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SPARKS SET TO FLY AT Photo:DERBY EDIN TELAREVIC GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 SOCCER HOTLINES Viduka inducted into Hall of Fame Former Socceroos (pic- Publisher: tured) & , former Matilda Alimental Enterprises Pty Ltd Sandra Brentnall, AFC Women’s Asian PO Box 142 Port Melb VIC 3207 Cup winning Matildas Coach Tom Ph: (03) 9551 7538 Sermanni and long-time football ad- ministrator Stefan Kamasz have all been 03 9551 7538 Advertising: recognised for their contributions to Email: [email protected] Letters: [email protected] football in by being inducted Web: www.goalweekly.com into the FFA Hall of Fame. Sandra Brentnall was one of the orig- Distribution: inals who played in the Matildas first All Day Distribution (VIC) ever A-International match against New Tel: (03) 9482 1145 Zealand in 1979. Damian Mori was the Wrapaway (NSW & QLD) Socceroos most prolific goal-scorer up Tel: (02) 9550 1622 until recently surpassed his games at Kingston Heath Soccer Com- tally. Mark Viduka captained the Soc- plex on Monday nights, while Monday News (SA) ceroos at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and football will again be a regular feature Tel: (08) 8231 4121 had a distinguished domestic football for Bulleen’s home fixtures at David Printer: Spotpress Pty Ltd career in Australia and Europe. Tom Barro Stadium. Sermanni coached the Matildas to our The top-five teams will qualify for Goal! Weekly endeavours to be as accurate as first continental title winning the 2010 finals, which begin on September possible with everything it publishes. AFC Women’s Asian Cup and develop- 4-7 and conclude on the weekend of The Fair Trading Act 1999 requires Goal! Weekly to disclaim any belief in the truth or falsity of information ing countless players during his tenure, September 26-27. which is supplied to it and which is published in other and Stefan Kamasz helped administer In total, 138 games will be played than editorial content. the sport through the tough times and across 13 venues in 2015. the good for nearly 40 years.” Contributors: MJ Ali, Nick Amies, Pablo Bateson, ************ Andrew Bishara, Adrian Deans, Shaun Dyas, Jarrod ************ LEGACY OUTLINES ASIAN CUP Ellis, Bryson Ferreira, Joe Gallagher, Russ Gibbs, Roy Hay, Chris Hearn, Joshua Hercus, Adrian Moss commits to the Phoenix Millions of dollars worth of improve- Houghton, Damir Kulas, Matt Mays, Simon Maher, has committed himself to ments to football pitches, stadiums Kareem Mohamed, Shaun Moran, Alexander Porter, the Phoenix for another two years. and facilities around Australia will Peter Simcox, Roger Sleeman, Kristian Stojanov, The 31-year-old goalkeeper signed a be among the most visible benefits of Andre Zwan. new two-year contract and is enthusi- Australia hosting the AFC Asian Cup Designer: Jose Pezo astic about his own future and that of for the first time. josepezo.com.au the club. The infrastructure upgrades, outlined ************ in on Wednesday at the launch Photographers: Romel Amerikhas, Adam Butler, of the legacy program for AFC Asian Karen Douglas, Ali Erhan, Adrian Gaglione, Keith 2015 SPORTSMART WPL TO Cup Australia 2015, Australia’s biggest Eigeland, Daniel Flis, Geoff Jones, Peter McDonald, KICK OFF ON INTERNATION- George Marin, Anita Milas, Ben Neville, Pete Neville, ever football event, include: John Punshon, Greg Seaton, Edin Telarevic, Andrew AL WOMEN’S DAY • Covered team benches worth around Turner, Matthew Wetherill. The 2015 Sportsmart Women’s Premier $400,000, to be used for the first time at League will kick off on International the January 9-31 tournament and then Women’s Day on March 8, with Foot- bequeathed to the 10 A-League clubs; CONTENTS ball Federation releasing the • Lighting upgrades worth $400,000 at fixtures for Victoria’s premier female Asian Cup training facilities including 04 Inside 29 TV Guide competition Perry Park in Queensland and Canber- Football 33 V-League Reigning champion South Melbourne ra’s and McKellar Park; 07 Scoreboard 37 BFTP Women’s FC opens its account against • Turf improvements worth $275,000 08 Rd 10 Match 38 Ask The the Senior National Training Centre, at those three venues, as well as at SS Reports Experts but will have to wait until Round 11 for Anderson Oval in Melbourne and 20 Football 39 NYL its grand final replay with Heidelberg Wanderers Oval in Newcastle; and Almanac 40 W-League United at Lakeside Stadium. • A complete pitch upgrade at New- 21 Rd 11 Match 41 Overseas Lakeside Stadium will also play host castle Stadium worth $1.25 million Previews 44 EPL to South Melbourne WFC’s clash with including a $150,000 contribution reigning State Knockout Cup champion from the Asian Cup Local Organising FC Bulleen Lions in Round 8. Committee. 02 www.goalweekly.com Sandringham will play all of its home GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014

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04 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 It’s BEN a Long Time

KENNEDY FOOTBALL FOCUS KANTEROVSKI By Simon Maher

he Friday nights clash with the Adelaide Reds Kantarovski went from strength to strength starring for Tsees the Newcastle Jets celebrate their 10th year of the Jets and making 41 appearances for Australian Youth competition in the Hyundai A-League and also marks teams at all levels, including captaining the Young Soc- the 10 year anniversary of the League’s inaugural match ceroo’s at the 2011 World Youth Cup in Colombia. When contested by these teams back on August 26 2005. It also the aristocrats of German football Bayern Munich invited provides a perfect setting to celebrate the rich history of him to trial with them in 2009 it seemed only a matter of football in the Hunter and its enduring longevity in the time till he moved to one of the major leagues of Europe. games upper echelons. Just when it seemed his career was set to continue on On a week-end of football celebrations the Jets face one the heady arc which his talent suggested, Kantarovski of the most challenging periods in their A-League history. badly damaged his ACL in December 2010 requiring a In the middle of a hapless streak of 10 winless matches reconstruction. Since then he has battled several setbacks the Jets are feeling the pressure as evidenced by Captain on and off the pitch which have restricted him to 49 incredibly rash foul on ’s Scott Jamison appearances over the last 5 seasons. So far this season last round which sees him sidelined when his team needs Kantarovski seems to be settling back into his football him most. Throw in the rumours around David Carneys and hopefully this gifted player is on the road to fulfilling future at the club and you have a club in desperate need his potential. of strong characters. No one will understand this better than Goal Keeper Given that they face a jubilant Reds freshly crowned Ben Kennedy who has been with the Jets from the get go, as inaugural winners of the FFA Cup before travelling having been in the train-on squad which contested that to Melbourne for next Saturday nights fixture against a historical match in August 2005. In his time with the Jets rampant Melbourne Victory the Jets need to find these he has lived through the highs and lows showing tenacity characters swiftly. to cling on when the going is toughest. You would expect Given these circumstances it seems the right time for no less from a boy who cut his teeth in local football with two Newcastle born and raised Bens’ to lead the way for- Thornton and South Wallsend before breaking into the ward. Ben Kennedy and represent much Young Jets squad before earning a berth in the senior of the vitality and character which football in the Hunter squad. This strength has won back the No.1 jersey at is about. Both cut their teeth in local competitions and Newcastle from the precociously talented , have remained loyal one-team players. Kantarovski was and has ensconced his position as the longest serving a 15 year old student at Lambton High when first con- player with the club. tracted to the Jets in January 2008, having graduated from As the Jets prepare to confront the enormous challenges Broadmeadow Magic and The NSW Institute. presented by this fixture against the Reds, it is sobering He made his debut against the Central Coast in the first to remember that Kantarovski is still only 22 years old. round of season 2008-2009 aged 16 years and 208 days Similarly Ben Kennedy is 27 which in goal keeper years old making him the youngest A-League debutant at that is still young. Both have their best years ahead and Jets time. It was soon very evident that Kantarovski possessed fans will be hoping these young stalwarts can help the talents reminiscent of , and Hayden club celebrate more than a 10 year anniversary this Friday Foxe in their prime. He had similar poise on the ball and night avenging that 0-1 loss from 10 years ago. Who a range of technical prowess that allowed him to comfort- better to lead the Novocastrian resurgence than these ably fit into most positions on the pitch. These attributes Newcastle boys? In many ways they will not have a better marked him as one of the most exciting local talents to time or place to do it. emerge in the Hyundai A-League. www.goalweekly.com 05 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014

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06 www.goalweekly.com FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 GOAL! WEEKLY ROUND SCOREBOARD TEN P W D L F A GD Pts Last 5 matches 1. Perth Glory 10 8 1 1 17 10 +7 25 W W D W W 2. Melbourne Victory10 6 4 0 24 11 +13 22 D W W W D 3. Adelaide United 10 6 2 2 15 8 +7 20 L W L W W 4. Sydney FC 10 4 5 1 15 10 +5 17 D L D W D 5. Phoenix 10 5 1 4 19 13 +6 16 D W W L L 6. Roar 10 3 1 6 11 13 -2 10 W L W D L 7. Melbourne City 9 2 3 4 13 19 -6 9 W L L D W 8. Central Coast 10 1 4 5 6 14 -8 7 D L D L D 9. Newcastle Jets 10 0 4 6 8 21 -13 4 L L D D L 10. Western Sydney 9 0 3 6 6 15 -9 3 L L D D D Adelaide United 0 Brisbane Roar 1 (Henrique 19’) TOP AGAINST ALL ODDS Crowd: 11,241 @ Coopers Stadium, Adelaide GOAL SCORERS A-League Title 2014/15 Perth Glory 2 (Garcia 11’, Marinkovic 86’) Melbourne Victory 3.75 N. Burns Wellington 8 Newcastle Jets 0 Perth Glory 5.00 Henrique Silva Brisbane 7 Crowd: 9,716 @ Nib Stadium Sydney FC 5.00 B. Berisha Melb Victory 6 Adelaide United 5.00 A. Keogh Perth 6 Wellington Phoenix 1 (Krishna 76’) Wellington Phoenix 11.00 A. Thompson Melb Victory 6 Central Coast Mariners 1 (Simon 40’) Brisbane Roar 11.00 M. Janko Sydney FC 4 , Melbourne City 15.00 R. Krishna Wellington 4 Wanderers 19.00 M. McGlinchey Wellington 4 STATS Melbourne Victory 3 Central Coast Mariners 41.00 M. Carrusca Adelaide Utd 3 (Thompson 12’, 45+2’, 79’) Newcastle Jets 67.00 Cirio Adelaide Utd 3 Sydney FC 3 J. GriffithsNewcastle 3 (Janko 16’, Smeltz 49’, 75’) drew with J. MacLaren Perth 3 Crowd: 25,203 @ Etihad Stadium S. Smeltz Sydney FC 3 F. Ben Khalfallah Melb Victory 2 MATCH MATCH R. Bonevacia Wellington 2

Round 11 Fixture Venue Local AEDT Fri 19 Dec Brisbane Roar v Wanderers Postponed: WSW playing in World Club Cup Fri 19 Dec Newcastle Jets v Adelaide United Hunter Stadium 7:40 PM 7:40 PM Sat 20 Dec Melbourne City v Melb Victory AAMI Park 7:45 PM 7:45 PM Sat 20 Dec Perth Glory v Mariners nib Stadium 6:45 PM 9:45 PM THIS

WEEK Sun 21 Dec Sydney FC v Wellington Phoenix Allianz Stadium 5:00 PM 5:00 PM

Round 12 Fixture Venue Local AEDT Fri 26 Dec Melbourne City v Perth Glory AAMI Park 5:30 PM 5:30 PM Frid 26 Dec Sydney FC v Adelaide United Allianz Stadium 7:45 PM 7:45 PM Satu 27 Dec Mariners v Brisbane Roar Central Coast Stdm 5:00 PM 5:00 PM Sat 27 Dec Melb Victory v Newcastle Jets AAMI Park 7:45 PM 7:45 PM NEXT WEEK Sun 28 Dec Phoenix v Wanderers Westpac Stadium 7:00 PM 5:00 PM 08 0-1 Aselaide United keeper Eugene gGalekovic can only stand

www.goalweekly.com and watch as Henrique’s efforts curls into the top corner of GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER A-League Match Report Round 10 Report: MICHELLE TOBIN Photos: ADAM BUTLER

Adelaide United 0

Brisbane Roar 1

MATCH DETAILS

Adelaide United 0 Brave Roar ambush Reds Brisbane Roar 1 (Henrique 19’) brilliant strike from Henrique allowed the Roar had heroes all over the park. Coopers Stadium, Adelaide Aa brave Brisbane Roar to put a difficult Playing with renewed confidence under Referee: Lucien Laverdure fortnight behind them and post a gutsy 1-0 new interim coach Frans Thijssen, a reshuf- Crowd: 11,241 win over Adelaide United in tonight’s Hyun- fled side saw come into the dai A-League clash at Coopers Stadium. backline for Smith, start in Adelaide United: 1.Eugene Ga Henrique netted his seventh of the season midfield and Jean Carlos Solorzano given Lekovic (Gk/C), 2.Michael Mar- with a spectacular shot in the 19th minute the nod up front. rone, 4.Dylan Mcgowan, 7.Pablo that secured the three points and took the Donachie was solid throughout in a Roar Sánchez, 8.Isaías, 9., Roar back into the top six. backline that withstood sustained sec- 11., 16., From just outside the box on the left, the ond-half pressure from the Reds with Corey 18.Jimmy Jeggo (14.Cameron Wat- crafty Brazilian taunted the Reds defence be- Brown and also playing superbly. fore he curled a powerful right foot shot into But Roar keeper proved to be son 77’), 21., 22.Fabio the top far corner of the goal giving Adelaide the difference - he was outstanding through- Ferreira (17. 67). ‘keeper no chance. out and in addition to a string of top saves Just three minutes later, Henrique was in and powerful punches, he protected the Yellow Cards: 21.Tarek Elrich the action again and set up Dimi Petratos three points two minutes from time when he 45+2’, 8.Isaías 73’ who should have scored but put his left- saved a point blank shot from close range by Red Cards: Nil foot shot onto the upright then skied the Adelaide’s Pablo Sanchez. rebound. Socceroo Matt McKay wore the Roar Brisbane Roar: 5.Corey Brown, Henrique was causing the Reds defence captain’s armband as he led the team into his 8.Steven Lustica, 10.Henrique (28. problems every time he got the ball and it 162nd Hyundai A-League game – equalling 42’), 12.Jean was no surprise that he came in for some the club record held by Massimo Murdocca. Carlos Solorzano (2.Matthew Smith special attention from Adelaide. In a nice touch, McKay handed the 89’), 13.Jade North, 14.Daniel In the 29th minute, Reds defender Dylan armband back to Smith, who came on as an Bowles, 15.James Donachie, McGowan hit Henrique late in a tackle and 89th minute substitute ahead of his move 17.Matt Mckay (C), 18.Luke Brat- the Roar striker copped a direct blow to the to Thai club Glass tan, 21.Jamie Young (Gk), 23.Dimitri back of his left knee. next week. He hobbled back on two minutes later Despite late pressure, Brisbane’s defence was Petratos (4.Adam Sarota 79’), but the speed and sting that had split the superb and held on for three points against Adelaide defence earlier was gone and in an Adelaide side that had not lost at home Yellow Cards: 13.Jade North 3’, the 42nd minute, Brisbane were forced in 14 games. 14.Daniel Bowles 47’, 5.Corey to replace Henrique with fellow winger The Reds’ last defeat there was a 1-2 loss to Brown 64’, 28.Brandon Borrello Brandon Borrello. the Roar in December last year and the Roar 74’, 15.James Donachie 79’ After a fortnight in which they lost marque has now beaten them in five consecutive Red Cards: Nil player to injury and captain games in Adelaide. Matt Smith was granted a transfer request, www.goalweekly.com 9 2-0 Perth Glory’s Nebojsa Marinkovic makes sure the fans Glory’s 2-0 Perth know exactley who just scored a scorcher of goal.

10 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER A-League Match Report Round 10 Report: PETER SIMCOX Photos: GREG SEATON

PERTH GLORY 1-0 Perth Glory’s is on hand to fire home. 2

Newcastler Jets 0

MATCH DETAILS

Perth Glory 2 (Garcia 11’, Marink- ovic 86’) Newcastle Jets 0 Glorious Perth down Jets Venue: Nib Stadium erth Glory continued their great start and on 37 minutes ’s cross Referee: Kris Griffiths-Jones Pto the A-League season after a 2-0 win found at the back post, but Attendance: 9,716 against Newcastle Jets at nib Stadium on the striker fired wide. Then before the break Friday night and in doing so moved four Carney’s long-range shot whistled just wide Perth Glory: Gk , 5 points clear at the top of the table. An of the target. , 6 , 9 early strike from Richard Garcia his first Newcastle, who were still looking for their , 10 Nebojsa Marink- for the club, and a stunner from Nebojsa first win of the season, should have levelled ovic, 11 Richard Garcia (15 Jamie Marinkovic sealed the win, and the Jets eight minutes into the second half. Ben Maclaren 83’), 17 (8 ended the game with ten men when skipper Kantarovski found Joel Griffiths who played Ruben Zadkovich 73’), 19 Joshua Kew Jaliens was sent off for a crude tackle in Carney, but the former Socceroo blazed Risdon, 20 (16 Sid- on . “I’ve thought about over from the edge of the box. Marinkovic nei Sciola 68’), 21 Scott Jamieson, that goal for a long time, ever since Glory tried his luck from long-range on the hour 23 came about, so for me to get one tonight is but failed to test Kennedy. Keogh was really fantastic,” Garcia said. “We’ve got a great handful for the Jets and he went close to Subs Not Used: Rgk Jordan Thurtell, bunch of guys who work hard for each the second on 76 minutes. Scott Jamieson’s 14 Chris Harold other, we don’t know when we’re beat. That racking ball found the Irishman on the team spirit that we’ve got is taking us a right, who took on before long way.” unleashing a shot which flashed wide of Newcastle Jets: Gk Ben Kennedy, 2 The home side was out of the blocks early the target. , 4 Kew Jaliens, 5 Ben and deservedly went in front after only The Jets were then reduced to 10 men Kantarovski (19 Mitch Cooper 61’), 11 minutes. played the ball on 82 minutes when Jaliens lunged in on 6 Adrian Madaschi, 8 Zenon Cara- into Garcia, who looked to play in Daniel Jamieson and referee Kris Griffiths-Jones vella, 9 Joel Griffiths (7 Jeronimo De Silva, but Scott Neville’s attempted showed the Dutch defender a straight Neumann 77’), 11 , clearance fell back into the path of Garcia red card. The Glory made their one-man 12 Sam Gallagher, 16 Jacob Pepper who finished low past Ben Kennedy. It was advantage count and wrapped up the points (13 Edson Montano 70’), 23 David nearly 2-0 moments later. Garcia made the four minutes later. Keogh playing the ball Carney most of a mistake from Jets defender Sam into the path of Marinkovic on the edge of Gallagher, racing down the right, his cross the penalty area, and the Serbian Subs Not Used: Rgk Mark Birighitti, to Andy Keogh at the back post was almost drilled his shot in off the post. The home 21 Sam Gallaway turned into his own net by Jaliens. side almost added a third late, but Kennedy Yellow Cards: Hoole 63’, Neville 74’ After the goal both sides struggled to create produced a stunning save to deny Keogh’s Red Cards: Jaliens 82’ any decent chances, the best for the home long-range shot. But at the final whistle it side fell to Keogh, who couldn’t find the was the Glory faithful celebrating another target after a low cross from Risdon on three points. the half hour. The Jets ended the half well www.goalweekly.com 11 Big Boy Blue: Melbourne Victory’s Archie Victory’s Melbourne Big Boy Blue: still as lethal ever Thompson showed he’s with a well taken hat-trick. in front of goal,

12 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER A-League Match Report Round 10 Report: KRISTIAN STOJANOV Photos: ANITA MILAS

Melbourne Victory 3

Sydney FC 1

Shane Smeltz was in fine touch for the Sky Blues. MATCH DETAILS

Melbourne Victory 3 (Thompson 12’, 45+2’, 79’) Big Blue honours shared Sydney FC 3 (Janko 16’, Smeltz elbourne Victory and Sydney barouses dribbling at goal and setting 49’, 75’) MFC put on a show on Saturday up Thompson who once again neatly Ground: Etihad Stadium night, playing out an entertaining 3-3 finished. Referee: Peter Green draw at Etihad Stadium in front of over Sydney came out firing in the second Attendance: 25,203 25,000 fans. half and found an equaliser when Sydney FC: 20. Vedran Janjetovic, Sydney marksman Shane Smeltz was left unmarked in 2. Seb Ryall, 4. , 6. bagged a brace along with fellow strike the box, heading home from an Alex Nikola Petkovic, 8. Milos Dimitri- partner and marquee man Gersbach corner. jevic, 9.Shane Smeltz, 11. Bernie also getting on the scoresheet. Smeltz was back on the scoreboard yet Ibini, 14. ( The man of the moment however was again when he picked up a pass from 90’+2’), 16. (23. Victory veteran , Dimitrijevic, turning and shooting past ), 17. Terry Antonis, 21. scoring a hat-trick in another Big Blue , putting the visitors in the Marc Janko (18. 80’) encounter. driving seat. The match came to life after just 13 Sydney’s lead only stood for five Yellow Cards: Petkovic 87’, Carle minutes when minutes however as Archie Thompson 94’. found whose shot was completed his hat-trick after a one-two Red Cards: None. well saved by Vedran Janjetovic, only with Besart Berisha before calmly slot- for it to land in the path of Thompson ting home the equaliser past Janjetovic. Perth Glory: 1. Nathan Coe, 2. Jason who put it in the back of the net on Victory had one last bite at the cherry Geria (4. Nicholas Ansell 69’), 5. the second attempt after Janjetovic’s when Berisha was denied late on after , 6. , 8. initial save. firing a shot at Janjetovic, which the Besart Berisha, 9. Kosta Barbarous- Just minutes later Janko put Sydney ‘keeper did brilliantly to keep out. es, 10. Archie Thompson (22. Jesse back on level terms after getting on the Melbourne Victory goes into next Makarounas 82’), 14. Fahid Ben end of a sublime Shane Smeltz flick week’s Melbourne derby without Khalfallah (11. Connor Pain 69’), 18. and finishing neatly past Nathan Coe, Skipper Mark Milligan who will be Dylan Murname, 21. , 23. despite later replays indicating the suspended for three matches after the . Austrian was offside. midfielder elbowed Sydney’s Terry Just as Sydney started to build mo- Antonis midway through the first-half Yellow Cards: Barbarouses 62’, mentum following some close chances, in the Big Blue, which left the Sydney Broxham 74’. Victory struck to take the lead just player needing stitches after the match. Red Cards: None before half time, with Kosta Bar-

www.goalweekly.com 13 In-form striker Rory Krishna spearheads another Phoenix as Marienrs Keeper Wellington attack for stands guard.

14 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 A-League Match Report Round 10 Report: JOE GALLAGHER Photos: CAMERON MACINTOSH

WELLINGTON PHOENIX 1

Central Coast Mariners 1

MATCH DETAILS

Wellington Phoenix 1 (Krishna 76’) Points shared in Auckland Central Coast Mariners 1 (Simon 40’) rey in the sky and grey in the stands; Eden Park, Auckland might feel aggrieved that his Wellington Phoenix trudged off Referee: Allan Milliner G side failed to hold onto what would have the Eden Park turf on Saturday evening been a first win in nine matches after amidst a sense of bemusement either side Central Coast Mariners: 3. Josh put them ahead in the first of the front office. Rose, 4. Jacob Poscoliero, 5. Zac half, pouncing on an error by Glen Moss Anderson (15. 46’), First, the amazement not to have recorded in the wet to tap home his first goal of the 7. John Hutchinson (C), 8. Nick a third successive victory, spurning a campaign. Montgomery (18. 20’), number of golden chances before falling But on the balance of play, he was lucky 10. , 11. Nick behind to a sucker punch and fighting to get that close after , Fitzgerald, 12. Liam Reddy (Gk), 17. back to earn a draw against the Central and Alex Rodriguez had Richard Vernes (28. Josh Bingham Coast Mariners – two points lost, rather all been thwarted by a combination of 82’), 19. Matt Simon, 21. Michael than one gained. errant finishing and the inspired form of Neill Then, the matter of the crowd, of a little Mariners goalkeeper Liam Reddy. Substitutes Not Used: 1. Matt Nash over 11,000, driving a stake through the It took an excellent finish by Fijian Roy (Gk), 26. Kim Seung-Yong heart of the theory that in order to remain Krishna – his fourth goal in four games Yellow Cards: Anderson, Simon, sustainable, the Phoenix must take their – to square the contest after 76 minutes, Vernes, Hutchinson show on the road from time to time. but Wellington could find no further Red Cards: Nil Arguably the compromise to Wellington’s opening to cash in a second successive ‘home’ advantage might have been the get-out-of-jail-free card. Wellington Phoenix: 1. Glen Moss difference between one point and three, The industry of ’s midfield (Gk), 2. Manny , 4. Roly and even the most staunch supporter was again a highlight but the Scotsman Bonevacia, 8. Alex Gorrin, 9. Nathan of the claim for Auckland to see more will know that his side will need to be Burns (11. 81’), 10. A-League football must admit that the less wasteful against opposition who Michael Mcglinchey (14. additional gate barely covered the logistics afford them fewer shots on goal than the 89’), 13. Albert Riera (7. Kenny of a four-day promotional stint in the Cunningham 87’), 16. , Mariners. City of Sails. 18. , 21. , They’ll come up against such opposition But for the Mariners, it’s a point which 22. (C) in Sunday’s crunch match against Sydney carries merit: grounding a high-flying Substitutes Not Used: 5. Michael FC, while Moss and Central Coast face Phoenix side who offered plenty in attack Boxall, 20. Lewis Italiano (Gk) a long trip west to play Perth Glory on and keeping Central Coast in sight of Yellow Cards: Nil Saturday night. the top six spot as a busy festive period approaches. www.goalweekly.com 15 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER Compiled by Nick Amies A-LEAGUE TEAM OF THE WEEK ROUND 10

Liam Reddy Mariners

Once again Reddy was left to stem the tide of Phoenix chanc- es and was unlucky to be beaten by Roy Krishna.

Corey Brown Archie Thompson

Josh Risdon Ben Sigmund Michael Thwaite Corey Brown Perth Glory Wellington Phoenix Perth Glory Brisbane Roar

Impressed again on Kept the Mariners Led his team by example A breath of fresh air com- Friday night against the attack relatively quiet against the Jets with a pared to Steffanutto and Jets and continues to all game and only composed performance played one of his better build his case for the conceded through an in the heart of defence games against Adelaide to Asian Cup. error by goalkeeper to secure another clean keep Fabio Ferreira quiet. Glen Moss. sheet.

Steven Lustica Nebojsa Marinkovic Milos Dimitrijevic Roy Krishna Brisbane Roar Perth Glory Sydney FC Wellington Phoenix

The 23-year-old suc- Scored a fine goal to Caught out for one of The Fijian continues to cessfully nullified the off another pleasing the Victory’s goals but grow across the ditch, influence of Isaias with performance to help barely put a foot wrong scoring another goal at a tireless performance his side maintain their otherwise. A key compo- the weekend to steal a in midfield to help his position at the top of the nent of ’s point against the Mar- team win in Adelaide. league. side. iners.

Archie Thompson Shane Smeltz Melbourne Victory Sydney FC

The veteran striker A sublime assist was turned back the clock then followed by two with a vintage display, goals as the Kiwi scoring a hat-trick in striker made a return the 3-3 draw against to form in the Big Sydney FC Blue.

Shane Smeltz www.goalweekly.com 16 www.goalweekly.com 17 18www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER Match Day Feature By Damir Kulas Mooy shows plenty of heart for City After a sterling spell at Western Sydney Wanderers, is now putting in the hard yards for Melbourne City. A big year lays ahead after also being selected in the Socceroos’ Asian Cup squad.

ver the past ten seasons, This time he would not only go the A-League has been on to make his debut but also home to many young score against Guam in a resound- OAustralians who have decided to ing 9-0 victory over the minnows cut their European careers short at the 2012 East Asian Cup Qual- in search of greener pastures back ifiers. He backed this up two days home. Many of these returning later when he scored once again, youngsters have struggled to con- this time against the Chinese Tai- tinue their progression and faded pei helping the Socceroos qualify away out of the limelight despite for the tournament proper the initial signs of promise. Think Kaz following July. Despite the exper- Patafta, Theo Markelis, Julius Da- imental national team finishing vies (Doe) and Brent McGrath. All a disappointing last place, Mooy these players failed to make an im- would once again manage to pact in the A-League and are now find the back of the net in a clash either piling their trade in the state against China as he once again leagues or the lower leagues of showed his quality off at the high- Europe or Asia. Melbourne City’s est level of international football. Aaron Mooy is a different case At club level, he managed to help however. the new kids on the block con- The former New South solidate a top two finish in the Institute of Sport (NSWIS) graduate moved to in A-League where they suffered further heartbreak by losing 2006 aged 16 to join Premiership outfit Bolton Wanderers another Grand Final before departing the club by being a where the young Aussie progressed through the club’s youth key player in their progression through to the latter stag- ranks. Mooy was tipped by many to break into the club’s first es of the Asian Champions League. Despite all his success team in the 2009/10 season however the club’s acquisition at Wanderland, Mooy opted to move south of the border of young Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere on loan for the joining a rebranded Melbourne City outfit whom he hoped second part of that campaign pushed the boy from West- to go one better with and win the A-League Championship. ern Sydney down the pecking order. Despite being offered Ten rounds in and City have underperformed, winning only a contract extension for the following season, Mooy opted two of their nine fixtures so far this season. However the to head north in search for greater game time, signing for same cannot be said for their midfield engine with Mooy outfit St. Mirren. consistently putting in excellent displays, none more so After some impressive performances for the Saints in memorable than his magnificent outing away to Brisbane which the youngster became a fans favourite, Mooy was of- Roar where he commanded the centre of the park. His good fered a contract extension for the following season. Howev- early season form saw him rewarded with a Socceroos recall er his progress stalled as a persistent back injury halted his as the 24 year-old was included in not only Ange Posteco- progress and disrupted his season. Despite the frustrating glou’s friendly squad for their clash against Japan last month campaign, there was a silver lining to it when Mooy scored but also the extended Asian Cup squad for next month’s his first league goal in a famous home win over giants Rang- tournament with the four time Socceroo a good chance of ers in December 2011. This did not prove to be enough to being selected for the final 23 man squad which comes out see the youngster stay in Paisley as St. Mirren let him go on at the end of the month. a free transfer. But first up there’s the small matter of a Melbourne derby His next move would see him become one of the three to look forward to this week with Mooy destined to play a inaugural players for the newly formed Western Sydney crucial role if City are to have any chance of upsetting the Wanderers with the 22 year-old getting the opportunity high-flying Victory and avenge their demoralising 5-2 loss to play in his own backyard having grown up not far from against their bitter rivals in round three. Whatever the case, . Mooy would become an integral part expect to see Mooy at the heart of the action on Saturday of the successful Wanderers squad for the next two seasons night, beaming with confidence and the persistence of a with his energetic and efficient displays in midfield earning man determined to take his chance and put himself on the him a Socceroos call up, three years after he had been called Socceroos team sheet after some frustrating years battling up to the national team squad for a friendly against the Re- away in Europe. public of Ireland. www.goalweekly.com 19 A-League Preview Round 11 ALL KO TIMES ARE LOCAL GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER Newcastle Jets v Adelaide Fri 19 Dec Hunter 7:40 PM 1. Mark Birighitti (Gk) 1. Eugene Galekovic (C) 2. Scott Neville 2. 3. Taylor Regan 3. 4. Kew Jaliens (C) 4. Dylan McGowan 5. Ben Kantarovski 5. 6. Adrian Madaschi 6. Cássio (vice-captain) 7. Jeronimo Neumann 7. Pablo Sánchez 8. Zenon Caravella 8. Isaías 9. Joel Griffiths 9. Cirio 10. 10. 11. Andrew Hoole 11. Bruce Djite 12. Sam Gallagher 12. Mark Ochieng 13. Edson Montano 13. Dylan Smith 14. Billy Celeski 14. Cameron Watson 15. Josh Barresi 15. Ben Warland 16. Jacob Pepper 16. Craig Goodwin 17. James Virgili 17. Awer Mabil 18. Allan Welsh 18. 19. Mitch Cooper The Odds Head to Head 20. 20. Ben Kennedy (Gk) Newcastle 4.50 Played 27 21. Tarek Elrich Draw 3.60 Jets 9 22. Fábio Ferreira 21. Sam Gallaway Adelaide 1.80 Draws 8 22. Jonny Steele Adelaide 10 23. 23. David Carney 24. 25. Brandon Lundy Kiss of Death 30. John Hall 30. John Solari (Gk) Jets 0-2 Adelaide Utd 32. Nathan Konstandopoulos Cup winners next for winless Jets Shaun Dyas Jets manager Phil Stubbins has a few their front men, Elrich’s cross to Djite options up his sleeve to replace his for a goal against Melbourne City he Newcastle Jets are still search- skipper, with both Sam Gallagher and earlier in the season was a superb case Ting for their first victory of the Ben Kantarovski useful options. in point. season and welcome a buoyant and Whoever Stubbins decides to use be- Newcastle will have to be pragmatic in form Adelaide United to Hunter tween this pair, they are most certainly if they are to stand any chance in this Stadium on Friday night. going to have their work cut out. encounter. The visitor rolls into town fresh off Bruce Djite has been a tower of Edson Montano will be crucial for their midweek win in the inaugural strength for the Reds up front with his the home side as he will have to hold FFA Cup final and simply brimming clever and strong hold up play. the ball up strongly so the Jets can get with confidence. This has allowed for the likes of Isaias, some respite. Some of the football that the Reds Sergio Cirio and Marcelo Carrusca to Joel Griffiths is likely to play just have been playing this year has been buzz around causing mayhem with in behind to provide extra legs in nothing short of sublime and will their slick possession game. midfield. provide the sternest of tests against Carrusca especially has been superb Whatever the Jets decide to do a Jets side that are clearly lacking in and is in the sort of form that could though, it most likely won’t be confidence. see him pick up a enough. To add to this, the Jets will be without Medal for player of the season. ’s men are just a better their captain Kew Jaliens, who has Both Craig Goodwin and Tarek football side and unless they struggle been suspended for two matches by Elrich, ex Jets players, have also been with fatigue due to their midweek the match review panel for his shock- superb for United in wide areas. commitments, should leave Newcastle ing challenge on Scott Jamieson in last They have been bombing on all season with the three points. week’s 2-0 loss to the Glory. and supplying quality delivery for • The Jets have won three of their last five home • After an unbeaten opening seven games, Adelaide have games against United (W3 D1 L1). won just one of their last three (L2).

20 www.goalweekly.com MATCH PREVIEW 1

A-League Preview Round 11 ALL KO TIMES ARE LOCAL GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER Melbourne City v Melb Victory Sat 20 Dec AAMI 7:30PM

1. 1. Nathan Coe 3. Robbie Wielaert 2. 4. Connor Chapman 4. Nick Ansell 5. 5. Mark Milligan 6. Aaron Mooy (captain) 7. Iain Ramsay 6. Leigh Broxham 8. Massimo Murdocca (vice-captain) 9. 7. Gui Finkler 10. Robert Koren 8. Besart Berisha 11. Damien Duff 9. 13. Jonatan Germano 10. Archie Thompson 14. James Brown 11. Connor Pain 15 David Williams 13. 17. 14. Fahid Ben Khalfallah 18. Paulo Retre 15. 19. Benjamin Garuccio 16. Rashid Mahazi The Odds Head to Head 20. 17. Melb City 3.60 Played 13 21. Stefan Mauk Draw 3.50 City 4 18. Dylan Murnane 22. Nick Kalmar Melb Victory 2.05 Draws 4 20. 23. Mate Dugandzic Victory 5 21. Carl Valeri 24. 22. Jesse Makarounas 25. Jacob Melling Kiss of Death 23. Adrian Leijer 26. Marc Marino Melb City 1-2 Melb Victory (2nd vice-captain) 24. 26. Jordan Brown Derby Delights Await a Victor Chris Hearn after Archie Thompson’s vintage missed the round 1 clash with the performance against Sydney FC Western Sydney Wanderers, Leigh ive spots and 13 points separate last week which saw the veteran Broxham filled the void - putting in FMelbourne City and its local maintain his side’s unbeaten run a masterful shift and scoring a goal rivals, Melbourne Victory, and three with a hat-trick. in the 4-1 hammering. goals were the difference between City will be boosted by the news The defence remains a cause for the sides in round 3. that Muscat’s skipper, Mark concern for the high-fliers, as Daniel Despite this, John Van’t Schip’s Milligan, has been sanctioned with Georgievski and Matthieu Delp- men will be full of confidence after a three-week ban by the Match ierre look set to miss out again, with notching its second win of the Review Panel, following an errant Nick Ansell set to make his first season last time out against Brisbane elbow on Sydney FC midfielder start this season following a knee Roar. Terry Antonis. injury. Guilherme Finkler is also a Victory, led by former talismanic The suspension to Victory’s midfield chance to return in the playmaker captain , are in a rich general could pave the way for City’s role. vein of form and are unbeaten head- improving trio. Youngster Jacob On what is set to be an emotionally ing into Saturday’s clash, needing a Melling has provided much-needed charged event, the equation for win to keep pace with front-runners drive in the heart of City’s midfield, City to make a fist of the contest Perth Glory. and grouped with Erik Paartalu and is simple; to frustrate and attack Muscat was quoted as saying: “This Aaron Mooy, Van’t Schip’s balance their opponents in equal measure. group doesn’t know how to lose,” in the centre of the park is enviable. A failure to do so could result in and who would argue? Victory have Muscat’s trump card is strength another one-sided affair, but one managed to score 24 times after 10 in depth. When Milligan was feels Saturday, all things equal, will rounds, an A-League record. This, summoned to Socceroos duty and be a lot more fiercely contested.

• City have won only one of their last six meetings with • Victory are the only unbeaten side left in the division this season Victory, losing four (D1). and their run of 10 matches without defeat is their best ever run of its kind. www.goalweekly.com 21 A-League Preview Round 11 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER Perth Glory v Mariners Sat 20 Dec nib Stadium 6:30 PM

1. Danny Vukovic 1. Matthew Nash 2. 2. 3. Brandon O’Neill 3. Joshua Rose 5. Rostyn Griffiths 5. 6. Dino Đulbic 6. Brent Griffiths 7. Youssouf Hersi 7. John Hutchinson (C) 8. Ruben Zadkovich 8. Nick Montgomery 9. Andy Keogh 9. Mitchell Duke 10. Nebojša Marinkovic 10. Anthony Caceres 11. Richard Garcia 11. 13. 12. Liam Reddy 14. Chris Harold 14. Malick Mané 15. 15. Matthew Sim 16. Sidnei 16. 17. Mitch Nichols 17. Richárd Vernes 18. The Odds Head to Head 18. Glen Trifiro 19. Joshua Risdon Perth Glory 1.45 Played 28 19. Matt Simon 20. Daniel De Silva Draw 4.30 Glory 6 20. 21. Scott Jamieson Mariners 7.00 Draws 5 21. 22. Cameron Edwards Mariners 17 22. Tom Slater 23. Michael Thwaite 23. Isaka Cernak (Captain) Kiss of Death 24. Hayden Morton Perth Glory 3-1 Mariners 24. Matthew Davies 25. Eddy Bosnar 25. Riley Woodcock 26. Kim Seung-yong 26. Harry O’Brien 30. Jordan Thurtell Glory ready for the Mariners Peter Simcox and they will be looking to make it Glen Moss will be sweating on the six home wins to start a season, and fitness of Zac Anderson and Nick erth Glory will look to put the with the improved form away from Montgomery who both limped off PFFA Cup Final defeat against home things are looking bright in last week, as they look to continue Adelaide United behind them when the West, but the Glory are now their good recent form in the West. they take on Central Coast Mariners the hunted and not the hunter as They have not won since round one. at nib Stadium on Saturday evening. in previous seasons. The loss of Saturday’s draw was the club’s fourth (6.30pm WA time) Josh Risdon (suspended) and Mitch from five away matches, but draws Glory coach Kenny Lowe praised Nicholas (hamstring) will be a huge are no longer good enough. But the efforts and character of his boys blow, but the timely return of Sidnei Coach Phil Moss believes the draw and has rejected the notion his side Scoila and Ruben Zadzovich, and last week could mark a turning point will falter in the A-League because of the form of Chris Harold and Jamie in his side’s disappointing season their Cup Final loss, and is confident Maclaren will give the Coaching staff to date. “We’re probably lacking a the team would quickly bounce back some selection headaches. bit of confidence at the moment, against the Mariners. “We’ll grieve The Mariners were unlucky not but we’ve got a lot of belief. ,” he for 24 hours and then we’ll move to take all three points against said. “You only get confidence out on” he said. “I’m extremely proud Wellington Phoenix last week, but of performance and results and that of the people that were on the park a late goal from Roy Krishna meant performance – and the fact we’ve in the final. They’re good footballers they had to take a share of the spoils. scored another goal – will give us and that will take us a long way at Matt Simon was on the scoreboard a lot of confidence to go with our this club.” last week, and the striker is getting belief heading into the Perth game.” Glory sits three points clear at the fitter after missing the opening part top of the Hyundai A-League table, of the season due to injury. Coach • Perth have averaged just 44% possession this season – only • Mariners are without a win in nine (D4 L5), last tasting Western Sydney Wanderers have a lower total. victory on the opening game of the season.

22 www.goalweekly.com A-League Preview Round 11 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014

Sydney FC v Wellington Phoenix Sun 21 Dec Allianz 5:00 PM 1. 1. Glen Moss 2. 2. 3. Saša Ognenovski 3. Reece Caira (vice captain) 4. Roly Bonevacia 4. Pedj Bojic 5. 5. 6. Josh Brindell-South 6. Nikola Petkovic 7. Kenny Cunningham (vice captain) 8. Alejandro Gorrin 7. 9. Nathan Burns 8. Miloš Dimitrijevic 10. Michael McGlinchey 9. Shane Smeltz 11. Jeremy Brockie 11. Bernie Ibini-Isei 12. 12. Hagi Gligor 13. Albert Riera 13. Alex Gersbach 14. Alex Rufer 14. Alex Brosque 15. Jason Hicks (captain) 16. Louis Fenton 16. The Odds Head to Head 17. 17. Terry Antonis Sydney FC 1.80 Played 22 18. Ben Sigmund 18. Peter Triantis Draw 3.60 Sydney FC 12 (vice-captain) 19. Nick Carle Wellington 4.30 Draws 1 19. 20. Vedran Janjetovic Phoenix 9 20. Lewis Italiano 21. Marc Janko 21. Roy Krishna 22. Kiss of Death 22. Andrew Durante 23. Rhyan Grant Sydney FC 2-1 Wellington (captain) 30. Anthony Bouzanis 23. Matthew Ridenton Phoenix look to soar over Sydney Alex Porter hen Sydney FC host Welling- 13 or 14 players as it stands now” the back of his brace in Melbourne, Wton Phoenix this Sunday there will very likely be funds spent alongside perennial attacking threats afternoon at Allianz stadium it will in the transfer market although this in Alex Brosque, Bernie Ibini and be a case of whose renaissance will will be cold comfort for the home Marc Janko, the scene is set for an continue at the expense of the other. side who will be down on troops attacking and goal filled game. Both teams had come into this facing a Wellington side enjoying With the season rapidly passing season of the A-league with recent a resurgence of form under Ernie by, the top 5 are already distancing poor form not befitting their lofty Merrick. themselves from the chasing pack, ambitions yet find themselves neck The visitors, running hot on the with 6 points separating Wellington and neck in 4th and 5th position re- back of Nathan Burn’s current eye in 5th from Brisbane Roar in 6th, spectively, separated by just a single for goal, will pose a true threat to so the race for higher positions and point. As it stands it will be a vital the home side and will still be buzz- more favourable finals fixtures be- 3 points on offer with everything to ing from the 5-1 demolition job comes all important. Throw in the play for. they put on Melbourne City back tactical nous of two of the game’s For the Sky Blues it will be a case in November which set the tone for most well respected coaches in of making the most of their limited strong performances as the brushed Graham Arnold and Ernie Merrick, resources following the potentially past the Newcastle Jets and held a booming Cove in full voice and season ending injury of Nick Carle Central Coast Mariners to a draw. a Sunday afternoon in December in the dying minutes of last week’s With the Phoenix having scored the and you have all the ingredients thrilling 3-3 draw with Melbourne second most goals of any outfit this for a classic. The only thing left to Victory. With Coach Graham season (19) and with Sydney’s own determine is, who wants it more? Arnold admitting “we only have marksman Shane Smeltz coming off • Sydney have won just one of their last six games (D4 L1). • The Nix meanwhile, are unbeaten in their last three (W2 But Sydney have also won their last three home games D1). While Roy Krishna has scored in each of the Nix’s last against Wellington, scoring 13 goals in the process. four games. www.goalweekly.com 23 ADELAIDE UNITED

FFA CUP DETAILS FINAL Adelaide United 1 (Cirio 68’) Perth Glory 0 Crowd: 16,124 @ Coopers Stadium, Hindmarsh Referee: Chris Beath

Road to The Final Adelaide United Round of 32: Def Wellington Phoenix 1-0

Round of 16: Def Brisbane Roar 2-0

Quarter Finals: Def Sydney FC 3-1 in extra time

Semi Finals: Def Central Coast Mariners 3-2

Perth Glory Round of 32: Def Newcastle Jets 2-0

Round of 16: Def St Albans Saints 4-1

Quarter Finals: Def Melbourne Victory 4-2

Semi Finals: Def Bentleigh Greens 3-0

LEADING GOAL SCORERS 6 - Sergio Cirio (Adelaide United) 5 - Andy Keogh (Perth Glory), Nebojsa Marinkovic (Perth Glory), Matt Sim (Central Coast Mariners) FFA CUP WINNERS 2014 24 www.goalweekly.com ADELAIDE UNITED Photo: ADAM Photo: BUTLER

FFA CUP WINNERS 2014 www.goalweekly.com 25 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER FFA Cup Final Report: PETER SIMCOX Photos: ADAM BUTLER Cirio stars Adelaide United in Reds’ FFA Cup win 1

PERTH GLORY 0

MATCH DETAILS

Adelaide United 1 (Cirio 68’) Perth Glory 0 Crowd: 16,124 @ Coopers Stadium, Hindmarsh Referee: Chris Beath

smart finish from Spanish striker Ser- the break and Mabil went close again 10 Adelaide United Starting Line-Up: gio Cirio has given Adelaide United minutes in. Great work on the left by Cirio 1.Eugene Galekovic (Gk) (C), 2.Mi- a 1-0 victory against Perth Glory in set up the chance, cutting inside Risdon, chael Marrone, 3.Nigel Boogaard, theA Westfield FFA Cup Final, at a sold out before finding the Kenyan-Born winger, but 4.Dylan Mcgowan, 8.Isaías, Coopers Stadium on Tuesday evening. again he wasted the opportunity. Moments The Glory was punished on 67 minutes, later Djite’s snap shot was well blocked by 9.Sergio Cirio, 10.Marcelo Carrusca only eight minutes after defender Josh Vukovic, and then just before the hour the (7.Pablo Sánchez 80’), 11.Bruce Risdon was sent off, and the goal winning visitors were reduced to ten men. A needless Djite (14.Cameron Watson 86’), the inaugural FFA Cup trophy, and Cirio was pull back by Risdon earned the defender a 17.Awer Mabil (22.Fabio Ferreira awarded the ‘Mark Viduka Medal’ as best on second yellow card from referee Chris Beath, 59’), 18.Jimmy Jeggo, 21.Tarek field. Cirio said it was the most important and the Glory were now on the back foot. Elrich goal of his career. “It’s important because I Adelaide were now well on top and five min- Substitutes Not Used: 24.Bruce score... but this award is for the whole team, utes later Tarek Elrich through ball sent Djite Komau, 30.John Hall (Gk) everybody had a good game,” he said. “I’m clear but Vukovic was out quick to save. Yellow Cards: Isaias 69’ very happy because we got it in front of our But on 67 minutes Adelaide made the most Red Cards: Nil supporters.” of their numerical advantage, taking the lead. Chances were few and far between in a tight Djite picked out Marcelo Carrusca, whose Perth Glory Starting Line-Up: contest, with both defence’s on top, but on perfectly weighted pass sent Cirio clear, who 1.Daniel Vukovic (Gk), 5.Rostyn 25 minutes the Glory almost hit the front. A fired home from the angle, despite Dino Griffiths, 6.Dino Djulbic, 8.Ruben slide rule pass from Nebojsa Marinkovic sent Dujbic attempted goal line clearance. It was Zadkovich, 9.Andy Keogh, 10.Nebo- Richard Garcia clear, but Adelaide keeper Eu- more than the home side deserved and they gene Galekovic stood tall to block the former looked to ram home their advantage. Vukovic jsa Marinkovic (15.Jamie Maclaren Hull City striker’s shot, the rebound falling had to be alert to deny James Jeggo and 80’), 11.Richard Garcia, 19.Josh to Andy Keogh, whose shot was cleared. Isaias, before Cirio’s deflected shot dropped Risdon, 20.Daniel De Silva (16.Sid- Then on the stroke of half time the home side inches over the top. The Glory couldn’t get nei Scoila 46’), 21.Scott Jamieson, had the best chance of the match, and should back into the game, despite the efforts of Ke- 23.Michael Thwaite (C) have taken the lead. Rostyn Griffiths was ogh, who was outstanding. Their best chance Substitutes Not Used: 3.Brandon caught in possession, and Bruce Djite raced fell to substitute Jamie Maclaren in the last O’neill, 14.Chris Harold, 18.Jack clear and slid Mabel in one-on-one with minutes of stoppage time, but the young Duncan (Gk) Danny Vukovic, but the 19-year-old blazed striker fired well over from the edge of the Yellow Cards: Garcia 32’, Risdon over from 10-yards. box. But at the final whistle it was the home 42’/58’ The Reds were quick out of the blocks after fans and players celebrating a famous win. Red Cards: Risdon 58’ 26 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 Football Almanac This week in the month of December in the world of football.

19th December 1983 - The original FIFA World Cup trophy, the Jules Rimet Trophy, is stolen from the headquarters of the Brazilian Football Confederation in Rio de Janeiro. In 1970, received the Jules Rimet Trophy in perpetuity after winning the World Cup for a third time. In 1983, the trophy was once again stolen. A banker and football team agent called Sérgio Peralta was the mastermind of the theft. Peralta invited more 2 men: an ex-police officer called Francisco Rivera (nicknamed “Chico Barbudo”) and a decorator, José Luiz Vieira (nicknamed “Luiz Bigode”). The two men entered on the Brazilian Soccer Confederation (CBF)’s building and stole the trophy Jules Rimet and another 2 trophies, “Equitativa” and “Jurrito”. A safecracker, Antonio Setta, revealed that Sergio Peralta had invited him to steal the trophy, but he refused out of patriotism and because his brother had died of a heart attack when Brazil won the Jules Rimet Thophy. Sérgio Peralta and all the suspects were arrested, and it was revealed that the trophy was melted into gold bars by Juan Carlos Hernandez, a gold dealer. Hernandez was arrested, along with the suspects, but when they received their sentences, all of them fled. Chico Barbudo was killed in 1989 with shots by five men on a pub. Luiz Bigode was arrested once again and was freed from jail in 1998. Antonio Setta died in a John Van’t Schip car accident on 1985. Juan Carlos Hernandez fled to and was arrested at a bus station in São Paulo for drug trafficking. He was Bearzot announced the so-called silenzio stampa (press freed from jail in 2005. The mastermind, Sérgio Peralta, was freed silence) in order to avoid rising criticism from the Italian from jail in 1998. He died of a heart attack in 2003. press. Following that, the Italian team finally started to As of 2014, the trophy has not been recovered. Instead, a replica of play its best football, defeating Argentina and Brazil in the Jules Rimet Trophy was presented to the CBF in 1984. the second round, Poland in the semi-final and Germany in the Final, and winning the World Cup for the first time 19 December 1943 - 1974 World Cup Socceroo since 1938. born in Scotland (d.11 December 1998). In late 1973, he scored the decisive goal against which sent Australia to its first ever 26th December 1860 - The first ever inter-club football World Cup in 1974. match takes place between Hallam F.C. and Sheffield F.C. at the Sandygate Road ground in Sheffield, England. 21 December 1997 - Brazil beats Australia 6-0 in the 1997 FIFA Confederations Cup Final, . Hat-tricks to Ronaldo and Romario 28 December 1988 - Socceroo midfielderAdam Sarota in front of 65,000 were too hot to handle. born in Gordonvale, Australia

21st December 2010 - Enzo Bearzot, Italian football player and 29 December 1979 - Central Coast Mariners captain 1982 World Cup winning manager dies (b. 1927). In the 1982 FIFA John Hutchinson born in Morwell, Victoria. Hutchinson World Cup, after poor performances in the three first matches, is the all-time most capped Mariners player. He has also spent time on loan at Chinese club Chengdu Blades. Enzo Bearzot Hutchinson won 11 caps with the Maltese national team.

30 December 1963 - Melbourne City coach John van ‘t Schip is born in British Columbia, Canada. Former Dutch international (42 caps) who featured in the Euro 1988, 1990 FIFA World Cup and Euro 1992 tournaments.

31st December 1941 - Sir , Scottish football manager born. Longest serving manager of Man- chester United from 1986 to 2013. During his 26 years at the club, he won 38 trophies, including 13 Premier 27 www.goalweekly.com Sir Alex League and two UEFA Champions League titles www.goalweekly.com 27 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 PoL’s Football Art House

Due to holidays, and the break in the A-League for the Asia Cup, this is our last edition for 2014.

Goal! Weekly will next be out on Friday 22nd January 2015.

We would like to wish all of our readers, sponsors and contributors a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Enjoy the holidays and stay safe.

eree led to the send of off Wanderers in signing veteran players in their Nikolai Topor-Stanley, leaving them quest to turn their Season around, Katsa’s with 9 men for the grueling Extra the latest signing being Josh Kennedy, Korner Time Period, a task that was in the who returns home after a long career end, out of their reach. overseas, having signed an eighteen The dream run is now over for the month contract with Melbourne City. Wanderers and they will now need to Question marks exist around his long George Katsamboukas attempt to resurrect their A-League term back injury and whether he can Season, and they will need to start overcome this, one thing is for certain ne could be forgiven for con- getting positive results shortly, if they though; a fit Josh Kennedy will do the fusing the FIFA World Cup are to have any chance of securing a Melbourne City’s Finals aspirations, Club Championship Game Finals berth. no harm. Obetween Western Sydney Wanderers The Big Blue Derby certainly lived The good news to come out of the and Cruz Azul for a Sunday Morning up to its name with both Teams lay- local leagues is that NPL Teams are League Match, such was the state of ing their bodies on the line and goals commencing their pre season practice the waterlogged pitch, having said being scored a plenty. matches, meaning the many Football that, such was the state of the pitch The talk of the night however was Tragic’s, me included, will once again so poor, that even a Sunday Morning Victory’s Mark Milligan’s clash with have a purpose for their weekends. League Match, would not have gone Sydney’s Terry Antonis, the later Finally, wishing everyone all the best ahead. requiring ten stitches to his head, for the festive season, and a prosper- It was a case of so close – yet so far after Milligan’s Elbow made contact ous and healthy 2015. for the Wanderers who came within with it. 2 minutes of advancing to the next Milligan has been issued with a Show Until next week. stage, until a penalty gave the Mexi- Cause Notice, if the Foxtel Commen- can Champions the equaliser, forcing tators views are anything to go by, he This is Katsa – Just as you have the match into extra time, not before will be found Guilty. known him a case of mistaken identity by the ref- Melbourne City continue to put faith

28 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014

RAISING Auckland back on NZ radar MY OPINION capital. ly employed. Wellington Phoenix General Man- “They are widely respected by ager David Dome said the devel- the football community in this Andre Zwan in NZ opment was an important step in country and we are delighted that the Club’s on-going development. we have been able build something ellington Phoenix is to open “We are committed to finding and we believe will be quite special Wa soccer school in Auckland developing the next generation of with them.” with the objective of developing professional footballers in New The move makes sense as it will the next generation of professional Zealand,” Dome said. open another channel to work footballers in New Zealand. “Auckland is the country’s largest with the Building on the success of the metro and there are more football which is based in Auckland. Wellington Phoenix Football players in that city than anywhere Coach Hiroshi Miyazawa, said Academy based at Scots College in else – it just makes sense to have a that partnering with the Phoenix Wellington, the Auckland Soccer presence there. made good sense. School will be responsible for “The coaches we have partnered “We are very excited to have the developing promising talent in are some of the very best in New opportunity to work with the Wel- Auckland and channelling the very Zealand with a history of coaching lington Phoenix and give the top best to Wellington to realise their and developing some of this coun- players in the Auckland region a dream in professional football. try’s best young talent. pathway to professional football,” Leigh Kenyon, Hiroshi Miyazawa “Chris Wood, and Miyazawa said. and Joseph Dawkins, three very current Phoenix professional “We believe that partnering with experienced coaches, will head up Thomas Doyle have all been devel- the Phoenix will enable us to cre- the Soccer School in Auckland. oped by these coaches when they ate a youth coaching environment It will be the first physical base of were at Wynrs Football Academy in Auckland that rivals the set ups the Wellington Phoenix outside the where these coaches were previous- and programmes overseas.

www.goalweekly.com 29 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014

Couch Potato * ALL TIMES ARE AEDT

Tue Dec 30 Liverpool v Swansea 6.50 am Fox 4 English Premier League Sat Dec 20 Man City v C Palace A-League 11.35 pm Fox 4 Fri Dec 19 Newcastle v Adelaide Sun Dec 21 Aston Villa v Man Utd 7.30 pm Fox 4 1.50 am Fox 4 Sat Dec 20 Melb City v Victory Sun Dec 21 Tottenham v Burnley 7.00 pm Fox 4 1.50 am Fox 3 Sat Dec 20 Perth v Central Coast Sun Dec 21 Hull v Swansea 9.45 pm Fox 4 1.50 am Red Button Sun Dec 21 Sydney v Wellington Sun Dec 21 QPR v West Brom 5.00 pm Fox 4 1.50 am Red Button Sun Dec 21 S’hampton v Everton Fri Dec 26 Melbourne City v Perth 1.50 am Red Button 5.30 pm Fox 4 Sun Dec 21 West Ham v Leicester Fri Dec 26 Sydney v Adelaide 1.50 am Red Button 7.30 pm Fox 4 Mon Dec 22 N’castle v S’land Sat Dec 27 Mariners v Brisbane 12.20 am Fox 4 5.00 pm Fox 4 Mon Dec 22 Liverpool v Arsenal Sat Dec 27 Melb Victory v Jets 2.45 am Fox 4 7.30 pm Fox 4 Tue Dec 23 Stoke v Chelsea Sun Dec 28 Phoenix v Wanderers 6.50 am Fox 4 5.00 pm Fox 4

Fri Dec 26 Chelsea v West Ham Tue Dec 30 Jets v Melbourne City 11.35 pm Fox 4 5.00 pm Fox 4 Sat Dec 27 Ma Utd v Newcastle Tue Dec 30 Brisbane v Sydney 1.50 am Fox 4 8.00 pm Fox 4 Sat Dec 27 Burnley v Liverpool Wed Dec 31 Adelaide v Wellington 1.50 am Fox 1 7.30 pm Fox 4 Sat Dec 27 Leicester v Tottenham Thu Jan 1 Wanderers v Mariners 1.50 am Fox 3 7.30 pm Fox 4 Sat Dec 27 West Brom v Man City MELBOURNE SPORTS BOOKS 1.50 am Fox 5 Fri Jan 2 Melb Victory v Perth SOCCER BOOKS & DVDS Sat Dec 27 C Palace v S’thampton 7.30 pm Fox 4 1.50 am Red Button Sat Jan 3 Sydney v Newcastle Retiring Book NEW BOOK...... $38 Sat Dec 27 Everton v Stoke 7.30 pm Fox 4 NEW BOOK ...... $33 Luis Suarez NEW BOOK ...... $25 1.50 am Red Button Sun Jan 4 Wellington v Brisbane 3.00 pm Fox 4 Football Year Book NEW BOOK ...... $55 Sat Dec 27 Sunderland v Hull Nationwide Football Annual NEW BOOK ...... $25 Sun Jan 4 Mariners v Melb City 1.50 am Red Button A Football History In Australia NEW BOOK ...... $45 Sat Dec 27 Swansea v Aston Villa 5.00 pm Fox 4 Neymar Brazilian NEW BOOK ...... $25 1.50 am Red Button Mon Jan 5 Perth v Adelaide The Managers - Ferguson, Mourinho NEW BOOK ...... $25 Sat Dec 27 Arsenal v QPR 8.00 pm Fox 4 Sol Campbell NEW BOOK ...... $44 Man City - Richer Than God ...... $25 4.20 am Fox 4 Tue Jan 6 Wanderers v Victory 7.30 pm Fox 4 Christiano Ronaldo NEW BOOK ...... $25 Sun Dec 28 Tottenham v Ma Utd Steven Gerard NEW BOOK ...... $25 10.50 pm Fox 4 Why American Soccer Isn’t There Yet...... $40 NEW BOOK ...... $25 Mon Dec 29 S’hampton v Chelsea Sat Dec 20 Celta Vigo v Almeria Alex Ferguson - My Autobiography ...... $38 12.55 am Fox 4 6.40 am Fox 4 Mario Balotelli NEW BOOK ...... $29 The Mammoth Book of the World Cup ...... $20 Mon Dec 29 West Ham v Arsenal Sun Dec 21 Levante v Sociedad 3.55 am Fox 4 NEW BOOK ...... $25 1.50 am Fox 1 Manchester United - New History Book ...... $25 Sun Dec 21 Eibar v Valencia Mon Dec 29 Man City v Burnley .... Playing On NEW BOOK ...... $25 1.50 am Fox 3 5.55 am Fox 4 Shocking Brazil - The World Cup NEW BOOK ...... $30 Mon Dec 29 A Villa v Sunderland Sun Dec 21 Vallecano v Espanyol 1.50 am Red Button 7.55 am Fox 4 MANY USED & SECOND HAND SOCCER ALL $10 EACH Mon Dec 29 Hull v Leicester Sun Dec 21 Villarreal v Deportivo 51 Brunswick Road East Brunswick VIC 3057 1.50 am Red Button 9.55 pm Fox 4 Add $10 for postage and handling - delivery anywhere in Australia Mon Dec 22 Granada v Getafe Mon Dec 29 QPR v Crystal Palace Email: [email protected] 2.55 am Fox 3 1.50 am Red Button Web: www.melbournesportsbooks.com.au Mon Dec 29 Stoke v West Brom Mon Dec 22 Elche v Malaga Contact: Santo Caruso 0421 793 833 0499 867 077 1.50 am Red Button 4.55 am Fox 4 Mon Dec 29 Newcastle v Everton Mon Dec 22 Bilbao v Atl Madrid Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.00pm Sat: 10.00am-12.00pm 3.05 am Fox 4 6.55 am Fox 4 All credit cards/money orders/cheques accepted. (Amex/B/Card, M/Card, Visa, EFTPOS) 30 www.goalweekly.com Soccer Sideshow Answers On Page 40 Compiled By Peter Simcox VIC’S QUICK Brains Trust: F QUIZ Vic Brincat O Men in Black ? 1. What season did referee Strebre Delovski first O officiate in an A league match. 2. Who was in charge of the 2013-14 A League T Grand Final. B 3. Which referee has officiated most A League matches by the end of the A 2013-14 season. 4. What competition does Andre L Marriner referee in. 5. What state does A league referee Kris Griffiths-Jones come L from. Answers On Page 39 ACROSS: 6. Name one of two New Zealand A league Question 14 4. The skipper of Perth Glory (7) referees. C 5. French club, who were runners-up last season (6) 6. Roar skipper who has recently joined club Bang- 7. How many matches has Adam Fielding refereed kok Glass (4, 5) in the A League. R 8. David Moyes is manager of this Spanish La Liga club (4, 8) 9. John Toshack was manager of this Spanish club from 1995 8. There has been two Asian referees officiate in – 1997 (9) the A League, What country did they come from. 11. Kenya-born, Australian under-20 international winger O from Adelaide United (4, 5) 9. Name the now retired famous Italian referee 13. Former New Zealand international defender at Wellington known as ‘Kojak’ because of his bald head. Phoenix (7) 16. The manager from the EPL club from the Liberty Stadium 10. In the 2008 Grand Final which referee had his S (5, 4) arm slapped by goalkeeper Mark Vukovic. 17. Defender from Coopers Stadium, who also had three seasons at Melbourne Heart (7) 11. How many Victorians are on the 2014-15 A S DOWN: League referees register panel. 1. Dutch winger from Western Sydney Wanderers (8) 12. How many female referee’s assistants are on 2. The home of the 2011-12 FA Cup winners (8, 6) the 2014-15 A League register panel. W 3. Central Coast Mariners defender (6, 4) 6. Australian international midfielder and skipper of Mel- 13. Name the only state that does not have an A bourne Victory (4, 8) League referee officiating this season. 7. Melbourne City midfielder, who played two seasons with O Scottish club Greenock Morton between 2008 and 2010 (8) 14. Can you name the referee in the picture above. 10. The nickname of ’s EPL club (7) 12. Australian international keeper Anfield (5) 15. Who refereed the 2014 World Cup Final. Question 9 14. The Asian country who won the 1997 World Cup play-off R against the Socceroos (4)? 15. Former Liverpool and Aston Villa manager Gerard Houlli- D er was coach of this French Ligue 1 club from 2005 to 2007 (4)

www.goalweekly.com 31 32 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER

V-League By Jimmy Soufis

Pascoe celebrate Pedro Ventania’s (top) final game before returning overseas to Brasil.

Pascoe open five point lead at top NIKE V-League back in the second half but fell just Kicking off the men’s side of things short going down 6-5 as Josh Slova- we saw bottom placed Balwyn take cek tapped home the winner in the on Fitzroy. A high scoring first half final seconds. saw Fitzroy get out to a 6-3 lead at the half time break, before the tigers PEPSI Women’s V-League turned on the style in the second to Our first game of the night saw Mel- run out 15-4 victors. Second up in bourne Uni take on bottom placed form Vic Vipers took on relegation Carlton. From the get go Melbourne threatened Hume. The Vipers had a were in control leading 3-0 at the comfortable first half leading it 2-0 at half time break. Despite missing the break. Despite Hume throwing some of their stars they went from everything at the Vipers they proved strength to strength finishing off a too strong running out 6-1 winners. comprehensive 10-0 win to keep pace In Pedro Ventania’s final game in the at the top. Second up we saw top league Pascoe were looking to send placed Richmond coming off a defeat him off in style. They broke out to taking on an in form Ashburton side. a 4-2 half time lead over Metropol- A hotly contested first half saw the itan which was of a high intensity. two unseparated locked at 2-2. The Pascoe were just too good though second was much of the same with and churned out six second half goals Richmond grabbing a last second to two cruising to a 10-4 win. Our winner through Jess Byrne to seal the be level at the half 1-1. Brunswick final game of the night saw second points. The final game of the night were just too strong in the second placed Carlton take on Ashburton. saw second placed Vipers take on half as they ran out 4-2 winners to In a shock to everyone Ashburton struggling Brunswick. Despite taking stun the Vipers. dominated the first half jumping out an early lead the Vipers could not to a 5-2 lead. The Heart did bounce sustain it as Brunswick hit back to 33 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 Your comments and feedback welcome via Twitter @PabloFootball ASIA’S BEST PREPARE FOR CUP ASSAULT Pablo Bateson takes a detailed look at the Socceroos and their Group opponents, as Australia prepares to host the best 16 teams of Asia, when they vie to compete for the AFC’s biggest international football trophy in January.

Pablo Bateson’s Asian Cup Preview

Australia Nickname: Socceroos Finalist runner up: 2011 Quarter-finalist: 2007 (first time entered competition) Qualified: 2 times Most capped player: (109 games) All-time top goal scorer: Tim Cahill (36 goals from 76 appearances) FIFA ranking: 102

he Socceroos came oh so close Tat the 2011 final in , Qatar. Despite dominating most of that game, soil. Obviously confidence is huge factor, and the Soc- they went down to arch rivals Japan through the only ceroos will want to get off to flying start in the first game goal deep into the second period of extra time. and develop some early momentum in the tournament. Since took over as coach role in No- Keeping the dream alive will need the emerging players vember 2013 there has been a process of renewal and re- to step up a couple of notches , maintain intensity and generation of the squad. This included using 40 different take advantage of chances created when it really counts. players at various times with less than impressive results and performances. During this period, there have been Korea Republic only two victories, and at the Brasil 2014 World Cup Nickname: Taeguk Warriors losses in all three group games albeit against some of the Champions: 1956, 1960 best teams in the world. An extra worry is recent form Finalist runner up: 1972, 1980, 1988 against Asian opponents, with two losses and a goal-less Semi-finalist third place: 1964, 2000, 2007, 2011 draw from the past three games. Quarter-finalist: 1996, 2004 As one of world’s most lethal forwards, Tim Cahill Qualified: 13 times with the New York Red Bulls continues to provide the Most capped player: Hong Myung-Bo (136 main goal scoring inspiration. Other key players include games) goal keeper Matthew “Mat” Ryan (13 caps) already Highest goal scorer: considered the best shot stopper in the Belgium league Cha Bum-Kun (55 goals for Club Brugge. Spiranovic (21 caps) from the Western from 121 appearances) Sydney Wanderers will provide leadership and poise FIFA ranking: 69 in central defence, while (16 appearances and one goal) with Zulte Waregem in Belgium will be orea Repub- looked to for attacking midfield creativity. FC Utrecht’s Klic will make a (21 caps and one goal) and record-equalling 13th (31 appearances and 3 goals) returning to form at the appearance at this edition’s right time with Bayer Leverkusen will be looked upon to tournament, and yet it has provide attacking spark. been 54 years since their Public expectations for a title success have been some- last Asian Cup title. At Qatar what tempered in recent times , however there is enor- 2011, Koo Ja-Cheol was top (Son Heung-Min mous pressure on the coach to guide success on home scorer in the tournament (Korea Rep) 34 www.goalweekly.com34 www.goalweekly.com with five goals, however they lost in penalty shootout to patchy. Following Japan at the semi-finals stage. a disappointing They have qualified for every FIFA World Cup finals 2014 Gulf Cup of since 1986 including making the semi-finals in 2002 Nations tournament under legendary Dutch coach , when co- there was a shock hosts of the tournament with Japan. dismissal of Vieira, It is fair to say that Korea underwhelmed at Brasil 2014, replaced by Tuni- going out at the group stage with only one draw and sian Nabil Maaloul two losses including against 10-man Belgium. German previously with coach Uli Stielike subsequently took over the reins from Qatar Stars League Badar Al-Mutawa Korean legend Hong Myung-bo. outfit El Jaish. The () The Taeguk Warriors are no longer considered to be the decision seemed powerhouse of Asian football, and there lead up form to be based large- has been inconsistent. Home wins over Venezuela and ly on most defeat Paraguay were contrasted by home losses against Uru- at the hands of guay and Costa Rica. In November they beat Jordan way 0-5, despite only days 1-0 and then lost 0-1 to in . earlier beating Iraq and then drawing with the UAE. Most influential players include the genuinely two-foot- Key players include star striker Bader Al-Mutawa ed forward Son Heung-Min (34 caps and 7 goals) (Qadsia SC, Kuwait) with 47 goals from 147 appearances from Bayer Leverkusen and team captain and central at age of only 29, and his regular partner up front Yousef midfielder Ki-Sung Yueng (66 appearances and 5 goals) Nasser (Kazma, Kuwait) with Swansea City in the EPL. Veteran striker Lee Dong- (103 caps and 9 goals) from the Al Kuwait Gook (33 goals and 103 caps) from Jeonbuk Hyundai club in Kuwait provides great experience as a central Motors was recalled to the national team in October to midfielder, while left wing back Musaed Neda (89 score three times in two games. appearances and 15 goals) from the Al-Orobah club in Defensively, there is less certainty in terms of starting Kuwait offers exciting options for direct free kicks. line-up positions, however Kwak Tae-Hwi (35 games Of special note is that Kuwait has only one player who and 5 goals) from Al Hilal FC may well provide stability plays club football outside their own country. in the centre as well as extra set piece options on goal. Oman Kuwait Nickname: Al Ahmar (The Red Warriors) Nickname: Al-Azrak (The Blue) Best finish: group stage Champion: 1980 Qualified: 3 times Finalist runner up: 1976 Most capped player: Fawzi Bashir (124 games) Semi-finalist fourth place: 1996 Highest goal scorer: Hani Al-Dhabit (46 goals from 85 Third place: 1984 appearances) Quarter-finalist: 2000 FIFA ranking: 96 Qualified: 10 times Most capped player: Bader Abdullah (141 games) ne of the least experienced teams in terms of previ- Highest goal scorer: (75 goals from 133 Oous participation in Asian Cup finals. They secured appearances) a return to the finals by qualifying from the group phase FIFA ranking: 123 with two games to spare. Omani national football has been uwait has a great overall record in the Asian Cup steadily on the rise for many years, Kincluding previously winning the 1980 title as well reflected in highly competitive as being a runner-up four years before. In 1982 they participation in the final group also participated at FIFA World Cup finals, the one and qualification stage for the 2014 only time this small Gulf nation has qualified. However World Cup that included two in recent times they have struggled in the Asian Cup, draws with the Socceroos. failing to advance beyond the group stage in their last Previously at the 2007 Asian two appearances in 2004 and 2011. Cup, Oman held both eventual Expectations of a revival lifted when Jorvan Vieira, champions Iraq and then Aus- who guided Iraq to title success in 2007, was appointed tralia to a draw, with the latter as coach. Kuwait subsequently sealed qualification for needing a time added strike Australia 2015 with a game to spare, in second place in from Tim Cahill. Two years the group behind Iran. later, they won the Gulf Ali Abdullah Harib Lead up form over the past seven months had been Cup of Nations with a 6-5 Al-Habsi (Oman)

www.goalweekly.com 35 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER All Times Local shootout victory over . Pablo’s Group A Prediction In 2014, after losses to Costa Rica 1. Australia Match Schedule and then in friendlies, 2. Korea Republic Group A French head coach Paul Le Guen’s 3. Oman 9 January 7-30pm Australia vs Kuwait in side recorded a 2-0 win over 4. Kuwait Melbourne 2-0 before back-to-back draws 10 January 4pm Korea Republic vs Oman with the UAE and Iraq. Last month Group B FIFA rankings in at the Gulf Cup of Nations they Uzbekistan (74), Saudi Arabia (106), 13 January 6pm Kuwait vs Korea Republic demolished Asian Cup rivals Oman Korea DPR (137), China PR (99). in Canberra 13 January 8pm Oman vs Australia in 5-0 victory, topped their group and Sydney then in the semi-final lost 1-3 to Group C FIFA rankings 17 January 8pm Australia vs Korea Repub- eventual champions Qatar. UAE (85), IR Iran (56), Bahrain lic in Brisbane There is little doubting the in- (125), Qatar (98). 17 January 8pm Oman vs Kuwait in spirational leadership from team Newcastle captain Ali Al-Habsi (92 caps), from Group D FIFA rankings club Wigan Athletic in the English Japan (53), Jordan (86), Palestine Group B 10 January 6pm Uzbekistan vs DPR Korea Championship . (113), Iraq (104) in Sydney Ahmed Mubarak (108 caps and 12 10 January 8pm Saudi Arabia vs China PR goals) with Al-Oruba SC in Oman Overall predictions for the in Brisbane is one of the key cogs as a defensive tournament 14 January 6pm DPR Korea vs Saudi midfielder, while club teammate Despite reports of an impending Arabia in Melbourne Hassan Mudhafar Al-Gheilani (113 change of head coach only weeks 14 January 8pm China PR vs Uzbekistan games and 6 goals) usually fills the away from their opening game on in Brisbane 18 January 8pm Uzbekistan vs Saudi left back role. 12 January, there should be little Arabia in Melbourne Up front, the main options include doubt that Japan are favourites to 18 January 8pm China PR vs DPR Korea Ismail Al Ajmi (Saham SC, Oman) win the tournament and successful- in Canberra with 15 goals from 84 appearances ly defend their title. Technically the and Han Abdulaziz Al-Muqbali (12 “Samurai Blue” is the benchmark for Group C goals and 38 caps) from Fanja club football across Asia. 11 January 6pm UAE vs Qatar in Canberra in Oman who returned to fine form Clearly there is an advantage for 11 January 8pm IR Iran vs Bahrain in Melbourne at the recent Gulf Cup. It will be in- Australia in hosting the Asian Cup. 15 January 6pm Bahrain vs UAE in teresting to see if veteran legendary However the Socceroos will need Canberra striker Hani Al-Dhabit makes the to improve very considerably on 15 January 8pm Qatar vs IR Iran in Sydney final squad. their form from the past 18 months 19 January 8pm IR Iran vs UAE in Brisbane Like Kuwait, the Omanis have only to lift the trophy. They have the 19 January 8pm Qatar vs Bahrain in one senior player likely to play at capabilities for success, and must Sydney the Asian Cup who plays club foot- take their chances under pressure Group D ball outside their own country. when it matters. 12 January 6pm Japan vs Palestine in Predictions for finishing places in Iran has the potential to challenge Newcastle group the above two, and they demon- 12 January 8pm Jordan vs Iraq in Brisbane On paper the host country and strated at Brasil 2014 of being highly 16 January 6pm Palestine vs Jordan in Korea Republic appear most competitive against some of the best Melbourne likely to finish in top two spots for in the world. Of the others, the na- 16 January 8pm Iraq vs Japan in Brisbane progression to the quarter-finals. tion most capable of giving the title 20 January 8pm Japan vs Jordan in Melbourne However, any deficiencies or weak- a shake is the Korea Republic. 20 January 8pm Iraq vs Palestine in nesses could be exposed by their Canberra opponents. Avoiding defeat in their opening games against the top seeds will be the main aim for both Kuwait PABLO’S TIP FOR and Oman. Conversely, Australia and Korea will hope to assert their ASIA CUP GLORY authority early in the campaign, and establish a healthy buffer well before 1. Japan they meet at the final group game in Brisbane. 2. Iran 3. Australia 36 www.goalweekly.com English FAFRIDAY Cup 19TH 3rd DECEMBER Round 2014 Preview By Peter Simcox GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER

It’s Cup time in England he English FA Cup has seen some memorable matches Championship leaders Derby County at Pride Park. “They are Tand upsets over the years, and this season’s Third Round a good side and Steve McClaren has got them playing very draw has thrown up a number of intriguing ties, and there well. If we few show the same attitude as we have so far in the is even a repeat of last season’s Final amongst them. With Cup we will give them a good game,” said Southport manager the draw being made at ‘The Deep’ Aquarium in Hull, it was Gary Brabin. a surprise when Steve Bruce’s Hull City were paired with There are a number of all Premier League clashes with Ever- Arsenal in the first tie pulled out of the hat, for a replay of last ton taking on West Ham United at Goodison Park, Leicester season’s Wembley thriller. “It’s an amazing draw, so let’s hope City meet Newcastle United at The King Power Stadium, and it’s as good a game as last season’s Final,” said Bruce. “We Burnley host Tottenham Hotspur at Turf Moor. In other drew against them a few weeks ago in the league and now it’s standout ties, there is a replay of the 1972 Cup Final when the FA Cup so let’s see if we progress. A good Cup run did Sunderland host Leeds United at The Stadium of Light, while well for us last season and hopefully it can do the same again” next week’s Second Round replay between Yeovil Town and There were number of ‘David v Goliath’ ties, which is what Accrington Stanley will take on extra significance, with the the competition is all about. Conference Premier Dover Ath- prize being a home tie against Manchester United. letic were drawn at home against Premier League side Crystal Palace. “We wanted a Premier League Club and we’ve got The full draw is: Arsenal v Hull City, Southampton v Ipswich one, so we will give it our best shot,” said Dover midfielder Town, Stoke City v Wrexham, Charlton Athletic v Blackburn Chris Kinnear Jnr, who had asked for Manchester United Rovers, Dover Athletic v Crystal Palace, AFC Wimbledon v prior to the draw. Liverpool, Manchester City v Sheffield Wednesday, Aldershot/ Conference side Gateshead will also take on Premier League Rochdale v Nottingham Forest, West Bromwich Albion v opposition, with a trip to face West Bromwich Albion at the Gateshead, Blyth Spartans v Birmingham City, Aston Villa Hawthorns. While fellow north-east club Blyth Spartans, v Blackpool, Rotherham United v AFC Bournemouth, Hud- were rewarded for a shock 2-1 win over Hartlepool United dersfield Town v Reading, Oxford United/Tranmere Rovers v with a home tie against Championship side Birmingham City. Swansea City, Cardiff City v Colchester United, Bolton Wan- Wrexham’s reward for beating Maidstone United in the derers v Wigan Athletic, Sunderland v Leeds United, Burnley second round is a clash against Premier League side Stoke v Tottenham Hotspur, Millwall v Bradford City, Derby County City at The Britannia Stadium. “I’m happy with that,” said v Southport, Brentford v Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham v Wrexham manager Kevin Wilkin. “I think to get a Premier Wolverhampton Wanderers, Leicester City v Newcastle United, League club at this stage, you have got to be happy and when Scunthorpe United/Worcester City v Chesterfield, Everton you look at some of the other ties we could have had. “Hope- v West Ham United, Cambridge United/Mansfield Town v fully it will be a great day for everybody and who knows. It is Bury/Luton Town, Chelsea v Watford, Barnsley/Chester FC the FA Cup and like everyone, you would have a chance. We v Middlesbrough, Queens Park Rangers v Sheffield United, are still dreaming and will continue to dream while we are in Accrington Stanley/Yeovil Town v Manchester United, Preston the competition. North End v Norwich City, Doncaster Rovers v Bristol City Liverpool will face a tricky test when they travel to take on League Two side AFC Wimbledon, while Conference Ties will be played across the weekend commencing 3 side Southport will also face a tough trip when they take on January 2015 www.goalweekly.com 37 www.goalweekly.com 37 FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER GOAL! WEEKLY ASK THE EXPERTS: Rd 10 Champions League Draw Round of 16 Jets 7 Adelaide 7 Draw 1 Melb City 5 Melb Victory 10 Draw 0 THE VERDICT 1. Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) - Perth 12 Mariners 1 Draw 2 Sydney FC 13 Phoenix 0 Draw 02 Chelsea FC (ENG) 2. Manchester City FC (ENG) - Santo George George FC Barcelona (ESP) Calombaris 3. Bayer 04 Leverkusen (GER) - Cilauro 27 Donikian 24 26 Club Atlético de Madrid (ESP) 4. Juventus Football Club Adelaide Jets Jets (ITA) - Victory Melb City Victory (GER) Glory Perth Glory Draw 5. FC Schalke 04 (GER) - Real Sydney FC Sydney FC Phoenix Madrid CF (ESP) 6. FC Shakhtar Donetsk Last week: 2 Last week: 2 Last week: 2 (UKR) - FC Bayern München Santo, Sam & Ed Show Media Mogul No.1 Victory ticket holder (GER) 7. Arsenal FC (ENG) - AS Andy Ross Jimmy Monaco FC (FRA) Harper Alatsas 8. FC Basel 1893 (SUI) - FC 24 24 Campbell 28 Porto (POR) Jets Jets Adelaide 1st Leg to be played Tue 17 & Melb City Melb City Victory Wed 18 February 2015 Perth Glory Perth Glory Perth 2nd Leg - Tue 10 & Wed 11 Sydney FC Sydney FC Sydney March 2015 Last week: 2 Last week: 2 Last week: 1 EUROPA LEAGUE NSL Champ / Radio Hellas 1422 3XY Former Socceroo DRAW Round of 32 1. BSC Young Boys 1. (SUI) - Roger John Peter Everton (ENG) Sleeman 24 Doyle Katholos 2. Torino FC (ITA) - Athletic 24 28 Club (ESP) Adelaide Adelaide Adelaide 3. Sevilla FC (ESP) - VfL Borus- Victory Victory Victory sia Mönchengladbach (GER) Glory Glory Glory 4. VfL Wolfsburg (GER) - Sydney FC Sydney Sydney FC Sporting Clube de Portugal (POR) 5. AFC Ajax (NED) - Legia Last week: 2 Last week: 2 Last week: 2 Warszawa (POL) Tipping Champ 2013 Original Captain Socceroo Former Socceroo 6. Aalborg BK (DEN) - Club Brugge KV (BEL) Eddie Jimmy John 7. RSC Anderlecht (BEL) - FC Krncevic Rooney Perin Dinamo-Moscow (RUS) 22 22 15 8. FC Dnipro Dnipropetro- vsk (UKR) - Olympiacos FC Draw Jets Jets (GRE) Melb City Victory Melb City 9. Trabzonspor A.S. (TUR) - Mariners Draw Perth Glory SSC Napoli (ITA) Sydney FC Draw Sydney FC 10. EA Guingamp (FRA) - FC Dynamo Kyiv (UKR) Last week: 3 Last week: 2 Last week: 1 11. Villarreal CF (ESP) - FC Former Socceroo World Cup ‘74 Socceroo Hall of Fame Socceroo Salzburg (AUT) 12. AS Roma (ITA) - Feye- noord (NED) George Steve Kiss Of 13. PSV Eindhoven (NED) - Campbell 23 Blair 23 Death 17 Football Club Zenit (RUS) 14. Liverpool FC (ENG) - Be- Adelaide Adelaide Jets siktas JK (TUR) Victory Victory Melb Victory 15. Tottenham Hotspur FC Perth Glory Perth Glory (ENG) - ACF Fiorentina (ITA) Sydney Sydney Sydney FC 16. Celtic FC (SCO) - F.C. Internazionale Milano (ITA) Last week: 2 Last week: 2 Last week: 2 Matches to be played 19-26 Sth Melb & NSL Legend Former Socceroo GW Contributors February 2015 www.goalweekly.com 38 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER FOXTEL NATIONAL YOUTH LEAGUE ROUND 9 ALL KO TIMES ARE LOCAL

RESULTS FFA CoE 0 Melbourne Victory 1 Perth Glory 5 THRILLER Central C. Mariners 3 Brisbane Roar 3 Newcastle Jets 4 TO NYL Adelaide United 2 Western Sydney 0 Sydney FC 3 EARS Melbourne City 3 NYL soccer action Next Round Sat 20 Dec Sydney FC v Adelaide from Adelaide United’s United Lambert Park, Leichhardt 2-0 win over Western 3:00 PM Sydney Wanderers.

Sat 20 Dec Brisbane Roar v Photo: ADAM BUTLER Melbourne Victory TDunmore Park, Auchenflower 3:30 PM

Sun 21 Dec Melbourne City v Perth Glory La Trobe University Playing Fields, Bundoora 11:00 AM

Sun 21 Dec Newcastle Jets v FFA Centre of Excellence Rockwell Auto- mation Park, Weston 11:00 AM

Sun 21 Dec Mariners v Wanderers CCM Centre of Excellence, Tuggerah 3:00 PM

STANDINGS P W D L F A GD Pts JORDAN LIM 1 Perth Glory 9 7 1 1 22 12 +10 22 raptures with his even later effort to 2 Melbourne City 9 5 2 2 19 13 +6 17 uch like the Michael Jackson fan equalise in dramatic circumstances. 3 Brisbane Roar 9 5 1 3 13 12 +1 16 Mwith a broken CD player, it was Perth Glory made no mistake in capital- 4 Western Sydney 8 5 0 3 11 10 +1 15 thriller after thriller after thriller in the ising on City’s slip, extending their lead 5 Adelaide Unite… 9 4 0 5 12 12 +0 12 6 Sydney FC 8 3 2 3 18 13 +5 11 National Youth League for Round 9. atop the NYL ladder with a 5-3 win over 7 Mariners 9 3 2 4 15 14 +1 11 The net bustled a staggering 24 times the Mariners, in which they basically led 8 Melbourne Victory 9 3 2 4 13 18 -5 11 over the five games, within it included from start to finish. There was a brace 9 Newcastle Jets 8 2 1 5 15 17 -2 7 one of the greatest comebacks in NYL for Joe Knowles (eight for the season), 10 FFA CoE 8 0 1 7 6 23 -17 1 history as Sydney FC stunned Mel- and Chris Harold (five) split up by goals time to regain the lead, Lundy again with bourne City late to draw 3-3. from Mariners trio Anthony Kalik, Sam Allan Welsh doing the damage. Braedyn Let’s set the scene; an early free-kick Perre and once again Trent Buhagiar, the Crowley made it 4-2 after the break, from full-back Phil Petreski had Sydney livewire off the bench. before Patrick Theodore struck to bring reeling before Anthony Rizk scored, Brisbane and Newcastle played out the deficit back to one with just under conceded a penalty – scored by Sydney’s another goal fest; the less fancied Jets 30 minutes to play. But the equaliser George Blackwood – and got himself toppling the third place Roar 4-3. The never came in an end-to-end contest as sent off. But before the half was over, football was fast and frenetic, and the Newcastle hung on for a morale-boosting City again extended their lead through lead changes were plentiful as Brandon win. Hernan Espindola. Lundy opened proceedings for Newcas- Elsewhere there was a first win in three Although goalkeeper Marco Stevanja tle with a well-taken spot kick. starts for Melbourne Victory as they also departed in the 76th minute to By the 24th minute, it was Brisbane toppled the FFA COE 1-0, while Ade- leave City with nine men, it still looked with the lead as Mitch Hore first struck laide United ousted the Western Sydney for all money the points were theirs before some intricate build-up play Wanderers 2-0. come injury time. Cue late drama, as saw Abrahim Yango round the keeper No debate as to the game of the round Blackwood headed home in the 93rd to tap home. But Newcastle weren’t as Melbourne City host Perth Glory in a minute to spark hope before Charles done there, as they themselves struck a top of the table clash at La Trobe’s Lower Lokolingoy sent the home fans into quick-fire double on the stroke of half Playing Fields. Answers to Goal Weekly Crossword No4 – Across: 4) Thwaite, 5) Monaco, 6) Matt Smith, 8) Real Sociedad, 9) Deportivo, 11) Awer Mabil, 13) Sigmund, 16) , 17) Marrone Down: 1) Castelen, 2) Stamford Bridge, 3) Joshua Rose, 6) Mark Milligan, 7) Paartalu, 10) Hammers, 12) Jones, 14) Iran, 15) Lyon www.goalweekly.com 39 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER WESTFIELD W-LEAGUE: GRAND FINAL ALL KO TIMES ARE LOCAL

SEMI-FINAL RESULTS Melbourne Victory 0 Canberra United 0 (Canberra United win 5-4 on pens) Saturday 13 December 2014 Simonds Stadium, Geelong

Perth Glory 3 (Elisa D’Ovidio 10’, Kate Gill 37’, Gabrielle Marzano 70’) Sydney FC 0 Sunday 14 December 2014 nib Stadium, Perth

GRAND FINAL DETAILS Perth Glory v Canberra United Sunday 21 December 2014 nib Stadium, Perth STANDINGS Kick off 12:00pm local, (3pm P W D L F A GD Pts AEDT) 1 Perth Glory 12 10 0 2 39 10 +29 30 (Gates open 11am) 2 Melbourne Victory 12 6 2 4 26 15 +11 20 After taking out the Premiership, Perth 3 Canberra United 12 6 2 4 22 18 +4 20 Glory now hopes to cap off a season 4 Sydney FC 12 5 3 4 17 16 +1 18 * Catch all the action Live at 5 Newcastle Jets 12 5 2 5 25 21 +4 17 3.00pm nationally (midday WA double with a Grand Final triumph. 6 Brisbane Roar 12 4 2 6 18 19 -1 14 time) on ABC TV. 7 Adelaide United 12 3 1 8 9 29 -20 10 8 Western Sydney 12 2 2 8 14 42 -28 8 Perth and Canberra Meet in Decider Russ Gibbs curled home her fourth goal of the upright and Lori Lindsey had also season in the tenth minute the match gone close as Canberra dominated. eague Champions Perth Glory was destined to end in success for the Victory had sporadic openings of their Lwill meet Canberra United in the hosts. Kate Gill lobbed a superb sec- own as Lisa De Vanna was denied by 2014 Westfield W-League Grand Final ond goal past a static Casey Dumont US U23 ‘keeper Chantel Jones and to decide the national champions. in the Sydney FC goal to virtually end the match went to penalties. The first The showdown will be United’s third the match as a contest eight minutes eight were all successful but when visit to the jamboree whilst Perth will before the interval. Perth wrapped up Jones saved from Victory substitute attempt to claim the trophy for the their spot in the Grand Final when Gill Gulcan Koca United seized the mo- first time. And with home ground ad- unselfishly set up Gabrielle Marzano ment. Perhaps fittingly it was Kendall vantage, the Glory will enter the match for the third in the 70th minute. Fletcher, in the last of a seven-game as favourites. The first semi-final played twenty-four stint with the club, who netted the Jamie Harnwell’s team roared back hours earlier should, arguably, have match-winner. Her penalty sending into form in their semi-final last been just as one-sided. Canberra Unit- Canberra into the final. weekend brushing aside the challenge ed created enough chances to win a Honours have been even in the of Sydney FC with contemptuous ease stack of matches as ’s matches played this season with at nib Stadium as they strolled to a usual sure touch in front of goal de- Canberra winning the latest game comfortable 3-0 victory. Even without serted her as Melbourne Victory held thanks to Ashleigh Sykes wonder-goal superstar Samantha Kerr, the Matildas’ on. The Westfield W-League’s all-time a fortnight ago but Perth being 3-0 striker suffered a season ending knee leading scorer wasted three glorious victors earlier in the season. This could injury in the Round 12 loss to United opportunities to break the deadlock go either way. With lots of experience in Canberra, Perth was too good for and saw a late glancing header cannon and quality on the field expect to the Sky Blues. back off the base of the post. witness one of the great conclusions to From the moment that Elisa D’Ovidio Earlier Ashleigh Sykes had struck the an epic season. Answers to Quick Quiz – 1) 2005-06 season. 2) Peter Green. 3) . 4) English Premier League. 5) N.S.W. 6) Peter O’Leary & Matthew Conger. 7) Two. 8) Japan. 9) Pierluigi Collina. 10) Mark Shields. 11) Two. Shaun Evans & Lucien Laverdure. 12) Two. Sarah May Yee Ho & Allyson Flynn. 13) . 14) Mark Clattenburg. 15) Nicola Rizzoli. 40 www.goalweekly.com The Americas GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 River triumph in Copa Sudamericana Daniel Campos River Plate hold aloft the Copa iver Plate lifted the Copa Sudamericana trophy RSudamericana title last week in a glorious last seven days for Argen- tina by defeating Colombian club Atlético Nacional 2-0 at home in the second leg of the final. Gabriel Mercado and Germán Pez- zella both scored with headers to give the famous Buenos Aires club its first international title in 17 years. The two teams drew 1-1 in the first leg last week in Latin America’s second most important club tourna- ment after the Copa Libertadores. Mercado opened the scoring in the 54th minute and Pezzella sealed the win 10 minutes later. After that, the Colombians seemed to run out of energy, sensing the victory was to “I feel privileged. I am very proud of Cocca had infuriated fans when after River Plate’s favour. this group, to join this team has been losing a derby to fierce local rivals RACING LIFT LEAGUE fantastic,” added the player known as Independiente, he said: “I would TITLE ‘The Prince’. rather lose to Independiente but win Milito spent five seasons at Inter and the title.” In the end he was proved Diego Milito said it had been “a was a member of the team that won right. dream come true” to return to his the Champions League, World Club Goalkeeper Sebastian Saja, who is first side Racing Club and help them Cup, Italian title and Italian Cup in known for his penalty spot goals, is to win their first Argentinian title for 2010. another veteran who joined Racing 13 years. He was also a member of the Racing after a decade in Europe. Racing beat Godoy Cruz 1-0 on the side that won the title in 2001 but he final day of the championship on could not have imagined such a dra- Sunday to claim their eighth national Skipper Milito celebrates matic return to the club of his youth. crown and spark wild celebrations Racing’s title. RSome fans are now demanding that a among their fans. Milito statue be put up. Milito, now 35, decided to return Despite being one of Argentina’s big to his first side after leaving Inter five clubs, along with River Plate, Milan in June. The striker inspired Boca Juniors, Independiente and San Racing to win eight of their last nine Lorenzo, Racing have had repeated games to take the crown ahead of troubles in recent decades. Buenos Aires rivals River Plate, the Before Racing were able to bounce title holders. back from winning the 2001 title, “This is a dream come true,” said their first in 35 years, they twice Milito amid the celebrations in narrowly avoided relegation in recent which tens of thousands of Racing years but reached the Argentina fans took to the streets of the capital, Cup final in 2012 in a sign of their taking over the Obelisk monument resurgence. which is the traditional rallying point Coach Diego Cocca has also only for football commemorations. been at Racing for six months and “This is special, because I love this made controversial decisions such club. I started here and learned as signing striker Gustavo Bou to everything here. That allowed me to partner Milito. Bou finished as the build my career,” Milito added. club’s top scorer. www.goalweekly.com 41 Aussie Abroad GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 AARON EVANS Tai Po FC (Hong Kong)

How did you end up at your present club? Through my management, Kaz Patafta. He was advised that Tai Po FC needed a midfielder, so he got in contact with me and we came to an agreement between club and myself. How’s the season treating you so far? It has been educational and inspiring. Being my first experience of professional football, the challenges of the pro environment have tested me. As a team we haven’t got the results we would like so far, but the team is working hard and I have no doubt we can achieve our goals of remaining in the Premier League next season. What’s the standard like over there? The standard is actually quite good. It’s such a small country but also a very improving league. What are the home town fans like? Do they know their football? Very Passionate! During games they always sing and chant no matter what the result is. They also love banging the drums and sings songs. What’s the plan of attack for the immediate future? Consolidate my spot in the senior team at Tai Po FC and help the club remain in the Premier League competition next season. And the grand plan beyond? Hopefully to continue developing my game and pursue opportunities to move to Europe and challenge myself in the higher level leagues there. What do you miss most about Oz? Mum’s cooking and my family. What do you miss least about Oz? Working a normal job! What do you like most about your present city of resi- dence? The MTR! Best transport system I have ever experienced. What do you like least about your present city of resi- dence? Cannot complain about a thing, this country is beautiful. Do you keep a track of the A-League? How do you follow Earliest football memory? it? Kicking a football around in the backyard with my brother and Yes, on the internet and phone. Watching games via live dad. stream or my roommate and I walk down to the local pub Favourite football memory? and watch it on the TV there. Playing in the Australian schoolboys squad which toured Brazil Is it on your radar to play there one day? and Argentina. Absolutely! I would love the opportunity to return and play for Advice to youngsters: a side in the A-League. Believe in yourself and when others say you aren’t good enough, keep working hard as sometimes dreams do come true. I’m 42 www.goalweekly.com living mine now! Calling

Man United hits Da right Gea

George Galpin in the UK being specifically targeted as a point of weakness, he is now seen as a huge strength. he winner of football matches is more often than He won the man of the match award yet again in Tnot, the team that controls the moments that the Liverpool game, and probably deserved it against happen in the game best. Southampton too. Both teams had so many chances, That might sound a weird thing to say, but how but just the one taken against him. many times has there been a big chance in a game De Gea is now showing the immense potential he missed by Team X, only for Team Y to go up the oth- had when he broke through at Atletico Madrid; iron- er end and score? (Tom Heaton’s penalty save from ically, the first time he really came into the public eye Dušan Tadić only for Burnley to go 1-0 up against of English football was as at Anfield in the Europa Southampton several minutes later, for example.) League 2010; ex-Man United flop Diego Forlan net- And Sunday’s derby between Manchester United ting an extra time away goal to knock them out. and Liverpool was a game defined by moments; just There’s been talk about how United are looking to several months after Liverpool came to Old Trafford sign him to a longer deal in order to keep him, and full of confidence and ruined Utd on their own patch for all the money spent in the summer, particularly scoring three without reply, the Red Devils exacted a on Radamel Falcao’s wages, they would be daft to not brutal revenge. spend huge money on De Gea. Yet had it not been for the pivotal moment of the Whilst talk that he is better than Thibaut Courtois match, a Lallana through ball to or Manuel Neuer is reactionary and not true in my who is one on one with the goalkeeper only for opinion, he is an outstanding keeper and one of David De Gea to pull off a good save, it would have the best at present I have seen with my own eyes been 1-0 Liverpool. Game changed. certainly. As it was, it was Wayne Rooney who opened the De Gea is a special talent, and has that incredible scoring, going completely the wrong way. ability in football to be a matchwinner, able to pull 1-0 United. off spectacular saves to keep his team in it; the Ever- That is the importance of having such a good ton game earlier in the season springs to mind, and goalkeeper in David De Gea; United may have won the Southampton game, and the Arsenal game. six on the bounce, but arguably their best player has But that incredible ability means that De Gea is able been their number 1. to control the key moments in a football match; only A completely different atmosphere exudes when a the very best possess that. cross or shot goes towards the young Spaniard; from www.goalweekly.com 43 GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER

Last5games EPL STANDINGS Mojo Rising: Van Persie found the net in P W D L F A GD Pts the 3-0 win over arch rivals Liverpool. 1 Chelsea 16 12 3 1 36 13 +23 39 2 Manchester City 16 11 3 2 33 14 +19 36 3 Manchester United 16 9 4 3 29 17 +12 31 4 West Ham United 16 8 4 4 27 19 +8 28 5 Southampton 16 8 2 6 25 13 +12 26 6 Arsenal 16 7 5 4 28 19 +9 26 7 Tottenham Hotspur 16 7 3 6 20 22 -2 24 8 Newcastle United 16 6 5 5 18 22 -4 23 9 Swansea City 16 6 4 6 21 19 +2 22 10 Everton 16 5 6 5 27 24 +3 21 11 Liverpool 16 6 3 7 19 22 -3 21 12 Stoke City 16 5 4 7 18 21 -3 19 13 Aston Villa 16 5 4 7 10 20 -10 19 14 West Bromwich … 16 4 5 7 15 20 -5 17 15 Sunderland 16 2 10 4 14 24 -10 16 16 Crystal Palace 16 3 6 7 19 24 -5 15 17 Burnley 16 3 6 7 11 24 -13 15 18 Queens Park Ra… 16 4 2 10 17 30 -13 14 19 Hull City 16 2 7 7 15 23 -8 13 20 Leicester City 16 2 4 10 15 27 -12 10

LATEST RESULTS Burnley 1 - 0 Southampton Chelsea 2 - 0 Hull City Crystal Palace 1 - 1 Stoke City Leicester City 0 - 1 Man City Sunderland 1 - 1 West Ham Utd Red Devils amongst the pigeons again WBA 1 - 0 Aston Villa Arsenal 4 - 1 Newcastle Utd Nick Amies their slow climb up the table with a 3-1 Man Utd 3 - 0 Liverpool win over QPR. Ross Barkley sparkled Swansea City 1 - 2 Tottenham heir opponents may have made with a fine goal before Kevin Mirallas Everton 3 - 1 QPR things easier, but Manchester Unit- and Steven Naismith put the game to T NEXT MATCH ed are showing signs of resurgence after bed. Bobby Zamora poked home a late Manchester City v Crystal Palace a thumping 3-nil win over Liverpool on consolation for the visitors. Aston Villa v Manchester Utd Sunday. United’s sixth consecutive win Tottenham picked up an impressive Hull City v Swansea City now moves them within eight points result in Wales with a 2-1 win over QPR v WBA of Chelsea at the top and has ignited Swansea. Once again Christian Eriksen Southampton v Everton talk of a potential title challenge at Old made the difference with a late goal Tottenham v Burnley Trafford. after Wilfried Bony cancelled out Harry West Ham Utd v Leicester City Manchester City also picked up a win, Kane’s early goal. Newcastle Utd v Sunderland with scoring the only North London rivals Arsenal thrashed Liverpool v Arsenal goal in their win over Leicester. With Newcastle in a 4-1 win at the Emirates Stoke City v Chelsea Edin Dzeko, Stevan Jovetic and Sergio to stay in the hunt for the top four. Aguero all missing through injury, Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla both Lampard’s impact during his loan spell scored braces for the Gunners, while intensified again, with his goal allowing Ayoze Perez headed home for Alan City to keep pace with Chelsea at the Pardew’s side. One to top. West Brom secured a narrow 1-0 win Jose Mourinho’s side resumed their usu- over Aston Villa through Craig Gardner, watch! al routine of comfortable wins after last while Burnley secured an impressive win Liverpool find themselves in back- week’s slip-up against Newcastle with a against Southampton. Dusan Tadic had to-back crunch games as they host 2-nil win over Hull. and his penalty saved by Tom Heaton before Arsenal on Sunday. The Gunners Diego Costa found the back of the net Ashely Barnes scored his second of the are back in form with big wins over and their opponents finished the game season to secure the points. Galatasaray and Newcastle, while the with ten men after Tom Huddlestone Crystal Palace drew 1-1 at home to Merseysiders are struggling on all saw red. Stoke, while West Ham stumbled to fronts. A loss here could put Brendan After such a lofty finish last season a 1-1 draw against Sunderland at the Rogers’ head on the chopping block. Everton are struggling, but continued Stadium of Light.

44 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER

www.goalweekly.com 45 GOAL! WEEKLY

FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER

The World Game La Liga

STANDINGS P W D L F A GD Pts 1 Real Madrid 15 13 0 2 55 13 +42 39 Most recent first 2 Barcelona 15 11 2 2 36 7 +29 35 3 Atlético Madrid 15 10 2 3 27 13 +14 32 4 Sevilla 15 9 3 3 25 17 +8 30 5 Valencia 15 8 4 3 28 13 +15 28 6 Villarreal 15 8 3 4 24 14 +10 27 7 Málaga 15 8 3 4 18 14 +4 27 8 Celta de Vigo 15 5 5 5 17 17 +0 20 9 Eibar 15 5 5 5 19 21 -2 20 10 Athletic Club 15 5 4 6 13 16 -3 19 11 Espanyol 15 4 5 6 17 23 -6 17 12 Rayo Vallecano 15 5 2 8 16 28 -12 17 13 Getafe 15 4 4 7 11 19 -8 16 14 Real Sociedad 15 3 5 7 16 21 -5 14 15 Levante 15 3 5 7 11 29 -18 14 16 Deportivo La C… 15 3 4 8 13 24 -11 13 17 Granada 15 2 6 7 9 25 -16 12 18 Córdoba 15 1 8 6 11 22 -11 11 19 Almería 15 2 4 9 12 24 -12 10 20 Elche 15 2 4 9 12 30 -18 10

LATEST RESULTS bags a brace Almería 1 - 4 Real Madrid as Real Madrid record their 20th Getafe 0 - 0 Barcelona straight with a win over Almeria Valencia 3 - 0 Rayo Vallecano Córdoba 0 - 0 Levante Málaga 1 - 0 Celta de Vigo Espanyol 2 - 1 Granada Sevilla 0 - 0 Eibar Madridista’s Are The Real Deal Atlético Madrid 0 - 1 Villarreal Pepe Lopez nents, Cruz Azul:”They are a side with Real Sociedad 1 - 1 Athletic Club ability and experience. Some of their Deportivo 1 - 0 Elche head of the World Club Cup players have played in Spain and they AFinal this weekend, Real Madrid know how we set up. They play good NEXT MATCH enjoyed watching their 2 La Liga Ri- football”. Celta de Vigo v Almería vals Barcelona FC and Atletico Madrid Barçalona and Atletico Madrid losing Barcelona v Córdoba stumble and to open up a 4 point ground in La Liga:”This is a good mo- Levante v Real Sociedad Eibar v Valencia gap at the top of the Spanish League ment for us, but not because of what’s Rayo Vallecano v Espanyol standings. In another impressive per- happening to other teams, rather Villarreal v Deportivo La C… formance by the league leaders, Real because we’re on a great run”. Granada v Getafe Madrid defeated Almeria 4-1 away How his squad are shaping up:”The Elche v Málaga from home in the first game of the past team are doing well. We’ve coped well Athletic Club v Atlético Madrid weekend, World Player Of The Year, with the loss of important players like Atlético Madrid v Levante Ronaldo scored a double. Modric and James. We’re in really Madrid based sports news publica- good physical shape and are also strong drawn with Borussia Monchenglad- tion, Marca published these interview mentally. Khedira and James will prob- bach, Athletic Bilbao got Torino and answers from the man of the moment, ably be available for the next”. Villarreal received Red Bull Salzburg. Real Madrid Coach Carlo Ancelotti; His impressions of 2014:”The year Champions League Round of 16 Draw isn’t over yet. We’re really excited about against Schalke 04:”We’re not thinking this competition and winning it would too much about that right now. We’re be special. It would cap an unforget- focusing our attention on the Cruz table year”. One to Azul match”. Whilst Real Madrid were pleased with World Club Cup Semi Final ground their UEFA Champions League Round watch! On Sunday December 21, 6:30am, relocation:”The pitch at this stadium of 16 draw, Barcelona have been given the FIFA World Club Cup Final will is in good condition. The change of a tough opponent in Manchester City be played. All expectations are venue is good news, though we didn’t and Atletico Madrid landed Bayer that Real Madrid will participate request it”. Leverkusen. In the Europa League, and win. World Club Cup Semi Final oppo- Europa League holders Sevilla were 46 www.goalweekly.com GOAL! WEEKLY FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014 The World Game Serie A

STANDINGS P W D L F A GD Pts 1 Juventus 15 11 3 1 31 6 +25 36 2 Roma 15 11 2 2 28 11 +17 35 3 Lazio 15 8 2 5 26 17 +9 26 4 Sampdoria 15 6 8 1 20 12 +8 26 5 Genoa 15 7 5 3 20 13 +7 26 6 Milan 15 6 6 3 25 18 +7 24 7 Napoli 15 6 6 3 26 20 +6 24 8 Fiorentina 15 6 5 4 20 12 +8 23 9 Udinese 15 6 3 6 18 20 -2 21 10 Palermo 15 5 6 4 19 23 -4 21 11 Internazionale 15 5 5 5 23 21 +2 20 12 Sassuolo 15 4 7 4 16 20 -4 19 13 Hellas Verona 15 4 5 6 18 26 -8 17 14 Empoli 15 3 7 5 16 21 -5 16 15 Torino 15 3 5 7 10 17 -7 14 16 Atalanta 15 3 5 7 8 18 -10 14 17 Chievo 15 3 4 8 11 19 -8 13 18 Cagliari 15 2 6 7 20 26 -6 12 19 Cesena 15 1 5 9 12 29 -17 8 20 Parma 15 2 1 12 16 34 -18 6 Verona’s Luca Toni scores against Udinese and brings up goal number 300. LATEST RESULTS Palermo 2 - 1 Sassuolo Verona find winning formula for derby Lazio 3 - 0 Atalanta Juventus 1 - 1 Sampdoria Luca Cetta Genoa 0 - 1 Roma Parma 0 - 0 Cagliari he famous chant that emanated and eventually secured a top-half fin- Udinese 1 - 2 Hellas Verona Tfrom the Curva Sud of the Stadio ish. By contrast, Andrea Mandorlini’s Cesena 1 - 4 Fiorentina Marc’Antonio Bentegodi would side have been struck by the second Milan 2 - 0 Napoli eventually become a badge of honour. season blues. Verona’s comeback win Empoli 0 - 0 Torino ‘Donkeys will fly before you reach over Udinese last weekend was their Chievo 0 - 2 Internazionale Serie A’ was sung by Verona fans first since early October, ending an towards tiny city rivals Chievo. The eight match winless run. The Coach NEXT MATCH team from the Verona suburb was on was said to be under threat of being Cagliari v Juventus the rise, but few predicted they would sacked: “I know certain things were Napoli v Parma reach the top flight. said after some negative results. In Sassuolo v Cesena When they did they shocked the truth, I always had faith in the club. Roma v Milan world, going into Christmas 2001 as I read things, but I never thought my Hellas Verona v Chievo Serie A leaders. All the while the more future would be away from Verona.” Atalanta v Palermo famous Gialloblu were languishing. Without two of last season’s stand- Fiorentina v Empoli Sampdoria v Udinese They were relegated in May 2002 and outs – Jorginho moved to Napoli in Torino v Genoa would take more than a decade to January and Juan Iturbe to Roma in Internazionale v Lazio return to the top flight. During that August – Verona have lacked a cutting time, Chievo would spend only one edge in attack. Toni has at times been season outside Serie A. starved of service but still has five Although fans of the 1985 cham- goals to his name, including his 300th One to pions howl derision towards their career strike last weekend, while Nico tiny neighbours and do not see the Lopez has offered support with four. watch! Derby della Scala as their biggest But they need more from elsewhere. The first trophy of the season will game of the season, it’s one they still Rolando Maran’s appointment at the be up for grabs when Juventus face want to win. Last season the derby ‘Flying Donkeys’ in mid-October Napoli in the Italian in Qatar was contested for the first time since turned their fortunes around. The on Monday. Postponed from August, 2002 and Chievo netted a late goal to weekend loss to Inter ended a five- the Bianconeri are out for their third stun Hellas. Luca Toni would exact a game unbeaten run – now they will in a row and record seventh triumph measure of revenge in April and seal a want to atone for that defeat. Yet they overall. Napoli have contested two single-goal win. must be wary of a Verona side which It was a memorable return to the top may have turned the corner. previous Super Cups – both against flight as Verona flirted with Europe Juventus – for a win and loss. www.goalweekly.com 47