What's happening other than results?

In the week that was, amongst other results Heart lost two nil to Everton, Victory lost by a single goal to Boca Juniors, and Adelaide downed Wellington Phoenix 2-0. But instead of going into detail with post-match interviews with players and coaches, let's instead have a look at whats been happening off-field.


Photo: John Dewberry/CCM
Perth Glory revealed their newest advertisement in Director's Cut format, a 48 second more 'arty' version of the commercial featuring 8 first team players (the televised advertisement is 32 seconds). To view the extended commercial click here. It is a different approach to the 'Fan-Made' series of commercials created by the FFA, taking advantage of the Glory's marquee signing Robbie Fowler, and tailored to the differing market on the west coast.

Two Central Coast Mariners players, 18-year old's Trent Sainsbury and Marc Warren, have been given the opportunity to train with partner club Sheffield United. It is a result of a visit by United scout Noel Blackwell to the Mariners last month. The duo will stay with a family in northern England, and will be involved with the Reserve team, and also have access to the facilities at the Sheffield United Academy.

“It’s a good opportunity for us to develop as players and I’m excited about seeing how things are done over there and seeing what things I can pick up,” said Warren.

The Brisbane Roar are using their clash against Everton FC tonight to continue their "Roar against racism", a fight they see as close to their hearts.

“Let’s make sure we all take the game as a great opportunity to red card racism and to remind the whole of the community that multiculturalism is alive and well here in beautiful sunny Queensland.” commented honorable Stirling Hinchliffe of the Qld State Government, who are also involved with the campaign. Everton captain Phil Neville could not agree more.

"There is no room in sport in general for racism and it’s great that we can continue to fight and show this message throughout the world,” Neville said.

Tonight sees Sydney FC take on the Central Coast Mariners in a historical hit-out. The game will be the first ever football match at the Sydney Showgrounds since it was relocated to Homebush in 1998 for the Sydney Olympics. While not the ideal stadium for football because of it's oval shape, it will be the home for new AFL team Greater Western Sydney from 2012. FFA officials are no doubt testing the venue as a possibility for hosting new football franchise the Sydney Rovers.

Sydney FC have started a new initiative which sees all former Socceroos players and coaches living in NSW granted free membership to the club. The scheme is designed at bridging the gap between what have been termed 'old' and 'new' football. If the initiative gathers momentum it may well be undertaken by other A-league clubs in a similar format.