The Grand Final is on a rainy day at WIN Stadium. The pitch is in good condition. No soccer player features at the entrance despite a host of successful players from the Illawarra who have featured on the international stage in the world’s largest sporting competition– only rugby league (another story).
Western Grandstand is packed out.
Play is about to begin. Jake True in an early struggle for possession with James Stojanovski. Jacob Madden Penalty award. Dinko Terzic readies for the penalty take. Justin Pasfield saves. The score remains 0-0.
Tynan Diaz steps up to take a corner down the other end. Price heads the ball under pressure from Terzic Chris Price scores off the corner with a powerful pinpoint header.
Bailey Barbarovski slides in to win the ball off David Hartas. Bailey Barbarovski
Danny Lazarevski sets up the United corner defence. David Hartas
Right flank break-away. Cross rockets across the face of the goal. Bailey Barbarovski intercepts the cross and the ball flies into the net. OG. Olympic 2 United 0 (26′). Olympic fans celebrate goal. Helensburgh fans who are going up next year enjoying the Grand Final.
Klime Sekutkoski receives the ball inside the penalty area. Sekutkoski is first to the ball. Sekutkoski zips between the two defenders. Sekutkoski fires a nutmeg through the defensive block by Hartas. Goal. United peg one back. Olympic 2 United 1 (44′). Game on!
Halftime flyover.
United are one goal down at the break. Second half about to start. The battle for control of the ball renews. Fans take their seats.
Tackles go in.
United on the attack. Mason Versi passes to Sekutkoski. United shoot. The ball skims the upright. The score remains 2-1.
Rick Goodchild’s shot is blocked. Looking for the rebound. The ball bounces United’s way. Rick Goodchild United defend Tynan Diaz direct. End-to-end.
Score remains 2-1 as full time approaches. United in search of the equalizer. Tempers flare. Goodchild on defensive duty. Time ticks on. Olympic fans anticipating victory. Fans entranced by the tight struggle. Olympic break. With a few minutes left the shot kisses the goal face. Score remains Olympic 2 United 1. Olympic fans wait for the whistle. United with a last ditch shot on goal. Saved! Full time: Olympic 2 United 1 Olympic are Illawarra Premier League Grand Final Champions.
The winner goes into Grand Final against Olympic on Sunday. United have the home ground advantage. It’s a sunny day with a coolish breeze on a heavy pitch.
The teams enter the field.The Lions attacks down the right flank through Michael Mendes.
Peter Simonoski Seiji Kawakami
Anthony Krsteski is closely watched by United.Ben Zucco breaks through the lines down the left flank.Sean Thomas halts Zucco’s progress with a body check.Kawakami shields the ball under pressure from a pressing Lions.
The struggle for possession. Danny Lazarevski
Cautious approach by United as they build from the back. Bailey Barbarovski Uncompromising United defence Klime Sekutkoski finds space to fire on goal.
The Sekutkoski ball zips into the bottom right-hand corner.Wollongong United 1 Cringila Lions 0 (36′)United shoots.Nikola Ristevski pushes the ball over the bar.The battle for possession tightens.
Halftime: United 1 Lions 0 Halftime flyover.
The players are out for the Second Half. The ball is headed down to James Stojanovski.
Stojanovski volleys the ball.Ristevski saves.
Lions clear the loose ball. The score remains 1-0. Intense concentration. Simonoski volleys.
The volley skims the crossbar.
Anthony Krsteski United defend the counter-attack.
Stojanovski stops the Lions surge.Krstevski is brought down.Andre Dias blots down the left flank and shoots.
Jacob Madden makes near-post save. Krstevski shot serves and deceives the keeper.
Krstevski equalizes.
United 1 Lions 1 (77′). Thomas Darjani drives the ball far post.
Jeremy Flanagan gets to the ball and slots it home.
United 2 Lions 1 (78′). Madden saves a rocket.
United use the corner to run down time.United are through to the Grand Final next Sunday against Olympic.
Bulli 1901 FC v Cringila Lions
The Elimination Final is between Bulli 1901 FC and Cringila Lions. The winner will play Wollongong United next week for a place in the Grand Final against the in-form and clinical Wollongong Olympic.
Supporters enjoying a cool spring afternoon.Review of Elinination Final Early penalty awarded to Bulli FC 1901.
Lions players reaction to the penalty.Nikola Ristevski saves the penalty.
Lions fans applaud the Ristevki penalty save. Bulli FC 1901 surge forward through Ryan Emerton. Javis Paterson is narrowly unable to get to the cross. Deakin Brownlee
Under pressure, Seiya Miyamoto punches clear. Bulli FC 1901 on the break.
Lions halt the break. Kyle Jackson launches the ball forward. Andre Dias Michael Mendes Anthony Krsteski is around the keeper.
Last ditch tackle by Ian Clarino.
Score remains 0-0. Miyamoto saves under pressure. Bulli FC 1901 under pressure. Ben Zucco calls for calm. Peter Simonoski pounces and slots the ball away.
Lions 1 Bulli 1901 0 (27′). Lions dominate the attacking play. Lions coach looks on.
An action filled first half comes to an end. Halftime fly-over.
Second half is underway. Zucco launches a Lions attack. Bulli FC 1901 keep a close eye on Zucco.
Lions make tactical changes in the second half seeking onto hold their 0-1 lead.Simonoski lays off the ball for a shot.Lions shot zips just over the crossbar.Bulli FC 1901 coaches concerned with state of play.
Miyamoto watches the ball swerve at the near post. Miyamoto pushes the ball over the crossbar.
Bulli FC 1901 bring on their gun striker, Ben McDonald.Lions contain Bulli FC 1901 and play on the counter.McDonald’s header scrapes the upright.Dimoski shot on the counter is saved by Miyamoto.
Krsteski drives the ball into the goal area. Steven Ugrinovski makes it 0-2. Lions lead 0-2 (76′).
Dimoski makes it 0-3 (85′). Lions celebrate Dimoski’s goal.
Simonoski brace makes it 0-4(90+5′). FT: Bulli FC 1901 0 Cringila Lions 4
Review of Elinination Final
Bulli 1901 FC v Cringila Lions
Can the Lions hot streak continue?
Anthony Krsteski
Or will Bulli 1901 FC prove one step too far?
The loser is out. The winner continues the journey through the Finals Series?
Elimination Final: Coniston FC v CRINGILA LIONS
The game was moved to Monday to allow the field to drain. It is a beautiful spring day and a heavy pitch. Given past meetings between the sides this season one expects another close encounter.
The teams enter the field for the sudden death elimination semi-final.
Lions need to defend an early high ball into their final third. Lions defence holds firm against the high ball.
Ben Zucco sends a pin-point ball forward. Anthony Krsteski heads the ball over the keeper. Goal! Coniston FC 0 Lions 1 (4′). Krsteski scores the opening goal after only 4′. Anthony Krsteski Tactical adjustments.
Van Elia passes the ball into the penalty area. Nikolu Ristevski saves the offensive ball back from the goal line.
Takatuki KayanoConiston tighten up on Krsteski.Zucco drives the ball forward.
Ristevski punches clear under pressure. The score remains 0-1. Lions looking to flick the ball onto Krsteski. Ben Zucco
Stefan Dimoski narrowly misses through a wall of players. The Coniston high ball over the top is well defended. Krsteski is brought down in the box right in front of the referee. Penalty! Kaydin Harrison saves the penalty. The score remains 0-1. Harrison distributes the ball from the back.
Tobias Norval drives a shot from the edge of the penalty area. Goal! 1-1 (30′). Tobias Noval celebrates the equalizer. The Elia and Zucco duel.
Krsteski dribbles into a central position. Krsteski fires through the gap. The Krsteski ball swerves and dips leaving the goalkeeper stranded. Goal! 1-2 (33′). Krsteski Brace.
Samuel Matthews shoots as the Lions defence scrambles. Ristevski tips the Matthews drive over the crossbar.
The flick-on.
Michael Mendes shoots. Harrison pushes the Mendes shot over the crossbar. Lions’ technical area. Lions attack down the right flank. Peter Simonoski fires the cross into the net. 1-3 (43′).
Peter Simonoski makes it 1-3.
Halftime: Coniston 1 Cringila Lions 3. Halftime flyover. Part of the crowd on the other side enjoying the game. Lions are first out for the 2nd Half. They are leading 1-3. Coniston FC revved-up for the 2nd Half who need to score two. Dimoski
Andre Dias goes for the ball as Ekove D’aleida charges down the right wing. Dias tackles for control of the ball. Jake Morlando looks to build the attack. Coniston are with the possession.
Coniston go tight on Simonoski. Coniston are wary of the counter-attack. Lions counter. Dimoski uses the right flank. Coniston defence holds off the counter. Zufic emerges with the ball. Lukas Stergiou stops Krsteski counter. Krsteski counters down the left flank.
Defensive header. Ball to safety.
Penalty! Referee is unmoved by protestations. Elia buries the penalty. Coniston FC 2 Cringila Lions 3 (67′) Lions bring on Stiven Sitnikoski. Full time. Cringila Lions are through to the elimination final. Coniston FC 2 Cringila Lions 3
Preview
Due to both games being on Sunday and I am unable to be there, here is a quick preview.
The key game is the Coniston FC v Cringila Lions elimination semi-final. There has been rain all week leading up the game. Their most recent encounter was a tightly fought 2-2 draw.
In their previous previous meeting the score ended 2-2.Evenly matched.
No Round this week
Hiatus. In the meantime, the UCI World Championships are on in Wollongong.
Cringila Lions are one point away from making the Finals Series- it is the last round of the regular season. They face Wollongong United who are at home and will show off their Premiership Cup to their fans.
Wollongong United v Cringila LionsThe game is about to begin.
The Lions need at least a draw to make the Finals Series. Mid-air collision. Neither side is giving an inch. Anthony Krsteski and Benjamin Brooks United use the direct header to launch an attack. Kyah Jovanovski is surrounded by Lions defenders.
Jovanovski strikes at goal.Jovanovski is down in the box. No penalty.United with the direct header into the box.Mason Versi weaves his way into the Lions box.Versi go through the defenders.Versi shoots through the closing defenders.
The Versi shot goes just over the bar. Ryan Akhurst
Concentration. Game remains 0-0 after 20′.
Lions build the pressure to get the lion’s share of possession. United counter-attack. United defend the Lions’ ball over the top. Steven Ugrinovski United on the attack. Lions fall back into shape.
Lions defence wins the ball.Seiji Kawakami closes down Anthony Krsteski.KawakamiKrsteski shoots through two United defenders.
Jacob Madden pushed the Krsteski shot around the upright. Lions score. Offside. Ryan Akhurst on the ball.
Akhurst drives the ball into the penalty area.Concern in the United technical area.Lions’ win the penalty. Penalty converted.
United 0 Lions 1 (39′). Jovanovski is between the lines.
Jovanovski shoots.
Nikola Ristevski saves. Halftime: United 0 Lions 1 (Mendes, 39′). Second half is underway.
United are immediately on the attack looking for an equalizer. Mendes strikes at the United goal.
Mendes fires into the goal area.The ball flashes across the goal area.
Lions defend the flick-on. Keegan Matias strikes from 25 metres. Madden saves.
Andre Dias The temperature rises.
Ben Zucco is brought on to bolster the defence.Zucco lines up a direct.
Ryan Akhurst brings down Versi from behind. United appeal for a Yellow. 2nd Yellow. Red!
Tarrawanna Blueys play Cringila Lions for 5th spot and a Finals Series berth. The Lions have games in hand on the Blueys and a win today would put them in the box seat for the Final Series. The weather is warming, spring showers interspersed with bouts of sunshine.
Blueys defend a Lions cross into their box.Lions tightly mark attacking midfielder Takumi Ofuka.Michael MendesBlueys spread the ball wide to Harry Llyod.Ofuka shoots. Ristevski saves.
Shot. Nikola Ristevski saves shot.
Ryan Akhurst sets up a counter-attack. Anthony Krsteski
Krsteski leaps to redirect an attacking lob.
Lloyd on the outside right of the penalty box eyes-up a shot. Lloyd shoots. The Llyod shot flashes past the right upright.
It spring showers down.
Krsteski shoots. Adam Rodriguez saves. Rodriguez safe hands.
Lions defence presses high.Keegan Matias dashes up the right flank into the rain shower.Halftime: Blueys 0 Lions 0.Halftime flyover.Players make their way out for the 2nd half.Nicholas HighBlueys are immediately on the attack from the whistle.James RalstonNo penalty.Altercation.
Lloyd with space down the right lines one up. Ristevski tips the Lloyd drive over the crossbar. Score remains even.
Blueys break down the right.
Kyle Kirkland is taken out. Calls for Red are turned down.
Ofuka leads Blueys’ attack down the right flank. Ofuka step-over and direction change. Ofuka is away down the left flank. Ralston shields Ristevski who intercepts the Ofuka cross into the goal area.
Lions break down the right wing. The cross from the right wing into the penalty area. Peter Simonoski puts it away! Lions take the lead in the 75th minute. Blueys 0 Lions 1 (75′).
The battle for possession intensifies.Andre Dias in a battle royale with Lloyd.
Mendes passes to Krsteski. Krsteski punts the ball back across the goal area. Goal! Lions lead 0-2 in the 85th minute. Krsteski makes it 0-2.
Cringila Lions v Coniston FC is about to get underway.
The race for the Finals Series is on in earnest. Cringila Lions need a win, if they are to be an outside chance of making the Finals Series. Coniston FC still have ambitions for the Premiership and/or Grand Final Winner. There is a late blast of winter. It is a cool and wet night for the match.
Both sides looking are looking for a win. Stefan Dimoski Jake Morlando Coniston FC defends the early corner. Keegan Matias breaks from defence. Lions keep a close eye on Van Elia. Jason Zufic is brought down by the Michael Mendes challenge. Lions attack down the right wing. Lions pressure Elia. Samuel Matthews Lions blast Coniston goal. Shot curls around Takayuki Kayano. Kaydin Harrison saves. Coniston are immediately on the counter. Nikola Ristevski punches the ball clear. Harrison is wrong-footed. Goal! Lions 1 Coniston FC 0 (45′ +12′). Anthony Krsteski put Lions ahead on the stroke of Halftime. Second Half is about to start. The rain intensity increases. Elia narrowly misses. Samuel Matthews shoots. Coniston equalize! 1-1 (52′). Matthews celebrates equalizer. Gian Sacco pounces on the ball inside the area and belts the ball into the net. Lions 1 Coniston 2 (69′). Coniston celebrate taking the lead. Sacco goal! Tobias Norval fires a volley. Ristevski makes a fingertip save. Rain intensity picks up. Lions defence closes in on Elia. Anthony Krsteski tussles with Kayano in the box. Penalty awarded to the Lions. Mendes scores from the spot! Lions 2 Coniston FC 2 (80′). Full Time: Lions 2 Coniston FC 2.
Wollongong Olympic play Wollongong United in a top of the table clash. Olympic need to win to make up points on United and put in an end of season challenge for the Premiership. The rain continues to flow.
The teams make their way out. A soggy technical area. David Hartas Joshua Correia Two down in a tackle. Early signs of antagonism. Into the mud bath. Justin Pasfield punches the ball clear. Rick Goodchild steps up for the direct about 25m out. Jacob Madden pushes the ball over the bar. Halftime: Olympic 0 United 0 Halftime flyover.
Second half is under way. Olympic defence close down Mitsuo Yamada. Yamada goes down under close attention. Jake Trew puts the ball into the net. Olympic cheer. United appeal. Olympic 1 United 0 (52′). Olympic celebrate Trew goal. Shelter from the rain. High intensity pressing. Players are down in the box. Penalty appeals are turned down. The score remains 1-0. Well-timed defensive lunge for the ball. Joshua Alcorn Jacob Madden is up for the corner with minutes to go. Full time. Olympic 1 United 0.
Nervous moments arrive for the Blueys who come off a win over Wollongong United. Consistency remains an issue. They play Bulli FC 1901 who are still in the race for a Premiership and a win today will in all likely cement their spot in the top five- a Finals Series spot. The Blueys sit precarious in 5th spot on the table. A wettish spring day and if the rain holds off ideal conditions for a local rivalry.
Nervous moments for the Blueys who need to win.Ben McDonald readies for kick-off.Harry Lloyd wing flier.
Tomohiro Ishii drives down the right. Bulli FC 1901 are quick off the block. Adam Rodriguez gathers the ball under pressure from Jarvis Paterson. Rodriguez saves. Paterson with his eye on the dropping ball. Paterson volleys the dropping ball. Goal! Paterson volley is smashed into the back of the net. Blueys 0 Bulli FC 1901 1.
Julian ClarinoClarino slide wins the ball off Takumi Ofuka.
McDonald holds the ball under Ofuka pressure. McDonald with a hold and drag.
Jarvis Paterson
Seiya Miyamoto saves the Llyod chip. Miyamoto reflex save. Blueys 0 Bulli FC 1901 1.
Paterson on cover defence duty. Paterson halts Lloyd’s progress.
Vigorous challenges across the park. Toby Drain is unable to get the cross in.
Blueys on the attack down the left. Halftime: Blueys 0 Bulli FC 1901 1.
Halftime flyover. Halftime flyover.
Second half is underway.Clarino heads clear the over-the-top ball.Bulli FC 1901close down the Blueys inside right flank attack.
Bulli FC 1901 use the inside right to attack. Penalty is awarded then saved. The Rodriguez rebound is buried. The decision is no goal due to encroachment.
Blueys start the attack down the right from deep. Nick High receives in space. High slots the ball past Miyamoto. Goal! Blueys draw level. Blueys 1 Bulli FC 1901 1 51′. High celebrates goal.
Paterson with a flying header. Goal! Bulli FC 1901 lead. Blueys 1 Bulli FC 1901 2 (Paterson 63′).
Bulli FC 1901 have a third. OG Dan Chapman 65′.
Paterson gets on the end of a McDonald’s header. Paterson hattrick. Blueys 1 Bulli FC 1901 3 ( 84′) Bulli FC 1901 are on fire.
Jarvis Paterson
Samuel Adnum makes it 1-5. Full time: Tarrawanna Blueys 1 Bulli FC 1901 5.
Corrimal Rangers v Woonona Sharks
The relegation battle is reaching its finale. A win for the Sharks over Corrimal Rangers will guarantee survival due to Bellambi FC losing to South Coast United. A beautiful spring day for football with the pressure on the Sharks to find a win.
The Sharks are immediately on the attack. Richard Lee rounds his defender.Lee shoots.Takumi Tomizawa punches the Lee shot clear.Jesse French shoots. Sharks pepper the Rangers goal.Tomizawa with lightning reflexes pushes the French strike around the post.Tomaizawa punches clear as the Sharks continue their all out attacking approach.Central defender Mauro Leon.Tomizawa saves another.Sharks’ technical area watch on as save after save denies the Sharks the lead.Elias AyoubLuke Toohey rocket in the top right hand corner gives Tomizawa no chance.Corrimal Rangers 0 Woonona Sharks 1 (38′).Safe hands by Brandon Groom keeps the score 0-1.Halftime: Rangers 0 Sharks 1.Goal scorer Luke Toohey.Rangers overload the right flank to break down the Sharks defence.With the clock winding down, Tomizawa steps up to take the direct.Tomizawa slams the ball onto the crossbar. Broom can only look on.Thomas Richmond beats Tomizawa to the ball and shoots towards the empty net.Empty net.Goal! Rangers 0 Sharks 2 (88′).Survival guaranteed.Goal score Thomas Richmond.Full time: Rangers 0 Sharks 2.
Relegation battles feature this round. It is still not clear who will go down. The Woonona Sharks FC take on Bellambi Rosellas FC in a long-standing local rivalry in the northern suburbs of the Illawarra. A Sharks win will all but guarantee survival and the drop for the Rosellas. It is a cool cloudy day with a light WSW – ideal conditions for football.
The relegation joust is about to begin. Teams take to the field. Nicholas Valjak crosses into the box. Rosellas use the right wing to get behind the Sharks defence. Sharks keeper Brandon Groom intercepts the cross from Valjak. Adam Casey expresses his concern about the Rosellas penetration. Sharks are first to the ball with a defensive header. Max Ashton takes on Daniel Koliopoulos down the right wing.
Ashton at pace pivots inside.Ashton turns KoliopoulosAshton reverse weaves around Koliopoulos.
Ashton gets his cross in around the Koliopoulos pressure. Rosellas Reo Hirose Nicholas Valjak shields the ball. The pressure builds. Tight marking and rapid closing down by Luke Boersma. Steven Hristovski Chris Gomez gets behind the Sharks defence and at speed shoots under pressure.
Groom with quick reflexes makes a big save.
Groom keeps the Gomez shot out. 0-0. Sharks Jordyn Della Vedova
Casey shoots under pressure from Rosellas keeper Nathin Cupitt.Casey is on target.Sharks strike first.
Sharks 1 Rosellas 0 (33′). Robbie Gaudiosi distributes the ball to launch Shark attack. Halftime: Sharks 1 Rosellas 0. Rosellas fire the ball across the penalty area.
Hirose gets to the cross.Rosellas are level!Sharks 1 Rosellas 1 (61′).
Survival probability has just increased. A tight battle. It ends Sharks 1 Rosellas 1.
The struggle to avoid relegation moves to the wire.
Coniston FC play Port Kembla FC at home. Coniston have been hitting form and contesting for Finals Series spot. For Port they need a win if they are to have any chance of making the final five. The weather is perfect and the ground looks in good condition.
Coniston FC v Port Kembla FC
Van Elia Coninston are immediately on the attack. Port Defence are tight on Ekoue D’almeida.
Jordan Nikolovski shoots. Saved! Tipped over the bar.
Nikolovski on another raid down the right.
Coniston clear the ball from a corner. Matthew Floro scores off the quick counter-attack. Coniston FC 1 Port Kembla FC 0 (21′).
Harrison Anagnostopoulos
Oliver Carrasco with a looping back-header. The Carrasco header drops into the net. Coniston FC 1 Port Kembla FC 1 (28′). Halftime: Coniston FC 1 Port Kembla FC 1. Halftime fly-over. Port lob the ball down the right flank to set up an attack.
Elia finds a little space in the penalty area. Elia shoots under pressure as Port close down the space. The Elia shot rebounds off the crossbar.
Samuel Matthews at pace prepares to volley. Matthews adjusts and guides the ball behind the keeper. Port are unable to keep the ball from going into the goals. Coniston goal! Coniston FC 2 Port Kembla FC 1 (67′).
An exciting close contest ends 2-1.
Relegation looms large for both South Coast United and Woonona FC Sharks. A win could bring daylight into focus from the relegation abyss. Both need wins. The season moves on and into its latter stages. Its a cool but mercifully dry night for this clash.
South Coast United and Woonona Sharks are in a relegation struggle. Max Ashton Jason Bleakley saves the Adam Casey shot. Daniel Lucas
Bailey Morphett dribbles down the inside right channel. Morphett pivots and distributes the ball centrally.
Bailey MorphettKieren BrodnikJames VolkanovskiBleakley stops the shot across the keeper.Adam FarkasEnd-to-end action. Both teams are looking for the win.Halftime: 0-0
Bleakley makes another reflex save. Gaudiosi is unable to reach the rebound. One of those days for the Sharks?
United and Sharks in a relegation battle.Jesse French defensive header.
Brendan Pattman shoots from distance. Header stops shot.
Bleakley saves.United defence holds firm.
Bleakley reflex save. Bleakley collects the loose ball.
United clear cross.United defence holds.
Sharks press high. Sharks win the ball. United appeal for a foul.
Adrian Vranic strikes a jumping volley. Jumping Vranic volley is across the keeper at pace. Marco Pennisi arrives near post and drives the ball into the net. Sharks appeal for offside. United 1 Sharks 0 (74′) No offside. United celebrate Pennisi goal. United are in front with less than 15 minutes to go.
Samuel Lendrum shoots. Sharks are into all-out attack mode. The Bleakley deflection causes the ball to flash past the upright. Only a couple of minutes is left for the Sharks to equalize.
Sub Thomas Richmond blasts the ball into the net.
90th minute equalizer. Full time: South Coast United 1 Woonona FC Sharks 1
The Blueys are at home to Coniston FC with both teams vying for a Finals Series berth. The Blueys are off a loss, and another will see them drop into the melee. Cono are wanting that Top 5 spot. This should be another interesting encounter.
Tarrawanna Blueys take on Coniston FCDarren Stone and Jason Zufic battleAdam Rodriguez makes the first save of the match.Samuel Matthews
Zufic drives a cross into the Blueys penalty area. Van Elia scores! Blueys 0 Coniston FC 1 (7′). Coniston celebrate Elia goal with the three-point penetration, Zufic-Matthews-Elia.
Mat Naylor
Mazevski is down in the box. Penalty. Jacob Gjorsevski steps up to the spot. Top right-hand corner. Blueys 1 Coniston FC 1 (15′)
Zufic closes down Takumi Ofuka.Mat Naylor marks Van EliaThere is a tight struggle in midfield.Mitch YoungTakayuki Kayano passes forward from the back.
Zufic zips about the midfield. Tight half ends 1-1.
Halftime flyover.Second half is underway.Naylor heads the ball forward.Lukas Stergiou and Kyle KirklandTyson Black
Daniel Loe sprints to the ball. Loe gets his cross in under pressure from Stone. The Loe ball crosses Rodriquez. Matthew strikes the Loe at pace cross. Goal! Coniston take the lead. 1-2 (55′). Coniston celebrate the Matthews goal. Daniel Loe
Zufic and Gjorsevski in a struggle for the ball. Zufic clears the danger.
Coniston are on the attack. Elia crosses. The Elia pass reaches Tyson Black. The strike rebounds off the upright. Loe volleys the rebound to make it 1-3 (66′). Blueys 1 Coniston FC 3
Adam Voloder drives the ball into the Six. Matthew Floro drives the ball home! 1-4 (75′). Blueys 1 Coniston FC 4
Harry Lloyd shoots. Kayano stops the Llyod shot.
The ball flashes past the Coniston upright.Full time: Tarrawanna Blueys 1 Coniston FC 4
The Blueys take on the Cringila Lions. The Blueys need to win to remain on top of the ladder. The Lions come off a heavy loss to Olympic and must win if they are to keep faint hopes alive of making the Finals. The ground is slippery and bumpy.
Player warming up.The coin toss.A heavily strapped Ben Zucco immediately acts as the Lions distributor.James CarliNicolas Tomasiello in space launches a Blueys attack.Zac Mazevski holds the ball up on the edge of the Lions penalty area.Crossbar to the rescue for the Blueys.Darren StonePeter Simonoski evades the Mitch Young block.Jacob Gjorsevski battles with Anthony Krsteski in a fast and furious game.Andre Dias shoots from well outside the box.The ball rockets across the keeper.Takumi Ofuka on the ball.Blueys set up an attack through midfield.Tomasiello navigates the soft, slippery conditions.Peter Simonoski shoots from the edge of the box.The ball flashes between the keeper and the upright.Blueys 0 Lions 1 (27′).End-to-end counter offensives.James RalstonNikolu Ristevski punches clear.Carli marks StoneCarli blocks the turn.Halftime: Blueys 0 Lions 1Halftime flyover.A Keegan Matias missile.Blueys 0 Lions 2 (46′).Matias goals.Mazevski cannonball.Blueys 1 Lions 2 (66′).Blueys are wanting to quickly get back into action.Mazevski and Zucco battle it out.Michael Mendes makes it 1-3.Michael MendesBlueys 1 Lions 3 (90+1′)
Woonona Sharks are at home to Albion Park White Eagles on a glorious sunny day -finally. The Sharks are firmly entrenched in the relegation zone, whilst the White Eagles are hoping to challenge for the Premier’s title.
Cameron Morgan kicks off the game for White Eagles. Sharks are immediately on the attack. Blake Horton saves the strike across the goalkeeper. Brendan Fordham launches another White Eagles attack. Jacob Martin Brendan Pattman marks Kotaro Katsuta. Seamus Macken-Walsh gets his pass in. White Eagles cut off the ball to Richard Lee. Kohei Suzaki Robbie Gaudiosi shoots under pressure from Mitchell Cooper.
Gaudiosi stays on his feet.
Horton saves. Thomas Richmond Groom plucks the cross out of the air.
Groom holds onto and protects the ball. Suzaki with the ball in the box.
Suzaki appeals for a penalty.
Penalty is awarded. Morgan converts the penalty.
Sharks 0 White Eagles 1 (Morgan 43’Pen) Lee in the box.
Suzaki holds off Lee.
Penalty appeal is turned down. Halftime: Sharks 0 White Eagles 1
PloverKatsuta shoots.
Groom with a fingertip save. Intense struggle to win the ball.
Morgan is free in the box and shoots. Morgan with a brace. Sharks 0 White Eagles 2 (67′).
Pattman and Fordham challenge for the loose ball.Full Time: Sharks 0 White Eagles 2
Inclement weather during the week means only one game is on this weekend. Port Kembla are at home to Wollongong United. United have played very few games, are favourites for the Premiership but have to prove this on the pitch. Port need points if they are to be part of the Finals Series. A question United have to answer is whether they are sharp after so few games. They need this competitive game because they play an Australia Cup match midweek.
Port Kembla FC v Wollongong United
Port make their way onto the field. Rocky Lavalle puts early pressure on United.
James Stojanovski stops the midfield run from Lavalle. Tempers flare. Like two kangaroos having a go at each other. Sean Thomas
Jordan NikolovskiKyan JovanovskiLucas Danzo
Nikolovski is quickly onto the cross into the box. Jacob Madden saves.
Port feel decisions are not going their way.Mitsuo Yamada
The ball rebounds to Baily Barbarovski. Barbarovski shoots. Goal! Port 0 United 1 (21′). Port Kembla 0 Wollongong United 1 United celebrate Barbarovski goal. Port squeeze the United space.
Tempers rekindled. Jacob Madden
Port launch an attack down the right wing. Lavalle distributes the ball down the right to Nikolovski. Nikolovski blasts the ball into the goal! Port 1 United 1 (27′). Bryce Daenell saves as both sides go tit-for-tat. United lift the physical intensity.
Direct is awarded to Port for the challenge.
Madden saves. Barbarovski slides in on Nikolovski wing run. Halftime: Port 1 United 1. Halftime Flyover.
Port kick-off second half.Mitch Di Pietro
Carasco uses his strength to hold off Kawakami. Carasco distributes the ball forward under pressure for United.
United attack. Yamada creates space using pace. Port avoid the slide.
Jeremy Flanagan Yamada drives into the box. Yamada turns Port defence. Yamada does the 180. Yamada is unable to get the shot away. The Port defence holds solid.
Oli Carasco shoots on the break. Madden uses strong hands to save Carasco shot.
Seiji Kawakami acts as United distributor.Kawakami stops the Lavalle forward momentum for Port.Flying volley narrowly misses.
Josh Correia cannonballs from 30m. Goal! A rocket! Port 1 United 2 (76′).
Correia with a brace! Port 1 United 3 (85′).
Full time: Port Kembla FC 1 Wollongong United 3.
A torrid game with end-to-end action. Port hopes dim for the Finals Series spot. United win another. They are looking Premiership favourites.
ROUND 21 catachup chatchup round)
Port Kembla FC play Albion Park White Eagles. The White Eagles have an impressive squad but have been struggling to find top form. Port are consistent and are just on the edge of the top five and will be wanting to make the Finals Series. It is beautiful day, ideal for football.
The White Eagles take to field.
Jorden Nikolovski Brendan Fordham Cameron Morgan with a diving header passes to Kotaro Katsuta.
Katsuta returns the ball to Morgan who shoots.Goal! White Eagles take the lead.
Port 0 White Eagles 1 (6′). Katsuta uses his pace and mobility in the box.
Katsuta shoots from just inside the penalty area.
Bryce Daenell smothers the Katsuta strike. White Eagles use the high intensity press.
Port look to feed Nikolovski down the right midfield. Morgan rifles a shot from outside the box.
Goal! White Eagles have a second.
Port FC 0 White Eagles 2 (29′). White Eagles give little room to Port FC attackers.
Kohei Suzaki defends the cross over the top. Fordham drives and dribbles into the box.
Fordham weaves through the defence.Fordham shoots with his left.
Goal! White Eagles have a third. Port FC 0 White Eagles 3 (39′). Halftime: Port FC 0 White Eagles 3.
Halftime flyover. Port tighten up on Katsuta.
Port FC apply the high press. Oli Carrasco latches onto the deflected ball inside the Six.
Carrasco is down in the box. Referee waves play on. Chris Nathaniel
Well-timed slide. Jacob Martin Nikolovski breaks through the defensive line.
Blake Horton narrows the angle. Nikolovski shoots.
The shot scrapes the outside of the upright. The score remains Port FC 0 White Eagles 3. The game ends Port FC 0 White Eagles 3.
White Eagles are one point off the Top Five with a game in hand.
Tarrawanna Blueys v Woonona Sharks
The Great Deluge continues though somewhat abated, so a few games are on this weekend. Tarrawanna Blueys are at home to the Woonona Sharks. The Sharks have their heads above water and have conceded a lot of goals recently giving the teams below them hope of avoiding relegation. Tarrawanna Blueys are looking confident and solid. If they make the Finals Series, they will be a big threat. They need to stay in a Finals Series position having played more games than the chasers.
Sharks huddle before the game.Takumi OfukaHenry JenkinsJenkins marks Zac MazevskiNicolas Tomasiello receives the ball readying the Blueys attack.Brendan Pattman closes down the Tomasiello.
The Blueys rifle the ball across the keeper. Ofuka drives the cross into the net. Blueys 1 Sharks 0 (5′).
Sharks pressure Tomasiello Mazevski narrowly misses on the break.
Tomasiello shoots. Sharks are unable to stop the shot. Brandon Groom is unable to keep the Tomasiello drive out. Blueys 2 Sharks 0 (15′). Sharks have plenty to ponder.
Mazevski is away down the left. Kyle Kirkland hammers Mazevski cross into goal. Blueys 3 Sharks 0 (20′). Kyle Kirkland
Adam Rodriguez with safe hands holds the shot.
Robbie Gaudiosi Gaudiosi in onto the loose ball just inside the Blueys box. Gaudiosi tuns and looks for support.
Halftime: Blueys 3 Sharks 0.
Richard Lee fires one in from just inside the box. Blueys 3 Sharks 1 (57′). Richard Lee
Sharks on the attack using Lee down the right.Gaudiosi heads for the wing.Jacob Gjorsevski diving volley narrowly misses.
End-to-end. Full Time: Tarrawanna Blueys 3 Woonona Sharks 1. Brendan Pattman closes down the Tomasiello.
The Sharks remain in the danger zone. The Blueys grow their confidence.
R19 was a washout round washed out due to the flooding around the Illawarra.
South Coast United are at the base of the ladder and staring at relegation if they don’t start to pick up points. They play Bulli FC 1901 who are vying for top place. Most of the other games are washouts. United are desperate for points.
United need points. Bulli FC 1901 are vying for top place. Adam Farkus-SCU Joel Starr- Bulli FC 1901 Dylan Mena – SCU Bulli on the attack.
The Lewis Grimshaw thrust into the penalty area is repelled by the United defence.United defend in numbers in the box.Grimshaw gets his shot away.
The shot is deflected to safety. Ben McDonald- Bulli FC 1901 Bulli FC 1901 play high tempo launching another attack.
The ball is passed forward through the lines. Antoni Anic counters for United with the quick break.
Seiya Miyamoto holds the Anic strike. Anic drives into the box.
Anic turns and releases.Anic is down in the box. Bulli FC 1901 watch the shot whizz to safety.
No penalty is awarded. The United defence scramble the ball clear. Lewis Grimshaw- Bulli FC 1901 United attack through Kieren Brodnick.
Brodnik switches play. Ian Clarino- Bulli FC 1901 Anic narrowly misses. The McDonald shot fizzes across the goal.
Bulli FC 1901 puzzle, how to break down United.Halftime: South Coast United 0 Bulli FC 1901 0Starr uses his pace to break through the line.Starr sets to shoot.Starr drives the ball under pressure.Bulli FC 1901 take the lead in the 57′.Bulli FC 1901 have the break-through (Starr 57′).
Referee checks to make sure he has the correct number. Tight game.
Final score: South Coast Unite 0 Bulli FC 1901 1.
A very competitive match. BFC 1901 emerge victors. SCU remain anchored at the bottom.
ROUND 18
Port Kembla FC play Coniston FC. Both teams have recent wins and Finals Series aspirations. Ideal conditions for football.
Teams make their way onto the field. Early Cono attack. Toby Norval directs the header under pressure. Jordan Nicolovski deflects the ball off the line. The ball bounces to safety, 0-0. Norval is tightly marked by the Port defence. Van Elia dribbles through the backline. Van Elia flicks the ball, no penalty is awarded. Van Elia weaves into the box and passes. Takayuki Kayano strikes the ball from the Elia assist. Kayano puts Coniston FC in front (39′). Port 0 Cono 1 Ekove O’almeida leaps. Kayano uses his strength to guide the ball to safety. Port attack down the right flank. Jason Zufic turns on the ball. Halftime: Port 0 Cono 1. 2nd Half is about to start. Sacco Harrison Anagnostopoulos distributes from midfield. Anagnostopoulos distributes under pressure from Elia.
Port technical area get a Yellow. Tight marking. Jordan Nikolovski turns in the box. Cono defence scramble to close Nikolovski down. Nikolovski gets his shot away. The ball rockets across the goalkeeper. Nikolovski levels the score in the 64′. Port Kembla FC 1 Coniston FC 1 (64′) Peter Prandalos drives into the box as Port look to take all three points. Prandalos attempts to strike at goal. Prandalos is down in the box. No penalty is awarded. Full Time: Port Kembla FC 1 Coniston FC 1.
It was a close game with contested referee calls.
Tarrawanna Blueys v Wollongong Olympic
Tarrawanna Blueys are at home and play Wollongong Olympic who have faltered in the odd game this season. Olympic must win if they are to be a serious premiership contender. The Blueys sit on top of the table and want to keep the daylight between themselves and Olympic. The onus is on Olympic to win if they are to make up ground. They are likely to opt for an open offensive structure.
Olympic are on the attack from the whistle. Rodriguez saves.Joe LavelleTakumi OfukaTory Musumeci is inside the box with a leaping header for Olympic.The ball evades Nicolas Tomasiello and Rodriguez.Rodriguez is unable to keep the header out which is deflected into the top of the net.Blueys 0 Olympic 1 (8′)Tynan Diaz congratulates MusumeciPlenty to ponder for the Blueys.The Blueys put pressure on Olympic defender Chris Price.Jacob Gjorsevski attacks down the right flank.Gjorsevski crosses into the Olympic box.Rodriguez tips the ball over the bar.Ofuka is held back.Referee awards the foul.Darren StoneZac Mazevski passes the ball to Ofuka in space.Ofuka makes it 1-1.Blueys 1 Olympic 1 (29′).Ofuka busy in midfield.Rodriguez punches clear.Halftime approaches a little acrimoniously.David Hartas receives a Yellow.Halftime: Blueys 1 Olympic 1Olympic have plenty to ponder for the second half reset.Kyle Kirkland turns to round Musumevski.The shirt tug.Musumeci sets to strike.Musumeci strikes.Goal!Blueys 1 Olympic 2 (62′).Full time: Blueys 1 Olympic 2.
Olympic get their win. The Premiership race opens up.
ROUND 17
The Tarrawanna Blueys are at home to Albion Park White Eagles. The Blueys are on top of the table though they have played more games than some of the chasers. One of those chasers is the White Eagles, a team struggling to find form. This makes for an important clash between the teams. Nice conditions for football, cool, sunny and a light easterly wind.
The Blueys face into the sun with a light cool wind behind them for kick-off.
White Eagles are in need of a win to keep pace with the Blueys. Julian Minutillo Nic Morgan Blueys defender. Dean Saverino flicks the ball on, launching a White Eagles attack. Blueys defence scrambles to contain White Eagles quick inter-passing. Jacob Gjorsevski White Eagles keep a close eye on Jacob Mazevski. Mazevski is given little room by the White Eagles. The ball strikes the arm inside the box. No penalty is awarded. Takumi Ofuka counters up the left wing. A penalty is awarded to the Blueys. Gjorsevski belts it into the top right hand corner, giving Mohamed Krishban no chance. Blueys 1 White Eagles 0 (28′). Direct to White Eagles. Direct routine for the Ethan Kambisios strike on goal. Brilliant save by Rodriguez off the direct. Halftime: Blueys 1 White Eagles 0 White Eagles coach Alvin Ceccoli walks out for the 2nd Half. Mazevski turns in the White Eagles box. Mazevski turns and passes. Takumi Ofuka slots the shot. Ofuka buries it. Blueys 2 White Eagles 0 (52′). Blueys celebrate Ofuka goal. Takumi Ofuka Ofuka speed pressures the White Eagles defence. Ofuka uses his strength to win the ball in a dangerous area. Blueys pressurize White Eagles all over the park.
Ben LearmonthCameron Morgan is down in the box.Jake Attwell slides in on Ofuka.Ofuka penalty appeal is turned down.A direct rocket by Gjorsevski makes it 3-0.Gjorsevski in the 89′.Penalty is awarded to White Eagles.Morgan makes it 3-1.Harry Lloyd on the break down the left.Mazevski drives the deflected save into the net.Full time: Blueys 4 White Eagles 1.
Tarrawanna Blueys win another game to stay top of the table. White Eagles fall behind chasing pack.
The Sunday game features Corrimal Rangers v Port Kembla FC. Port need another win to stay be in the mix for a position in the top five and the Final series.
Players take to the field for Corrimal Rangers v Port Kembla FC. Daniel Carella holds off the pressing from Masamune Kobayashi. Zane Wilson wins aerial battle. Domenico Tripodi Mauro Leon puts in a strong challenge on Jordan Nikolovski. Red card (62′). Oli Carrasco receives the ball in the box. Turns and holds the ball as Rangers defenders swarm. Carrasco evades the tackles. Carrasco uses the outside of the foot to shoot. Carrasco beats Tomizawa at the near post. Port 1 Rangers 0 Rocky Lavalle slots the ball to Carrasco. Carrasco drives the ball across the keeper to make it 2-0. Full Time: Port Kembla FC 2 Corrimal Rangers FC 0
Port move into the Top 5.
ROUND 16
The Sunday match is between Port Kembla FC and Cringila Lions an important match to see who stays in the race for the finals series. A bit breezy and cool but otherwise nice conditions for the players.
Port Kembla FC v Cringila Lions enter the field. Fly-over at PKFC v Cringila Lions
Ben ZuccoJonah KalmanidisOli Carrasco
Port go tight on Zucco. Port apply early pressure. Tight all over the park. Safe hands by Nikolu Ristevski. Bryce Daenell punches the ball clear under pressure from Jonah Kalmanidis. A right flank Port attack. Daniel Carella lines up the shot. Ristevski is across quickly to make the save. Jordan Nikolovski Carella pounces on the loose ball in the box. Carella shoots. James Ralston makes a desperate last-ditch lunge at the ball. Port go one up. PKFC 1 Lions 0 (28′) Carella puts Port ahead. A rugged game ends Port Kembla 1 Cringila Lions 0.
It was a close and at times physical game between two closely matched teams.
ROUND 16
Woonona Sharks v Wollongong Olympic
Woonona Sharks are at home to Wollongong Olympic. A very brisk gale force south-westerly sweeps across the park in this important match for both teams. Olympic need a win to stay in Premiership contention while the Sharks need points to keep their head above the relegation zone. The pitch is in good condition.
Sharks v Olympic is about to start. Jesse French kicks off the game. Richard Lees drive the ball across the keeper. French motors toward the far post. French stretches for the ball. The ball evades French with an early chance to take the lead.
Liam WhileyA paraglider is swept out to sea off Woonona Beach. The police rescue helicopter flies over the ground.French wins the battle for the high ball in the gale force wind.Max Ashton has the ball in the penalty box.Ashton shoots under pressure from the covering Brendon Low defence.Justin Passfield makes a lightning reflex save.Olympic survive. The score remains 0-0.Joe Lavelle is put under pressure in midfield.Max AshtonRobbie Gaudiosi pumps the ball forward into the wind.Ashton holds off the defender.Sharks striker Jesse French.Halftime 0-0.
Sharks go into the sheds 0-0 despite having the better chances. The gale force winds pick up making the Olympic style of controlled midfield play very difficult.
Luke Paull heads the swirling ball clear.Brandon Groom watches the ball as it swills and dips last second in the gale force wind.Groom sweeps the ball to safety. The score remains 0-0.Robbie Gaudiosi makes a last ditch effort to block the Sandy Lowcock shot.The game ends Woonona Sharks 0- Wollongong Olympic 0.
A pointed which was needed by the Sharks who managed to contain Olympic in the second half in the very breezy, gale force winds that swept the pitch.
Round 15
Coniston FC are at home to Tarrawanna Blueys. Cono have a quality squad who will be up against a Blueys team with an in-form, solid and experience defensive line-up. The ground is heavy on a dry cool day with a slight SWS wind.
Welcome swallow flyover. Cono kick off. Cono with an early attack down the left flank. Takumi Ofuka Darren Stone and Nic Tomasiello battle for the ball Adam Rodriguez with a strong hand pushes the ball over the bar. Van Elia Van Elia under pressure on the edge of the Blueys box. Elia is through the Blueys defence. The ball is called back for a direct. Rodriguez covers the Elia direct. Takayuki Kayano heads the ball clear. Jacob Gjorsevski pressures Ekove D’almeida. Gjorsevski avoids the tackle as the Blueys attempt to break through the Cono defence. Rodriguez saves cleanly under pressure from an on-rushing Jake Morlando. Gjorsevski takes the direct. Harrison saves pushing the ball onto the crossbar. Dan Chapman slots the rebound in. Coniston FC 0 Tarrawanna Blueys 1 (37′) Halftime: Coniston FC 0 Tarrawanna Blueys 1 Halftime flyover. Ekove D’almeida Ofuka takes on D’almeida in the box. Ofuka pivots on the inside. D’almeida slides in the box blocking ball. D’almeida emerges with the ball. Blueys win air battle turning defence into offence. Elia side foot volleys. Adam Rodriguez saves. D’almeida Blueys pressure the Elia forward surge. Kyle Kirkland gains possession. Through ball to Naylor. Naylor slots the ball into the net. Blueys celebrate. Jason Zufic calls for offside. The flag is up. Offside is given. Naylor deflects the Elia shot. Rodriguez tips the deflection past the post. No penalty. The game ends Coniston FC 0 Tarrawanna Blueys 1.
A tight game, not without its controversy keeps the Blueys on top of the ladder.
ROUND 14
Another week of washouts. Fortunately, there is a game on. Bulli 1901 play Coniston who are off a win against Wollongong United in what has been reported as a physical game of attrition. Coniston will be eager to show their premiership credentials against Bulli 1901 who are looking strong this season.
A pleasant night with a mist wafting across the field.
Kick off between Bulli 1910 v Coniston FC Round 14, Illawarra Premier League. Takayuki Kayano Coniston FC Daniel Low An early Bulli 1901 tackle on Matthew Floro. Early Bulli 1901 pressure sees Coniston scramble. Ryan Emerton Bulli 1901 defend the Coniston FC longball down the right flank. Ben McDonald is the goto for the Bulli 1901 break from defence. McDonald pivots to launch a counterattack. McDonald launches the counterattack down the left flank. Coniston stop the Bulli 1901 wing play. McDonald is fouled just outside the box. The Bulli 1901 strike flashes past the upright. Van Elia posing problems for the Bulli 1901 defence. Van Elia shoots. Goal. Coniston FC take the lead. Bulli FC 1901 0 Coniston FC 1 (30′) Van Elia scores 30′. Halftime: Bulli FC 1910 0 Coniston FC 1 Part of the crowd enjoying the football on a cool misty night. BFC 1910 discuss tactics entering the field to start the 2nd Half. Van Elia shoots from just inside the penalty area. Seiya Miyamoto saves. Cono hold firm under relentless Bulli 1910 pressure. Part of the crowd enjoying the on-field battle. McDonald hits a longball into the penalty area. Kaydin Harrison stops the cut back from the by-line. Lewis Grimshaw is unable to get to the ball. Tyson Black contacts Julian Clarino from behind inside the penalty area. Referee Caleb Bianca awards the penalty. A dispute breaks out as teams set-up for the penalty kick. McDonald readies himself for the penalty after the lengthy delay due to the melee. McDonald drives the ball into the top lefthand corner giving Harrison no chance. Bulli FC 1901 1 Coniston FC 1 (83’P) Bulli FC 1910 are level with 7 minutes to go. Bulli 1901 stop the Van Elia instant sucker punch reply from kick-off. McDonald shoots. Bulli FC 1910 take the lead in the 87′. McDonald brace makes it 2-1 with 3 minutes left. Bulli FC 1910 question a foul call.
Emerton with a vital last-ditch intercept. The game ends Bulli FC 1910 2 Coniston FC 1. Referee blows the final whistle. Bulli FC 1901 defeat Coniston FC.
This was a game which shows that Bulli FC 1901 have a winning edge late into the game.
ROUND 13
After the Round 12 washout finally, there are some games despite another wet weekend. The ground at Port is slow and heavy but playable. Port are looking to build on their recent win and play a solid Blueys team who when they’ve been able to play in the stop-start season have played solid fluent football.
Port are at home against the Blueys. Takumi Ofuka drives the ball back across the keeper. The Ofuka pass catches the Port defence off guard. Jacob Gjorsevski drives the Ofuka cross into the top left-hand corner of the net. Gjorsevski makes it Port 0 Blueys 1 (2′). The Ofuka pin-point pass is finished off by Gjorsevski in an early blitz of the Port goal. An early Blueys lead. Stefano Di Marino Luca Papalia Port offence can only look on as the Blueys apply pressure to the Port defence. Daniel Chicharo slides in on Gjorsevski winning the ball. Adam Rodriguez makes a lightning reflex save from a deflected shot off Mitch Young. Defence splitting pass. Well timed slide wins the ball. Bryce Daenell saves. Daenell gathers the ball in under pressure. Port win the ball. Di Marino shoots. Port 0 Blueys 2 (29′) Blueys celebrate Di Marino goal. Halftime: 0-2. Port have plenty to consider. Halftime fly-over. Oli Carrasco under Blueys pressure. Carrasco breaks through the squeeze.
Mat NaylorJames Anagnostopoulos wins the ball in midfield.Port shoot.Rodriguez is beaten by the deflection.Harry Llody OG 1-2 (57′).Will Mobbs slides in on Lloyd.Port go tight on Lloyd.Blueys use the longball to counter the Port pressure.Mitch Young heads the ball clear. Port go full throttle for the equalizer.Nikolovski breaks down the left.Naylor makes the slide.Nikolovski goes down in the penalty area.Naylor comes out with the ball.Nikolovski quizzically looks to the referee. No penalty!Ofuka shoots!The ball beats Daenell.Ofuka makes it 1-3 (85′).Game ends 1-3.
Despite dominating the territory in the second half, the Blueys defence held tight and Ofuka sealed the win on the break.
With a westerly blowing and sunny skies Woonona Sharks take on Port Kembla FC. Both teams have finals aspirations. A loss for the Sharks would mean they near the bottom of the ladder having played the most games in the disrupted season so far.
Woonona Sharks v Port Kembla FC Port ponder the tactical setup. Teams emerge from the shed. Kick off. An eagerly contested opening. Port launch an attack. Peter Prandalos Mitch Di Pietro and Brendan Pattman challenge for the ball. Shin Takahashi distributes the ball under pressure. Jordan Nikolovski is through the Sharks defence. Nikolovski shoots across the keeper. Sharks 0 Port 1 (7′) Takahashi defends the cross. Port James Anagnostopoulos and Sharks Robbie Gaudiosi. Luke Paull slides in to put the ball to safety. Sharks pressure the Port build. Prandalas can only watch as the Sharks shoot across Bryce Daenell.
Daenell saves. Takahashi Jordan Nikolovski Sharks Jesse French surges forward. The cross flies behind Daniel Chicharo. Haltime: Sharks 0 Port 1.
Peaceful DoveUnderway in the second half.Jordan Nikolovski fires a long range shot oassed Brendon Groom.Sharks 0 Port 2 (49′)Port celebrate going up by two.Nikolovski hattrick. Sharks 0 Port 3 (56′).Jesse French is down in the box. No penalty is awarded.Daenell makes the save.Gaudiosi heads.The header crosses the line. Sharks 1 Port 3(76′)The Sharks celebrate the goal.Gaudiosi is first to the ball and shoots.Goal! Gaudiosi makes it 2-3 (82′).Full time: Sharks 2 Port 3
After looking like the score was about to blow out the Sharks fought back to make the score respectable. Sharks the reigning premiers are now in relegation zone. Port push further up the table.
The round begins with some games on, others off. The much-improved Cringila Lions play Albion Park White Eagles. It is early in the season for both teams. The Lions have played two games and White Eagles only one. Both want to good start to the season on a crispy night.
Coin toss completed The game starts fast and furious. Michael Mendes is prevented from reaching the loose ball. James Carli and Kotaro Katsuta are head-to-head attempting to win the ball. White Eagles Sam Munroe Julian Minutillo head-flicks from the cross into the Lions penalty area. Goal! Minutillo (4′). Lions 0 White Eagles 1(4′) Lions Jake Levy Lions put their foot on the pedal. Michael Mendes launches the attack. Nicki Ristevski makes a great save. Ceccoli takes copious notes. Fast and furoius end-to-end. Tempers rise. Lions stop the Kotaro Katsuta shot on the volley. Jonah Kalmanidis closes down Cameron Morgan. Morgan is starved of attacking ball. Ben Zucco on the ball. Halftime Lions 0 White Eagles 1. Ristevski with another brilliant save. Mitch Cooper turns the box. Cooper shoots. The Cooper shot flashes passed the upright. Zucco climbs and heads. Mendez dribbles through the channel. Muhamed Krishban saves. Krishban deflects the ball to Anthony Krsteski who puts it away. Lions 1 White Eagles 1 (64′). Krsteski celebrates the equalizer. The Lions fightback. Andre Dias and Zucco discuss the direct. Brendan Fordham at the heart of the White Eagles defensive line. Morgan is shielded from the ball by Kalmanidis. The James Carli hip contact with Morgan sets him airborne. Players look at the referee. He decides no penalty. The game ends: Cringila Lions 1- Albion Park White Eagles 1
It was fast and furious, a game with plenty of end-to-end. A draw was probably a fair result.
ROUND 10
Another wet week so some games were moved to Ian McLennan Park which has an artificial surface. Tarrawanna Blueys take on Corrimal Rangers. Both teams are in rebuild mode. The Blueys will want to keep the pressure on Wollongong Olympic for the Premiership race.
Round 10: Tarrawanna Blueys v Corrimal Rangers Vincezo Melissari Blueys Adam Rodriguez is immediately called into action. Cody Wehmeyer puts in a tackle. Rangers put the pressure on the Blueys. Blueys on the counter. Tokumi Ofuka plays the ball back. Mat Naylor clears the ball under pressure. Rodriguez punches clear off the Rangers corner. Blueys counter through Ofuka. Dan Kelly Stefano Di Marino Blueys striker Takumi Ofuka Blueys Attacking Midfielder Takumi Tomizawa is beaten by a laser-guided Kyle Kirkland rocket. Blueys 1 Rangers 0 (12′) Masamune Leon shields the ball under Blueys pressure. Rangers goalkeeper Tomizawa punches the ball clear. Blueys clear off the line. Kelly under Rangers pressure Tomizawa makes a brilliant reflex save. Tom Cusack times the slide, winning the ball off Jacob Gjorsevski. Nick Morgan dominance in the air halts Rangers progress. Gjorsevski is closed down and given no room. Daniel Carreno Tomizawa sets the Rangers wall. A direct is awarded to the Blueys. Rangers one down. Coaches ponder tactics. Wehmeyer drives the crossed ball into the goal. Rodriguez is given no chance. Blueys 1 Rangers 1 (38′) Halftime: Blueys 1 Rangers 1 Jai Mellor puts Rangers in front, 1-2(54′). Mellor celebrates. Jai Mellor Blueys tighten up on Mellor. Jackson Dent is on for the Blueys. Harry Lloyd is brought on. He outpaces the Rangers defence and shoots from the edge of the penalty area. Lloyd strike lands in the top corner. Blueys 2 Rangers 2 (64′). The introduction of Lloyd has immediate effect. Lloyd rounds Tomizawa. Blueys take the lead. Blueys 3 Rangers 2 (68′). Rodriguez plucks the ball off Mellor. Lloyd in space shoots from just outside the box. Blueys extend their lead. Blueys 4 Rangers 2 (78′) Harry Lloyd hattrick. Rodriguez with another great save. Mellor watched by Blueys defence. Mitch Young eyeballs Mellor. Dan Chapman is on to add legs to the defence. Zane Wilson scores to make it 4-3 (92′). Full Time: Tarrawanna Blueys 4 Corrimal Rangers 3
ROUND 9
Woonona Sharks take on the Tarrawanna Blueys in a very local rivalry. The Sharks spent a lot of money and time preparing their home ground (no thanks to the government) to make it ready for play during this La Nina with the ongoing saturation of the soils. This is only game of the round due to the soggy fields.
The Sharks emerge ready to take on the Blueys
The Sharks are the current Premiers will take on the Blueys who were thumped by Rockdale albeit fielding a depleted squad and giving their fringe players a game. How this will effect the squad’s morale will be tested today.
How will the Blueys react?Shin Takahashi immediately launches a Shark attack down the left flank.Darren Stone deflects the Robbie Gaudiosi shotThe ball deflects to safety. Blueys survive the early Sharks onslaught.Hassan AbudarebAdam Rodriguez saves off a header from a corner.The scrambling Blueys have a second escape early on in the match.A rapid Blueys counterattack. Brandon Groom makes the save off Kyle Kirkland.Kirkland hits the rebound.Kirkland scores. Sharks 0 Blueys 1 (8′)Nicolas Tomsiello directs traffic in the Sharks Third.Takumi Ofaka shoots across the keeperThe rebound off the keeper is driven back
Sharks 0 Blueys 2 (12′) Jacob Gjorsevski scores the second in quick succession. Sharks are immediately on the attack to find a way to peg back the Blueys. Darren Stone Mitch Young at the centre of a formidable Blueys defence Shirt pull on Ofaka Sharks struggle to breach the Blueys defence Stone flank runs down cause Sharks problems Wade Wilton slide stops Stone. Blueys on the offensive. Sharks struggle to counteract the Bluey surges Ofuka makes it 0-3 (36′) Halftime Sharks 0 Blueys 3 Halftime: Can the Sharks recover after going down 0-3 at home to the Blueys? Sharks emerge for the second half. Groom saves. Blueys look for more goals. Blueys contain Sharks attack Sharks are unable to make headway against the Blueys. Rodrigues intercepts under pressure Sharks encircle Tomasiello Gjorsevski brace! Sharks 0 Blueys 4 (80′) Gjorsevski crosses Ofuka goal 87′ Lots to ponder for the Sharks technical bench. Woonona Sharks 0 Tarrawanna Blueys 5
The Doctor Jekyll-Mr Hyde performances the Sharks will need to improve their consistency, or they will be looking over their shoulders at last place. There are no easy games. The Blueys impressive defence shows they are in with a big chance for the Finals Series. With all players fit they can give the top sides a run for their money this season.
Round 8
CriNgila Lions v Tarrawanna Blueys
Beautiful autumn weather greets players and fans alike for the Lions v Blueys clash. The ground is a little heavy but playable.
The crowd settles Mitsuiv Sakashita kicks off for the Lions Jake Levy
Stefano Di MarinoKeegan Matias sets up a Lions attack from left midfield.Blueys counter. Darren Stone crosses into the penalty area.James Ralston and Ben Zucco close down the spaceWell defended and no way through for the BlueysStone clears the dangerJonah Kalmanidis defends the Blueys ball over the topLions defend the Blueys right flank attackNikola Ristevski saves the Zac Mazevski strike at the near post.Sakashita pressures the Blueys defence.Dan Chapman passes under pressure.Kyle KirklandBen ZuccoAdam Rodriguez makes an excellent save from a header off the corner.Rodriguez brings the ball under control.Lions fanLions apply the pressure as they lift with halftime loomingMichael Mendes turns Darren StoneStone is unable to get the ball.Stone brings down Mendes. Penalty!Andre Diaz takes the penaltyDiaz scores. Rodriguez is given no chance due to the pace of the ball.Lions 1 Blueys 0 (38′)Halftime: Lions 1 Blueys 0Andre DiazKalmanidis with a perfectly timed slide tackle. Nicolas Tomasiello jumps to avoid any contact.Zullo uses his strength to hold off Mat Naylor.No way through for Naylor as Blueys apply the pressure looking for an equalizer.Nice save by Ristevski.James Ralston heads the ball into the corner of the crossbar.The ball spins off the edge of the crossbar and out.The Blueys lift the intensity as they go after the equalizer.
Part of the crowd wondering whether the Lions can control the play to the end under the increasing Blueys pressure. The Blueys technical area are wondering where the goal will come from.
Blueys bring on Tokumi Ofuka. His fresh legs and pace cause Lions defensive problems.Ristevski makes a crucial save winning the ball off Ofuka.Jacob Gjorsevski breaks the offside trap with a perfectly timed curved run.Gjorsevski turns to go around the keeper.The right leg of Ristevski collides with Gjorsevski.Penalty appeal!Penalty awarded! Gjorsevski steps up to take the kick in added time.Goal! (90+4′)Banter with the StandFull time: Cringila Lions 1 Tarrawanna Blueys 1
Once Lions got ahead they controlled the game well. The Blueys lifted the intensity in a never-say-die which was rewarded with a last minute penalty.
Port Kembla FC v Wollongong Olympic
The Great Deluge continued last week washing out the entire round. Flooded roads and gushing torrents ensured even the South Coast ground was unplayable. One ground that is ready for action this week is Port Kembla v Wollongong Olympic. Good Friday brings good weather with it. Olympic will be smarting from their loss to Bulli 1901 and will be out to redeem their title as favourites for the Premiership. Port with a relatively young squad will seek to build on their solid start to the season.
Round 8: Port Kembla v Wollongong Olympic. Good Friday brings good weather with it Birds eye view of the field
The Port Nankeen Kestrel is ready for the start of the matchField inspection is underwayFans begin to roll upUnderdogs Port are primed and make their way out onto the fieldBrendan Low immediately put Olympic on the front foot.Port Keeper Bruce Daenell is immediately called into action.Olympic use the left flank to set up the attack.Tynan DiazOlympic pressure the Port defence who are struggling to get out of their half.Holding midfielder Rick Goodchild acts as the distributor from defence to attack.Goodchild shot from distance is blocked by Jayden Nikolovski.Port coach is worried by the lack of Port ball possession.Diaz weaves across the penalty area and shoots.The Diaz drive dips landing onto the net.A pinpoint Goodchild pass Diaz down the right wing.Wave after wave of Olympic attacks use the Diaz pace down the right.Defender Chris Price joins the attack. Olympic continue the incursions into the Port half.David Hartas flicks the ball into the penalty area.The ball hits Rocky Lavalle’s hand.Nothing to see sir!Daenell makes the save.The referee turns down the penalty appeal.Liam WhileyDaenell makes another great save.Port counterattack with a Jordan Nikolovski strike which is repelled by Justin Pasfield.Mitch Di PietroJordan NikolovskiOn the corner Olympic crowd out Daenell, Stefan Dimovski heads the ball.Dimovski scores! Port 0 Olympic 1 (38′)Port appeal for a foul on Daenell.Goal is awarded. Port 0 Olympic1.Olympic go into halftime leading 0-1.
Half time Port 0 Olympic 1 Play is back underway for the 2nd half. Daniel Carella with a driving header. Pasfield is unable to make the save. Port 1 Olympic 1 (52′) Tory Musemeci Port attack down the right wing. Oli Carasco
The chase for the loose ball.Peter Prandalos is beaten to the ball and takes down Tory Musemeci.The referee consults with the AR and awards the penalty.Goodchild steps up, ignores the chatter…Daenell is beaten by the pace of the ball.Daenell can only watch the ball go in.Port 1 Olympic 2 (70′)James Anagnostopoulos is brought on.Goodchild and Nickolovski battle it out in the middle of the park.Goodchild makes sure Nikolovski doesn’t get away. No Yellow.Dimovski shootsPort 1 Olympic 3Olympic celebrate their third goal in 89′.Christian Saffioiti shoots from distance.The ball deflects off Hartas and into the net. Port 2 Olympic 3 (90+2′)Handball in the area! Port have a lifeline.Olympic dispute the decision.Jordan Nikolovski can’t believe his luck. He steps up for the penalty kick.The penalty hits the post.Bounces back to the penalty taker Nikolovski.Who drives it back in and Pasfield makes the second save.Which is deemed offside because the taker kicked the ball twice. Full time: Port 2 Olympic 3
Despite dominating for most of the game Olympic have a narrow escape to take all three points. They are now back on track for the Premiership race. Port will have to lick their wounds and get ready for another difficult encounter next week against Albion Park White Eagles (providing the rain eases up).
Final Score: Port 2 Olympic 3
ROUND 6
On a rain free day, due to saturated fields the only suitable ground in the whole region is the South Coast United home ground. It is Round 6 and very few games have been played so it was decided to hold an entire First Grade round on the artificial surface. Home ground advantage gone, teams shape up to get the competition off and running for all.
Reining Premiers Woonona Sharks are notionally at home against cashed-up Consiton FC. The Sharks lost their only encounter so far against Wollongong Olympic 0-1. Whether they will be competing for the finals or attempting to avoid relegation could be answered in today’s game. Coniston FC will be expecting a return for their investment and are the favourites going into the tie.
The reining Premiers Woonona Sharks cluster for the litmus test against Coniston FC Coniston FC are on the early attack. Woonona Shark Brandon Groom cuts out the Cono cross. Luke Paull Sharks wingback Cono are with the early attacking momentum. The Sharks defence scrambles to contain the threat down the right flank.
Regan Williams heads out for a corner but cops an elbow from his own keeper. Van Elia looks on from the bench. Takayuki Kayano turns the Jesse French flick on into a Cono attack. Sharks Max Ashton French feels the effects of a clash. Tyson Black closely marks Robbie Gaudiosi. Black holds Gaudiosi to stop him from distributing the ball. Tyson Black Regan Williams Kayano battle rages on. Coniston go on the attack down the right flank. Hassan AbuDareb wins the ball. Abudareb turns and shoots from just inside the penalty area. Harrison Matias gets his fingertips to the ball. The power of the shot drives the ball on. Kayano is unable to keep the ball already and only manages to drive it into the roof of the net. The AR calls it offside. Defensive midfielder Lukas Stergiou acts as the midfield general for Coniston FC. The pressure intensifies in midfield. The foul is given against French who halts the Cono attempt to get out of their final third. Robbie Gaudiosi latches onto the ball inside the box. Matias and Jason Zufic can only look on as the pinpoint drive nestles into the net. Laser-like accuracy. Sharks 1 Cono FC 0 (18′) Gaudiosi celebrates the goal. Stergiou is unimpressed. Sharks take the early lead. Groom punches clear. Cono launches waves of attack down the right flank. Gaudiosi attempts to round Zufic. Gaudiosi gets his cross in. Samuel Mathews can only look on as the Sharks attack. Sharks tighten the defence with halftime looming. Max Ashton stops any Cono progress on the halfway. The only way is backwards for Coniston FC. Abudareb runs cause concern for Cono FC. Ashton fires the ball forward. It hits the referee and bounces to Luke Toohey. Toohey volleys the ball into the net. Goal! Sharks 2 Coniston 0 (42′) Coniston dispute the referee’s decision to allow the goal after it hit him and deflected to Toohey who smashed the ball into the net. The Coniston FC bench cannot believe the decision. Halftime: Woonona Sharks 2 Coniston FC 0 Sharks emerge for the second half. Tyson Black Ekove D’almeida Cono shoot. Groom dives and stretches. Goom makes a brilliant save. The score remains 2-0 despite constant Cono pressure. Van Elia eyes the dropping ball. The Van Elia overhead kick is headed to safety. There is power in the overhead. The Van Elia overhead is headed to safety. Kayano and French in a man-on-man battle. Junya Tanaka and Mathew Floro in a struggle for possession. Jordan Lozenkovski is on The battle intensifies Abudareb breaks down the left. Abudareb crosses Matias saves off the boot of Ashton. The drive across the goal is deflected off Regan Williams. OG! Sharks 2 Coniston FC 1 (OG 74′) The Sharks win and begin their defence of the Premiership.
An exciting game with lots of action and controversy. The referee played the advantage when the ball ricocheted off him. Was this the correct decision? Whatever, the result stands.
ROUND 4
The deluge continues though it has abated somewhat. Only one ground is suitable for a game- South Coast United v Port Kembla FC. United will want points from this game to lift confidence or they will remain in the relegation position. Port has ambitions for the finals and are no doubt eager to start with a win. The have a young squad mixed with experienced players, an interesting mix of players.
Weather has cleared. Ideal conditions for football. Can South Coast United lift? Are they lay down misere for relegation? United have all the early ball and attack through James Brodnik Daniel Chicharo is dominate cutting out balls over the top through the centre. Jason Bleakley makes a save as Port counter and fire on target Bleakley pounces on the loose ball with Harrison Anagnostopoulos racing through to pick up the scraps. Marco Pennisi fires across the keeper in a rapid counter Luke Genua is unable to deal with the curling swerving shot United 1 Port 0 after 9′ Marco Pennisi with the opener United coach directing play Urging closer lines? Part of the crowd enjoying the game Port tightens their marking Bleakley punches the header clear Harrison Anagnostopoulos fires from just outside the box Bleakley is beaten and Port draw level 1-1 (29′) Port celebrates the equalizer Port confidence lifts after the goal Quality goal by Harrison Anagnostopoulos United strike back almost immediately from the restart Pennisi watches the ball go into the net ready for any deflection off the post United celebrate Jamie Wakeling goal putting them back into the lead 2-1 (30′) Port inquiry Jayogn Nikolovski equalizes for Port 2-2(36′) Daniel Carella breaks with a quick dribble through the defence Carella shoots at pace with the United defence closing in Bleakley is beaten at the near post 2-3(39′) Brilliant goal Great save by Bleakley. Port pepper the United goal. Port on fire Port allow United no room to counter with halftime rapidly approaching Halftime United 2 Port 3 Will Mobbs is looking confident for the start of the second half The Port defence struggle to contain the Kieren Brodnik raids down the right wing Brodnik is upended by an agricultural slide tackle United call for red claiming Brodnick was taken out by the last man Referee issues Oli Carrasco a Yellow Bleakley runs the length of the pitch to protest the decision and earns a Yellow for his efforts Carrasco with a crude tackle receives a second yellow and is sent from the field Port technical area calls for calm Brodnick attack is closely watched by Mobbs Brodnick equalizes using his pace and dribbling skills to slot the ball past Genua United 3 Port 3 (69′) United with a corner and the niggling ramps up A clumsy tackle or is that a stumble in the box Penalty shout Penalty is awarded United 3 Port 4 Port celebrates Penissi given a second Yellow and is off. Both teams down to ten each.
An exciting game ends with a Port victory.
South Coast United 3 Port Kembla FC 4
ROUND 3
Round Three begins with only one game due to heavy rain throughout the week. This is between Coniston FC and Bulli 1901 FC on the only payable home game ground, a ground without any cover for the fans. Football has been played in the Illawarra since 1883 and over all this time governments have failed to provide adequate facilities and grounds for the main participation sport in the region and Australia generally.
Coniston have fortified their squad with experience and quality. Bulli 1901 are always competitive and there or thereabouts at Premiership and Finals series time. Cono will be hoping to make a charge for the Premiership this year after their good start last year before the Covid freeze.
A kestrel flies over the pitch before kick-off Spectators begin to roll in and the rain radar looks promising Ready for kick-off Spectators take their seats Part of the crowd and the rain is gone for now Bulli 1910 are immediately on the attack pushing up from the back Lucas Stergiou Kyle Jackson Bulli 1901 Brownlee Tomohiro Ishii defender Bulli 1910 Ian Clarino attacking midfielder Matthew Flors gets in front of Alex Rook and blast the ball over the crossbar A missed opportunity. The score remains 0-0. Matthews Flors Coniston FC striker Coniston home bench look on as Coniston controls the early play Bulli 1901 lift the tempo and put the pressure on Ishii dives in first to the ball. Only a corner for Cono. Bulli 1901 keeper is left isolated. Clarino sweeps to stop a certain goal. Flors puts in a cross under pressure from Ishii. Cono dominate in the attacking third. Adam Voloder heads the cross towards the left hand corner Seiya Miyanmoto saves with lightning reflexes Miyamoto pushes the ball over the bar Score remains 0-0 Ishii slides in and looks to clear the ball cleanly Ishii get the ball and Voloder goes down Voloder is down in the box Penalty Miyamoto is beaten by pace and placement from the penalty spot Coniston 1 Bulli 0 (33′) Coniston celebrate Tobios Norval penalty. The constant Cono pressure has paid dividends. Bulli lift the intensity attempting to break down the Coniston dominance Jason Zufic uses his pace and dribbling skills to round Bulli 1901 defence Bulli 1901 close down the midfield Another lightning reflex save is made by Miyamoto With half time rapidly approaching Bulli 1901 launch an attack through Ben McDonald Kyle Jackson heads the ball towards goal as Cono scramble their defence Alex Rooke drives the ball which is deflected to safety in a burst of Bulli 1910 attack The desperate Bulli defence keep the score 1-0 at halftime. Van Elia warms up halftime ready to add to the attacking power of Coniston. Second Half is underway (1-0) McDonald fires one across the keeper. Kaydin Harrison saves. Still 1-0. Coniston counterattack through Samuel Matthews down the right flank
Zufic is beaten to the ball which is headed back across boxSam Davies hits a controlled volley which bends and dips over the defenceBulli draw level in 58′Davies celebrates his equalizerHarrison stops the ball from reaching ClarinoScore remains 1-1Coniston use Voloder down the right flankA narrow escape for BulliThe intensity increasesJackson shares a little jokeTackles fly inVan Elia dribbles into and across the boxTurns ClarinoVan Elia shoots and scoresConiston 2 Bulli 1901 1 69′Van EliaJoshua Brooks hits the ball from the left wing. McDonald is looking to get on the end of the ball.The ball flies and swerves through the airThe ball rockets into the net 2-2 71′Joshua Brookes celebrates his equalizerIt ends 2-2. A hard fought and tightly contested battle.
Round 2
The torrential rainfall continues along the east coast of NSW but fortunately the Illawarra has so far avoided the brunt of the downpours. Games are again postponed except for South Coast United who play Wollongong Olympic on Saturday night. United have the advantage of a game under their belt and the benefit this gives to their fitness levels. They faded against the Blueys last weekend and were eventually convincingly beaten. Olympic is another prospect altogether. They will have another quality side, new coach and be rearing to go. They may lack match fitness. If United can outrun and out press Olympic they are a chance to take points.
Kieren Brodwick South Coast United Hikaru Kawasakiya pounces on a missed interception by Antoni Anic and rounds Greg Valic Anic attempts to cover the lost ground as Hikaru shoots under pressure from the United defence Hikaru picks his spot and drives the ball past Jason Bleakley Bleakley is given no chance and Olympic are up after only 2′ South Coast United 0 Wollongong Olympic 1 2′ Fan have hardly had time to even get settled Anic contemplates his late reaction that resulted in early Olympic goal Kieren Brodnick drops back to pick up Hikaru All the early attack is by Olympic who run rings around the United defence Brodnik can only look on as Olympic drive in a second after 10′ Joey Lavelle celebrates Tory Musemeci goal United 0 Olympic 2 10’ United management can only look on as their side is completely overrun by a rampant pacey Olympic The first real attempt by United to get into the Olympic area is met by an excellent header outside the box by keeper Justin Passfield Hikaru wins the ball in midfield turns and crosses to the right flank Olympic unpressured cross the ball into the goal area Joe Lavelle drives the ball into the roof of the net giving Bleakley no chance United 0 Olympic 3 after 15′ It is all too easy for Olympic. Brodnick tries to break down the right but Brendan Low get his foot to the ball and intercepts the pass Brodnik shoots Passfield saves Hartas puts the ball out for a corner as the United attack converge on the rebound A narrow escape for Olympic Brodnik slots the ball home Offside Hikaru brace United 0 Olympic 4 41′ Olympic continue to dominate possession and play Halftime United 0 Olympic 4 United hold off Olympic in the second half. Olympic fitness fades and they find difficulty breaking a still determined United defence United bring on Izmaill Oueoraogo to add an attacking threat Hikaru enjoys the game with plenty of space as United retreat to park the bus offering little to no threat to a dominant Olympic It ends United 0 Olympic 4 South Coast United with two straight losses are staring at relegation and will remain there with these kinds of performances.
Round 1
Hip, Hip, Hooray the new season is about to begin!
The season starts early in the warmth of late February. Hopefully this season won’t end up in the frozen twilight zone of the Covid pandemic. There was no result last year. There is a clean slate for the new season. This was annoying for teams seeking promotion but understandable in the disrupted year of 2021.
The opening game is between Cringila Lions and Coniston FC. Last year the young and vibrant Coniston were matching it with the leaders while Cringila Lions were keeping their heads above the relegation zone. With the new season upon us and hopefully a fading pandemic, it will be interesting to see how the sides compare this year.
Washout due to heavy rain.
But South Coast United v Tarrawanna Blueys is still on. United invested in an artificial pitch making it playable in all but the most torrential rain. United have bin recent years been bouncing along the relegation zone. The Blueys have been midtable contenders who are always difficult to beat. This game will indicate the relative strengths of the new squads.
Bluesys Jacob Gjorsevski is ready to begin the season.South Coast United Kieren Brook focusses for the start of the new seasonPart of the crowd that navigated the torrential rain before kick offJason Bleakey saves from the early Blueys strike on targetBlueys dominate early possession. Daniel Kelly sets up an attack.The ball flashes just over the crossbarZac Mazevski brings down the ball under pressureMazevski turn and readies for the disguised passMazevski splits the defence to launch an attack leaving United stretched on the opposite flankNaylor flicks the ball through the converging United defenceThe ball flashes past the upright missing by millimetresMazevski believes he should have put it awayMasevski with a brilliant well placed volleyBlueys take the lead (0-1, 14′)Blueys celebrate Mazevski goal.United strike immediately back through Lucas Loncar 1-1, 16′The ball flashes across the goalkeeper.A penalty shout is turned down and a corner is awarded insteadKoadai Hayashi shoots from well outside the penalty areaThe greasy ball bounces off Adam Rodriguez chestRodriguez smothers the ball denying James Wakeling a strike from the rebound
Halftime 1-1 Rainfall increases in intensity
Blueys up the intensity at the beginning of the second halfNaylor takes the throwMazevski speed and vision beats the United defence to the ballBleakley is given no chance as the Masevski strike across the keeper at pace puts Tarrawanna Blueys ahead 1-2 51′Blueys celebrate goal.Greg Valic goes tight on MazevskiMazevski slots a third for his hattrickKyle Kirkland makes it 1-4 74′Blueys celebrateThe deluge intensifies furtherBleakley saves brilliantly a Nicolas Tomasiello drive
Final score: South Coast United 1 Tarrawanna Blueys 4
The Blueys win handsomely and dominated possession through the game. Will they be finals contenders this year and break out of mid-table? Will United with their new players be able to escape the bounce along the relegation zone blues?
