The Lions will be hoping they don’t have another struggle year.The Blueys will be seeking to achieve their undoubted potential.
Hopefully the nCov-2019 will be over soon.
It’s a cold July Friday night as the games finally are underway. There is still no assurance the season will be completed as Victoria has had a sudden rise in the number of Covid19 cases. NSW is clear and has been given the go ahead to start the season.
The season kicks off with the Bert Bampton Cup contested between IPL1 and IPL2 teams. Cringila Lions take on the Tarrawanna Blueys in an important game because there is a cup for the Champions and very little time to get into form for a shortened Illawarra Premier League season.
The reckoning begins. Lions have high aspirations for the season.Brebevski is back in action.Tyson Black: The joy of pressure as a defender in soccer.Lions cut the Blueys to pieces after just 7′ with a Pires snapshot.Nuno Pires opens the scoring for the Lions.Blueys show their disappointment after going behind.Mitchell Ferrara hand on hips after going behind.Nuno PiresAnother! Nuno Pires is in for the brace.Nuno Pires with two early goalsPressure is on in midfieldLions fire up on Friday nightWebster weaves and spins on the right wing.Beautiful Webster cross to North which is ably dealt with by RodriguezThe Pires goalCannon ball into the net.Siminoski lets flyRodriguez is beaten by Siminoski precisionThree up after 26′Siminoski Brace and the Blueys are down 0-4 after 39′Cringila Lions 4 Tarrawanna Blueys 0Out for the second halfBlueys are given little roomNo way forward
The Lions move into the next round while the Blueys are eliminated.
The Saturday game is between Woonona Sharks and South Coast United. The Sharks had an excellent season last year and will be looking to improve while SC United struggled but managed to avoid relegation.
Sharks have difficulty containing Okla down the left side.United keep a close eye on McCoskerStarr puts the question to the SharksBromham Fuller nullifies the threatValic is a towering strength at the backValic keeps the attack aliveToohey breaks up the threat and turns out of troubleToohey turns his player and launches a counter offensiveA Cho thumping header from a corner puts United in front after 24′Byungkuk ChoA top draw save by Fernandez keeps the Sharks in the gameMcCosker blasts over the bar!Hoping to get one before halftime and draw levelHalftime fly over. Sharks 0 SCU 1Halftime flyover (0-1)FlyoverPollard brings down Crew in the box.Mellor sends the keeper the wrong way. 1-1 after 50′A brilliant save by Bleakley keeps the tie even as the Sharks surge forwardThe ball flashes past the uprights. Bleakley clearly has some issues with his defence.Mellor drives the ball pinpoint across the goalkeeperBleakley is strandedSharks go in front 2-1 after 60′United are clearly unhappy about the goalSharks break up any sniff of an attackArm wrestleFinal Score Woonona Sharks 2 (Mellor 50’ 60’) South Coast United 1 (Cho 24’)
Bert Bampton Cup Woonona Sharks v Cringila Lions
Jake Baily concentrating on the actionLions dominate attack. Sharks close down the space.David Polidoro seeks to launch an attackImmediately closed down by Robbie GaudiosiJair Fernandez is relieved the header is straight at himOpportunity spurnedPeter Siminoski beats two Sharks with a sharp dribbleTomohiro Ishii wins possessionFans enjoying the gameDamien Grew shot on the counter is saved.Fernandez controls the high crossFernandez left floundering by nearpost Norval curler 25′Tobias Norval celebrates his goalLions celebrates Norval goalHalftime Sharks 0 Lions 2 (Norval 25′ 27′)Sharks immediately on the front footSparks brings down Ishii inside the boxReferee calls a direct just outside the boxJake Bailey goes in after ballSharks are unhappy with the aftermathLions see no foulSharks press forwardDavid Polidoro takes out Robbie GaudiosiIshii under pressureGaudiosi gets one back! Sharks 1 Lions 2Pressure is on.William Mobbs with an amazing engine in defenceThe battle is onNo way throughKeeper error and it is 1-3 in 73′Cringila Lions celebrate goalNick Ristevski with safe handsAnd a piledriver fourth Sharks 1 Lions 4coup de grâceSharks are eliminated Woonona Sharks 1 Cringila Lions 4
The Illawarra Premier League 2020
Finally the season starts!
The IPL kicks off this weekend. There will be no relegation to the disappointment of fans and clubs in IPL2. Often the most exciting games are the relegation games. In any event, Cringila Lions have been on fire in the Bampton Cup and lethal in front of goal. On Friday night they are at home and take on Albion Park White Eagles. This is likely to be a close and competitive game if recent pre-season and Brampton Cup matches are any indication.
Are Cringila Lions the real deal or a bubble waiting to burst?
Albion Park White Eagles are away Cringila in the cauldron.Cody Wehmeyer shoots.Wehmeyer scores after just 2′Best of possible starts for the White EaglesWhite Eagles pay close attention to Peter SimonoskiSimonoski is cut down with a no nonsense tackleNo Yellow Card issuedSimonoski appears to be pulled down in the box. No penalty.Simonoski given no roomKyle Senior keeps a close eye on SimonoskiPires in a tit-for-tat battle with the White Eagle’s defenceSimonoski turns Kohei Suzaki inside outSimonoski drives the ball home for an equalizer 16’ (1-1)Lions celebrate equalizerThe crowd enjoying the thoroughly entertaining gameJoel Beattie uses his pace to reach the loose ballBeattie taken out in chase for the loose ballValentino Merxhushi drive on the counter puts White Eagles in front 43’White Eagles lead 1-2 halftimeHalftime team talkSecond half is about to kick offTodd Sparks lights up midfieldPires in aerial battle with Kyle SeniorJoel Beattie is tightly markedBeattie under pressure narrowly misses with his shot across the keeperPenalty shout as Beattie is down on the ground. No pen!Lions on the counterIt is in by Jake Webster. Cringila Lions draw level after 55’ (2-2)The game is level and evenly balancedSimonoski on another Lions raid down the left flankSuzaki header relieves the pressure for White EaglesLions mount a further attackForceful tackles in midfieldWhite Eagles argue the point with referee BlanchKyle SeniorPenalty to White Eagles!Lions players stunned by the decisionPut away in 73’ by Cameron MorganWhite Eagles lead 2-3Beattie sinks one. Offside!Time is running out for the LionsBrilliant strike by Alex Mojoski 89’Draw Cringila Lions 3 Albion Park White Eagles 3
The Saturday fixture is between Bellambi and Port Kembla. Bellambi are newly promoted.
Bellambi Rosellas Ryan Hunter on the ball against Port KemblaJordan HughesTory MusumeciNick MorganVaughn Patterson opens the scoring 34’ Bellambi 1 Port 0Liam UnicombMitch Turner scores 39’ Bellambi 2 Port 0Musumeci nonchalantly chips the keeper 54’ Bellambi 2 Port 1Port are back in the gameDylan NikolovskiBrad Watt strikes 72’ 3-1Brad Watt celebrates his goalA well-constructed goalLiam Unicomb scores 74′. The goal stands. No offside.Bellambi 4 Port 1Stunned in the technical areaCody Cuthbertson adds another 89’ (5-1)A comprehensive victory Bellambi 5 Port 1
ROUND 2 Tarrawanna Blueys v Wollongong United
After sledging over the state of the pitch in the lead up to this clash in the media Tarra emerges from the shed with a mix of youthful and experienced player ready to do battle for the points. The pitch is in reasonable though heavy condition.
Tarrawanna Blueys emerge from the sheds ready with a mix of experience and youth.Zac McLaren immediately asks questions turning his defenderMcLaren skips threeDan Chapman and Tarra defence on high alertMcLaren in 8′Tarra 0 United 1Tarra up tempo looking for an equalizerWollongong United use their physicality to counter the Tarra surgeTarra seek to contain Yamada as United counterPlay on Yamada is containedUnited close down Tarra midfieldJordan Nikolovski with safe hands under pressureTarra push up on UnitedA tight battleUnited throwMcLaren in full flightMcLaren landingMcLaren is needlessly clipped just outside penalty areaAndre Dias with unstoppable direct dipping over the wallDias celebrates Tarra 0 United 2 in 30′Adam Rodriguez punches clearTarra unhappy with the United physicalityKlime Sekutkoski pulls down Brody PagePage is brought downHalftime Tarra 0 United 2Kookaburras look onTyson BlackDarren Stone claims a Yamada diveTarra bring on Om UchenduTarra attack down the left wingDias nullifies the attackTarrawanna Blueys 0 Wollongong United 2
Corrimal Rangers v Port Kembla
Port were soundly beaten by Belambi and play Rangers who only managed a draw against Tarra in the previous round which was abandoned due to a deluge at halftime with the other half played on Tuesday night.
Jordan Hughes and Zack Tyson battle for early dominanceVan EliaRangers bench incensed at a refereeing decisionNathan Belsito keeps a close eye on Van EliaA promising Rangers attack ends in Elia being brought downYellow issued to Dylan NikolovskiTim WyliePort shot hits the uprightIt then hits the other upright! Luck falls Rangers way.Jayden Nikolovski brings down Jason ZuficPort pile on the pressureTory Musumeci launches another Port attackNarrow miss by RangersHalftime Rangers 0 Port 0Sulphur-crested cockatooGoal! Paul Guido drives across the keeper.Corrimal 1 Port 0Jordan Hughes seeks to launch an immediate Port replyRangers drive the ball across the goalGuido races in an drives the ball homeCorrimal Rangers 2 Port Kembla FC 0Guido brace 66′The cockatoo celebratesBrave save by Kaydin Harrison keeps his clean sheet intactAnd another brave Harrison saveJake Marlando does enough to stop an audacious Port attempt at goalToni MusumeuMarlando deflects the shot on goalThe ball hits the upright and to safetyThe tussle goes onFull time Corrimal Rangers 2 Port Kembla FC 0Part of the crowd enjoying a thoroughly entertaining game
Round 3
Wet weather has washed out all but one game. South Coast United v Albion Park White Eagles may still go ahead.
South Coast United v Albion Park White Eagles
The game kicks off in heavy rainWhite Eagles dominate. Joel Beattie finds space and shoots.Side nettingClose call for UnitedRain teems downKolan Hmda does just enough to stave off the Senior headerA Waller cross-come-shot is tipped over the bar by BleakleyThe Bleakley flick lands on top of the netMorgan and Beattie attack UnitedBeattie jumps to avoid the desperate United interceptNo pen appealRare United incursion into Eagles territoryEagles defence holds out the United incursionWhite Eagles counter attack
Morgan latches onto the ball in space behind the defence
Morgan latches onto the ball in space behind the defenceMorgan shoots as Bleakley come out to close down the angleThe ball misses the goal by about a metreNarrow escape for UnitedJoel BeattieKolan HmdaSturdy White Eagles defenceSenior glancing headerBleakley lightning reflexes keeps goal intactHalftimeArm wrestle recommences 2nd halfDylan MenaBeattie receives close attention and is tackled from behindAbdal Alokla is unable to break through the White Eagles defenceBrendan Fordham scores with a driving header. SCU 0 APWE 1South Coast United 0 Albion Park White EaglesSuzaki motoring in midfield for White EaglesJordan Nikolovski drives a rocket into the netWhite Eagles are two upRain intensity increases but the artificial turf still looks slickJamie Wakeling drive takes a big deflection off NaomichiBlake Coad can only watch the ball drop into the net United 1 White Eagles 2It ends 1-2 in a White Eagles win
Round 3
Bulli FC v Wollongong Olympic
Both teams have high aspirations. Bulli FC are rebuilding after a disappointing last season. Olympic have lost some key players from their premiership winning side. With sides only playing each other once, points are essential, and any slip up may prove costly. Bulli FC are at home. The ground is looking in good condition after the heavy rain last week. This promises to be an entertaining game.
Olympic bench looks on as Bulli set up an attackKyle Jackson launches an attack for Bulli FC 1901The cross from Luke Van Zyl causes problems for Olympic. Justin Pasfield loses the ball.Pasfield recovers the dropped ballLuke Foster Bulli FC 1901Ian ClarinoKojiro Hori looks for an incisive passHori pressurizes FosterJoey Lavelle brings down Ryan Emerton from behindJohnny Martinoski weaves through defenders and is brought down on the edge of the penalty areaThe direct dips over the wallInto the arms of PasfieldMartinoski with a laser like drive through a crowded defenceOlympic lead 0-1 after 27′Martinoski celebratesKeagan Maticis slots in a second for OlympicOlympic lead 0-2 after 35′Bulli strike back immediately with Luke Van Zyl rocketPasfield can only watch the ball enter the goalVan Zyl celebratesHori prevents Emerton getting to the ball with a cocked elbow no foul is awardedClarino shootsThe ball whizzes just outside the uprightJames BalelachinoMaticis and Keating tightly mark TsujimuraHalftime with a strong southerly blowing down the fieldOlympic immediately on the attackThe ball is slotted to Ben McDonaldMcDonald duly puts it awayAll square at 2-2 after 63′Pasfield makes a crucial save from a Van Zyl drive with McDonald looking to put away the crumbsMartinoski challenges for the ballMartinoski goes down in the box. Bulli are unimpressed.Jack KeatingJackson is brought down in the boxNo penOliver Currusco halts the Bulli surgeAaron Baker is brought downAn unimpressed BakerIt ends 2-2 after some heated exchanges
South Coast United v Tarrawanna Blueys
The night game is between United and Tarra. Both teams need points. United have been disappointing again after a poor season last year while Tarra is building through a core of up and coming young talent.
Tarra are off the blocks immediately attacking in the United final thirdDaniel Chapman volleys of the turnThe Blueys are up after just 2′Not the start United were afterOmi Uchendu shootsJason Bleakley tips the ball around the uprightZac Mazevski makes it 0-2 after 9′ through a disorganised United flailing defenceOmi UchenduPart of the crowd enjoying the gameKieren BrodnikAnthony Pedavoli lobs the keeperAdam Roidriguez is beaten as he comes off his lineUnited 1 Blueys 2 after 33′Ivan Bratjanscak brings down Brody PageTarrawanna take all 3 points (1-2)
Port Kembla v Albion Park White Eagles
Port are yet to earn a point while the White Eagles with their highly talented squad will be expecting nothing other than a win from their players. A howling cold westerly is blowing diagonally across the field. Conditions are difficult for soccer.
White Eagles go into the game confident they will be able to get all three pointsJoel Beattie receive early attention by PortBrenham Fordham with an early chance in the swirling windFordham acts a distributor initiating a White Eagles attackBrendan FordhamMitch Di PietroPort salvo is well parried by Blake CoadJustin Mitrevski tips the ball over the crossbarBlake Coad with a brilliant fingertip save keeps White Eagles goal intactLuke Boersma queries a refereeing decisionPort launch a raid into White Eagles final thirdHalftime flyover by seagulls who handle the strong winds with aplombSpace for Cameron Morgan is closed down as the second half resumesJordan Nikolovski takes on the Port defenceNikolovski weaves around his defenderMorgan goes after the ball shielded by Orlando TobarTobar slams Morgan to the groundAll eyes on the referee. White Eagles win a direct free kick.Mitch Di Pietro takes a shot-come-cross in the swirling windIt’s in the net. Port 1 White Eagles 0 at the 55′ mark.Port celebrate their good fortuneCoad holds the ball under pressureThe ball sticksWell saved as players go down like nine pinsThe game gets tetchyBeattie takes a tumble in the boxNo penalty awardedIt ends Port 1 White Eagles 0
Round 5 Tarrwanna Blueys v Bulli FC 1901
Bulli are away to Tarrawanna and will be seeking to stamp their authority on the table. The Blueys in contrast with many young players are out to re-establish their competitiveness. A cold blustery winter’s day where the icy westerly parts in all directions as it comes over the escarpment is the setting for the game. The strong wind will definitely be a factor. The ground is in reasonable condition after the recent rain albeit a little bumpy in places.
Dan Chapman of Tarrawanna BlueysRyan Emerton of Bulli FC 1901
Kick OFF
Kick offThe Blueys on the early attackBulli FC 1901 BenchKyle Kirkland challenges Bulli 1901 keeper Daniel FarinaNo goal. Direct goes to Bulli 1901.Luke Van ZylTarra pressurize TsujimuraSeiya Kambayashi launches a Bulli 1901 attack.Bulli launch another attack against Tarra through KambayashiLuke Van Zyl with a diving headOff the ground and in. Quality goal.Van Zyl celebratesBlueys 0 Bulli 1 17′Blueys immediately launch an attack from the restartBlueys lift a gear looking for an equalizerBlueys launch from the backIntense midfield battle for possessionKambayashi with quick feet and speed starts a Bulli 1910 counter offensiveVan Zyl drives over crossbarBen McDonald given no roomBlueys contest for the loose ballZac MazevskiEmerton holds off MazevskiBall is cleared off the line by Ian ClarinoBulli 1901 defence hold firm under intense pressureHalftimeSam DaviesBrave save by FarinaIn off Tomasiello1-1Blueys level the scoreThe Blueys celebrateArm wrestle between Bulli 1901 and the youthful Blueys attackTarrawanna Blueys 1 Bulli FC 1901 1
Tarrawanna Blueys 1 Bulli FC 1901 1
The Sunday match is between Corrimal Rangers and Albion Park White Eagles on another blustery day. Both talented teams are looking to stamp their credentials on the premiership race.
Cody WallerChris NathanielTim Wylie launches a Rangers attack down the left wingWaller twists and turns looking to create a scoring opportunity in the boxRick Goodchild drives across the keeper from close rangeRangers score after 1-0 after 9’Goodchild celebrates his goalWaller with quick feet turns Goodchild as the White Eagles immediately search for an equalizerPart of the crowd enjoying the gameZack TysonWhite Eagles gain increasing possession of the footballJacob Martin distributes the ball through the midfield with Rangers chasing shadowsGoodchild defends against MorganMorgan is brought down just outside the boxDirect free kick is awarded to White EaglesKaydin Harrison snatches the ball off the heads of the White Eagles attackers in the swirling south-westerly windMorlando and Pender chase down Morgan as he breaks through the defensive line on the right wingDean Pender stretches for the ball and concedes a cornerA close call for the RangersMorgan makes room for a shot on the edge of the penalty areaA Morgan lightning bolt into the left corner of the goal1-1HalftimeWhite Eagles immediately attack from kickoff. Kaydin Harrison parries a shot.White Eagles launch another attack on the Rangers goalIn a tight tussle Rangers are resolute in defenceRangers deal with the high ball in the swirling south-westerlyRangers build through Peter Kyriakoudes distributionRangers attack. Kyriakoudes works the right flankKohei Suzaki sets up a White Eagles offensiveWhite Eagles bench looks onRangers defence on alertRangers defence shuffled across the fieldWhite Eagles coaches concerned about the treatment dished out to Joel BeattieRick Goodchild chases down another White Eagle offensiveWhite Eagles close down RangersMitrouski denied space by Morlando and TeramotoWhite Eagles defence bemused by a refereeing decisionMorgan heads the ball down through a wall of Rangers defendersMorgan brace!Corrimal Rangers 1 Albion Park White Eagles 2Fans enjoying the gameMorlando with a powerful header makes it 2-2 (61′)All squareJake MorlandoCoad save keeps the score levelMorgan with a thumping drive scores a hat trickCorrimal Rangers 2 Albion Park White Eagles 3 (70′)Goodchild with a long range bazooka levels the score (72′)It ends in a drawCorrimal Rangers 3 Albion Park White Eagles 3
Round 6
Albion Park WHITE EagleS v Tarrawanna Blueys
The White Eagles must be disappointed with their form so far given their highly talented squad. Tarrawanna Blueys come off an excellent draw with Bulli FC and will be hoping to be in the finals series. It’s a beautiful day in Albion Park; sunny and no wind.
Cameron Morgan receives the ball inside the penalty areaWhite Eagles 1 Blueys 0 after 2′Morgan celebrates his goalTyson Black closes down Kohei Suzaki who acts as main conduit distributorWhite Eagles pressContested ballBattle for controlTussleBlueys launch an attackBeattie gets the ball away under pressureTarra chase the ballBlueys defend the Brendan Mitrouski surgeTarra chaseBlueys break out of defenceZac Mazevski is tightly markedJordan NikolovskiFans enjoying the gameFans enjoying the gameCody Wehmeyer shootsInto the top right hand cornerWhite Eagles 2 Tarrawanna Blueys 2 (26′)Around SuzakiMazevski puts the cross awayWhite Eagles 2 Tarrawanna Blueys 1Tyson Black celebrates with MazevskiThomasiello outflanks SuzakiJake Leighton makes a last-ditch tackleHalftime: White Eagles 2 Tarrawanna Blueys 1Halftime fly-overTomassiello makes it 2-2(49′)Nicolas TomasielloWhite Eagles 2 Blueys 3Mazevski celebrates his goal putting the Blueys into the lead3-3A Morgan brace4-3Suzaki 65′Beattie with an incisive run5-3Jacob Martin 80′Brady Page makes it 5-4Brady PageWhite Eagles 5 Blueys 4 (FT)
The Sunday game is between Wollongong Olympic and Woonona Sharks. The Sharks have a a solid midfield and are an improving side. Olympic in contrast have been inconsistent for a such talented side.
Wollongong Olympic v Woonona Sharks
Olympic seek to make the most of their height advantage with Habegawa spearheading the assault.Yu HabegawaDefensive header off the Habegawa flick-onLuke McCosker skips around Mark EveryJesse French drives the ball into the top right hand cornerOlympic 1 Sharks 0 18′Williams marks HabegwaTomohiro IshiiLuke McCosker heads across the keeper to make it Olympic 0 Sharks 2 after 41′Sharks go two upJeremy Lopez cuts out the Olympic pass down the wingHalftime: Wollongong Olympic 0 Woonona Sharks 2Halftime fly-overOlympic bring on Matt Floro who injects pace and dribbling power down the right wingOlympic struggle to contain Jesse FrenchJesse French is brought downThe tackler is the one who goes off injuredLopez drives the ball home. 0-3 (57′)Lopez give Woonona Sharks an unassailable 0-3 lead.Taro Regan Williams battles with Yu HabegawaJustin Pasfield makes a quality save to keep the score respectableWilliams contains the Hasegawa aerial threatLuke McCoskerJohn Martinovski with a characteristic long drive makes it 1-3It ends 1-3
Round 7
Albion Park White Eagles v Woonona Sharks
White Eagles will be expecting to climb the table. The Woonona Sharks are on a roll after trouncing Wollongong Olympic last weekend and are hoping to make the finals series.
Sharks discussing their tactical approach just before kick-offWhite Eagles captain Chris NathanielDefensive stalwart Brendan FordhamJai Mellor with an early challenge on Braden MitrovskiMitrovski launches a through ball down the right flankThe Sharks use the high ballNick Armand punches the ball clearBrendan Pattman belts the ball goalward from outside the penalty areaThe net bulgesPattman makes it 0-1 in the 45′Halftime Albion Park White Eagles 0 Woonona Sharks 1Welcome Swallow flyoverWoonona Sharks use Jesse French to head on the aerial ball in attackWoonona use Taro Regan Williams to launch another raid on the White EaglesWilliams does battle with MorganEvery ball is contested in the struggle for possessionSharks use high balls to disrupt White Eagles passing gameBeattie is given no time on the ballUncompromising White Eagles defenceWoonona directMcCoster with a driving headerNick Armand punches the ball outfieldIshii goes in for the ballIshii strikesThe goal is disallowedNo goal for IshiiNeither player pulled out of the challengeBeattie with an offensive dribbleFordham is onto the Beattie crossJair Fernandez anticipates well to collect the header and safety for the SharksWoonona counter offensiveShark attackBeattie is boxed inSharks cut out the ball to MorganCameron MorganBeattie crossesFernadez with sun in eyes comes for the crossIn the onion bag it goesWhite Eagles draw level through Aris SeitaridisAlbion Park White Eagles 1 (89′) Woonona Sharks 1 (45′)
The Bampton Cup 2020
Lucky escape for Bulli FC 1901Off the line by a whiskerTumble in the boxBen Brooks hits the deckRyan Emerton is shadowedWollongong United defence on high alertBen McDonald goes downMitsuo Yamada with pace and energyJack Harris launches a Bulli 1901 offensiveBen McDonald wins aerial battleLuke Vanzyl and Sean Thomas battle it outBulli FC tight on Mitsuo YamadaJordan Nickolovski dominates the penalty areaSean Thomas distributes the ballEmerton distributes the ballTight markingHalftime 0-0Takumu Tsujimura shootsBen McGinnes savesMcDonald thwartedNo penTakumu TsujimuraTumble in the boxYamada steps up to take the spot kickWell placed and paced penalty kickMcGinnes given no chanceUnited 1 Bulli 0 (Yamada 71′)Jeremy Flanagan makes it 2-0 (76′)United go two upBampton Cup 2020 goes to Wollongong United
Wollongong United 2 Bulli FC 1901 0
The teams met again mid-week in the IPL. Bulli FC were trounced 1-5. United open a four point gap at the top of the table.
ROUND 8
This is a must win game for Tarrawanna Blueys against Bellambi Rosellas who just last week had the opportunity to go top of the table but managed only one point from six. Bellambi now must be looking over their shoulders. For the Blueys only a win will do if they have any chance of making the final series.
A win is essential to keep finals series hopes aliveLiam Unicomb kicks off for Bellambi RosellasVaughn Paterson readies for the rivalry with Darren StoneDarryn StoneVaughn PatersonDaniel Chapman is a key Blueys defenderRosellas player Mitch TurnerZac Mazevski eyes the dropping the ballMazevski drives the dropping the ball between two defendersBryce Daenell is unable to parry the Mazevski volleyBlueys 1 Rosellas 0 (19′)The tempo risesChapman with a perfectly timed defensive tackleUnicomb slides in from behind avoids the yellowLooking for the passBlueys use the left wing to launch an attackDaenell intercepts the crossAdam Rodriquez bravely stops the Cody Cuthbertson breakawayClean saveBlueys belt the ball upfieldUncompromising battle for possessionStone turns Ryan HunterStone launches the ball into the penalty areaMazevski shoots across the keeper and misses by a whiskerBenjamin LearmonthCuthbertson shootsRodriguez saves and holds the ball tightMazevski is taken out in the boxChapman puts the ball on the dotBlueys 2 Rosellas 0 (37′)Rodriguez intercepts Rosellas crossHalftime at Tarrawanna Oval (2-0)Blueys defend their leadTyson Black almost makes it three, but the shot is blocked by Ryan HunterRosellas defence eventually clear the deflectionTarrawanna Blueys 2 Bellambi Rosellas 0
Corrimal rangers v woonona sharks
Corrimal Rangers are struggling and need to beat a youthful Woonona Sharks if they are to be in the finals series. The Sharks have built their strength on an organised interaction between the defence and midfield.
Corrimal Rangers v Woonona SharksTim Wylie facing into the Southerly with the Sharks defending early
Takao Teramoto strikes for Rangers after 2′ Rangers 1 Sharks 0 (2′) Cameron Besgrove shoots Pinpoint through a gaggle of Rangers defenders Besgrove makes it 1-1 after 4′ Rangers stop the counter Zack Tyson takes the Yellow for Rangers Rangers defence holds tight Robbie Gaudiosi shields the ball preparing the next Sharks attack Jeremy Lopez with an incisive pass under pressure from Teramoto Besgrove slips the ball past Tyson Kaydin Harrison saves The Thomas Burke weave Burke shoots The shot takes a touch Harrison forces the strike over the bar Besgrove makes space and smashes the ball Rangers 1 Sharks 2 (30′) Matthew Gallanti 1-2 Halftime Sharks defenders Jeremy Lopez, Taro Regan Williams, and Thomas Burke stay disciplined in defence Brendan Pattman Rangers with a looping header Ishii heads off the line Tyler Bromham Fuller battles with Jason Zufic Tomohiro Ishii It ends 1-2 consolidating the Sharks in a final series spot
Corrimal Rangers 1 Woonona 2
Round 9
The Chase for Finals spots is on in earnest
Wollongong United look destined for the Premiership if they win against a recently struggling Bellambi Rosellas. The Rosellas will struggle to make the finals series if they do not get at least a point.
Bellambi Rosellas v Wollongong UnitedBellambi Rosellas get ready to kick offLiam Unicomb ‘Unicorn’ makes an early challenge.The tackle is deemed illegalThe Rosellas on an early attackBellambi with a high tempo startThe Wollongong United close down the spaceRyan Hunter gets his head on the crossHunter puts it away 1-0 (3′)Bellambi Rosellas 1 Wollongong United 0 (3′)Seiji KawakamiWollongong United retain possessionMitsuo Yamada pace creates spaceYamada shootsSave deflects off uprightZac McClaren belts in the rebound1-1 (10′)Kawakami shields the ballRosella benchYamadaEnd to end aerial battleBen Brooks heads across the keeperSean Poulton deflects shotRosellas shadow YamadaUnicomb turnsUnicomb crossesNarrow escape for Wollongong UnitedHikaru wins the ballHikaru passes to McLarenMcLaren shootsBall rebounds off Daenell1-2 (34′)Keeping errorMcLaren brace (1-2)Halftime: Bellambi Rosellas 1 Wollongong United 2
Halftime flyover Mason Versi
1-3 (47′)Mason VersiFans enjoying the gameAndre Dias v Blake FriedrickVaughn Patterson steps up to take a penalty for handball late in the match2-3 (90+2′)Bellambi Rosellas 2 Wollongong United 3
The Sunday is between Port Kembla v Tarrawanna Blueys
This is an important encounter for the Blueys who need a win to keep alive the Finals Series. For Port Kembla, it is trying to avoid the Wooden Spoon because there is no relegation this year due to SARS-2 (Covid).
Brian Sumoto involved in an early Port attack Justin Mitrevski saves the Nicolas Tomasiello shot Port playing for pride Clash on the wing Blueys 2nd narrow miss Blueys use header Tomasiello flank dash Blueys control possession Tyson Black piledriver Tyson Black Port 0 Blueys 1 Blueys take the lead Port on high alert Blueys score a second Blueys celebrate Kyle Kirkland goal Blueys continue to press Port attack Adam Rodriquez smothers attack Masevski dragged back Halftime 0-2 Blueys go three up Port 0 Blueys 3 Omi Ochendu on a powerful Omi Ochendu puts it away (0-4) Blueys celebrate Uchendu goal Spectator enjoying the game Uchendu challenges for the ball Rodriguez timely challenge Blueys onslaught Ochendu shoots Ochendu brace Port 0 Blueys 5
Penultimate Round: Finals spots on the line
Cringila Lions have a new coach with an eye on next season and can leap-frog Corrimal Rangers on the table who must win if they are any chance of sneaking into a Finals Series position. A cold westerly gale blows across the field. 10 C but feels like 3 C.
CRINGILA LIONS v CORRIMAL RANGERS
Lions fire up with an eye on next season Part of the crowd looking on in 10 C with gale force winds feels like 3 C Rangers straight into attack against the Lions Dylan Perlowski and Nick High Lions win a direct Tobias Norval sets to take the strike Todd Sparks scores with a rocket Lions celebrate goal (45′) Halftime light show Lions 1 Rangers 0 Halftime Jackson Brooks at the centre of the defensive effort to hold the lead Jason Zufic with a last-minute effort to at least get a point Lions leap-frog Rangers. Cringila Lions 1 Corrimal Rangers 0
Woonona Sharks v Tarrawanna Blueys
Sharks harbour hopes of the Premiership while the Blueys need to continue winning in the close battle for the fifth spot. A gustily gale-force cold Southwesterly and an uneven pitch set the scene at Shark Park.
Woonona Sharks enter the fieldTyler Bromham Fuller launches a downwind Shark attackDarren Stone with a defensive headerThomas Burke marks MazevskiAdam Rodriguez makes a near-post saveFlick against the windUncompromising Blueys defence into the windBromham Fuller not allowing the turnBlueys direct givenIshii watches Tomasiello Jai Mellor turns the Blueys defenceThomas Burke defends Mazevski shotMazeveski shot skims the side nettingTomasiello on defensive dutyTomasiello turns through the shark lineFernandez savesIshii shot flies into Blueys netSharks take the lead through IshiiIshii shark celebrationFans celebrate with Ishii sharkBlueys fightback into the windShot flies up and over into the gale-force windSharks solid defenceMazevski shootsHalftime Woonona Sharks 1 Tarrwanna Blueys 0Blueys coaches get ready for resumptionPlayers make way onto field for resumptionSetting the stopwatchBlueys cut out Shark attackTomasiello dashes down the right wingTomasiello between the linesSharks defence holdsTomasiello stays forwardBlueys pile on the pressure
Blueys use the right flank with the wind Fernandez pushes swirling cross over the bar Mazevski brought down Sharks hold lead Tempers flare Blues bring on Omi Uchendu Shark defence scrambles Taro Regan Williams tries to stop the Darren Stone shot Just misses Score remains 1-0 Stone rues miss It ends 1-0 Woonona Sharks 1 Tarrawanna Blueys 0
The Ultimate Round before the finals series
Tarrawanna Blueys need a win to make the Finals Series. Wollongong Olympic need at least a draw to make the Finals Series. The Blueys are an improving side with talented young players and some old hands. Olympic have underperformed this year. Last season they were Premiers as well as losing Grand Finalists. If they make the Finals Series Olympic have the talent to go all the way.
Tarrawanna Blueys v Wollongong Olympic
Mat Naylor warming upYu HasegawaJames BaldacchinoOlympic attack using the high ball to HasegawaAdam Rodriguez covers the header as Matt Fluro challenges for the loose ballRodriguez sees the ball to a goal kickBlueys close down the spaceOlympic retain possession despite the Blueys pressEvery keeps a close eye on TomasielloNaylor heads clear after another Olympic aerial onslaughtMazevski puts in a strong tackleMazevski dribbles through Olympic defenceEvery pressure is enough to see the ball outTomasiello rounds the defence down the inside-left channelPasfield saves Tomasiello shotHori counter offensive down the left wingEvery chases down the Mazevski breakEvery brings down Mazevski in the boxPenalty awardedNaylor penalty makes it 1-0Blueys 1 Olympic 0HalftimeOlympic rely on the high ball to Hasegawa to set up attacking optionsJosh Hawker serves through the defence and shootsOlympic draw level 1-1 (49′)Josh Hawker equalizerOlympic in on goalNaylor challengeBlueys emerge with the ball- no penaltyReferee takes issue with comments from the Olympic benchOmi Ushendu missesBig call- Omi substitutedDarren Stone pushes forward and drives the ball into the boxTomasiello rounds the defence and crossesTyson Black sinks it near post 2-1 after 80′It ends 2-1Olympic exitBlueys go through to Finals Series
The IPL Finals Series 2020
League Champions 2020
The Sharks are League Champions. Preseason favourites faltered.
The Blueys take on the White Eagles in the Elimination Final on Sunday. Winner moves on. Loser is out.
Underway in Elimination Final Tarrawanna Blueys v Albion Park White Eagles Jakob Martin Chris Nathanial Dan Chapman Blueys defender Blueys fans check out Jordan Nikolovski Blueys break through Nicolas Tomasiello Chapman and Beattie watch the play evolve Nathaniel heads off the attack All tight in midfield Tomasiello puts pressure on the Beattie attacking dribble Chapman header turns defence into attack Fumoto Kamada skips down the flank Brody Page heads the Kamada cross into the net Blueys 1 White Eagles 0 (22′) Fans enjoying the action Morgan shoots Adam Rodriguez saves Martin clasps Page’s arm Fordham header narrowly misses Halftime Blueys 1 White Eagles 0 Halftime flyover Rodriguez saves as White Eagles pressure continues early into 2nd half Rodriguez with another fine save Fordham pushes forward Nathaniel heads the ball over Mat Naylor Rodriguez saves the Nathaniel header to the near post Beattie drives home the loose ball White Eagles draw level 1-1 (69′) White Eagles celebrate Beattie equalizer Kamada goes around Fordham Fordham wins the ball off Kamada Fordham dribbles out of defence Fordham rounds Stone Rodriguez punches the ball to safety Blueys defence holds firm under White Eagle onslaught Another fantastic Rodriguez save Brave save under pressure Full time 1-1. Extra time is to decide. Blueys kick off Extra Time Kamada’s pace causes White Eagles problems as Blueys go after a winner Turn around Extra Time 1-1 Shuhei Arai dribbles around White Eagles defence Full time in Extra Time. Penalty shootout to decide who makes the Semis. All penalties in. At 7-8 Learmonth shoots. Nicholas Armand saves White Eagles win on penalties 7-8 (1-1)
Elimination Semi Final: Bulli FC v Albion Park White Eagles
Bulli 1901 take on the White Eagles who won the Qualifying Semi Final after a strenuous extra time and penalties in 30C heat on Sunday. The winner of this game progresses to meet the loser of Woonona Sharks and Wollongong United in the Preliminary Final next week. The conditions are cool and damp, ideal for a fast and furious game.
Bulli 1901 get ready for the match on neutral territoryCody Wehmeyer drives the ball through the Bulli 1901 defenceBen McGinnes can only watch the powerful drive fly into the netBulli 1901 0 White Eagles 1 (5′)White Eagles in front after 5′Wehmeyer closes down Seiya KambayashiCody WehmeyerLuke Van Zyl sprints through the White Eagles defenceVan Zyl rounds the keeperNic Armand is left strandedZyl slots home the equalizerBulli 1901 1 White Eagles 1 (20′)Kyle Senior marks Ben McDonaldSenior curves the ball around the Bulli 1901 defenceThe ball flies past Luke FosterWhite Eagles go up 1-2 (43′)White Eagles celebrate the brilliant Senior curve volleyMcDonald uses the glancing header to launch a Bulli 1901 attackArmand saves on the stroke of halftimeHalftime fly-overWhite Eagles emerge for the 2nd HalfJoel Beattie vigorous defence brings down Takumu TsukjimuraChris Nathaniel halts the Dylan Lewis attackDylan Lewis is left sprawlingWhite Eagles counter down the left flankKambayashi shootsNarrow missWhite Eagles keep close tabs on KambayashiPressure mountsBrendan Fordham stops Kambayashi from launching an attackNo way through the determined White Eagles defenceBeattie with a powerful strikeBulli 1901 1 White Eagles 3 (80′)Beattie with a stunning goalWhite Eagles celebrate the high-quality Beattie strikeBulli 1901 immediately strike backJack Harris makes its 2-3 (81′)Fordham with a vital defensive header in added timeWhite Eagles are through and will face Woonona Sharks in the Preliminary Final next Sunday
The Elimination Final:
Woonona Sharks v Albion Park White Eagles
The Sharks lost late and narrowly last week to Wollongong United and now face the White Eagles who have been on an extended roll, in form, and scoring beautiful goals. The winner goes on to meet Wollongong United in the Grand Final next week.
Kick off in the Elimination Final Taro Regan Williams is closed down by Cameron Morgan Jair Fernandez makes a brave safe at the feet of Brendan Fordham There is early concern for Fernandez who takes a knock to the head Fernandez is up and readies for the corner All clear is given by the Sharks physio Tomohiro Ishii with a strong header Morgan is tightly marked and unable to get his head to ball Taro Regan Williams battles with Cameron Morgan Brendan Fordham launches another White Eagles raid on the Sharks Jacob Martin shoots Fernandez with a lightning save Tomohiro Ishii Joel Beattie uses his pace to attack the Sharks as the rain begins to set in Jordan Nikolovski breaks through the Sharks defence and shoots Fernandez makes another excellent save Robbie Gaudiosi bends the ball around the White Eagles defence Nick Armand tips the Gaudioso shot over the bar Midfield tightens in slippery conditions Robbie Gaudiosi Brendan Fordham Tactical battle Beattie with a mazy run attacking the Sharks goal Beattie drives the ball into the Sharks box Cameron Besgrove chases down Beattie Williams with an important clearance off a Martin header bound for goal Jesse French is tightly marked as the rain tumbles down in torrents Nick Armand with a safe pair of hands in wet slippery conditions Halftime flyover (0-0) Sharks still can do the double Lopez defends the White Eagles cross into the penalty area No way through the Sharks in the air White Eagles attacks not paying dividends Beattie ponders the White Eagles nears misses Sharks strike at goal Armand does enough to push the ball wide White Eagles use Morgan as an outlet down the right flank Sharks launch another attack Beattie on the offensive Fernandez makes another great save Morgan header narrowly misses with Anand stranded Full time is rapidly approaching Fernandez commands Sharks goal area in slippery conditions White Eagles mistake at the back allows French to bounce French with a pinpoint laser drive Sharks go in front in the 89′ Sharks 1 White Eagles 0 (89′) White Eagles console Martin Sharks lead deep into added time Woonona Sharks 1 White Eagles 0 in an exciting end to end encounter
ILLAWARRA PREMIER LEAGUE GRAND FINAL 2020
Can the Sharks do the Double?
The question is can Woonona Sharks do the double: Premiers and Grand Final Champions? This would be a first for the club since 1889.
Sharks with an early shot punched over the bar by Jordan Nickolovski
Zac McLaren wins the ball in a frantic opening to the Grand Final McLaren unhappy with the award of a foul Eyes on the ball Ben Brooks distributes the ball Jair Fernandez covers the nearpost as Mason Versi puts the ball into the danger zone Jair Fernandez covers the near post as Mason Versi crosses the ball into the goal area The Fernandez deflection is enough to avoid the incoming Jeremey Flanagan Zac McClaren Fans enjoying the game Fernandez makes another excellent save Seiji Kawakami Foul on the edge of the penalty area Fernandez organizes the wall Hikaru Kawasakiya takes the direct Kawasakiya bends the ball around the wall Kawasakiya puts Wollongong United into the lead (45′) Wollongong United 1 Woonona Sharks 0 United celebrate goal Halftime fly-over Fernandez with a quality save immediately after resumption of play At the other end Nikolovski commands his area Versi brings down Tomohiro Ishii Foul is awarded Sharks fans unhappy with United’s treatment of Ishii Fernandez parries Flanagan shot of the counter Cameron Besgrove cleans up after the deflection McLaren with a handful of shirt Flanagan shoots Fernandez saves Another fine Fernandez save United contest a refereeing decision Solid United defence keeps the Sharks at bay Looking for a long ball overhead as time is running out for the Sharks Mitsuo Yamada Mason Versi Nikolovski is first to the ball Mitsuo Yamada stops Cameron Besgriove and the full time whistle draws near Besgrove protects the ball after being dragged down Fans enjoying the Grand Final United win the Grand Final 1-0 Wollongong United are the IPL Grand Final winners
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