Special Notice ECU Joondalup SC

Notice of Annual General Meeting

To be held on Wednesday November 5th 2008

At the ECU cafe

7.00pm start

23.10.08 - Young wins the ECU top award

The 2008 season for ECU Joondalup came to an end with the clubs award night on Saturday night at Aqua at Hillary’s.

Midfield general Craig Young won the top award as the Coaches ‘Player of the Year.” The Scottish import had an outstanding season and was a worthy winner. Defender Craig Simpson won the www.ecujoondalup.com.au Players’ Player of the Year. It was a remarkable win for Simpson who missed the final five rounds of the season due to study commitments in the United States.

While 15 regular season goals netted team captain Ian McMurray his second Leading Goalscorer trophy in as many years.

Former State junior representative Shane Doyle was voted the www.ecujoondalup.com.au Players’ Player of the Year at reserve team level. The Coaches Player of the Year was awarded to John Walmsley, while Carlo Coelho’s 8 goals in home and away competition earned him the Leading Goalscorer. Max Pope went home with the under-18 www.ecujoondalup.com.au Players’ Player of the Year and Leading Goalscorer awards. The Coaches Player of the Year was won by Jake Benson-Cooper.

03.10.08 - A successful season for ECU Juniors

It’s been a fantastic season for our academy teams in 2008. The Under 17 girls (below) were the most successful team in the club with three trophies. They added the Cup to their League championship and Top four winners, congratulations to Adrian Kenny and the girls.

The under 15 boys lost their top 4 semi final to Perth, but they faced an uphill battle with several players unavailable through injury. They only had eight fit players on the park at the final whistle and the boys should be congratulated on their efforts.

The Under 13 team had the biggest battle as they faced the loss of several players halfway through the season. They were then thrown out of the cup for playing an ineligible player despite FW first granting permission to both one player in the under 13 and one player in the under 14. Added to this they were docked five points in the League.

Despite all this they managed to achieve a Top 4 place. It was a magnificent achievement from the coach and players.

The Under 14 team finally finished 5th after a great start to the season and missed the top four by a point. The under 10’s, 11’s and 12’s development squads all had successful seasons. Well done to everyone involved!!!!!!

All the teams will be participating in the Bunbury Carnival (Oct 11 and 12), we hope they have a successful and enjoyable weekend.

ECU Joondalup Soccer Club Junior trials

The ECU Joondalup Soccer Club Junior trials for the 2009 season will commence on Monday 20th October and will continue until all teams have selected their squads. There is 1 team per age group

All trials will commence at 5.00pm at ECU Joondalup Soccer Club, Edith Cowen University Arena.

Please be there from 4.30pm onwards and ensure you have registered once only - Please bring water bottle.

All players to wear full kit, football boots and shin guards

Monday 20th October U10 and U11

Tuesday 21st October U12 and U13

Wednesday 22nd October U14 and U15

The under 17 girls will be joining the senior leagues next year and trials will take place in January.

ECU Joondalup Junior academy Coaches for 2009.

The junior coaches have been appointed for the 2009 season and the line up is as follows

U10 Gavin Brown - U11 Ross Kelly - U12 John Brown - Junior co-ordinator John Brown

U13 John Higgins - U14 Frank/Matt Donlevy - U15 Andy Purcell - Senior Co-ordinator John Higgins

Senior Presentation

It’s been a long and tough season for the ECU seniors and there will be a chance for them to let their hair down when the senior presentation for U18/U23 and 1st team takes place at AQWA Hillarys on Saturday 18th October 2008.

Tickets are $60 per head and payment is at the door but places must be booked.

All are welcome. Please contact Syd to confirm your tickets 0410486160

7.00pm for pre dinner drinks with 7.30pm for welcome speech

Junior Presentation

The junior season wraps up with the junior presentation on Sunday 19th October at the ECU Function centre from 3.00pm

Food and drink will be provided for all players.

This function is for all players from U10 to U17 Girls

The Licensed bar will be open and all parents are invited to attend

ECU Joondalup Soccer Club AGM

The ECU Joondalup Soccer Club AGM will be held on Wednesday 5th November at 7.00pm in the ECU café. All parents are welcome.

All senior roles are available for re selection or renewal as 2 year term has been served

• President

• Secretary

• Treasurer

There are positions available on the committee for positive and forward thinking people.

We are also looking for people to fill vacancies in the following areas

• Kitchen help

• Senior Match day security

• Media correspondence

• Match day reporters

• Sponsorship team

• Fundraising team

21.09.08 - ECU end season with a 1-3 home defeat against Athena

ECU Joondalup 1 Floreat Athena 3

Two late goals have helped Floreat Athena to secure a 3-1 victory over ECU Joondalup in their final round clash at ECU Arena. With the game seemingly headed for a draw, Floreat’s late show allowed them to finish off the season with three points and second place on the table.

The opening 15 minutes of the game was a scrappy affair with both sides trying to exert their authority on the encounter. After that initial period Athena had the first chance in the 14th minute but Dean Apelgren could only fire his shot over after a good run from midfield.

Joondalup countered with their first chance, as Martin Ashworth fed Scott Blackmore a beautiful pass but the latter could only fire straight at Vas Vujacic in the Floreat goal.

In the 26th minute Miki Vujacic delivered what looked to be a harmless corner, before the breeze got a hold of the ball and surprised Chris McCrone in the Joondalup goal who was forced to make a quick reaction save and turn the ball over the bar.

Floreat were to get their breakthrough on the stroke of half time as John Migas gathered on the edge of the box and fired a clever low shot past McCrone.

The opening 10 minutes of the second half saw both sides come out of the blocks firing. Scott Bushby won possession in midfield and played in Tommy Jones who could only fire his shot over the bar.

On the opposing side Apelgren was instrumental for Floreat and he began a brilliant team move which saw Daniel Niederberger play a brilliant ball through to Miki Vujacic who failed to finish a fantastic move.

It was ECU though who got the inevitable goal after a fantastic strike from skipper Ian McMurray. He found himself in a paddock and a fantastic strike from 25 yards flew past Vujacic mujch to the delight of the home faithful.

Floreat took control of the match for the last 20 minutes to seal their win. Apelgren deserved a goal for his endeavour throughout the game, and after more good lead up play he curled a left foot shot from the edge of the box inches over the bar.

In the 76th minute Floreat got their lead back with Jovo Pavlovic firing a left foot volley past McCrone from right on the penalty spot after a great cross from Migas on the left.

Insurralde looked lively after coming on as a substitute and got his reward in the 85th minute, gathering the ball and somehow finding a way past the Joondalup defence before slotting home the sealer.

The goal capped a magnificent last 20 minutes for Athena and was an appropriate way to finish off another fantastic season.

ECU Joondalup: C. McCrone, T. Nicholson, S. Blackmore, M, Ashworth, D. Broxton, J. Walmsley, C. Cheeseman, I. McMurray, J. Thornley, S. Bushby, A. Taggart, T. Jones - Subs Not Used: C. Coelho, J. Benson Cooper, Smith

19.09.08 - ECU announce new Coach for 2009

The ECU Joondalup committee would like to announce they have appointed former Perth Glory Coach Alan Vest as their Coach for 2009.

ECU President Steve Amphlett is delighted to have secured the services of Vest. “We had a number of applications for the position but Alan’s CV shone out. He brings a vast amount of experience which will be invaluable for us especially with the young talented coming up through the club,” said Amphlett.

For Vest he is looking forward to hopefully turn the clubs fortunes around. “I’m really looking forward to the challenge. I’ve watched them a few times and earlier in the season they were the best team in the league and they played some good football. In the recent games I’ve watched against Sorrento and Inglewood they were in the game for long periods of the game and were unlucky to lose.

“If we can hang on to most of the players and bring a few more during the off-season it looks quite promising for Willie McNally and I,” said Vest.

One reason why he joined the club was the involvement of McNally and he also hopes to tap into the excellent youth policy at the club. “It was one of the reasons why I decided to take the job here. I thought Willie did an excellent job early this season but it’s fantastic for him to work at the Glory. I’ve known Willie a long time; in fact he was in my state side in Adelaide 20-years ago.

“I’ve heard a great deal about the youth development at the club, and I know a couple of people who have been involved and they tell me it’s been a great success, we hope a few of them can filter though to the senior sides next season,” added Vest.

ECU skipper Ian McMurray was delighted with the appointment. “I don’t know him personally but everyone tells me he’s a great Coach and his experience in the game is second to none, his signing is a major boast to the club, especially after our poor season,” said McMurray.

Vest first coached in the UK at Southern Rugby Town in the 1960's and then Rochdale United. It was in Australia where Vest made his mark with the Yorkshire-man coaching NSL teams West Adelaide and Newcastle KB United when they were at their peak in the 1970's.

After stints in New Zealand and in Asia, with Sarawak and Geylang United Vest returning to Australia and became the assistant Coach to Mich d'Avray at the Glory from 2001 -2004, and he was also assistant to Steve McMahan in 2005. He took over the head coaching reins when McMahan was sacked in 2005 and coached in a caretaker capacity for the season.

He was overlooked for the job when the Glory appointed Ron Smith and he decided to leave the club. He had a stint in the Football West Premier League when he coached at Inglewood United in 2006.

Vest had a notable playing career, in which he played for New Zealand 17 times scoring six goals and captained the team from 1971 - 1974.

ECU host Floreat Athena in round 22

The season comes to an end tomorrow for ECU Joondalup at the Edith Cowen University Arena when they host Floreat Athena in the Football West Premier League (3pm)

It will be good for morale if ECU can repeat their Cup victory against Athena in the second round. On that occasion Ian McMurray (left) scored from the spot and he hopes for a victory. “We hope to finish the season off on a high; it’s been a pretty disappointing season for us. We did beat them in the cup but it was a tight game and I was luckily enough to score the winner the same tomorrow would be nice,” said McMurray.

“It’s the last game of the season and they are looking to sew up second place on the table and were looking for some pride and get three more points on the board. It will be tough game and we’ve a few players missing and doubtful for tomorrow so it will be backs against the wall stuff from the side. We’ve got Garin Collins and Craig Young suspended, and injury clouds over another five. It will give Willie a chance to look at some of the young lads at the club and see how they go in the senior side,” added McMurray.

Athena are coming off a 3-1 win against Perth SC last week and three points will give them the runners up spot on the table. Michael Roki has a full squad to choose from with Brad Scott and Daniel Neiderberger both in good scoring touch while Paul Vatistas Dean Aplegren and Raphael Insurralde hacve worked hard in the middle of the park. Former Perth Glory defender Ante Kovacevic and John Migas hold’s the back four tight with Vas Vujacic in great from in goal.

It should be a great game get along and support ECU. The 18’s kick off at 11am, the 23’s at 1pm and the first team at 3pm. Admission is $8 adults and $6 concessions. Under 15’s are admitted free.

Last time we met Athena at the ECU Arena

ECU Joondalup 2 Floreat Athena 2 - Football West Premier League Round 12 - 2007

The last time we met Floreat Athena in the league at the ECU arena, two goals in the last ten minutes earned E.C.U. Joondalup a 2-2 with Premier League leader Athena and preserved their unbeaten home record. It took Floreat only nine minutes to claim the lead of a high intensity game through Branimir Mikulic who fired in from 11-metres after Josip Magdic flicked on a long throw-in.

Joondalup's first opening came about through a Tommy Amphlett through ball which Ian McMurray guided past oncoming goalkeeper Alex Dunn but sliced wide from a narrowing angle. A needless foul by David Abel on Boima Karpeh opened the door for John Migas to curl a delightful free-kick in from 23-metres and strengthen the visitors hold on proceedings in the 25th minute.

Karpeh almost added to a third to the tally by meeting a superb Madgic cross which he nodded high from five-metres. Joondalup weren't to be outdone and having spotted Dunn off his line McMurray's speculative shot from distance drifted over the 'keeper and agonizingly wide of the upright.

The introduction of Mark Lee (right) at the break breathed new life into the home team who desperately sought to reduce the deficit. A curling shot from outside the area by Marc Anthony found the top netting, and McMurray's glancing effort beat Dunn but not the defender camped on the line. Dunn tipped away Jon Higgins' cross from under the crossbar, and from the resulting corner neither Howard Fondyke nor McMurray could find a way through a crowded goalmouth.

With six minutes remaining Fondyke fed the ball to Craig Young who beat the offside trap and slotting under the advancing 'keeper. The game was levelled two minutes later when Lee rolled the ball across the top of the area to substitute Steve Baines whose first time strike flew over Dunn and under the bar much to the relief of the Joondalup supporters. Higgins almost snatched a dramatic winner when he shimmied past two opponents to go inside the area where he poked narrowly wide under pressure.

14.09.08 - Blackmore’s late strike earns ECU a point at Cockburn

Cockburn 4 ECU 4

A goal two minutes from time earned ECU a point in a 4-4 draw at Dalmatinac Park against Cockburn City in round 21 of the Football West Premier League on Saturday. It was an even first half but the home side went ahead when Aaron dos Santos scored in the 44th minute. ECU were back in the game in 50th minute when Tommy Amphlett crossed for Garin Collins to score the equalizer with a strike from just inside the penalty box.

The home side took control of the game with two goals in three minutes. First Josh Kamasz made it 2-1 in the 53rd minute and Johnny Mirco made it three in the 56th to give the Cockerels the upper hand. The ECU side showed great character to fight back. First Amphlett received a great through ball from Ian McMurray and ran on to push the ball past Neil Feely to make it 3-2 and then on 62 minutes skipper Ian McMurray levelled after good work by Young and Walmsley.

The home side hit the front again in the 78th minute through Liam Lilly, but with time running out up popped Scott Blackmore to score the well deserved equaliser for Willie McNally's side, with a scrambled effort from Amphlett’s corner Both sides defended desperately at times in hugely and well contested entertaining game. ECU played youngsters Tommy Nicholson and John Walmsley at right andl eft back respectively Kamasz was influential for Cockburn until he got injured.

Teams: Cockburn City – GK Feely, Godfrey, Underwood, Surjan (Palemo), D. de Felice, Natale, Lilly, J. Mirco, dos santos, Kamasz (de Bartelo), Findlater (M. de Felice)- Subs not used: Gibson, McDonald

ECU Joondalup – GK Karoma, Broxton, Blackmore, Nicholson, Young, Bushby, Walmsley, Higgins (Smith), Collins, McMurray, Amphlett - Subs not used: Mitrevski, Thronley, Benson-Cooper, Coelho

Referee – Michael Nugus

12.09.08 - ECU looks to end season on a high at Cockburn

ECU head South on Saturday when they take on Cockburn City in round 21 of the Football West Premier League at Dalmatinac Park (3pm) Last weeks performance against league leaders Sorrento was a huge improvement and they will look to continue this against the Cockerels.

Willie McNally (right) takes the reins again for the clash and he wants the side to finish the season off with two good performances. “We hope to continue from last week where we showed great character against Sorrento. Our last two games give’s us a chance to move up the table and finish the season on a high,” said McNally.

“We’ve played really well in the last two weeks against sides in the top four and probably with a bit of luck could have beaten both, but when your struggling things don’t go your way, it’s about time we had a bit of luck and I hope it starts tomorrow,” added McNally.

In team news for Saturday’s game youngsters Carlo Coelho, Tommy Nicholson, Benson Cooper and John Walmsley have been added to the squad, while Martyn Ashworth is available again after injury.

Cockburn are coming off a 1-4 thrashing at Perth last week and haven’t won in nine matches, but with Michael and Johnny Mirco in the side they can be dangerous. Aaron dos Santos and Dominic de Felice have worked hard in the middle of the park while Liam Lilly and Jason Godfrey are hard to break down at the back. Mirko Jeilcic will want to end their home season with a win, so it should be a great encounter.

Get along and support ECU, under 18’s kick off at 11am, under23’s at 1pm and the first team at 3pm. Admission is $8 adults, $6 concessions and under 5’s are admitted free

Last time we met the Cockerels at Dalmatinac Park

Cockburn City 3 ECU 2 - Round 2 - 21.04.07

The last time we met Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park the home side maintained their perfect start to the season with three second half goal to see off E.C.U. 3-2. By adopting a very defensive formation for the opening exchanges Joondalup were able to soak up the early pressure and stifle their host’s creativity in the final third of the park.

Livewire pair Johnny Mirco and Jason Dos Santos looked dangerous whenever they had the ball at their feet but were restricted to shot from long-range. Ian McMurray was unlucky not to put the visitors ahead when he wriggled past Shane Nunes and unleashed a powerful shot which forced Dino Pacella into a fine diving save.

Craig Young and Marc Anthony were exploiting the space between midfield and defence as Joondalup switched their focus to attack midway through the half. The pay off arrived on 38 minutes when McMurray laid the ball off to Anthony whose fierce drive from just outside the 18-yard box flashed into Pacella's net.

The roles were reversed after the break as Cockburn hit three unanswered goals to swing the game in their favour. After exchanging passes with Michael Mirco, Jason Dos Santos charged into attack to unleash a powerful, low shot which crept under goalkeeper Andy Petterson with 52 minutes gone.

Josh Kamasz made the most of space afforded to him by swivelling on the spot and netting from 7-metres following a Johnny Mirco corner. Cockburn's comeback was complete on 73 minutes when Dean Wallace fed a pass to Johnny Mirco who expertly side-stepped his marker before stroking in the hosts third of the afternoon.

Young was rewarded for a tireless performance in the 85th minute when he volleyed Martin Ashworth's cross under Pacella to set up a tense finish. Anthony Jones went within inches of snatching a dramatic equaliser by heading Mark Lee's free-kick just over the crossbar.

League leaders pushed all the way by ECU

ECU Joondalup 2 Sorrento 3

ECU pushed league leaders Sorrento all the way, but the Gulls closed in on their second Premier League crown in three years with a 3-2 victory. Todd Harnwell scored twice from the penalty spot to take his season tally to twenty-two goals and move the Gulls to within three points of top honours.

Both teams struggled to make an impression during the opening exchanges leading to very few goal-scoring opportunities. Tommy Amphlett's (right) rising shot from the edge of the 18-yard box just before the half hour sparked the game into life. Scott Blackmore got himself between Harnwell and the goal soon after, and just a few minutes more passed before the Gulls striker shot powerfully but too close to goalkeeper Bobson Koroma.

Ian McMurray should have put the visitors ahead three minutes from half-time but fired straight at Neil Young from the spot following a foul on Amphlett. It took only a minute for McMurray to make amends by clipping over Young and under the bar after being found in space by livewire Amphlett from 14-metres.

But the sides went into the break level thanks to Harnwell who confidently stroked past Koroma from the spot after Garin Collins (left) was deemed to have handled a Lewis Flatt shot. Sorrento added a second two minutes into the second half when Scott Neville's shot deflected off Darren Broxton to Steve McDonald, who was afforded plenty of time and space to pick his spot in the net at close-range.

The game looked to be over as a contest when Harnwell put away his second from the spot after 55 minutes following a foul on Brodie Martin by Craig Young. However, Joondalup had other ideas and after a flying run down the right Amphlett delivered a cross which Neil Young pushed into the path of Collins whose sweet finish was into the top corner.

Joondalup were close on several occasions to drawing level in the final half hour but were unable to find a way past the 'keeper for a third time.

ECU: GK B. Koroma, S. Blackmore, J. Higgins, D. Broxton, G. Collins, C. Young, I. McMurray, T. Jones (J. Thornley), T. Amphlett, T. Nicholson (C. Cheeseman), S. Bushby - Subs Not Used: J. Walmsley, J. Benson Cooper.

Bookings: S. Blackmore 14’, D. Broxton 78’

Sorrento: GK N. Young, S. Neville, S. Kilkelly, D. Cain, S. Banks, L. Flatt, B. Martin, G. Thomas (R. Vittiglia), T. Harnwell, S. Montgomery, S. McDonald - Subs Not Used: T. Ross, R. O’Connell, D. Gurovski, J. Trpevski

Bookings: D. Cain 56’

Referee: Troy Miller

Football West - STREET FOURZ Tournament

Following the success of last years tournament, Football West along with Kelme and Fuel Creative will be staging another exciting STREET tournament during the October school holidays.

The STREET tournament will allow players to express themselves and play fast paced, attacking football in a fun and structured environment.

Points will be awarded for skills, sportsmanship and teamwork, as well as the number of goals scored by each team. Music will also play a role with the sounds of Hip Hop and Brazilian Samba taking the game back to the street.

The tournament will run on the following days at Lords Sports Club, 588 Hay Street in Subiaco.

Tuesday 7th October

Under 9 yrs: 8.30am-12.00pm

Under 10yrs: 12.30pm-4.00pm

Wednesday 8th October

Under 11yrs: 8.30am-12.00pm

Under 12yrs: 12.30pm – 4.00pm

Thursday 9th October

Under 13 yrs: 8.30am-12.00pm

Under 14 yrs: 12.30pm – 4.00pm

Friday 10th October

Under 15 yrs: 8.30am-12.00pm

Under 16yrs: 12.30pm – 4.00pm

Players and/or Coaches can register their team at a cost of $150.00, which can be made up of a group of six for the tournament (only 4 players on the court), which is set to dazzle all who watch with skills and plenty of show-time action.

To register teams please go to www.footballwest.com.au and fill in the registration form and send it back to me as soon as possible. Only 4 players are allowed on the court but you can have 6 players in your squad.

If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me

See you all at the STREET!

Mark Lee

Youth Development Officer

Football West

Tel - 9422 6900

Mob - 0410 484 423

mark.lee@footballwest.com.au

06.09.08 - ECU push league leaders all the way

ECU pushed league leaders Sorrento all the way before eventually going down 2-3 in the round 20 Football West Premier League clash at the ECU University Arena.

ECU hit the front on 44 minutes through Ian McMurray, but the Gulls hit back instantly and Todd Harnwell scored before half time and the Gulls then hit the font two minutes into the second half through Steven McDonald.

It was 3-1 when Harnwell scored his 21 st goal of the season on 55 minutes, but Garin Collins (left) pulled one back for ECU on the hour but the Gulls hung on for the three points. (Full report later)

In other games David Tough’s 23’s ran out 2-0 winners against Sorrento, while Willie Herd’s 18’s drew 2-2 with Sorrento.

05.09.08 - ECU host league leaders in round 20

ECU Joondalup entertain league Leaders Sorrento in round 20 of the Football West Premier League on Saturday at the ECU University Arena (3pm)

It’s been a difficult time for all concerned at the Arena and a win against the league leaders could give the season a big lift and with it being a local derby they could have a big say in the title race this season.

Skipper Ian McMurray (left) is looking forward to the big clash. “It’s a big game for us on Saturday and it’s a big game for our supporters with it being a local derby. We have four hard games remaining, three of which are against top four teams. If we play to our ability and win we could still potentially have a big say in who are champions but more importantly would let us climb the ladder and finish our season on a high,” said McMurray.

The striker also said that the club had had a horrid run of injuries, suspensions and players going overseas, but he said it’s not an excuse. “Yes we have had players away, injuries and suspensions but so has every other team. At the moment we aren't playing well and confidence is low, but the team are working hard in training and who knows, with a little bit of luck on Saturday it could lift us and get us back on track,” explained McMurray.

ECU is at full strength this week and will want to put one over their neighbours. Sorrento has the advantage in the title race and it’s in there own hands. They lead the league by one point from Floreat Athena and Steve Neville’s side will be looking for the points on Saturday and ECU could put a spanner in the works. James Morgan and Michael Ord miss the clash due to suspension. Neil Young has been in fine form this season in goal while Shaun Kilkelly has been solid. In midfield youngsters Lewis Flatt and Scott Neville have been outstanding while up front Todd Harnwell and former ECU player Stuart Montgomery will need to be watched closely.

Get along and support ECU, Willie Herd’s under 18’s kick off at 11am, David Tough’s 23’s at 1pm and the first team at 3pm. Admission at the ECU Arena is $8 adults, $6 concessions and under 15’s are admitted free.

ECU Coach not offered a contract for 2009

The ECU Joondalup committee have decided that first team Chris Nicholson (right) will not be offered a new contract for the 2009 Football West Premier League season. Nicholson will see out the season at the Arena and the club will advertise for a new coach in the summer.

ECU president Syd Amphlett said it was a tough decision but one that had to be made. “Chris has worked hard this season for us and we’re really grateful for his contributions, but we’ve decided to go another way next year,” said Amphlett.

Nicholson was given the first team job after the club’s Coach Willie McNally was appointed as an assistant Coach at the Glory and Amphlett believes he was probably given the job too early. “Chris was there when we lost Willie and he worked really hard and he wasn’t helped by players going overseas, major injuries and the inability to bring enough new players in to cope with the loss. I’d like to say Chris wasn’t sacked by the club but we’ve decided to go another way next season,” added Amphlett.

The club will be looking for a new Coach/Coaches for 2009 and any candidates can ring Syd Amphlett on 041 048 6160 for confidential chat.

The last time we met the Gulls at the Arena

ECU Joondalup 1 Sorrento 0 – Round Six – 30.06.07

The last time we met Sorrento at the Arena, we maintained our unbeaten home record for the season with a hard fought 1-0 win. The games' solitary goal arrived just before half-time through Marc Anthony, whose performance up front caused constant problems for the visiting defence.

A frantic opening saw some crunching tackles put in by players in both teams' colours to set the tone for what would be a bruising encounter. Goalkeepers Aleks Vrteski and Anthony Cochrane found themselves in the thick of the early action as shots on goal were traded. A great chance came the way of Mark Lee following a good exchange with Anthony but the midfielders shot was tipped over by Cochrane.

Joondalup eventually established control of proceedings with strike partners Anthony and Darren Quinncroft enjoying the service from midfield, and particularly Tom Amphlett wide on the right. Sorrento were unlucky not to go ahead midway through the half when a sensational free-kick from 30-metres by Gary Lynn cannoned off the upright.

The breakthrough came a minute from half-time when Anthony fired in at close-range after a neat exchange down the left between provider Lee and Martin Ashworth. A delightful chip by Anthony early in the second half slammed into the crossbar as the home side set about increasing their advantage. The warm conditions and pace of the game began to take its toll and genuine chances on goal became scarcer at both ends of the park.

With Scott Neville, Lewis Flatt and Brodie Martin in terrific form it was Sorrento which looked the more likely to find the net, however, their a well organised defence thwarted their best attempts. A late Gulls attack produced a goalmouth scramble in which Vrteski’s blushes were saved by the frame of the goal as James Morgan poked the ball into the upright.

ECU duo selected in State Squad

ECU duo Craig Young (right) and skipper Ian McMurray have been selected in the Western Australian Men’s State team, and Coach Robbie Dunn has selected a 32 man squad in preparation for the Stratco Cup clash against South Australia on October 11.

The squad will be trimmed before they are due to depart for Adelaide for the clash against the South Australian state team at Marsden Sports Complex in October.

Dunn has been delighted at the response from the players so far in making themselves available for selection.

“The players can now see that Football West are serious about the State team and have been brilliant in making themselves available” said Dunn.

“It is a great honour to play for your state and we had Scott Bulloch sign with the Perth Glory on the back of his performance for the state side against them in June”.

“I am confident that we will have our A-team available and primed for action come October 11 to knock off the ‘crow eaters’ and bring the Stratco Cup back to WA”.

ECU President Syd Amphlett was delighted for the players. “It’s always good news when players in your club are selected in representation games and I wish them good luck in the final selection. Both players have worked hard this season and have both been great contributors to the side, Ian has had the extra responsibility of leading the club as skipper and he has led by example,” said Amphlett.

Preliminary WA State Men’s Squad:

Andy Brown, Phil O’Callaghan (Mandurah City), Liam Lilley, Johnny Mirco, (Cockburn City), Callum Roberts, Jason Barrera (Fremantle Spirit), Luka Jukic, David Micevski (Western Knights), John Lund, Daryl Platten (Armadale), Aaron Cole, Damian Scali (Swan IC), Antonio Naglieri, Greg Sharland, Matt Danskin, David Onoforo, Gareth Deeg, Todd Howarth (Perth SC), Stuart Montgomery, Todd Harnwell, Neil Young (Sorrento), Ian McMurray, Craig Young (ECU Joondalup), Jason Colli, Shayne Pryce (Inglewood), Adam Bachillor, John Migas

ECU let it slip late at Inglewood

Inglewood United 3 ECU Joondalup 2

ECU Joondalup let a two goal half time lead slip as Inglewood United produced a memorable comeback to record a 3-2 win at Clipsal stadium on Saturday.

It all started so well for Chris Nicholson’s side that showed no respect from kick-off as they raced in attack and played entertaining one-touch football. Inglewood however, seemed lacklustre and uninspired as they struggled to keep up with the pace.

The constant ECU pressure paid off in the 39th minute when Ian McMurray took the ball to the by-line closely followed by two Inglewood defenders, and under pressure, the striker turned around and unleashed a fierce shot from an almost impossible angle that flew into the right corner of the net past a stunned Oliver Taseski

ECU didn’t stop there as Tommy Amphlett found himself alone with goalkeeper Taseski just before half time. Taseski stopped the first shot, but Amphlett got the ball back and crossed it into the penalty area where Garin Collins (right) was left unmarked and he finished clinically past Taseski to double ECU’s advantage at the break.

Inglewood came out as a completely different team in the second half, and after a couple of half-chances, they got their deserved goal in the 64th minute. Jamie Mitsopoulos hit a beautiful cross from the left wing and into the box, where Kevin Griffiths jumped high to head home.

The home side pressed forward looking for the equaliser but against the run of play Joondalup won a penalty when McMurray was fouled. The big striker picked himself up and took the spot kick himself, but put the ball outside the left post.

With time running out the home levelled in the 87th minute. A corner from James Sammut found Griffiths who scored his second of the day with another header.

It was a bitter blow for ECU but two minutes into stoppage time the home nicked all three points. Jason Colli’s pass from the right found Griffiths on a run through the middle. The striker stormed into the penalty area and put the ball past goalkeeper Bobson Karoma to complete his hat trick and make it 3-2.

The goal produced wild celebrations on the pitch and it was matched in the stands as the home-supporters celebrated the win in what was truly a great football match.

Inglewood coach Lee Bamber was understandably delighted with the win. “I wasn’t too happy at half time, so I told the boys to have a think about how they performed in the first half and how they could improve in the second.”

“We know we can play football. We know we can play with high intensity and beat any side in this league.

“And that’s what we did in the second half. It was a fantastic performance,” he said.

Teams - Inglewood United – GK O. Taseski, S. Pryce, D. Kovacevic, J. Colli, J. Sammut, A. Picker (M. Baczynski 71), J. Mitsopoulos (I. Griffiths 81), D. Whiteside, J. Duncan, K. Griffiths, D. Houston (M. Kovacevic 53). Subs not used – GK L. Italiano, M. Worton.

Bookings: A. Picker 66, K. Griffiths 90.

ECU Joondalup – GK B. Koroma, J. Higgins, D. Broxton, T. Jones (J. Thornley 73), S. Blackmore, I. McMurray, G. Collins, T. Amphlett, S. Bushby, T. Nicholson (M. Tebbutt 68), C. Young. Subs not used – GK C. McCrowe C. Cheeseman, R. Smith.

Bookings: B. Koroma 16, C. Young 82.

Referee – Michael Tolmie.

30.08.08 - ECU let it slip late at Inglewood

ECU Joondalup let a 2-0 half time lead slip to eventually lose 3-2 to Inglewood United in Saturday’s round 19 clash in the Football West Premier League at the Clipsal Stadium.

It had started well for Chris Nicholson’s side with Jon Higgins giving them the lead in the 39 th minute, and on the stroke of half time Garin Collins made it 2-0.

The home side hit back in the 64th minute when Kevin Griffiths scored, but with time running out it looked like ECU would hang on for a much needed victory, but Griffiths had other ideas. The striker levelled in the 87th minute and in a dramatic last minute scored the winner and his hat trick to give Inglewood the win. (Full report later)

In other games Willie Herd’s under 18’s run out 2-0 winners against Inglewood, while David Tough’s under 23’s drew 1-1 with Inglewood.

FOOTBALL WEST STATE LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION

Results – Saturday, 30 August 2008

First Team - Armadale 4(Oishi 16'40' Robinson 70'88') Swan IC 1 (OG 83'); Fremantle Spirit 2 (Rodgers 16' Kelly 52') Western Knights 4(Micevski 12'72' Jukic 57' Trim 85'); Inglewood United 3 (Griffiths 64'87'90')ECU Joondalup 2 (Higgins 39' Collins45'); Cockburn City 3 (Dos Santos 8'54' Godfrey 30') Floreat Athena 4 (Scott 37'71' Neiderburger 45' Insaurralde 76'); Sorrento  FC 2 (Kilkelly 27' Harnwell 40P')Perth SC 0; Stirling Lions 1(Anthony 42' ) Mandurah City 1(O'Callaghan 13').

Reserves - Armadale 0 Swan IC 3; Fremantle Spirit 2 Western Knights 0; Inglewood United 1 ECU Joondalup 1; Cockburn City 4 Floreat Athena 0; Sorrento FC 0 Perth SC 1; Stirling Lions 3 Mandurah City 3.

Under 18’s - Armadale 5 Swan IC 5; Fremantle Spirit 2 Western Knights 1; Inglewood United 0 ECU Joondalup 2; Cockburn City 1 Floreat Athena 2; Sorrento FC 1 Perth SC 2; Stirling Lions 9 Mandurah City 1.

29.08.08 - ECU will look for a spark at the Clipsal Stadium

ECU Joondalup head to the Clipsal Stadium on Saturday to take on Inglewood United in round 19 of the Football West Premier League (3pm)

It’s been a difficult two weeks for Coach Chris Nicholson with the cup loss and the home defeat against Stirling Lions despite taking an early lead. “I was actually dismayed at the way we didn't celebrate the goal really. We were well on top for 25 minutes and took the lead deservedly, but us scoring killed our own game, as though we couldn't believe in ourselves. It should have pushed us onto better things, but after that the players appeared to switch off, and every single mistake cost us. Saying that though we did have a number of chances ourselves, but their keeper made some terrific saves. You could sum up by saying we had maximum opportunity but seemingly minimum desire,” said Nicholson.

A trip to Inglewood United this weekend and Nicholson knows it will be a tough game. “Every Game we play is Tough, it has been proved this season there are no easy games in this league. At the moment our toughest opposition is ourselves, we have to go into our last four games with the same spirit as we did in our first four games to salvage any pride from this season,” added Nicholson.

In team news goalkeeper Bobson Karoma (left) returns after suspension, but Martin Ashworth and Jon Higgins are doubtful for the big clash. Thomas Nicholson, John Walmsley, Shane Doyle and Carlo Coelho have been added to the squad.

Inglewood United has been the big improvers this season and Lee Bamber’s side sits in fourth spot on the table. They had little to show for 90 minutes of hard graft last week and no doubt want to make amends to keep their quest for a top four placing on track. In goal Ollie Taseski has been in tremendous form while Shane Pryce and James Duncan have been solid at the back. Their attack is second to none with Jason Colli, James Sammut and Jamie Mitsopolous supplying plenty of ammunition to Mladen Kovacevic and Kevin Griffiths.

Get along and support ECU – The Under 18’s kick off at 11pm, the 23’s at 1pm and the first team at 3pm. Admission Prices are $8 adults $6 concessions and under 16’s are admitted free.

Last time we met Inglewood United at the Clipsal Stadium

Inglewood United 0 ECU Joondalup 5 - Round 6 2007

The last time we met Inglewood United at the Clipsal Stadium was in round six last season, when we ran out convincing 5-0 winners.

Both teams entered the game with similar starts to the season and eager for a victory that would kick start their campaign. From the first whistle it was Joondalup who stamped their authority on the game through a blend of attractive, attacking football and boundless energy. It therefore came as no surprise when the visitors took the lead on 21 minutes when Craig Young netted at close-range from Steve Beasley's cross from the left.

The closest Inglewood came to scoring was an Aaron Colli shot from 18-metres which Andy Petterson touched wide. Joondalup added another to their tally courtesy of a superb interchange between Marc Anthony and Mark Lee which unlocked the defence and Ian McMurray calmly finished from close-range.

The day got worse for Inglewood who had Shane Pryce red carded for a foul on Anthony after 35 minutes, and from the resulting free-kick Oliver Taseski prevented the margin from increasing with a superb fingertip save to deny Lee.

However, Joondalup were far from content with their position and shortly before half-time McMurray put away his second of the afternoon to put the visiting team three goals up. The story was much the same after the turnaround as Inglewood focused chiefly on defensive duties whereas Joondalup went in search of further goals.

On 85 minutes Martin Ashworth swung in a corner which Scott Blackmore sent into the net which to the delight of the travelling supporters. The scoring was completed two minutes later when poor defending allowed Dave Abel to slot in the games fifth goal. Inglewood’s fourth loss in six games leaves them rooted firmly in the bottom half of the table.

Skipper leads from the Front

ECU Joondalup have stuttered in recent weeks but one player who has given his all for the club is skipper Ian McMurray. The big Scotsman is the clubs top goal scorer with 12 goals and he is a little perplexed with ECU form slump in recent weeks. “With the start we had and the way we were playing, it looked as though we could be up there challenging for a top four finish.

“Then we hit a bad patch and our poor league form has ended up with us in the bottom four. Add to that the semi final loss to Western Knights, which was very disappointing as it was our only chance to get any silverware this season,” said McMurray.

The striker also said that the club had had a horrid run of injuries, suspension's and players going overseas, but he said it’s not an excuse. “Yes we have had players away, injuries and suspensions but so has every other team. At the moment we aren't playing well and confidence and morale is low, but the team are working hard in training and who knows, with a little bit of luck on Saturday it could lift us and get us back on track,” explained McMurray.

ECU could have a big bearing on who wins the league this season with games against Floreat Athena, Sorrento and Inglewood and McMurray hopes the players can finish the season off well to give the club a lift for next season. “We have four hard games remaining, three of which are against top four teams. If we play to our ability and win we could still potentially have a big say in who are champions but more importantly would let us climb the ladder and finish our season on a high,” explained McMurray.

McMurray arrived in Australia two years ago as a visa player after playing in Scotland for Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish first division, Linglithgow Rose and Fauldhouse United, in the Scottish Junior East League, and Dunnipace Juniors and Shotts Bon Accord FC in the Scottish Junior Central League. He hopes to one day make Australia his home and he should no more soon. “I’m still a visa player, but I’m in the process of becoming a resident and hopefully all being well this will be through early next year,” said the WA state striker.

He’s also stepped up to bolster the clubs coaching staff, and helps Chris Nicholson out when Willie McNally is away with the Glory. He liaises between the coaches and players, a role he’s enjoying and Nicholson believes he is a great leader. “Ian is as frustrated as all of us with recent results - but has showed his leadership on the park tremendously well. He has never lost his belief, nor shirked his responsibility, which sometimes he will be the first to admit has cost his game a little at times but he has skippered the side with integrity all season,” said Nicholson.

The 31-year-old was deservedly selected in the Football West senior state squad for games against the Glory and the Indonesian 23's and it was the highlight in his football career. “It was a fantastic honour to be selected for the state team which I thoroughly enjoyed and it has been one of the highlights of my soccer career.

“Playing against the Glory was great, the guys are full time professionals and it was a good challenge for me personally and as a team to see how we would perform and we won the game!

“Indonesia was amazing, we were treated like professionals. All the players got on well, the game was very hard, the conditions, temperature and surface were against us and although the result was bad for us I am sure everyone loved the experience representing the state,” said McMurray.

The season is coming to an end but it’s a busy time for the Scotsman with wedding bells on the agenda and his good performances will no doubt attach other clubs attentions for his services, but he is focused on the rest of the season and his marriage next year. “It’s a big year personally next year for me, in February I get married in Scotland to my fiancée, wee Kirsty, which will be very special.

“It is always flattering to hear that teams are interested in your services, but I am an ECU player at the moment and my main focus is collecting maximum points from our remaining games and scoring to add to my goal tally this season,” commented McMurray.

ECU 23’s beaten in cup semi-final

ECU Joondalup 1 Western Knights 1 (Knights win 4-3 on pens)

The ECU 23’s suffered the same fate as the senior side losing 3-4 on penalties in the under 23’s Soccer Pools Cup semi-final against Western Knights at Ashfield Reserve on Wednesday night after the score was locked at 1-1 at the end of normal time.

The Knights keeper Jakob Chudy, a former ECU player, was the hero in the penalty shootout has he saved two of the spot kicks to win it for the Nash Field side.

David Tough’s side opened well and were ahead early when Jarred Bracewell scored, while Anthony Fearon had a number of chances for the Knights but failed to convert. The Knights were back on level term just before the break, when Michael de Souza’s corner went straight into the net.

Bracewell went from hero to villain when he was sent off in the second half after in bazaar circumstances. The young striker was in on goal when he was fouled on the edge of the box by a Knights defender, Bracewell carried on and scored but the referee pulled the play back for the foul, and booked Bracewell for kicking the ball away. It was his second booking and he was sent off. Craig Cheeseman went close on two occasions for ECU and Billy Quinncroft hit the crossbar with a header.

It was back to 10v10 when Jack Rocchi was given his second yellow and sent off but both sides failed to convert their chances and it went to a penalty shoot out, where Chudy was outstanding in the Knights goal.

Tough was disappointed with the result but not the performance. “The lads were gutted after the game; it’s never nice to lose any game on a penalty shoot out. We played really well and if it wasn’t for some poor finishing and some excellent goalkeeping we would have won the game,” said Tough.

“The sending off was very harsh for Jarred, but we finished the game off really well, and if it had gone to extra time I think we would have probably won it, but that’s football,” added Tough

The Knights will now meet Football West's NTC Squad in the under 23’s Soccer Pools Cup Final.

25.08.08 - ECU let early lead slip

ECU Joondalup 1 Stirling Lions 4

It was a bad day all round for ECU Joondalup this weekend as the senior team followed their U18s and reserve side to go down to visitors Stirling Lions 1-4 in round 18 of the Football West Premier League at the ECU Arena.

On a lovely sunny day, a big crowd was on hand as the visitors kick-off and made a promising start and Phil Arnold close-range shot was saved by Joondalup keeper Chris McCrone.

Then on 11 minute Chris Rutherford shot was deflected wide after he latched onto a long throw by Arnold from the right.

The home side began to get into the game, and on 17 minutes they went ahead. A cross from John Walmsley found Tommy Amphlett (right) who fired home into the bottom left-hand corner of the net from the edge of the box.

Moments later Scott Bushby fired wide after good work from Garin Collins and Walmsley in the 21st minute and Craig Cheeseman failed to trouble Straker after a cut back from Joondalup captain Ian McMurray.

The Lions began to dominate the midfield with Steve Porter pulling the strings and Ludovic Boi causing problems down the flanks. Joondalup finally cracked in the 37th minute when Porter floated in a free-kick from the right which McCrone misjudged and the ball floated into the top corner.

Stirling ended the half the better and were ahead on the stroke of half time, Boi firing home a Porter corner into roof of the net.

With the second half was only minutes old, Straker had to be alert to punch away a header by Cheeseman who rose at the back post to meet a corner whipped in by Amphlett as ECU looked to get back into the game. Sixty seconds later though, it was the lions that increased their lead. Boi found Keith Clevenger who made no mistake in slotting the ball between McCrone's legs for his first season goal for the Lions..

Arnold fired just wide for the Lions in the 63rd minute after a clever back-heel by Jordan Rhodes while a minute later, Amphlett’s shot was saved well by Straker.

Joondalup's fate was sealed in the 70th minute as Rhodes put the final nail in the home side's coffin, lofting the ball over McCrone with his right boot after the ball scurried away from substitute Tommy Jones.

ECU pressed late and Martyn Asworth's 89th minute free-kick — needing just minimal contact — evaded every player in the box and McMurray also headed over, but it ended ECU Joondalup 1 Stirling Lions 4

Disappointed Joondalup first team coach Chris Nicholson said: "We got done with every mistake we made. There was just nothing about us and we played with no confidence after such a positive start. We can only try to get out of this rut and the lads have got four games to try and restore their pride."

Teams

ECU Joondalup: GK C. McCrone, A. Jones, J. Walmsely, S. Blackmore, C.Cheeseman, D. Broxton, G. Collins, C. Young, I. Murray, T. Amphlett, S. Bushby. - Subs: J. Thornley, T. Jones, J. Micro, M. Ashworth, D. Mitreviski

Stirling Lions: GK P. Straker, M. Pugliese, C. Harland, C. Rutherford, D. Evans, J. Rhodes, L. Boi, M. Anthony, S. Porter, P. Arnold, K. Cleavenger. - Subs: A. Brown, M. Bentley, D. Houston, M. Yimer, R. Filcamo.

Referee: Dave Currie

24.08.08 - ECU let early lead slip against the Lions

ECU was ahead on 17 minutes in Saturday’s round 18 Football West Premier League clash against Stirling Lions at the Arena, when Tommy Amphlett fired home from the edge of the box. But it went down hill from there with the Lions hitting back to lead 2-1 at the break with goals from Steve Porter and Ludovic Boi.

Further second half goals from Keith Clevenger and Jordan Rhodes gave the Lions a 4-1 win, Amphlett had a shot saved superbly by Lions keeper Phil Straker, and the Lions custodian again denied ECU when saved well from McMurray on two occasions. (Full report Later)

22.08.08 - ECU host the Lions in round 18

With the cup semi final defeat still fresh in their minds, ECU will look for three points when they entertain Stirling Lions in round 18 of the Football West Premier League clash at the ECU University Arena on Saturday. (3pm)

Coach Chris Nicholson said he was disappointed with the performance against the Knights in the cup defeat but he is looking ahead to the Lions game. “We can’t look back were now looking ahead to the Lions game and we must show some character and end the season with five good performances. We’ve had no luck this season and they say your luck does turn around over the season but I’m still waiting,” said Nicholson.

“The boys have to dig deep, yes I know they’re disappointed with the cup defeat but on Saturday it’s another game against a good Lions side and they will have to put 100% effort in. The players who have returned from overseas have struggled to pick up the pace straight away and losing John Higgins (left) early in the game against the Knights hurt us. But we can’t keep make excuses once they cross the white line it’s up to them and I’m confident we can start to show what we can really do in the last five games,” added Nicholson.

The Lions have also struggled this season without influential defenders Kevin Henderson and Darko Ilomanoski, but they have unearthed some very good young talent. Dean Evans, Ludovic Boi and former ECU player Phil Arnold to name but a few. Another former ECU player is Marc Anthony, who has been playing off the bench in recent weeks. Jordan Rhodes is a handful in the middle of the park while big striker Andy Brown is back in the side after a long lay off with injury. They will be without midfielder Alan Muir who is suspended.

The last time we meet Lions at the ECU Arena

ECU Joondalup 1 Stirling Lions 2 – Round 22 – 29.09.07

The last time we meet Lions at the ECU Arena the Lions dashed our hopes of completing the season without loss on home soil when they triumphed 2-1 in an entertaining game. All the early running came from Stirling as Captain Kevin Henderson headed high at close range from a long throw into the area.

Four minutes later Ludovic Boi’s shot was blocked by a defender, and Matt Italiano lashed the rebound wide of the upright. A neat lead-up in the 18th minute put the ball with Andy Brown whose scorching volley whistled past the post. The visitors got their just reward six minutes later when Andy Brown’s low centre made its’ way to Boi who was again thwarted by a defender, only this time the loose ball sat nicely for Leo Harman to slot into the net from seven-yards.

Ten minutes later Harman got past his marker with a sublime flick but faced with Andy Petterson he scooped the shot into the ‘keepers arms. The home side were struggling to assert themselves in attack but just moments from half-time, and completely against the run of play, they drew level courtesy of a searching cross field pass by Tommy Amphlett (right) which picked out Howard Fondyke who kept his nerve to lob the advancing ‘keeper.

The second period followed the already familiar pattern of the first with Phil Arnold blazing high, and Keith Brown volleying narrowly wide as Stirling displayed the greater desire. Keith Brown seemed to feature every time the visitors went forward and it was his dangerous corner that lead to a goalmouth scramble which Joondalup somehow managed to prevent from crossing the line before scrambling the ball to safety. Stirling got the goal they were when Steve Hesketh delivered a long throw in to Andy Brown whose glancing header beat Petterson and into the net.

21.08.08 - ECU beaten by the Knights in cup Semi Final

ECU Joondalup 0 Western Knights 2

ECU’s great cup run came to an end after a disappointing 0-2 loss against Western Knights in Wednesday Soccer pools Cup semi-final at the E&D Litis stadium. Second half goals from Rory Grant and Luka Jukic were enough for Ronnie Campbell’s side to reach the final where they will play Sorrento, who beat Hamersley Rovers 1-0 in the other semi-final.

ECU opened brightly and went close on five minutes, former Knights striker John Thornley’s shot was blocked by Kevin Miller, but they suffered a blow two minutes later when John Higgins limped off. Chris Nicholson’s side continued to dominate and another former Knight’s player Scott Bushby (left) fired over from 10-yards.

The Knights settled and their first opportunity came on 15 minutes, David Micevski’s free kick was dropped by keeper Chris McCrone, and Anthony Jones cleared the danger. Micevski was involved again moments later his low cross caused problems in the ECU defence, and Darren Broxton had to be alert to clear the danger.

It was a typical cup tie with both sides pressing, for the Knights David Annall’s header was cleared off the line by Anthony Jones (right), while Ian McMurray fired wide from the edge of the box for ECU but it was scoreless at the break.

The Knights made a perfect start to the second half and two minutes in they had the lead. A quick throw in by Daniel Trim caught the ECU defence napping, he found Grant down the left channel, and the striker finished clinically past McCrone.

They almost doubled their lead two minutes later, Anthony Skorich sent Grant clear again but McCrone was out quick to save. It was all the Knights and Grant was in again on 55 minutes but his shot from the angle flashed wide of the post.

ECU looked to get back in the game and Tommy Amphlett went close to equalising on the hour but his volley from 18-yards was tipped over the bar by Miller at full stretch. There were chances at both ends as Micevski long-range shot for the Knights was saved at the second attempt by McCrone, while Amphlett shot on the run for ECU was well saved by Miller.

It was the Northern suburbs club that were pressing and after a good one-two on the edge of the box between Craig Young and Perth Glory Youth trialist Amphlett opened up the Knights defence, Miller again denied the youngster.

With ECU on top it was against the run of play that the Knights doubled their lead on 74 minutes. Moments earlier George Tchami fired over from eight-yards, but after a foul on Skorich by Broxton on the edge of the box, Jukic curled his free kick around the wall and into the net to secure a 2-0 victory to the Knights.

Teams

Western Knights – GK Miller, Warmt-Murray, Mathers, Jukic, Annall, Ferguson, Tchami (Allen 84), Micevski, Grant (Peran 60), Skorich, Trim - Subs not used: Chudy, Cooke, Zuvela

Yellow Cards – Grant 42, Mathers 46

ECU Joondalup – GK McCrone, A.Jones, Broxton, Blackmore, Ashworth, Amphlett, Bushby, Young, Higgins (Walmsley 7) (T. Jones 75), McMurray, Thornley - Subs not used: Bowers, Mirco, C. Cheeseman

Yellow Cards – Young 71

Referee – Paul Anderson

19.08.08 - ECU looks for cup Glory against the Knights

ECU will be in cup action on Wednesday when they take on fellow Premier League side Western Knights in the semi final of the Soccer Pools Cup at the E&D Litis Stadium (8.30pm)

ECU Joondalup are coming off a loss at the weekend, where they also had keeper Bobson Karoma sent off. “The boy’s were disappointed on Saturday but playing with ten men for 87 minutes isn’t the best, but at the end of the day they gave it everything and we could have earned a point with two minutes to go but failed to convert and they went down the pitch to score sixty seconds later,” said Coach Chris Nicholson.

Nicholson is hoping their cup run can continue. “It’s a big game for our season, we’ve had some bad luck in recent weeks but you make your own luck in this game. We’ve played some good football in the cup this season including beating last season’s cup winners Stirling Lions and league winners Floreat Athena. We’re looking forward to the challenge and hope we can make it to the final,” said Nicholson.

In team news Bobson Karoma’s place in goal will be taken by Chris McCrone, while the trio of Thomas Nicholson, Scott Blackmore and Jon Higgins should be better for the run on the weekend after returning from the UK last week. Another player missing is Garin Collins (left) who is cup tied

Knights Coach Ronnie Campbell was disappointed with his side’s performance against Swan IC on Saturday but hopes for a better showing in the semi-final. “It’s an important game for our club and I hope we defend better than we did against Swan IC in the first half. We gave away three terrible goals, like we gave away five terrible goals against Sorrento the week before. We played well in the second half and could have taken a point but the damage was already done.

“We had a lot of players missing on Saturday and they will defiantly come into consideration for the cup tie,” said Campbell.

The first game on the night (6pm) is between Sunday amateurs side Hamersley Rovers and Premier League leaders Sorrento. Both games are being broadcast live on 990am information Radio, Ashley Morrison heads up the commentary team that includes former Socceroos goalkeeper Robbie Zabica, Floreat Athena coach Michael Roki and a guest appearance by State team coach Robbie Dunn.

17.08.08 - Ten men ECU go down at Armadale

Armadale 4 ECU Joondalup 2

Armadale secured a vital three points in their fight against relegation with an entertaining 4-2 victory over a brave 10 man ECU Joondalup at Alfred Skeet Oval.

Things began badly for Chris Nicholson’s when keeper Bobson Karoma was given a red card only three minutes into the match after pulling down Japanese striker Nao Oishi in the box. It looked a harsh decision, and ECU had to quickly reorganize their side and John Walmsley was sacrificed for back up keeper Chris McCrone. The new keeper became an instant hero when he easily saved English import James Robinson's penalty low to his right.

Armadale continued to press forward and in form winger Ryan Pearson fired two long range efforts well over the bar. ECU took the lead on 18 minutes through a penalty of there own when a Garin Collins cross found Ian McMurray (left) who was then held back by Armadale centre half Daryl Platten. McMurray made no mistake from the spot putting it low to Cyril Sharrock's right.

ECU started to dominate with John Thornley, Tommy Amphlett and McMurray causes headaches for the Army defence. But Armadale equalised on 38 minutes when Pearson found Robinson and his well struck shot took a deflection off Craig Simpson giving McCrone no chance. Joondalup almost regained the lead on half time when a Collins free kick deflected off the Armadale wall and clipped the outside of the post with Sharrock watching helplessly.

After half time Armadale began to take advantage of the extra man and played the ball wide to Pearson and the hard running Shannon Dally. It was no surprise when Armadale took the lead when a Gary Faria corner was headed in by an unmarked Robinson from 8 yards. Midfielder Kodi Madeley made it 3-1 on 58 minutes who found space in the box after a Platten cross and he calmly slotted the ball past McCrone.

Joondalup never gave up and a fine effort from Amphlett (right) when he found Collins who fired past Sharrock from close range still gave them hope. ECU had the momentum and a Collins free kick found Darren Broxton whose goal bound shot was parried away by the home keeper. Sharrock was again in the action on 82 minutes after a John Thornley attempt on goal but Armadale finally killed off any chance for ECU when a Shannon Dally cross in the 89th minute was dipping under the post and McCrone could only palm the ball to substitute Joe Brunetto who slid the ball home for the final goal of the match.

Teams

Armadale: GK C. Sharrock, M. Bennion (A. Pomfret 58’), D. Platten, J. Robinson, G. Faria, M. Darby, S. Dally, A. Bowyer (A. Galvin 82’), N. Oishi (J. Brunetto 80’), R. Pearson, K. Madeley. Subs not used: A. Preece.

Bookings: M. Bennion 42’, A. Pomfret 75’

ECU Joondalup: GK B. Koroma, D. Broxton, C. Simpson, J. Mirco (A. Jones 7’), I. McMurray, J. Thornely, G. Collins, T. Amphlett, C. Cheeseman (J. Higgins 66’), J. Walmsley (C. McCrone 4’), S. Bushby. Subs not used: T. Jones, S. Blackmore.

Bookings: B. Koroma 3’ (straight red card)

Referee: M. Nugus

05.08.08 - ECU head south to face Reds in round 17

ECU Joondalup travel south to Alfred Skeet Oval to take on Armadale in round 17 of the Football West Premier League, with only three points in mind after dropping out of the top four recently (3pm).

ECU skipper Ian McMurray earned Chris Nicholson’s side a point against Fremantle and the big striker will be vital on Saturday.

Nicholson was happy with the character of his side last week to fight to the end and score late. “I thought we definitely deserved more in actual fact, we defended really well and worked hard in the final third. Fremantle were very gutsy opponents and they worked very hard. But we never stopped, and after a few missed chances, and a nailed on Penalty not given, we did very well to score at the death,” said Nicholson.

Another big game this weekend against team fighting for their lives in Armadale, and Nicholson is under no illusions. “Saturday’s game is the biggest and possibly the most important game so far - Armadale have picked up, and will most definitely think they can get a result from the game. They will think we will have one eye on Wednesdays semi-final against the Knights - I wont even think about that until Monday,” added Nicholson.

In team news ECU will be without Craig Young, who nearly joined Armadale in the summer, and Martin Ashworth, the pair both suspended, while Tom Nicholson is still in UK. Good news is the return from their European Tour (Tee shirts available at the canteen!!!!!!) of Scott Blackmore and Jon Higgins (left) which will bolster the defence.

Armadale have improved recently and will fancy their chances with keeper Cyril Sharrock in superb form and midfield duo John Lund and Gary Faria finding form Brad Hassell’s side can’t afford to let any points slip on Saturday, it should be a great game.

Last time we met Armadale at Alfred Skeet Oval

Armadale 0 ECU 6 - Round 16 - 11.08.07

The Last time ECU met Armadale at Alfred Skeet Oval, Marc Anthony played the leading role in a 6-0 demolition of Billy Russell’s side. Anthony, a former youth team player at Glasgow Celtic, scored twice and had a hand in the remaining four goals to keep Joondalup in the hunt for a top five finish.

Armadale's miserable day out was compounded by second half red cards to Matt Benion and Jason Goodwin. Joondalup made their intentions clear from the outset as Jon Higgins and Tommy Amphlett blazed wide early on.

Their enterprise was rewarded on 18 minutes when Anthony's wonderful curling free-kick was beyond the reach of young goalkeeper Matt Johnson and into the top corner. The home team were finding it difficult to break down a solid defensive line led by David Abel, and their only chance of the period came the way of Ben Howe whose powerful drive from 15-metres rattled the frame of the goal.

Minutes out from half-time Anthony unleashed a cracking shot from distance which Johnson pushed onto the crossbar and the rebound fell kindly for Craig Young to tap in at close-range.

On 52 minutes Anthony charged into attack and cut the ball back to Amphlett who turned his marker and expertly fired into the net. In an eight minute spell Armadale totally wrote themselves out of the game as Bennion was dismissed for lashing out at an opponent, and Goodwin was issued his second yellow for a crunching tackle on Anthony. Goal number four came shortly after as Ian McMurray (left) headed in a delightful cross from Anthony.

On 84 minutes Young was brought down inside the 18-yard box by Darryl Platten and Anthony cheekily converted the resulting spot kick. And with the full-time whistle approaching Anthony and Higgins combined well down the left to deliver a cross to the back post where McMurray completed the rout by angling his shot under the 'keeper.

09.08.08 - McMurray’s late goal earns point against Spirit

ECU 1 Fremantle Spirit 1

A goal from skipper Ian McMurray in the last minute earnt ECU Joondalup a hard fought 1-1 draw against Fremantle Spirit in the round 16 Football West Premier League clash at the Arena.

The port side looked the goods to register their first win of the campaign through Joseph Moffat's tidy first half finish only to be robbed in the final minute of regulation time.

Garin Collins (right) provided the ammunition for the game's first chance which Craig Simpson headed over the crossbar. Callum Roberts and Ben Kelly then orchestrated a series of attacking raids by Fremantle, the best of which had Llewellyn Bake's goalbound effort deflected past Chris McCrone's left post.

Fremantle were given a scare when John Thornley's fierce shot roared past goalkeeper Steve Grant and crashed off into post. A thundering drive from Simon Elton-Bott was tipped around the post by McCrone as the port side flexed their muscle. The breakthrough arrived in the 34th minutes when Moffat tucked the ball in at close-range after McCrone parried a Peter Vukmirovic header. David Rodgers went within inches of doubling the margin on the stroke of half-time with a fierce strike that fizzed over the crossbar.

The second period opened in similar fashion as Cisco Jorquiera's defence splitting pass released Rodgers who wasted the opportunity. Soon after it was Roberts that broke free but his explosive drive from distance cleared the bar. Grant was called into action at the opposite end to deny Colllins as Joondalup fought to get more involved. They should have been awarded a penalty after Thornley was felled by Grant on 75 minutes, however, young referee Troy Miller saw it differently and dismissed the appeal.

Fremantle were waiting for the final whistle when Collins delivered a cross which was put away by McMurray to ensure his side a point.

ECU Joondalup: GK C. McCrone, J. Micro (T. Jones 71), J. Walsmley, C. Cheeseman (J. Bracewell 79), C. Simpson, D. Broxton, G. Collins, C. Young, I. Murray, J. Thornley, T. Amphlett - Subs not used: , S. Doyle, R. Smith, D. Mitrevski.

Fremantle Spirit: GK S. Grant, T. Straker, J. Moffat, A. McBride, L. Bake, S. Elton-Bott, B. Kelly, D. Rodgers, C.Roberts, J. Csico, P. Vukmirovic - Subs not used: D. McBride, C. Maclean, K. Ravi, C. Hayes, M. Draper.

Referee: Troy Miller.

08.08.08 - ECU look to find some Spirit against Fremantle

ECU hopes to get their season back on track when they host bottom of the table Fremantle Spirit at the ECU University Arena in Saturday’s Round 16 Football West Premier League (3pm).

It’s been a horror fortnight for Chris Nicholson’s side but the Coach hopes his players show character and bounce back. “It’s an important game on the weekend for us on the back of two very different defeats, If I was a player involved in those games, and lucky enough to be featuring in Saturday’s starting line up, I would certainly want to go out and prove that I am worthy of that ECU Shirt, and exorcise the performances of the last two games,” said Nicholson.

“Willie and I have always maintained a hard work ethos, but for some reason this has been lacking in the last couple of games, and if we are to further our position in the League, and Progress in the Cup, the players must realise pretty quickly what is expected out of them. We have had a good week of training as always, and whoever is in the starting line Up on Saturday, must transfer that hard work into the Real Deal,” added Nicholson.

On Saturday’s game Nicholson hopes his players are switched on against the winless Spirit. “For those people thinking that we are on easy street on Saturday, you can be assured that Fremantle are not here to make up the numbers, and if you remember the away fixture earlier on this term, you will have noticed but for missed chances we could have been dead and buried at half time.

“Make no mistake about it, we will need to work very hard on Saturday to achieve anything. They haven’t won this season and in football you can’t take teams lightly, and they are due a win but we hope it’s not this week,” explained Nicholson.

In team news ECU have four players suspended for the clash with Bobson Karoma, Anthony Jones (left), Scott Bushby and Martin Ashworth all missing the game, and Nicholson will really on some of the under 23’s to push for a first team spot. “We combined the two squads this week at training and we will have to wait and see which way we go this weekend,” said Nicholson.

Spirit earned a good point last week after 1-1 home draw against Perth SC and will hope to continue with their good form. Callum Roberts and Jason Barrera have been great for Marc Wingell’s side while Steve Grant has been in good form in goal. Adrian McBride, Simon Elton-Bott and Tom Straker have worked hard in the backline while youngster Ben Kelly continues to impress.

Last time we meet Fremantle Spirit at the Arena

ECU Joondalup 2 Fremantle Spirit 1 – Round one – 14.04.07

The last time we meet Fremantle Spirit at the Arena, E.C.U. picked up maximum points from their opening round encounter winning 2-1. The first chance of a frantic opening spell came the way about through Craig Young who got in behind the defence but his cross narrowly evaded the on-rushing Ian McMurray.

Joondalup were making plenty of inroads and Marc Anthony was unfortunate not to score on debut after playing a neat one-two with Young which the Scotsman then pulled wide. Joondalup’s reward arrived after 19 minutes when McMurray’s shot was parried by Steve Grant and in an instant Martin Ashworth (left) whipped the rebound into the net.

Almost instantly Fremantle hit back as Callum Roberts’ cross into the area found an unmarked Ray Rose whose header was tipped over the bar by Andy Petterson. The second half started with Fremantle on the attack and long-range strikes from Roberts and Jason Barerra tested the agility of Petterson.

As the minutes ticked by Anthony and Scott Blackmore re-established control over midfield as the hosts sought to end the game as a contest. In the 67th minute Anthony Jones gained possession near the halfway line and pushed forward before laying the ball off to Young charged toward goal before playing a clever back heel into the path of Jones who slid his shot under the advancing goalkeeper.

Fremantle were dealt another blow five minutes later when Tom Straker was sent off for a harsh second yellow card. This seemed to spark the port side into life and a stinging shot from 18-metres by Jason Barerra brought the difference back to a single goal with five minutes to play. Fremantle continued to force the pace and Ben Kelly almost snatched a point with a miscued cross which flew over Petterson but crashed into the upright.

Tough day for ECU 23’s at Swans

A goal in the last minute from Swan IC defender Danyal Bennett denied David Tough’s under 23’s all three points after a 2-2 draw at Francis Street last week.

With midfielder Carlo Coelho in good form the young ECU side deserved all three points but Coach David Tough said they lacked a little bit of experience in vital moments of the game. “We were disappointed to concede a late goal as the boy’s put in a great deal of effort in to it. We had a couple of chances to finish the game off, but we failed to convert.

“I spoke to the boys after the game and told them sometimes they try and do the pretty things instead of the team things. When you’re leading going into the last five minutes you run the clock down. We didn’t do that and they through everyone forward late and nicked a goal and a point,” said Tough.

It been a credit to the side with the first team losing so many players to injuries and other reasons they have turned their season around and currently sits in 6 th spot and Tough has been delighted with there form in recent weeks. “We’ve worked really hard and credit to the boys they have turned the season around after a poor start. We’re starting to get a settled squad and this is showing on our performances and we will won more games than we will lose in the rest of the season,” said Tough.

03.08.08 - ECU sees red at Francis Street

ECU slumped to a 1-2 defeat against Swan IC in round 15 of the Football West Premier League at Francis Street, and ended the game with only eight men.

ECU Coach Chris Nicholson made one forced change to the starting line up with Martin Ashworth returning in place of the suspended Anthony Jones and there was a place on the bench for John Thornley after the striker recovered from injury.

The stage was set for an exciting, end-to-end contest inside the opening minutes as Bobson Karoma (left) and Cory Hugo had their reflexes tested by Brendan Knox and Ian McMurray, respectively.

Michael Tronchin’s shot on the turn crashed off the base of the upright and Andy O’Neill’s follow-up was blocked by a defender, then Martin Ashworth crossed for Scott Bushby but his neat flick went inches past the far post.

Damian Scali almost added to his season tally with a close-range header that flashed wide, and a defensive mix-up let in Tommy Jones whose lob was blocked by Hugo. With half-time fast appearing, Perich seized upon a loose ball which he blasted low into the net from 22-metres to give Swan the lead.

The hosts weren’t far from increasing their advantage shortly after the re-start as Dom Ando had a shot cleared off the line, and a Perich header was well saved by Karoma. Garin Collins (right) should have equalised when released by Darren Broxton but the striker blazed disappointingly high from 9-metres.

With twelve minutes remaining Joondalup went down to ten men after Karoma handled the ball outside his area, leaving referee Steven Gregory with no choice but to issue a red card.

The first action for replacement keeper Chris McCrone was to collect the ball from his net, as Perich doubled the margin with the resulting free-kick. Ashworth was given his marching orders for a second yellow card offence soon after and just a few minutes passed before the same fate befell Bushby, leaving the visitors with only eight men. The game was deep in stoppage time when McMurray got the slightest of touches on an in-swinging Collins corner for Joondalup’s consolation.

In other games Willie Herd’s under 18’s won 3-1, a great performance from an under strengthen side, while David Tough’s under 23’s had to settle for a 2-2 draw when the home side scored in the last minute to level.

ECU Coach Chris Nicholson was obviously disappointed after the game. “The game wasn’t a classic by any means, and thought if we had scored first we may well have won the game. Both teams were nervous as both were looking for a win I guess, thought we were undone by ourselves in losing three players to the Laws of the Game,” said Nicholson.

Teams

Swan IC – GK Cory Hugo, Justin Hugo (Shane Webb 75), Aaron Cole, David McNally, Dom Ando, Michael Tronchin (Trent Wood 46), Brendan Knox, David Perich, Andy O’Neill, Geoff Mason, Damian Scali (Neill Hughes 86) - Subs not Used – Daniel Agudelo, Danyal Bennett

Yellow Cards – J. Hugo 30, Cole 43, Perich 80, Wood 81,

ECU Joondalup – GK Bobson Karoma, Martin Ashworth, Criag Simpson, Darren Broxton, Jason Mirco, Tommy Amphlett (John Thornley 65), Garin Collins, Scott Bushby, Ian McMurray, Tommy Jones (Chris McCrone 78), Craig Young - Subs not used – John Walmsley, Mark Tebbutt, Jarrod Bracewell

Yellow Cards – Bushby 2, 85, Ashworth 11, 81

Dismissals – Karoma 78, Ashworth 81, Bushby 85

Referee – Steven Gregory

01.08.08 - ECU head to the Swan Valley in round 15

After a ‘bad day at the office’ last weekend ECU will look to bounce back when they make the trip to the Swan Valley to take on Swan IC at Francis Street (3pm).

ECU Coach Chris Nicholson was extremely disappointed after last weeks defeat against Mandurah and is looking for a big improvement against the Swans. “I thought we were very poor last week, and they were up for the game and deserved the win, but we just didn’t turn up. The boy’s have the opportunity on Saturday to show me last week performance was just one of those days,” said Nicholson.

The trip to Francis Street usually brings goals, with ECU scoring two injury time goals last season to earn a point in a 3-3 draw. It’s Nicholson’s first visit to the ground and he’s looking forward to it. “I’ve heard quite a lot about the ground and they use it to their advantage. They have only lost at home this season and we’d only lost once at home before last week, so we’ve got to bounce back and I’m confident we’ve got the players to do it.

“I never really worry about the opposition it’s my team I worry about, but if we turn up with the right attitude we’ll come home with the points,” said Nicholson.

In team news Anthony Jones is missing due to suspension and with Craig Simpson heading to the USA to finish his college studies it leaves the club a little light at the back, but with Martin Ashworth (left) and Thomas Nicholson available again after injury this should fill the void.

The Swans are on a horrendous run, losing their last five games, but Paul Lincoln’s side will hope to send off David Perich with a victory, the midfielder leaves the club this week to head to college in the USA. Also returning this week is Damian Scali, Cory Hugo from injury and Danyal Bennett from suspension.

The ground is at the Swan Italian Club on Francis Street which is off Lloyd Street in Middle Swan. The games kicks off with the under 18’s at 11am, the 23’s at 1pm with the first team game at 3pm. Admission prices are $8 adults, $5 concessions and under 15’s are admitted free. Get along and support the ECU boy’s!!!!!

Jones misses out on return to Francis Street

Former Swan IC defender Anthony Jones will miss out on a return to Francis Street after the ECU Joondalup player was sent off last week in their 0-4 loss to Mandurah City and is suspended for the round 15 clash.

The dismissal was disappointing for Jones but he hopes the side can pick up the three points without him. “It’s not the best for the club, me getting sent off, were short at the back at the moment but hopefully the guy’s can get the points.

“The bottom line is that if we dont win on Saturday, the league is out the question and possibly the top four as well. Swan are below us in the league and no dis-respect to them, if you cant beat the teams below you, you dont deserve to be above them,” said Jones.

The result against former Coach Stuart Currie’s, Mandurah side was bitter blow for ECU’s top four aspirations and Jones believes they were out battled on the day.

“It was a physical game and we allowed ourselves to be bullied by them and didnt really roll up our sleeves and play the game we had to play. We seem to struggle against teams that have a physical approach to their game, and Saturday was no exception,” explained Jones.

The loss of players travelling overseas has left the Northern suburbs side short and Jones, who has recently become a farther, believes these players have let the club down. “I think that as the club finds money week in week out to pay players ,who most would play even if they werent getting paid, but going on holiday during the six month season doesnt repay the hard work and effort the club goes to find that money week in week out.

“I can understand if players have to miss a week or two for a special event, ie wedding, funeral but I believe holidays should be done in the off season,” said Jones.

Jones returns to Francis Street after a short period in the black and white stripes and he enjoyed his time at the Swan Valley Club. “I spent two seasons at Swan, it’s a good club that is very self sufficient and is always a tough ground to play on.

“We had a great bunch of lads when I was playing there, no superstars just a great team and the fact we qualified for the playoffs and finished fourth in our first year in the premier league was my highlight during my time there,” commented Jones.

Last time we met Swan IC at Francis Street

Swan IC 3 ECU Joondalup 3

The last time we met Swan IC at Francis Street; two stoppage time goals enabled us to snatch a point in a 3-3 draw.

Quickest to settle was the home team who went ahead on seven minutes following great work down the right by David Perich whose cross was fired into the net by Damien Catalano. The margin was increased on the quarter hour when Anthony McStea crashed a free-kick from just outside the 18-yard box through the defensive wall and past a stranded Aleks Vrteski.

Joondalup’s search for a way back into the game was almost answered by Darren Quinncroft who shot into the side netting after being released by Mark Lee. Five minutes from the break Tom Shepheard jinxed his way past three opponents before sending a low shot past Vrteski to take Swan’s lead to three goals.

The second half had been under way only minutes when Lee (left) held his nerve to convert from the spot after Craig Young was brought down inside the box by Aaron Cole, who was duly red carded by referee Ton Klaver. Not surprisingly, the pendulum now swung in favour of Joondalup with Lee shooting wide from distance, Scott Blackmore and David Abel both headed high of the crossbar, and Tom Amphlett was thwarted by Cory Hugo.

As the game entered stoppage time Martin Ashworth (right) put the visitors back in the hunt by netting at the back post after Lee’s cross wasn’t properly dealt with by the defence. The equaliser arrived two minutes later with Young netting in a goalmouth scramble to complete a remarkable comeback. However, there was still time for one final drama which saw Abel shown a red card by referee Klaver after confronting the official shortly after the final whistle.

Keith Brown looking forward to his return to WA

A month after starring in the Western Australian side against the Indonesian under 23’s, midfielder Keith Brown is looking forward to returning to WA to continue his football and most important to be with his girlfriend.

The 29-year–old had to return to the UK with visa problems but he can’t wait to get back to Perth, now it’s all been sorted out.

“It’s been hard, having to leave WA but it’s only for a short term and I can’t wait to get back. It’s been good to re-charge the batteries, but the holidays almost over I’ll be back in around four weeks, well I’d better be or my girlfriend and her little boy will have disowned me,” joked Brown.

Brown, who has parted company with Mandurah City, is looking to the future and not the past. “ I wish the President and the coach at Mandurah all the best for the rest of the season as they have done ever so well so far in there first season in the premier league, credit to them,” said Brown.

There has been a great deal of conjecture on the football forums regarding Brown’s future, so what is next for talented Scotsman. “I’ve read all the forums and the gossip, but prior to my holiday, and if all goes to plan, I’ve agreed to further my soccer career with ECU Joondalup. I have agreed to sign for next season which I’m delighted about, and I’m very much looking forward to working with Nico and Willie Mac.

“ECU I believe are rebuilding and have good young players coming through the ranks which are excellent, and I look forward to my new challenge at my new club,” explained Brown.

ECU Joondalup President Syd Amphlett is happy that Brown has sorted his visa problems out and hopes he can put it behind him. “We’ve spoke to Keith regarding next season and he is keen to join us, while see what happens, but to sign a player of his ability is great for our football club. He’s a quality player and I’m sure a number of clubs would have been after his services,” said Amphlett.

Let’s talk football back on the air

It was a successful return to the airways for Eamon Duffy and his ‘Let’s talk football’ team on Sunday evening, with the new show being broadcast on 107.3 Heritage FM. The WA local football fraternity have been frustrated with the lack of coverage in the local media and the show is an outlet for people to ring in and talk football.

On the first show Perth Glory Coach David Mitchell spoke candidly on his sides’ pre-season defeat against Melbourne Victory and the goings on at the A-League club. Also on the show was Ashley Morrison, the new Football West Communication and Marketing Manager who gave a great insight to the game in WA, and discussed recent issues and events within the governing body.

For presenter Duffy, he's been humbled by the support shown to the show by local Football clubs and their followers. "The amount of emails and calls I've received during our brief hiatus has been mind-blowing," said Duffy.

"We never expected the local Football community would back us in the way they've done, it is absolutely fantastic and I'm honoured our program is held in such high esteem by fans and administrators alike," he added.

The show has continued with its popular format and will run for two hours from 6pm each Sunday. It will be focusing on the happenings of the Football West Premier League and division one, and the Perth Glory. Duffy will be joined on a regular basis by Perth SC coach Graham Normanton and fellow presenter Scari Morales, while this week the hard working Stirling Lions President Don Evans joined in to give support to the show.

Evans said: “My personal thoughts are it is a pity that there was no comprehensive coverage of our league from the start of the year, especially with the evenness and amount of goals being scored making it an attractive product to promote. The biggest disappointment for me was the lack of unity in the media circles and the ego's that got in the way of a united media effort........maybe this is a meeting/forum FW need to call so everyone can get a slice of the media pie and get cracking to promote our game rather than bitching on personality issues.”

“Lets talk football is a show for all football people to get involved with and it is the Premier league that is the shopfront for our football followers and hopefully we can get new converts warming to the passion and beauty of our game through the air waves on a Sunday with Eamon and his team,” added Evans.

The show has been given funding by the Lions and ECU Joondalup and Duffy hopes more clubs will climb on board, as the show is only interested in raising the games profile. “As each club comes on board they will get the opportunity like ECU Joondalup’s President Syd Amphlett and Don did on Sunday to get their points across.
“They are putting their money where their mouths are, and we need more to cover the cost of the show in the future, as we are nowhere near that point yet,” explained Duffy.

Duffy hopes the show can grow and was happy with the return. “Being the first show, plus the fact they do not have a dump button, we did not invite callers on Sunday. The station policy at the moment is that they do not want normal talkback, however coaches and club officials are more than welcome to ring in, I will give the number out next week, and Scari will be screening who goes to air.
” said Duffy. On this weeks show ECU President Syd Amphlett is a guest in the studio with Eamon and the crew.

One person who left a little disappointed with the show was Swan IC Coach Paul Lincoln, after comments from Normanton about his side after their 0-2 defeat at Dorrien Gardens on the Saturday. “It’s a shame a Coach of a fellow state league side can make detrimental comments regarding my club without me being able to have my say,” said Lincoln.

“This has been a concern of mine for a while, the show is great for football in the state, but Normanton has had his say regarding other clubs on the show and they haven’t had their right of reply.

“If he has a problem with the way my team played or the formation when we played them on Saturday, it was the same when we beat them 4-0 at Francis Street in round three. The only thing that was different was that we had five starters missing on Saturday and he doesn’t know how this affected us,” said a disappointed Lincoln.

Nightmare at the Arena for Simpson’s farewell

ECU Joondalup 0 Mandurah City 4  

Mandurah City spoilt the farewell for ECU defender Craig Simpson by defeated them 4-0 in the round 14 clash at ECU University Arena in Joondalup.

Going into the game, both teams were evenly matched with 20 points, 6 wins, 2 draws and 5 losses apiece. However, Chris Nicholson’s side was unable to capitalise on their home ground advantage.

It took only a couple of minutes for Mandurah to carve out their first chance which Crampton sent high of the crossbar to signal their intentions. Tommy Amphlett (right) worked tirelessly to drive Joondalup forward but wayward finishing by Scott Bushby and Ian McMurray denied them the lead.

The breakthrough came after 21 minutes when Christian Paschkewitz shot on the turn whizzed past Bobson Karoma who only moments earlier parried a Crampton header. Chances would be few and far between for the remainder of the half which was almost at an end when Jay Bonser’s free-kick struck the defensive wall and ricocheted to Jeff Bright who fired into the corner of Karoma’s net to double the difference.

With the words of coach Chris Nicholson still ringing in their ears, Joondalup launched waves after wave of attack upon the re-start to little effect. They were almost caught out on the hour when Bonser’s quickly taken free-kick from the halfway line narrowly missed the target. It was a warning their failed to listen to as four minutes more passed before Crampton capitalised on a napping defence to put away goal number three.

Anthony Jones was dismissed soon after for a reckless challenge on Bright, and the hosts were fortunate not to lose Karoma after capturing a high ball outside his 18-yard box. Phil O’Callaghan put the icing on the cake by bamboozling the defence before curling the ball around a stranded ‘keeper. Paschkewitz could have added another in stoppage time but after being played through shot straight at the ‘keeper.

Teams

ECU Joondalup : GK Bobson, A. Jones, Bushby, Simpson, Broxton, Collins, Young, McMurray, T. Jones (Bracewell 86), Amphlett, Micro - Subs not used: McCrone, Walmsley, Coelho

Mandurah City : GK Green, Bright (Attrill 75), McDarby, Bonser, Crampton (Loreto 83), Paschkewtiz, O’Callaghan, Townsend (C. Currie 90), Wylie, Collins, Hesketh - Subs not used: Ainslie, Dash

Referee : Paul Anderson

26.07.08 - Ten man ECU beaten by Mandurah

ECU’s farewell to defender Craig Simpson ended in a 0-4 defeat against Mandurah City in today’s round 14 clash in the Football West Premier League at the ECU University Arena.

The defender heads off to America to study, and he will want to forget his final game as Mandurah re-gained some of their early season form to run our comfortable winners, while ECU ended the game with ten men after Anthony Jones (right) was sent off. The visitors were ahead on 21 minutes when Christian Paschkewitz scored and two minutes before the break Jeff Bright added a second.

The game was made save on the hour when Shane Crampton added a third and former ECU striker Phil O’Callaghan wrapped the scoring four minutes from time. (Full report later)

David Tough’s 23’s went down 0-4 to the Football West NTC squad in a very entertaining clash, while Willie Herd’s 18’s won 5-1 against Mandurah.

25.07.08 - ECU looks to continue their good form against Mandurah

ECU are on home soil again this weekend when they entertain league newcomers Mandurah City in round 14 of the Football West Premier League at the ECU University Arena on Saturday (3pm).

The 3-2 win against Western Knights gives the side a lot confidence heading into the clash and coach Chris Nicholson is looking forward to the game. “We welcome Mandurah today for their first visit to our ground as a Premier league side, and their form this season more than suggests they are not here to make up the numbers as many people thought at the start of the season.

“They beat us 2-1 away earlier on this year, and are a very hardworking team. If we are to come away at the final whistle with all three points, we know we will have to work hard to achieve our goal, we will have to be very switched on if we are to yield maximum points,’ said Nicholson.

The Coach is delighted with his sides form and hopes they can continue with this on Saturday. “The last five games have only seen us losing once at Floreat, and we are seven points of the leaders. We have nine games to play and 27 points to be had – there is an awful lot for us to play for, not forgetting the Cup Semi Final. To achieve anything though we must continue to work hard for each other, as we have for most of the season,” explained Nicholson.

Nicholson’s side has found some good form over recent weeks, with Ian McMurray leading the line well and youngster Tommy Amphlett, who continues to impress. At the back Craig Simpson (left), who plays his last match for the club before re-joining his college in the USA, has been a pillar of strength, while in goal Bobson Karoma made some vital saves last week against the Knights to secure victory.

The loss of Simpson is a big blow for the club, and Nicholson wishes him good luck in his endeavours. “Whilst we wish “Simmo” well – he will be a loss to us. This actually brings the number of players who have gone overseas this season to six, and I’ve asked Syd Amphlett the club President that all players are to hand in their passports at the start of the season,” joked Nicholson.

It’s a return home for Mandurah City Coach Stuart Currie, who coached at ECU last season, and they will be looking to bounce back from last week’s home defeat against Perth SC. Another making a return to the Arena is striker Phil O’Callaghan, the youngster has had a stellar season scoring 14 times and hopes to add to that this weekend. Shane Crampton was on target last weekend and with Jeff Bright and another former ECU midfielder Dale McCulloch in good form they will fancy their chances this weekend.

Nicholson raising the bar at ECU

When Willie McNally was appointed as assistant Coach at A-League side Perth Glory and left the ECU Arena, the club wasted no time in appointing his successor, with assistant Coach Chris Nicholson being appointed by club President Steve Amphlett.

Since the appointment Nicholson’s has shown his passion for the game and the northern suburbs club, and he has been s