VPL Club Focus: Oakleigh Cannons

With the Alanic Victorian Premier League approaching the half way mark of their season we have put together a mid-season review of the league so far! In this series we will review the teams top to bottom, one team at a time - offering a summary of their exploits so far as well as highlighting some of their best performers. We hope you will enjoy this little wrap, and that you look forward to the second half of the Alanic Victorian Premier League with as much anticipation as all of us here at The Football Sack!


Oakleigh Cannons

Currently: 1st
Last Year: 7th
Record: WWDWWLLWWW

At the start of the season the talk coming out of the Oakleigh camp was strictly of consolidation; don’t get relegated and if possible improve on their 7th place last season. After the first ten matches of the season it appears that they were throwing the competition a red herring as they have been nothing but competitive. Although the Cannons can be confident in their ability as a top five side, the worry is their loss to South Melbourne and the fact they have both Dandenong (5th*) and Hume City (3rd) to come up against.

Under the guidance of former AIS coach Arthur Papas, Oakleigh have undergone a player overhaul and a major change in playing style now having the critical balance of mainly youth with some experienced heads. For a club who has never been a consistent force in the top grade they are happy at where they are currently, but as Papas explains - they will not be resting on their laurels;

“Yes, we are satisfied with how we have gone so far but we are definitely not content. The club is known for making strong starts so we’re aiming to go against club tradition to make sure we continue our form in the second half of the season.

“Our objective is to finish in the top five and as this year it is such an even competition we have to ensure we don’t take a backward step and must keep improving".

Star Players:

Anthony Bran. More commonly known as Bryan Bran, the youngster’s brilliant form at centre back this season has been rewarded with his recent call-up to the Young Socceroos squad. Drafted in from the Melbourne Knights during the off-season, the 20 year old has been a rock in Oakleigh’s strong defence and will be hoping to continue his strong form.

Ramazan Tavşancıoğlu. Bran’s partner in crime at centre back, it becomes obvious why the Cannon’s defence is one of the most impenetrable when these two line-up together. Showing experience beyond his years the former Victory and Fury man has been in solid form since his late signing.


*Dandenong 4th due to points deduction. Previously 1st

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Friday Football Quiz - EPL

Welcome to our new weekly feature, the Friday Football Quiz! Test your knowledge and football know-how each week as we take you through a different theme every Friday. This week is all about the Premier League, good luck and stay away from Google!!

1) Who scored the first ever goal in the Premier League?

2) How many points did West Ham take down with them in 2003?

3) How many points would have been enough to ensure safety last season?

4) Who is the Premier League's all time top scorer?

5) How many Premier League clubs has West Brom 'keeper Scott Carson played for?

6) How many matches did Arsenal's Invincibles go unbeaten for?

7) Who was Chelsea manager when Roman Abramovich purchased the club?

8) Four teams have won the Premier League. Name them.

9) Who scored Tottenham's winner in their '4th place decider against Manchester City at Eastlands last season?

10) Which player has the most goal assists in the Premier League this season?

11) How many does 'PFA Player of the Year' Gareth Bale have to his name?

12) How much did Blackpool pay for PFA Player of the Year nominee Charlie Adam?

13) Charlton, Leeds United, West Ham United, Newcastle United, West Ham United, Birmingham City. Match the player to the CV.

14) Who threw a slice of pizza at Sir Alex Ferguson in the tunnel after a fiery game in 2004?

15) What position on the table were Blackburn Rovers when they sacked Sam Allardyce and appointed Steve Kean?

16) What position are they now?

17) Robin van Persie recently scored in the 98th minute of a match to set a record for the latest goal in Premier League history, for how long did he hold the record?

18) How many minutes did Fernando Torres go without scoring for Chelsea before breaking his duck against West Ham last weekend?

19) Who wears the number 5 shirt for Bolton Wanderers?

20) Who saved a Robbie Fowler penalty in the second minute of stoppage time on the final day of the 2004/05 season, booking his side a place in the UEFA Cup?

Think you have them all? Click here to find out :)

Stay tuned next week as we bring you twenty questions in a new category!

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Dandenong Thunder fined and deducted six points

Dandenong Thunder’s impressive start to the Victorian Premier League has been over shadowed following the decision of the Football Federation Victoria disciplinary tribunal last night. The Thunder were not only fined a total of $8,000 but also deducted six championship points and forced to play their next four home games behind closed-doors.

The news will come as a disappointment to those involved with the club as they have been playing great football this season and were sitting comfortably atop the Victorian Premier League with 23 points from the opening ten rounds.

The incident that sparked these penalties occurred during the Thunder’s round nine home fixture against Bentleigh Greens on the 16th of April, where two Dandenong Club Associates were charged with abuse of a match official (Misconduct/MP6).

Although the specifics of the incident which involved the two club associates are still publicly unknown, the club was found guilty for directing abusive and insulting language towards match officials. The first club associate was charged with misconduct as a result of allegedly making inappropriate contact with the match official while also questioning the decision’s which were made throughout the match.

The second club associate was also charged with misconduct as a result of allegedly directing foul, abusive and insulting language towards the match official in the game which saw both sides share the points following the 1-1 result. The club was fined $2000 for each individual's indiscretion.

Adding to the pain of the disciplinary action Dandenong will have to play their next four home games without spectators, limited to having 20 club associates on match day.

Dandenong Thunder have until 5pm on Tuesday 3rd of May to appeal the penalties and were approached by The Football Sack this afternoon. They refused to comment.

With the punishment that has been handed to Dandenong the Football Federation Victoria has sent a clear message to all clubs in the Premier League and Victoria that they will not tolerate inappropriate behaviour towards match officials or anyone else that is involved in football.

The result of the punishment will come as a huge blow to the Thunder, but also will serve as motivation as they look to get themselves back on track following this latest setback.

They are currently preparing to face South Melbourne this Sunday at John Cain Memorial Park in what should be a interesting encounter between two sides who are both aiming to be crowned champions come Finals time.

Dandenong have now dropped to fourth position on the VPL standings, Oakleigh leading the pack on 22 points with South Melbourne and Hume City sitting second and third respectively.

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VPL Club Focus: Dandenong Thunder

With the Easter break causing an agonizing week-long hiatus of the Alanic Victorian Premier League and with most clubs approaching the half way mark of their season what better time to put together a mid-season review of the league so far! In this series we will review the teams top to bottom, one team at a time - offering a summary of their exploits so far as well as highlighting some of their best performers. We hope you will enjoy this little wrap, and that you look forward to the second half of the Alanic Victorian Premier League with as much anticipation as all of us here at The Football Sack!


Dandenong Thunder

Currently: 1st
Last Season: 8th
Record: WWWWDWLWWD

There was a real feel of optimism around the club pre-season with exciting new signings joining the ranks. By retaining some top performers from last season the Thunder suddenly had some real depth in class which they desperately missed in a disappointing 2010 season.

The 2009 Minor Premiers had an amazing start to the season going undefeated for the first six matches before finally succumbing to last season’s Major Premiers, Green Gully Cavaliers in their only defeat to date. Since then they have kept up their good form but with two crunch matches coming up against second and third placed Oakleigh Cannons and South Melbourne we will soon see if the Thunder are the real deal this season.

Head coach, former Rangers star Stuart Munroe is pleased with the start his side have made but notes that targets have remained as they were at the start of the season and that the side are not getting carried away;

"We’re in a good position and have been lucky that we’ve only had one major injury so far with Kyle [Lappin] doing his groin. The players have settled quickly, and with only a single defeat so far we’re very pleased.

"The goal is still the same as the start of the season, to finish as high as we can, and hopefully with some luck in terms of injuries and suspensions we will find ourselves with a good shot at the title come seasons end".


Star Players:

Luke Sherbon. Following a spell with the club last season and an off-season spent playing in the Welsh Premier League, U-21 International Sherbon has returned to the Thunder hoping to win the title. All signs so far look good, with his six goals and four assists from midfield going a long way to helping Dandenong to where they are now.

Steven Grey. A strong Irish defender, the former Southampton youth player has been in great form for the Thunder this season picking up two man of the match awards as his dominant defending has contributed to Dandenongs five clean sheets so far this season.

* As of Wednesday 27th April Dandenong Thunder were involved in disciplinary action that may have affected their table position. Updated details here.

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Marconi and Bonnyrigg share a 0-0 draw

The aura surrounding Marconi Stadium pre-game was one of discontent. In three games, Luke Casserly's side have seen a win, a draw and a loss - not exactly the bright start the club was hoping for. Bonnyrigg filled ninth spot on the ladder, seeing three draws in their opening games.

Both coaches needed the win desperately to kick start their seasons, however with the pitch in horrible condition coupled with a recent down pour it was obvious that this would not be a pretty game of football.

Marconi fielding a strong 4-4-2 shape with 17 year old Daniel Petkovski making his mark in the left back position. Bonnyrigg played a loose 4-4-2 which at times looked more 3-3-4 with Chris Tadrosse pushing high up the park also from the left back role.

With six corners in the opening 20 minutes of football, it was evident that Bonnyrigg were pushing hard. Daniel Severino and Jamie McMaster were on corner duty and their in-swinging balls kept Marconi 'keeper James Chronopoulous busy.

There weren't many attempts on goal by Marconi in the first 45. Club captain Nahuel Arrarte was reduced to having shots from distance, none of which troubled the Petr Cech look-a-like in goals for Bonnyrigg - that of Phil Zabaks.

A late tackle out of frustration with five minutes left of the first half saw Luke Casserly's side down to ten men - Matthew Mayora sent off for a late and unnecessary challenge on Jamie McMaster.

The second half saw the same football as in the first, a couple of changes by the coaches meant fresh legs but not much else. Again the danger men for Bonnyrigg were Jamie McMaster and Daniel Severino who occupied the wings. With former Marconi player and current Sydney FC assistant coach, Steve Corica watching the match from the stands, we might see one or both of these players on a trial in the near future.

It was clear Marconi were the happier side to see a 0-0 result with the kit-man shouting "A million dollar side couldn't beat a side with 10 men". Luke Casserly perhaps not so joyous with a point, but was content to get a result against tough opposition.

"When you're playing at home, you've always got to go for all three points, but we knew we were up against a really good team, well organised and they kept us busy. When we went down to ten men in the first half we had to do more work off the ball, but I think our boys were outstanding.

"Organisation is key. Particularly organisation when you don't have the ball. It is something we worked on pre-season, there are the teams where we'll dominate possession, and those like today when the other side is stronger on the ball."

Bonnyrigg's coach, Brian Brown was not so philosophical, rather he emphasised on his side's inability to capitalise on the chances they had during the game.

"I think we should have got all three points no doubt. Maybe we didn't handle the situation too well such as the playing conditions which were terrible. We were trying to play nice pass and move football on a bumpy field. You just can't play like that here.

"Daniel Severino and Jamie McMaster are two quality players, but like everyone else, they need to be in form. Both of them are not performing to their best at the moment - we needed them to be playing good football to have a chance at winning this thing.

"Once we've hit out straps, got a couple of victories and a couple of goals, maybe even playing on a better surface I think we've got the side to win."


Marconi Stallions 0 - Bonnyrigg White Eagles 0

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Blacktown win points in shock result against Bankstown

Saturday night was a night to remember for Mark Crittenden's side from Blacktown. Heading into the game Bankstown were sitting comfortably, fourth on the ladder after two wins, one draw and a loss. At the other end of the table Blacktown City occupied 11th spot having lost three and drawn one in their opening four matches.

The 300 strong crowd who made the trip to Jensen Park were gifted a show of brilliance by Blacktown City and a night to forget for Bankstown supporters.

Mark Crittenden fielded a 4-4-1-1 shape which saw more strong performances by Mitchell Duke, Zac Cairncross and Adam Jenner as well as a more advanced and unfamiliar role in a right wing position for Travis Major. Blagoja Kuleski has been criticised in recent weeks for setting his Bankstown side out in a 5-4-1 formation with Fred Graham playing the lone striker role.

The pace of Travis Major and Adam Jenner down the right flank was too much for Bankstown's left back Daniel Slaveski who was caught out of position on numerous occasions. Travis Major capitalised on this, levelling the scoring after an opening goal by A.Hadid for Bankstown.

Just before half time Mitchell Long pounced on a loose ball and put away Blacktown's second of the evening.

The second half saw more fancy footwork by Blacktown's youth, keen to impress Newcastle Jets coach Branko Culina who was watching from the stands.

A name which continues to pop up in discussion is Travis Major. He was awarded a free kick closer to the corner flag than the penalty spot. A low, hard strike skidded past everyone and managed to find the back of the net. Major's second of the night and the killer third goal for Blacktown.

That was to be the end of the action in the game, Blacktown winning their first match in five outings and Bankstown's supporters continue to mumble abuse toward their coach.

Mark Crittenden was over the moon with the result, gleefully praising the result and stand out performances.

"Very happy. Its been a long time coming. Five weeks into the league and I couldn't be happier with the boys. They worked hard, knuckled down and we knew that eventually things would go our way. The work rate was brilliant today.

"[Travis] Major, [Mitchell] Duke, [Mitch] Long and [Adam] Jenner all were outstanding tonight. We had the opportunity to use our pace, and we really wanted to have a good go at them across the back. There was some fantastic linking play between Major and Jenner down the right side today"

Bankstown's dressing room was not so happy, with players walking out due to frustration and disappointment in their football. Their coach Blagoja Kuleski knew the match was always going to be tough.

"I'm not happy, maybe not expect a win, but I expect a hard game because Blacktown are a very hard side. Very difficult to play against them.

"First half was fantastic, second half we make a number of holes. They were a better side and they had luck on their side.

"I expected some mistakes because the team is still new, almost all super league players without premier league experience. In time we might be playing better. Good result to Blacktown though."

Blacktown City 3 (T.Major, M.Long, T.Major) def Bankstown City 1 (A.Hadid)

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Olympic fire past Parramatta 1-0

ANZAC Day was remembered at Melita Stadium on Monday with a visit by third placed Sydney Olympic taking on NSW Premier League cellar dwellers Parramatta FC. A man of the match performance from 'keeper Anthony Costa combined with some desperate defending was all that saved the home side from an embarrassing scoreline. Olympic claimed all three points with a 1-0 victory, leaving the Eagles searching for answers.



Olympic frontman Alex Smith was in the action early, latching onto a curling freekick in the 2nd minute yet managing only to glance the ball wide of the post.

Early signs pointed toward an Olympic win, with Parramatta keen to continue their defensive, counter-attacking football. This didn't however inspire confidence and the Eagles' defense were continually opened up throughout the match.

It was mostly one way traffic in the first half and in the 8th minute Smith capitalised on this dominance by scoring the opener for Olympic with a calmly slotted ball past Costa. Smith was released on the left flank by Robbie Mileski who played through a well timed pass to set up the goal.

After what seemed like an eternity in Parramatta's half the Eagles finally began to feel their way into the match after 30 minutes. New recruits Brodie Mooy and Matt Osman had vastly differing home debuts. Whilst Osman made an impact, particularly into the second half, Mooy had a night to forget. Wayward passes and crosses are signals that perhaps he need more time to gel with his Eagles' teammates.

Costa was called into action in the 33rd minute and pulled off a good save against a powerful Mileski shot from close range. Two minutes later Mileski could have again put Olympic two in front, unmarked on goal and again denied.

Alex Smith proved why he is leading goalscorer in the NSW Premier League, finding himself first to yet another curling ball into the box. Costa made a wonderful close range stop and firmed his position as first choice Parramatta 'keeper.

On the edge of half-time Almir Dizdaric, in the middle of the box, held off his defender and found Bryan Soane out wide. Soane powered in a shot across the face of goal which failed to test Olympic goalkeeper Paul Henderson, leaving the score 1-0 at the break.

Both teams had early chances in the second half with neither able to capitalise on their time in front of goal. It was to be indicative of the half as the game became a scrappy contest played out in the middle third. While Olympic continued to have the greater share of possession indecision and failure to keep the ball on the ground let them down.

Parramatta playmaker Kutaiba Elrich returned from injury in the 61st minute and had an immediate impact before getting booked for a heavy challenge. A minute later he could have seen his second yellow for what looked like a soft freekick. Cries from the traveling Olympic fans to send him off were acknowledged by the referee who gave Elrich a prolonged talking to.

The game finally came to life again in the 74th minute when a Matt Osman shot hit the post and trickled along the goalline only to never pass the posts. Up the other end a flurry of chances to Olympic again failed to be converted by the boys in blue. Smith needed only to pass a square ball to awaiting Takayami Omi but chose instead to take a touch, Costa saving the Eagles yet again.

With four minutes left on the clock Osman could have leveled the scores, finding himself on goal with time to shoot. His eventual shot however was too weak and failed to test Henderson. Fellow new recruit Mooy almost redeemed himself with a clinical cross into the box to find Elrich open in front of goal. Elrich took a touch and impossibly put his attempt over the bar.

Sydney Olympic remain third in the NSW Premier League equal on points with Sydney United, although United have a game in hand. Parramatta are yet to win a match although continue to be competitive against tough opposition. They face Manly next week and will hope to pick up three points having seen key players successfully return from injury tonight.

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WA 'All Flags' State League: Round Nine

Mandurah City 0-1 Floreat Athena
Floreat Athena notched their first win of the season after the long trip down to Mandurah’s Hyundai Stadium. Mandurah City were without talismanic captain Andy Brown after his transfer to Stirling Lions and it showed. The visitors controlled the match from the start whilst Mandurah City were on the back foot. The windy conditions in the first half resulted in few chances for either side until Athena’s Calum O’Connell was denied by a great save from Kenny Ftynogiannis, who did well to block the follow up from Liam Boland. It took until the final minute for Athena to break the deadlock, another shot from O’Connell was saved by Ftynogiannis and the ball fell to Jarrad Smith who made no mistake in slotting away the winner to the delight of the traveling fans.

Sorrento 3-0 Cockburn City
Sorrento defeated Cockburn City 3-0 at Percy Doyle Reserve thanks to goals from Jason Mirco, David Foster and Todd Harnwell. Both sides struggled early on to take control of the match. After 24 minutes, Mirco combined well with Harnwell to put the home side ahead. Soon after Foster was brought down in the box by Jason Godfrey and referee Josh Mihevc pointed to the spot and showed Godfrey red for his troubles. Foster converted and it was 2-0. The visitors were reduced to nine men, having used all their subs, when captain Adrian Webster was stretchered off with what seemed to be a serious knee injury. Todd Harnwell put the result beyond doubt and only lacklustre finishing and some good saves from Dejan Aleksic kept the score at 3-0.

Stirling Lions 3-0 ECU Joondalup
A brace from Scott Muirhead either side of a Phil O’Callaghan penalty helped seal a win for Stirling Lions over ECU Joondalup. A good crowd at Macedonia Park watched as both sides looked for the win but it was Stirling who looked the better side as the teams went in for half time. The Lions dominance continued after the break and it was on 58 minutes that Muirhead scored what could be one the goals of the season, superbly cutting inside his defender and curling a beautiful shot in the top corner past a despairing Andy Banks. Their lead was doubled ten minutes later when new signing Andy Brown was brought down in the box and O’Callaghan scored from the spot to make it 2-0. Ian McMurray almost pulled one back for the visitors but his shot was well blocked by James Davies. With ECU looking for a way back into the game, Stirling caught them on the break, Muirhead making it 3-0 in the 94th minute.

Inglewood United 4-1 Armadale
Inglewood United kept up their good run of form with a 4-1 victory over Armadale at 6PR Stadium. David McNally fired the home side into the lead after six minutes. Ten minutes later it was two thanks to Rory Grant. The big midfielder added another to his tally on the stroke of half time and Inglewood went into the break deservedly 3-0 ahead. Paul Dugdale scored the host's fourth just after the break. It wasn’t until the 68th minute that Armadale got on the scoresheet through Warren Beattie, but Inglewood were in control of the game and ran down the clock comfortably until the final whistle.



Perth SC 6-1 Western Knights
David Onoforo and Jason Dos Santos each scored a hattrick as Perth SC thrashed Western Knights 6-1 at Dorrien Gardens. Both sides started well but it was Perth who drew first blood in the 21st minute through Onoforo. He then set up Jason Dos Santos to make it two before Stuart Montgomery was given his marching orders following two bookable offenses. Dos Santos added his second and Perth’s third shortly before half time as things went from bad to worse for the Knights. Onoforo made it four in the 54th minute, virtually making sure of the points at that stage. Glen Thomas pulled one back for Western Knights from the spot in the 59th minute, but it was to be nothing more than a consolation, as Onoforo and Dos Santos completed their hattricks in the 71st and 87th minutes respectively and Stuart Ferguson saw red for lashing out at Dos Santos. 6-1 it finished, a huge win for Perth SC and their coach Ronnie Campbell, who was up against his former team for the first time since moving to Perth.



Bayswater City 4-2 NTC
Elsewhere Bayswater City defeated NTC by four goals to two. Matches involving the NTC are not contested for points, therefore their results are not included on the table.

That Was A Goal is a Western Australia based podcast and website. Over the WA 'All Flags' State League season The Football Sack in conjunction with That Was A Goal will provide a weekly review of the round that was.

POS		TEAM	P	W	D	L	For	Agst	GD	PTS
1		Balcatta SC	8	7	0	1	23	8	15	21
2		Perth SC	7	5	1	1	19	7	12	16
3		Western Knights	7	4	2	1	12	9	3	14
4		Inglewood United	7	4	0	3	17	12	5	12
5		Bayswater City	8	3	2	3	15	15	0	11
6		Stirling Lions	9	3	2	4	14	17	-3	11
7		ECU Joondalup	9	3	2	4	10	16	-6	11
8		Sorrento FC	7	3	1	3	10	12	-2	10
9		Mandurah City	9	2	2	5	7	11	-4	8
10		Armadale SC	7	2	1	4	8	13	-5	7
11		Floreat Athena FC	7	1	2	4	8	14	-6	5
12		Cockburn City	7	1	1	5	7	16	-9	4
13		NTC	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

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Unbeaten Sutherland Sharks extend streak against APIA

Matt Bailey and Sam Awad had formed a deadly strike force in the first four rounds of the New South Wales Premier League. Bailey, tucked in the hole behind his partner, had scored in every match and Awad had found the net once himself. But today, with Awad not featuring in Robbie Stanton’s Sutherland Sharks side, Bailey looked a shadow of his recent self. It was Todd Halloran, receiving his first start of 2011, that played up front and he struggled to emulate Awad’s role on the side. Bailey was almost inanimate as the goal-poacher grew frustrated with his lack of opportunities.

Similarly the Sharks looked lost down the wings as poor deliveries and inane judgement ravaged their decision to leave speedy winger Nicko Tsattalios sitting patiently on the bench. He stayed like that until the final whistle. A run-down and lost for ideas Sutherland team did not use even one substitution. The starting eleven was trusted for the full ninety minutes and possibly rewarded their coaches decision as they left with a point in a tricky fixture away from home. But, in all truth, they failed to create a genuine spark of attacking electricity besides the goal in the 31^st minute.

Perhaps the Sharks equaliser was an appropriate high point in an uncharacteristic performance. The goal was not like the build-up usually seen from the stands of Seymour Shaw Park and the same could be said for the visitor’s game-plan entirely. A more direct and narrow approach was taken by the table-toppers and it was a long Pani Nikas ball from deep in the midfield that released Chris Price cutting inside. The winger, replacing Tsattalios, rounded the keeper and slid the ball into the vacant net.

It was disappointing from an otherwise solid APIA defence; Sutherland had just one other half-chance in the opening term with a long Mike Katz shot straight at the goalkeeper. It was the Tigers who undoubtedly controlled the first half and almost replicated Sutherland Sharks home football. Short, quick, passing and using the full width of the pitch was the main ideology of the home sides play, and it quickly proved successful when, just eight minutes into the fixture, Anthony Hartshorn connected with a Chris Jame’s cross that Nathan Denham couldn’t keep out.

A blow for APIA almost turned into a blessing in disguise when Hartshorn couldn’t continue. His hamstring caused him enough distress for the Tigers to bring on Sam Essem on the half hour mark and within ten minutes the big striker had made an impact with a legitimate call for a free-kick and possibly a red card after was turned down. Essem continued to show off his handsome first-touches and ball control and zig-zagged in the box before his shot was closed down.

Essem perhaps should have been the central figure in APIA’s celebrations with just four minutes remaining, but instead he saw his brilliant low-cross into the box only just deflected over the bar. The Tigers attacker failed to hit the net from a few yards as the desperate Sutherland defence threw their bodies in the way.

The only other excitement brewing in the final third were horrible balls into the box that looked more threatening for the crowd on the opposite side of the field than the goalkeepers. The trouble directed at the men in goals didn’t reach levels more than stopping shots right at them. Denham perhaps had just a little more to do with a diving hand keeping out an accurately placed chip shot.

APIA Leichhardt Tigers 1 (Anthony Hartshorn 8’)
Sutherland Sharks 1 ( Chris Price 31’)

Match Highlights courtesy of Football NSW

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Beauchamp multi-year deal with Sydney FC

Melbourne Heart have released experienced defender Michael Beauchamp by mutual consent in order for the player to sign a three year deal with Sydney FC. The 30 year old was part of Heart's inaugural side and made 19 starts in the team's debut season.

Melbourne coach John van Schip felt a smooth transition to Sydney was the right thing to do.

“Given the opportunity that presented itself at Sydney FC, we feel that we had an obligation to allow Michael to grab the chance to play first team football and secure his long term future as a professional.

“We would like to thank Michael for his efforts at Heart and wish him well for the future.”

Beauchamp will join a Sydney defense that is again looking to rebuild, with Matt Jurman (Brisbane) and Sung-Hwan Byun (Newcastle) taking up contracts at other Hyundai A-League clubs.

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Oakleigh roll on as Richmond fade

By Jack Henty

Sunday’s clash between the Oakleigh Cannons and Richmond S.C. at Kevin Bartlett Reserve was the setting that displayed Oakleigh’s dominance over the home side and sent out warning bells to the rest of the competition as the Cannons demonstrated that they are poised to threaten the remainder of the VPL competition.

Richmond began the game in an attacking fashion looking to break through the Cannons’ strong defensive zone.

Michael Ferrante looked to create early opportunities for the home side attempting to involve his team mates in the match and linked up well with Chris O’Hare, however they were unable to trouble Oakleigh’s goalkeeper Peter Zois.

Oakleigh began to gain some momentum going forward although they too were spraying the ball wide. After a few impressive plays however both sides were wasteful in front of goal.

Richmond took risks coming out of defence in a bid to open the scoring, attempting to move the ball through the middle of the pitch.

Unfortunately for the home side this tactic proved unsuccessful and in the 34th minute Dane Milovanovic of Oakleigh found the bottom left corner, converting a penalty bringing the match to life.

For the remainder of the first half Oakleigh Cannons continued to press forward and put pressure on the Richmond defence which were able to hold strong for the rest of the half. As both sides walked in for half time the scoreboard read 1 -0 in Oakleigh's favour.

The second half began how the first ended with the Cannons continuously pressing and causing a threat to extend their lead.

In the 47th minute Billy Damianos had the opportunity to extend the lead to two goals through a free kick from beyond the box but was easily saved by Stjepan Gal.

Damianos continued his good form for the remainder of the half consistently trying to create opportunities for his side and was unlucky not to register a goal in the 48th minute.

It only took until the 56th minute for the inevitable second goal for Oakleigh as Frankie Lagana was able to put the ball in the back of the net from just metres out after support from Craig Goodwin.

In the 67th minute Dane Milovanovic again had the opportunity to convert a penalty and register two goals for the match however the ball was brilliantly saved by Stjepan Gal.

To Richmond’s credit they continuously attempted to take something from the game and take the game on through Michael Ferrante however Oakleigh’s defence was just too strong. At least Richmond can take from the game that they can challenge top sides even without Jason Hoffman who missed the match due to an Australian under 23 training camp.

With Easter holiday falling next weekend both sides have the week off however the following week Richmond will partake in the clash at Knights Stadium on Friday as they attempt to get back on the winners’ list. Oakleigh are at home against the in-form Hume City which will be match of the round.



Match Highlights courtesy of The Football Sack Media Partner, Football Federation Victoria.

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Southern Cross United withdraw from QSL

The Hyundai Queensland State League has been rocked by the unfortunate news that Southern Cross United have been forced to withdraw from the competition.

The decision, made by both Football Queensland and Southern Cross United, is a direct result of the devastation caused by the 2011 Queensland floods.

Southern Cross United President, Brett Travis, explained the club's reason for withdrawing,

“The withdrawal is disappointing to the team and coaching staff but having several key sponsors inundated during the recent floods, it is impossible for them to honour their commitments to us, and our hope for them is a speedy recovery in these difficult times,” he said.

Despite the senior team's omission from the QSL, United's Youth team will still compete in the Hyundai Queensland State Youth League.

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Queensland State League: Round Six

Round Six of the QSL delivered some nail-biting thrillers this week.

Whitsunday Miners VS Southern Cross United
3-3
Southern Cross went 2-0 up in just twenty-five minutes thanks to a firing Farina who bagged a double.

Then just before the half, Whitsunday Miners captain Jamie Hatch scored for the Miners. But they gave up another goal for Southern Cross in the 70th minute. The game looked won for Southern Cross but Whitsunday persisted.

At 3-1 down in the second half, Whitsunday’s coach Graham Harvey put four men at the front and the attack paid off with Hatch securing two goals in the dying minutes. Hatch’s inspiring hat-trick got the Miners to scrape an unlikely draw, 3-3.


Brisbane Strikers VS North Queensland Razorbacks
4-3
Brisbane Strikers kept up their unbeaten record at Perry Park posting a close 4-3 win over North Queensland.

Brisbane took the lead after just the 6th minute and dominated for much of the first half to take a 3-1 lead at the half, including a two-goal haul by superstar Matt Thurtell. Strikers’ DiSipio then converted another for Strikers just after the restart to extend the lead to 4-1.

But the Razorbacks didn’t back down and threatened to reign in a draw. North Queensland were making the most of Brisbane’s inconsistent possession and just four minutes after DiSipio’s goal they answered with one of their own. North Queensland captain Josh Evans clawed two goals back in the 55th and 90th minute to make it 4-3. But they came short of the draw, unable to score in extra time despite some nervous Strikers defending.



Thanks to Football Queensland and Chris Paul for the footage.

FNQ Bulls VS Capricorn Cougars
3-0
The Bulls got their first win of the season against Capricorn Cougars at Borzi Park on Saturday night.

There’s no doubt FNQ have the attacking players to win matches, but so far, the Bulls have fallen short of a win for the 2011 season. But at home in Mareeba against a lacklustre Cougars side, it was to be the Bulls night.

Potent striker David Ruiz was there to score FNQ’s first in the 29th minute with a long shot from approximately 15 metres out.

In the second half the Bulls then ran away with the game thanks to the efforts of an unmarked Stuart Dunn who headed home the second, and Josh De Nittis knocking in the third in the 85th minute.


Sunshine Coast Fire VS Gold Coast Stars
3-0
Playing away from home in Kawana, it was an impressive win for Sunshine Coast Fire, defeating Gold Coast Stars 3-0.

The rain in previous days had made conditions on the field sloppy, with controlled possession proving difficult for both sides.

Both defences stayed strong until the 19th minute when Alex Henderson got the first for the Fire, after Tyson Holmes’ shot was blocked by ‘keeper.

Sunshine Coast, now boosted by the goal, using their physical strength in the midfield, manoeuvred their way around the Gold Coast defence. Sam Knight then came up with the second before the break and in the second half, Fire’s attack continued. Tyson Holmes then got a goal to his name in the 58th minute, to seal a well-earned victory for Sunshine Coast.


Queensland Academy of Sport VS Bundaberg Spirit
5-0
QAS continued their good form from last week to post their second win of the season, beating Bundaberg 5-0 on Sunday afternoon.

Displaying immense improvement from two weeks ago, when they last played at Meakin Park, Academy were composed in possession, desperate in defence and relentless in attack.

Despite the convincing 5-0 victory, QAS coach Darren Davies said the score could have been even better.

“Realistically with the chances that we had, we should’ve actually scored more goals. I’ve said to the boys now that we’ll work on our finishing again this week,

“I’m happy winning at home, I’m happy with three points on the board, I’m happy, very happy, to be in the top four over Easter,” Davies said.

Quinn set up the first goal in the 11th minute, delivering a pin-point cross to a sliding Elliot Ronto who put away goal number one for Academy.

QAS were putting on all the pressure up front, while Bundaberg could only manage half-chances.
Just before the half QAS notched up two quick-fire goals in the 41st and 43rd minute respectively.

In the 81st minute when substitute striker Kwame Yeboah found space to knock in QAS’ fourth goal, the game was most certainly over.

But then Brandon Borello sealed a masterful win for Academy in the final minutes. Left unmarked he was able to score a soft header to make the final score 5-0 for Academy.

For a full match report and photos click here!

#	Club Name	G	W	D	L	F	A	GD	P
1	Sunshine Coast FC	6	5	1	0	14	2	12	16
2	Brisbane Strikers FC	5	4	0	1	18	6	12	12
3	NQ McDonald's Razorbacks	6	3	0	3	13	9	4	9
4	Queensland Academy of Sport	5	2	2	1	11	7	4	8
5	Gold Coast Stars	4	2	1	1	7	7	0	7
6	FNQ Bulls	4	1	2	1	7	6	1	5
7	Southern Cross United FC	5	1	1	3	8	12	-4	4
8	Whitsunday Miners	4	0	3	1	5	8	-3	3
9	Capricorn Cougars	5	0	1	4	4	17	-13	1
10	Bundaberg Spirit	4	0	1	3	3	16	-13	1

G = Games Played, W = Win, D = Draw, L = Loss, F = Goals For, A = Goals Against, GD = Goal Difference, P = Points

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South sees red as Hume unite

Second placed giants South Melbourne went down to fourth placed Hume City FC in spectacular fashion on Sunday at Broadmeadows Valley Park (John Ilhan Reserve). The Alanic Victorian Premier League match of the round ended in a 5-0 hammering, with South handed two red cards to compound their woes.

The Hellas fans were out in force and creating plenty of noise but it wasn't long before they were quietened with a magnificent strike from Hume United striker Richie Cardozo to put the home side in front on 15 minutes.

The next few minutes were evenly balanced before an off the ball incident saw VPL top scorer Jessi Krncevic was shown a straight red for an alleged elbow to the face of Hume stopper Adam Nakic that had the Hume players fuming and Nakic leaving the field holding his face.

South Melbourne battled gallantly until the 37th minute when prize signing Ljubo Milicevic was also shown a straight red card by VPL referee of the year Shaun Evans.

Evans was left with no alternative after Milicevic raised a high boot which caught the Hume player flush on the cheek.

Milicevic can count himself unlucky as there was no malice in the tackle and he was purely beaten for pace. Despite this red card was justified, leaving South Melbourne down to nine men with over a half of the match remaining.

The ensuing free kick was taken by Serdar Pir and after a goalmouth scramble Fabio Dilizia put Hume two goals up leaving South with a mountain to climb.

The second half was as you would expect with eleven vs nine. Hume controlled possession led by captain coach Andy Vlahos.

Vlahos was instrumental in the lead up play for Hume's third goal in the 48th minute with Steven Weir finding space behind South's defense to slot it home.

Weir again scored in the 65th minute easily getting through a tired South defense to put Hume four goals the good.

Richard Cardozo got his brace in the 85th minute to cap off a stunning victory that went part of the way to redeeming the 6-0 loss in the corresponding fixture last season.


In other games on Sunday third placed Oakliegh Cannons defeated Richmond 2-0 at Kevin Bartlett Reserve to keep the gap between themselves and top placed Dandenong Thunder to four points

St Albans were robbed of their first win of the season with Ryan Filipovic scoring three minutes into added time for Melbourne Knights to keep them six points clear of relegatio.

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WA 'All Flags' State League: Round Eight

ECU Joondalup and Mandurah United played out a hugely disappointing goalless draw at ECU Joondalup Stadium A on Saturday afternoon. It was a match of few chances, notable perhaps only for ECU managing to keep their discipline for a week after a series of red cards. Neither side did enough to warrant three points, although Mandurah did have serious claims for a penalty waved away in the 86th minute.


Bayswater City finally got back to winning ways after a disappointing few weeks, putting Sorrento FC to the sword at Frank Drago reserve. David Foster put Sorrento ahead in the first minute, and it looked like being a good afternoon for the visitors. That was until Gustavo Marulanda equalised for Bayswater with a brilliant solo goal. Gavin Knight put the home side ahead, before second half goals for Alex Caniglia and Larry Miller made sure of the points.

Inglewood United thrashed Stirling Lions 5-1 at 6PR Stadium to get their season back on track after a couple of disappointing results. It was a dull first half, but whatever was said in the dressing room at half time seemed to do the trick as both teams came out firing. Phil O’Callaghan put Stirling ahead in the 49th minute, before the Inglewood goal blitz which saw them score five times in just over thirty minutes. Rory Grant kicked things off. Then the impressive Ndumba Makeche joined in on the action. James Summut added Inglewood’s third, then Makeche scored again. Ryan Clarke added the gloss to the scoreline deep into stoppage time.

Balcatta SC overcame brave Cockburn City by two goals to one at Dalmatinic Park to maintain their impressive run. Stephen Burton gave Balcatta the lead in the seventh minute and it looked to be business as usual for the rampant league leaders. They were unable to extend their lead before the end of the half, and it came back to bite them when Johnny Mirco brought Cockburn level in the 53rd minute. Jason Barrera scored what proved to be the winner for Balcatta in the 81st minute, a result that sees them extend their lead at the top of the table, with Western Knights having a bye.



Perth SC thumped Floreat Athena 4-1 on Sunday afternoon at Litis Stadium. The home side were behind as early as the fourth minute, when Trent Kay headed home from a corner. Floreat put Perth on the back foot for large spells afterwards, but were unable to find the breakthrough. Jason Dos Santos added a second for Perth before half time following a devastating counter attack and a dubious offside call. Floreat pulled one back after a dreadful backpass put Jarrad Smith clean through, but Perth restored their two goal cushion thanks to David Onoforo. Perth added a wonderful fourth, Vlad Naumovski finishing off a flowing move. 4-1 it finished, an emphatic result which piles the pressure on bottom of the table Athena.



Armadale proved too strong for NTC at Alfred Skeet Oval on Saturday. Tom Robinson scored twice either side of a Craig Young strike to give Armadale a 3-0 lead before Nick Ambrogio pulled one back for NTC. Paul Lloyd wrapped it up for Armadale in the 67th minute, meaning NTC are yet to record a win. NTC games are not contested for points, therefore their results are not included on the table.

That Was A Goal is a Western Australia based podcast and website. Over the WA 'All Flags' State League season The Football Sack in conjunction with That Was A Goal will provide a weekly review of the round that was.

P.	Team	Matches								Pts.
1.	Balcatta	8								21
2.	Western Knights	6								14
3.	Perth	6								13
4.	Bayswater City	8								11
5.	ECU Joondalup	8								11
6.	Inglewood United	6								9
7.	Mandurah City	8								8
8.	Stirling Lions	8								8
9.	Armadale	6								7
10.	Sorrento	6								7
11.	Cockburn City	6								4
12.	Floreat Athena	6								2

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Queensland Academy of Sport thrash Bundaberg Spirit

QAS continued their good form from last week to post their second win of the season, beating Bundaberg 5-0 on Sunday afternoon.

The win sees Academy reach the fourth spot on the QSL ladder.

Despite the convincing 5-0 victory, QAS coach Darren Davies said the score could have been even better.

“Realistically with the chances that we had, we should’ve actually scored more goals. I’ve said to the boys now that we’ll work on our finishing again this week,

“I’m happy winning at home, I’m happy with three points on the board, I’m happy, very happy, to be in the top four over Easter,” Davies said.

From start to finish QAS looked the more professional side.

Displaying immense improvement from two weeks ago, when they last played at Meakin Park, Academy were composed in possession, desperate in defence and relentless in attack.

Up the right wing, Alistair Quinn was setting up several chances, with accurate crosses only narrowly missed by the forwards in the square.

So it was no surprise that Quinn set up the first goal in the 11th minute, delivering a pin-point cross to a sliding Elliot Ronto who put away goal number one for Academy.

QAS were putting on all the pressure up front, while Bundaberg could only manage half-chances.

Nevertheless trailing at 1-0, Bundaberg were desperately trying to put something together by trying to maintain possession, but were nowhere near as controlled in possession as QAS.

Just before the half QAS notched up two quick-fire goals in the 41st and 43rd minute respectively.

Jacob McLean weaved his way down the left, into the box, and appeared to have spent too long with the ball, but kept his composure to pass it off to Quinn who was waiting to put it easily in the back of the net.

Elliot Ronto then backed up for his second goal of the day, pouncing on a cross from the pacey Brandon Borello on the left wing. QAS 3-0.

Bundaberg would have to come up with something special to come back from the three goal deficit after the half.

But they looked tired in defence, and weren’t putting any pressure at all, on Academy’s players.

Spirit’s Laurie Stephenson tried in vain for a miracle goal from way out. From the edge of the goal square, his curling penalty kick only just missed left of the goal. So close, yet so far.

A handful of opportunities for Bundaberg followed, but somehow, Academy’s scrambling defence held strong.

Spirit looked uncertain in attack, despite the midfield’s constant effort to move it up into the QAS half by launching it deep.

Then in the 81st minute when substitute striker Kwame Yeboah found space to knock in QAS’ fourth goal, the game was most certainly over.

Though just like last week’s defeat to Brisbane Strikers, the Spirit didn’t give up, and kept attempting that elusive goal. Commins Menapi’s work down the left led to a cross which was almost put away moments later, but the QAS defence and on-song ‘keeper Matthew Acton, ensured they didn’t concede.

Brandon Borello then sealed a masterful win for Academy in the dying minutes. Left unmarked he was able to score a soft header to make the final score 5-0 for Academy.

With a hard-fought loss last week, going down to ten men for most of the match, the Bundaberg players appeared tired and were struggling to keep up with Academy. Bundaberg coach Tony Roebuck, tried to explain why,

“We’ve been working hard at training and we’ve had some tough games and the travel always makes it tough as well. But I don’t want to make any excuses,” he said.

“We had a few opportunities there but it’s a game of chances, and if you don’t take your chances it makes it very difficult.”

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