra man.Ueda goes in search of another goal to seal the win.Yusuke UedaSharks surround UedaUeda parts the defenceNarrow missOlympic lauch another raidSharks score! Lachland Newman goal in 90’+3′The Sharks tear apart Olympic in added timeLachlan Newman celebratesSharks take a point home.
Wollongong Olympic 2 Woonona Sharks 2
The ability to fight through adversity by hard work and organization earn the Sharks a valuable point which may be vital at season end when relegation awaits for the bottom placed team.
Round 6 Reshuffle on the cards?
Sharks enter the field hoping to replicate their form against Olympic on the weekend.
Referee Bobby Mazevski keeps a close eye on the game which may have relegation ramifications at season end.Coniston FC defence put pressure on the Sharks ball carrier- Corey Haines-Grose.Penalty shout early in 1st half is waved away.Sharks are unlucky not to be awarded a penalty. “VAR! VAR!” was the call from some of the Sharks supportersA solid Coniston FC header launches an attack.Mick Grimenio with a 50m lob over Ben Wunsch puts Coniston in front.Unstoppable Coniston strike! Power, distance and dip.And it’s in! Coniston take the lead in 22′.Jarred Morley is closely watched by Cono as the Sharks pile on the pressure in search of an equalizerSharks are immediately on the attack in the second half. The shot is saved and the ball is deflected onto Boden Allport’s hand- no penalty.Jarred Morely looks to bury the deflection but Cono scrabble the ball away to safety.as often happens when chasing the game the ball is driven into the top right hand corner as Cono break.Dinko Terzic scores ’50That sinking feeling spreads throughout the team
Dinko Terzic goes on to score a hat-trick (50′, 71′, 82′) with a Matt Poposki 90′ coup de grace
Plenty to ponder about.
Woonona Sharks 0 Coniston FC 5
The Sunday game is between the Blueys and Wollongong United. The Blueys can return to the top of the table if they take all three points at home against a Wollongong United struggling to find form.
Tarrawanna Blueys open fast and furious looking to get an early goal advantage.Mohamed KardoliReferee Nathan Wotton awards a penalty which is duly converted by Rick Goodchild 21′Goodchild celebrates his penalty conversionThe referee rejects the penalty appeal instead awarding a free kick to the BlueysNo penalty as Kane Wright appears to be brought down in the boxBlueys keep a tight rein on Nathan WaglemanWollongong United go in search of the equalizer with Kane Wright spearheading the attack.Matthew Naylor shielding the ballFans enjoying the action
They go in half time with Blueys leading 1-0
A well executed slide tackleMatthew Wagleman receives a yellowBenjamin Spruce narrowly misses with a power header
Mitchell Ferraro slots home the second in 74′ Tarrawanna Blueys 2 Wollongong United coach reflects on the decisions that didn’t go their way.
Tarrawanna Blueys 2 Wollongong United 0
Round 7 The battle at the top heats up
The Blueys take on Olympic who are seeking to bounce back and who are two points in arrears but can leap-frog to the top with a win. For the Blueys, a win would see skylight between them and the chasing pack. All is set for an exciting game.
A corner kick looking for an Ueda header is well defended by the Blueys as Rodiguez punches the ball to safetySam Munro drive from 18m skims the barKojiro Hori heads a Blueys clearance back into the danger zone as Olympic gain territorial advantage.At the other end, Hayden Durose commands his box as the Blueys build an attackEnd-to-end. Rodriguez punches another ball to safety that is destined for UedaBlueys launch a counter attack through Matthew Nalor down the right flankUeda strikes from a precision slide-rule Martinoski pass in 24′Blueys fans are stunned by the quality Ueda strikeOlympic launch another attack that is well defended by Matthew NaylorAn unstoppable Martinoski rocket from 20m in 34′Blueys begin an all out 2nd half attack and pepper the Olympic goal. Durose makes an excellent save.Jack Keating stars in an excellent defensive effort in 2nd halfAnother top save!Lots to ponder about as the Blueys are unable to crack the rock solid Olympic defence
The win puts Olympic on top of the table.Wollongong Olympic 2 (Ueda 24′, Martinoski 34′) Tarrawanna Blueys 0
The Sunday game features Corrimal Rangers at home against relegation candidate Cringila Lions.
Rangers fans sit out the wet.The early Cringila attack is through a motoring Takao TeremotoRangers fans are enjoying the game.Van Elia opens the scoringVan EliaThat sinking feelingVan Elia scores 5 goals!Lions fans are becoming distraughtVan Elia receives a yellow card after celebrating his 5th goal.
Olympic are top of the table as the Blueys slip down the table. Cringila Lions put in a lack-luster performance and seemed to lack fight against the clearly superior Rangers.
Round Eight: Who are improving and who are not?
The Blueys will be needing all three points if they are to be serious championship contenders. Cono are looking to consolidate their position and start to put pressure on those above them on the table.
Tight marking is a Cono feature early on.Kody Maude
Mick CimenoCono start out with max revs.Blueys put pressure on the ball.Blueys try the aerial route.It’s Kody Maude who puts Cono in front 0-1 against the Blueys in the 18′.At the other end Blake Horton makes a great save.Textbook attacking the ball.Haydyn LloydMatt Tschentecher scores in 37′. Cono go two up!Cono go two up.Blueys score through Steven Lloyd with a perfectly timed glancing header in 43′.Half-time fly-over at Tarrawanna Oval.A mighty 49′ drive by Rob Brown and Cono restore the two goal lead 1-3.The mid-season Blueys blues.Strong Cono defence. Well-timed slide tackle.Technical area advice
Rick Goodchild scores from the spot in 93′
Tarrawanna Blueys 2 Coniston 3
The mid-season Blueys form slump see them slide down the ladder.
Round 9 : The whirlpool to the vortex at the bottom
Woonona Sharks take on Cringila Lions- a loss for the Lions would make them lay-down misere to be relegated. The Sharks need to consolidate, or they too will fall into the mire.
A vital game for the Lions. Lose and they will be stuck in the mire of relegation with the Sharks moving well away from the zone.Lions keep a close eye on Kota Odakura.The early pressure is seen on Lions faces.Ibrahim Sesay challenges in the air looking to flick the ball over the Sharks high line.Space opens up for Sharks attack. Jarred Morley launches a raid into the Lions final third.Todd Sparks is unable to get his cross in due to sturdy Sharks defence.Speedy Takao Teramoto is shadowed by the equally fast and agile Kota Odakura.Luke McCosker helps out in defence and launches an attack as the Sharks absorb early pressure.Luke McCosker scores in 21′ with Goalkeeper Nikola Ristevski rooted to the spot as the ball flashes into the bottom right-hand corner.Sharks take the lead.Flying Odakura is first to the ball as Sharks midfield takes control of the match.Lions keeper Nikola Ristevski is kept busy parrying the Sharks shots on goal.Sharks dominate midfield.Sharks lead Lions at half-time 1-0Sharks are first the ball.Lions effort to gain control of the match is met by Sharks steely determination not to let the game slip.Confidence grows as time runs out for the Lions.Aleksandar Prentoski staring into the relegation vortex.
Woonona Sharks 1 Cringila Lions 0
In the Sunday match Corrimal Rangers take on South Coast United the other team on the edge of the precipice.
Rangers attack right from the starting whistle and narrowly miss.Jason Zufic causes United problems down the right wing.Matt Galanti helps Rangers dominate midfieldTim Wylie “Captain Courageous” scores 4′Josh Hawker fights to retain possession in midfield.Ever present Alvin Ceccoli marshals Rangers defenceFans enjoying the game.Anguish on the South Coast United bench as they stare into the whirlwind of the relegation zone.Rangers keep a close eye on Byungkuk Cho.Byungkuk ChoHalftime fly-over.United defence halts Rangers progress.Ben Zucco and Zac Hawker in Battle Royale
Tomoki Wada scores 50′
Jason Bleakley is kept busy
Corrimal Rangers 2 South Coast United 0
Round 10 Vying for the Top
Some big games are on this weekend with the top teams vying for poll position.
Sandy Lowcock celebrates the opening goal against Wollongong Olympic in 27′Clever Luke Boersma through ball splits the Olympic defence and is superbly finished by Sandy Lowcock.Next minute Julian Minutillo is brought right in front of the nose of the referee. Olympic are awarded a penalty.
The penalty is duly converted by Yusuke Ueda.Yusuke Ueda scores from the spot.Port is immediately on the attack looking to regain the lead.John Martinoski with a quality strike.No chance for Port keeper Chris Fuentes.All smiles after the John Martinoski quality swivel volley.Olympic go into the break one up.Halftime fly-over.Olympic are immediately on the attack with weaving Martinoski dribbles around the box.Olympic dominate all over the park.Ueda defends from the front giving the Port backline no respite.Brendan Fordham is first to the ball and there is no way through for Port.Port bench takes issue with some of the refereeing decisions not going their way.Yellows begin to accumulate as Port struggles to get possession. Luke Boersma goes into the book.Long suffering Olympic fans hoping this will be their year.Yusuke Ueda as the final whistle confirms the Olympic victory who go to the top of the league.
Port Kembla 1 Wollongong Olympic 2
Round 11 Table sifting as competition reaches midway
Can the Olympic roll continue when they take on Wollongong United?
Intense Kojiro Hori concentration halts Wollongong United attack.After just 3′ Olympic have the ball in the net.Offside flag goes up and the goal is disallowed.Kawasakiya Hikaru and Kojiro Hori fight for possession.Zac McLaren tug puts pressure on Jake Keating.Brilliant Ueda diving header puts Olympic in front in the 24′.Hayden Durose with lightning reflexes stops a quality strike immediately after the restart to keep Olympic in front.It’s a goalmouth scramble. Zac McClaren puts it away. United level the score.McClaren celebrates his 33′ equalizer.United fans applaud the fight-back.United confidence mounts.Olympic blast wide.Brendan Fordham marshals the defence.Fordham header.Olympic put the foot down and attack United.Half-time fly-over.
United is kept in the yard by a pressing Olympic.Fantastic Sam Nastic makes an excellent save from a dipping ball.Nastic makes a fantastic save.Matthew McNab looks for support.The pressure gauge ticks.McNab is robbed of the ball.Ikumi Saito holds off Kane Wright.Martinoski pile driver!Martinoski 65′ and Olympic go into the lead 2-1.John Martinoski piledriver is enough to put skylight between Olympic and the chasing pack.
Wollongong United 1 Wollongong Olympic 2
Olympic put daylight between themselves and the rest of the pack.
Round 12 Halfway and the run is on!
Hoe springs eternal as the Lions after an excellent win over South Coast United take on ladder leaders Wollongong Olympic at home. Olympic will be seeking to hold onto top spot. The Lions under their new coach hope to build on an impressive win from last week.
Ryoga Uemoto scores after 1′ giving the Lions something to defend against the ladder leaders.Players celebrate as Lions hope springs eternal.
Team spirit returned.Lions get ready for the onslaught.Olympic are immediately looking for an equalizer.A flying Ueda is beaten to the ball by a Nikola Ristevski punch.Yet another Olympic raid. This time through John Martinoski.Ristevski vacuums the ball in just before it crosses the goal line.Lions defence scrambles the ball to safety.Lions hoof it up and hits the bar!Bounces back into play.Jake Webster pokes at the ball through a crowd of players.The ball is plucked out of its flight into the capable Ristevski hands. The Lions survive the blitzkrieg.Ueda attempted volley is unable to penetrate the scrambling Lions defence.Ristevski makes another important save.Peter Prandalos of OlympicAlex Majsoski of LionsMartinoski and Sparks in one to one battle.Lions confidence grows as time ticks by.Prentoski entering the red zone as halftime nears.Ball Boy watches the intense struggle.Lions see more ball.Jason Brooks with some respite and Lions launch a counter.Jake Webster on the counter with engine humming.Cringila Lions make it 2-0 in the 45th.Jackson Brooks celebrates his goal.
Lions are off into the sheds with a 2-0 lead.Half-time fly-over.Olympic is out early with it all to do.The lanky Jackson Brooks nullifies the Ueda aerial threat.Brooks and Ueda do battle.Flying Ueda volley flies over the crossbar.The Delphi ominous: luck is at low tide.Ristevski in magnificent form.Lions fan enjoying the game.All hands to the pump. Olympic are unable to break-through a desperate defence.Lions with a courageous effort earn all three points at home against the ladder leader Olympic as the Sharks look on.
Cringila Lions 2 Wollongong Olympic 0
The Sunday game sees Rangers take on Bulli FC. A win for Rangers will lift them to 2nd spot and Bulli need points to build confidence in an underwhelming season so far.
Rangers start the game confidently with a well-organized plan to counter the Bulli FC attacking intent.Matt Galanti halts the progress of Luke Foster.Ben Zucco with a ball and all tackle on Aaron Baker as Bulli FC launch an attack down the right wing.No foul given.Bulli continue to press and look to go forward at every opportunity.The injured Dylan Lewis looks on.Tomoki Wada halts the progress of Kyle Hazebroek.Kenji Takahashi brings down Van Elia on the edge of the box.Duly put way by Tomoki Wada with a wicked unstoppable bend around the wall in 45′.Rangers go into halftime with a 1-0 lead.Halftime fly-over.Tim Wylie appeals for a foul; not given.Yuya Kuwata makes a timely intercept as Corrimal look for a 2nd.Red card handed to Luke Stergiou and the match heats up.
Given a straight red but is recorded as an R7!Corrimal protestations with the referee over the decision.Rangers are down to 10 men as Stergiou is sent to the dressing sheds.The scoring machine that is Van Elia puts in the 2nd in 86′.Corrimal are too good even with 10 men for Bulli FC as they move to 2nd spot behind Olympic.
Corrimal Rangers 2 Bulli FC 0
Round 13: It’s getting tighter at both ends of the table
The Foxes take on United who have closed the gap in the relegation zone.
Flying Blake Friedrich motors up the right flank and puts immediate pressure on the United defence.Greg Valic marshals the defence to fend off early Foxes pressure.United sit at the foot of the table.Kieren Brodnik fends off another Foxes raid this time down the left wing.United Keeper Jason Bleakly feels the Foxes heat.United aerial superiority nullifies Foxes high balls into the box.Foxes hit the upright!Jason Bleakley punches the ball clear from a dangerous Foxes corner kick.Cameron Hanson scores for United in 26′ on the break.
Halftime fly-over.Friedrich shoots!Foxes are level.It’s 1-1.All square with plenty of time for a winner.And another in 60′.Foxes fans enjoyed the Jordan Hughes goal.United fans are worried about relegation.Yogi Ogawa with a weaving run goes after another.
Valic with a bullet header equalizes 2-2!Chris Valic celebrates the equalizer.Still time for United to close the gap.Clearly taken out.Friedrich is brought down by Vidaic on the edge of the box. Referee ignores appeal.Ends all square.
Fernhill Foxes 2 South Coast United 2
The final score keeps the points gap between the sides at 3 points. There is a long way to go and to survive the drop points will be needed.
Round 14 Winter Solstice
The Blueys have been in their usual mid-season form slump while the Foxes are getting perilously close to the bottom. Both sides need a win as Round 14 kicks off on the winter’s solstice.
Rick Goodchild is immediately on the attack from the opening whistle.Foxes struggle to win the ball.Blueys intensify the pressure attacking down by the right flank.Foxes struggle to contain Blueys attack.Keisuke Hayashi scores 8′ in for the Blueys.Bryce Darnell exposed by static Foxes defence.Foxes counterattack.Ryan Hunter in search of a goal.Sam Munro breaks through the flat backline and drives the ball into the bottom left-hand corner. Blueys are 2 up in 18′!Bryce Darnell makes a brilliant save to thwart a Ben Learmonth drive.It’s all one-way traffic as the Blueys pile on the pressure.Foxes mount an attack through midfield.A Sam Munro brace and it’s 3 for the Blueys!Blueys celebrate Munro’s brace.Winter solstice descends at the Foxes who go in 0-3 at halftime.Mitchell FerraroAnd another! OG from Ryan Hunter. Blueys lead 4-0 in 63′.OG #2: Ryan Wilson slots it into his own net in 85′.Tarrawanna fan hoping this will be their year.Final whistle- Blueys take all three points.
Tarrawanna Blueys move into 4th spot while Fernhill Foxes await the result of the South Coast United v Bulli FC game to see if they have hit rock bottom. (Table)
Round 15 Race for the Premiership
The clash of the weekend is Olympic v Rangers. Olympic once again have an opportunity to put distance between themselves and the following pack.
Joey Lavalle scores after only 2′! Olympic 1 Rangers 0
Olympic celebrate Joey Lavalle goal.Van Elia with a great opportunity chips the ball over the bar.Emotions run deep between benches.Van Elia knows he should have scored the equalizer.Rangers seek to crack open Olympic defence.Olympic apply the squeeze on Van Elia.Durose does battle with Van Elia for aerial control.Durose gets the ball as Elia lies prone.Rangers on alert to the counterattack through Lavalle.Olympic put Rangers under pressure as the half draws to an end.Shot blocked off corner kick.Rangers struggle to take control of the match against a well-organised Olympic structure.Alvin Cecoli chases down the Olympic attack.Cecoli battles with MinutilloCorrimal keep a close eye on Ueda.Ueda on the attack.
Fans enjoying the game.Alvin CecoliNikolas Loe secure handsMinutillo in on ZuficMinutillo yellow.James Kerr frustrated with some decisions.Halftime fly overNo room given to Elia.Clever turn by Elia as Corrimal are off the blocks early in the 2nd half.End-to-end action. Corrimal scramble to contain Minutillo.Olympic defence scramble the ball clear.
Martinoski shootsNic Loe is unable to stop the drive with the ball bulleting into the far corner.Olympic take a two goal lead.Olympic celebrate 2nd goal.Cecoli in the ear of Martinoski after his goal.Hayden DuroseThe final whistle. Corrimal drop off the pace for the League Premiership.
Wollongong Olympic 2 Corrimal Rangers 0
Wollongong Olympic sit on top of the table with a lead of eight points. South Coast United defeated Port Kembla 2-1, leaving the Foxes to prop up the table. Next week the race for the playoff places heats up.
Round 16: Congested traffic chase finals spots
The Foxes need points if they are to avoid relegation. They take on Bulli FC at home on a heavy pitch drenched by rain over the last few days. The Illawarra has existing clubs as old 1883 yet local and state governments have failed in all that time to provide adequate grounds but are prepared to splurge on new to town luxury AFL grounds. Nevertheless, the IPL goes on and must deal with sub-standard facilities and grounds starved of funds by bigoted government authorities.
The game opens with the Foxes containing the early Bulli FC momentum.Early Bulli play goes through Luke Foster.
Bulli switch the point of attack going down the right flank through Mitchell Delturco while the Hill hold a high line and squeeze play.
The Foxes organize the defence.Mitchell Delturco takes issue with a refereeing decision.Fans enjoying the game in the cool sunshine.Foxes defence holds tight under Bulli pressure.Bruce Darnell makes an important save and holds onto the ball.Bulli push players forward looking to crack the Foxes defence.Jeremy Kemp puts Foxes in the lead against the run of play.Yuya Kuwada given no chance.Foxes celebrate.Foxes with their tails up attack. Rhys Wilson sprints down the right flank.Cross is well defended by Kenji Takahashi.Bruce Darnell stops Ben Mcdonald aerial threat.Darnell tips the ball over the crossbar.
Bulli crowd wondering if their team can score.Bulli FC score as the pressure pays dividends.Ben McDonald celebrates his equalizer.Halftime fly-over.Determined Foxes defence hold off Bulli FC presure.Luke Foster drives forward.Sturdy Kenji Takahashi slide tackle brings down Jordan Hughes.Foxes pack swarm in swamp to contain Ben Mcdonald.McDonald is locked outKyle Jackson duel.Jordan Hughes break is chased down by Kenji Takahashi.Ball flashes across Foxes goal.Bruce Darnell retrieves the scraps at Ben McDonald’s feet.Over the top tumble.Kenji Takahashi with a dangerous cross into the Foxes penalty area.Foxes counter in a see-saw match.Aaron Baker in aerial duel with Tatsunori Nakagawa.Even-stevens.Ends 1-1.
The Sunday game is between Tarrawanna and Port Kembla. Port need points and the Blueys can consolidate and make a challenge for the League Championship.
Port struggles to find penetrating passes through the midfield.
\
Chris Fugutes parries a Michael Robinson header from close range.Tight Blueys marking stops Port from making progress in final third.Adam Rodriguez makes an excellent save.Blueys get cross in despite strong Port pressure.Blueys look to switch the play.Halftime fly-over.Fabian Iacovelli puts Port in the lead in the 46′.Penalty shout waved away.Tarra coach looks on as Blueys struggle to create a break-through.Blueys turn up the intensity with most balls going through Rick Goodchild. Penalty!
Duly put away by Matthew Naylor 74′2nd Yellow for dissent and Stephen Llyod is sent off. Blueys are reduced to ten men.
Rick Goodchild puts pressure on down the flank.Midfield stretches.Game ends in a draw.
Tarrawanna Blueys 1 Port Kembla 1
Round 12 NAIDOC Week
Olympic celebrate NAIDOC Week.
Wollongong Olympic riding high on the table take on relegation threatened South Coast United. A cold gale force westerly wind blows down the ground making conditions difficult for football. In his speech the Aboriginal elder say they call football soccer. Little does he know that clubs like Bulli FC 1901 were playing on the Illawarra before rugby league was even invented. The Illawarra has some of the oldest still existing teams anywhere in the world. The league is a national treasure unrecognized by the media.
Jack Keating wearing the NAIDOC kit.Hayden Durose wearing the NAIDOC keeper outfit.Kijori Hori on defensive duties looks along the line as South Coast United mount an attack into the strong westerly wind.Mark Vidaic knocks in a 10′ OG.Olympic on a roll!Jason Bleakley blocks Yusuke Ueda near-post effort.SC United drive into the gale wind on a counterattack.Kojiro Hori halts the progress of Dion Sterjovski with a superbly timed slide tackle.Brendan Fordham with solid defence down the centre of the park.In search of the lost ball.
Halftime and balls are recovered.Vaughn Patterson almost gets the 2nd for Olympic.SC United put pressure on Olympic.SC United score in 65′.Dion Sterjovski celebrates his equalizer for SC United.Martinoski shoots!Jason Bleakley dives.The ball flashes past the upright.Olympic lift the intensity and put on the pressure.Julian Minutillo shoots from close range.SC United luck holds out.It ends in a draw. SC United satisfied with a valuable away point against the leaders.
Wollongong Olympic 1 South Coast United 1
Round 18: Woonona Sharks celebrate 130 years with a solid season
Woonona Sharks take on an AP White Eagles chasing the premiership title. Woonona have had a solid season and are in contention for a Top 5 finish. The Sharks at home will be looking to consolidate their table position.
Sharks are in the lead after 6′.Sharks celebrate Luke McCosker goal.Joel Beattie chip sails over Ben Wunsch and the bar.No penalty.Sharks counter through Luke McCosker in an open end-to-end phase.Bench is told to calm down.Joel Beattie progress down right flank is halted by Tyler Bromham-Fuller.Second goal by the Sharks 12′Corey Haines-Grose celebrates goal.Concern on the White Eagles bench.Sharks use Jarred Morley as attacking distributer.White Eagles are stunned by Sharks two goal lead.Sharks looking confident.Sharks bang away a third!Sharks celebrate Khalid Alali 25′ goal.Sharks take 3 goal lead!White Eagles inquisition.Sharks frenzy.White Eagle attempt to build an attack.Sharks put pressure on White Eagles.Woonona Sharks on the hunt.Corey Haines-Grose changes direction of the attack.Ben Wunsch pointing out vulnerability.White Eagles resurgence held off as halftime approaches.Direct awarded just outside the box.Ben Wunsch makes a timely save.Kota Odakura on another threatening Sharks offensive raid.White Eagles counter through Joel Beattie.Halftime fly-over.Sharks re-emerge for 2nd half.White Eagles are immediately on the attack.Offensive header is on target.Save!Wunsch gathers the ball in on the rebound.Robert Delbanco pulls one back 54′. 3-1.
Albion Park White Eagles are back in the game!Valentino Merxhushi adds another in 60′! 3-2Valentino MerxhushiBen Wunsch makes another save.Valentino Merxhushi rifles in the equalizer in 70′, 3-3!Valentino Merxhushi shoots.The ball eludes all and flashes past the upright.Sharks recover composure and launch an attack.Penalty!Chance to take the lead.Wunsch saves penalty.Sharks hold on.
Woonona Sharks 3 Albion Park White Eagles 3
Wollongong Olympic are away to Tarrawanna Blueys. The Blueys need points if they are to aspire to a title later in the season. Olympic are well ahead but the threat of a stumble should keep them motivated. It’s too early in the season for them to be sole League Championship contenders. This is a year that they need to win after recent years of O’nearly.
Early Blueys attack is thwarted by Brendam Fordham.Blueys take it to Olympic.In-form Joey LavalleRick Goodchild is tight on James Kerr.
Adam Rodriguez plucks the ball off Ekoue D’Almedia’s head.Blueys open the scoring 5′ in.Brilliant Keisuke Hayashi goal stuns Olympic.Keisuke Hayashi celebrates Bluey’s opener. Blueys 1- Olympic 0Early Olympic gloom as Yusuke Ueda looks on. Have recent events at the club effected player performance?Michael Robinson keeps tight rein on Yusuke Ueda.
\
Blueys are first to the ball containing Olympic counterattack.Olympic struggle to get a look at goal. Brenda Fordham is brought down.Ekoue D’Almedia with a rare opportunity to impress.Sam Munro defends against the high Vaughan Patterson leap.Olympic start to see more of the ball.Intense concentrationOlympic find the Hayashi speed and nimbleness difficult to contain.James Kerr launches an Olympic attack.James Kerr shadows Rick Goodchild wing play.Blueys effort flashes across the goalmouth.Blueys score their second.Hayashi gets his brace. Blueys 2 Olympic 0.Olympic bench has a lot to contemplate.Olympic launch high balls into the mixer as halftime approaches.Rodriguez clears a high ball launched into the goal area.Pressure is on as Olympic lift gears.OG Michael Robinson. Blueys 2 Olympic 1Halftime fly-over.Olympic have trouble containing the speed and guile of Hayashi.Lavalle distributes the ball.Robinson nullifies Ueda.Olympic equalize with Ueda credited for the goal in 59′.Rodriguez safe hands.
Tarrawanna Blueys 2 Coniston 3
Corrimal Rangers 2 South Coast United 0
