Grassroots Meets A-League

A PARADE of winning teams from EA SPORTS Champion of Champions tournament will feature during Sydney FC’s clash with Perth this Sunday - a match set to be Alessandro Del Piero's 800th club game.

“Connecting to the grassroots is an important part of what we are trying to achieve as a football club,” said Sydney FC Chief Executive Officer Tony Pignata.

“Our players have spent a lot of time over the winter attending local football clubs and now it is our turn to host them.

“The parade is a just reward for the players who have been part of the best teams in New South Wales in their respective age groups and we look forward to having them part of our match day."

Adding to the match day experience at ANZ Stadium on Sunday will be a NYL curtain raiser with the Sydney FC youth team taking on Perth Glory at 2.15pm.

The Sydney FC NYL team is back in Australia after finishing third in an international U21 tournament in Vietnam where they defeated the Laos and Thailand National U21 teams.

“Sunday is going to be a great day with plenty on offer for the fans and we hope to see a big crowd in attendance for the first ever A-League game at ANZ Stadium," he added.

The 2012 EA SPORTS Champion of Champions matches took place last weekend at Valentine Sports Park.

Here are the winners and the story of how each team triumphed. And watch out for next month's FourFourTwo Australia magazine for a special feature on the tournament. Issue out Nov 14.

http://au.fourfourtwo.com/Gallery/320431,ea-sports-champofchamps.aspx/1

U12s Girls: Woonona prove too strong for Rangers North Epping Rangers

There is nothing more exciting than walking out onto a pitch with all your friends and family cheering from the sidelines. For the girls of North Epping Rangers and Woonona FC there was of course the added pressure of trying to win so that they can be crowned the Champions of Champions.

North Epping Rangers got the ball moving sporting their stunning black and orange kit. Within the opening five minutes though, it was Woonona FC who looked the hungrier of the two sides. First it was Keeley Davis with a curling free kick that was cleared by the Rangers’ keeper but a goal soon followed.

Having been playing for just six minutes, it was the young centre forward Hannah Byron who got a touch on the ball after some great build up play from midfielder Cheri Osborn. Having beaten her defender, Hannah Byron only had to beat the keeper and she did exactly that. Woonona were in front.

For the North Epping Rangers supporters, the wait for an equaliser wasn’t long. Just three minutes after Woonona had taken the lead it was Kelsey Hocking who took on two defenders before squaring the ball up for Kelsey Cooper Phillis to tap into the back of the net.

Just before half time, North Epping Rangers scored again however this time it was in the wrong goal. Another fine corner whipped in by Woonona striker Keeley Davis to the front post was met by North Epping Rangers defender Hannah Wilczynski. The young defender kicking the ball high into the air meant unfortunately the ball was carried by the wind to bounce on the line of the goal before ending up in the back of the net.

At half time the scores were set at North Epping Rangers 1 – 2 Woonona FC however it was obvious there would be more goals to come this game.

In the 27^th minute, it was Woonona holding midfielder Jessica Hegarty made a fantastic run through the centre of the field managed to pop up and knock the ball under the North Epping Rangers keeper and into the back of the net. That goal extending Woonona’s dominance over this Grand Final.

Midway through the second half and the referee Shanaye Kuntze correctly identified a handball inside the box by North Epping Rangers defender Jessie Fox. This was Keeley Davies’ chance to step up and take the penalty to make the gap between the two sides even bigger and that is exactly what she did. A low, hard ball into the bottom corner enough to beat the North Epping Rangers goalkeeper, Jemma Cookson.

With just ten minutes left to play, it was North Epping Rangers’ striker Kelsey Cooper Phillis who had been causing problems for the Woonona defence all morning got her side back within reaching distance of winning the game. Nudging the ball into the back of the net after a poor judgement from Woonona goalkeeper Hayley Dunne meant there was plenty of time for plenty more action.

The atmosphere at the ground resembled a certain night in November back in 2005 thanks to cheering, chanting and sideline coaching from all spectators. The North Epping Rangers supporters group only got louder and louder with each passing minute.

Woonona’s centre back Tatum Etherden found herself in the right place at the right time taking the ball off the line after North Epping Rangers’ Emmeline Davies had a shot from just inside the box in the 46^th minute of play. This was soon followed with a penalty shout waved away by the referee after Kelsey Cooper Phillis was brought down inside the box.

A solid 4-2 win for Woonona FC who deserved the result after some fantastic passages of play and some tactical brilliance from head coach Paul Connery. The pain of defeat might be tough for North Epping Rangers to deal with post game but there is no doubt that both teams have the ability to push on and have a rematch next year at the EA Sports Champions of Champions tournament.

Match Stats:

North Epping Rangers 2

Woonona FC 4

Sunday 21^st October, 2012

Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood

Referee: Shanaye Kuntze

Assistant Referees: Timothy Harns and Chris Hanley

North Epping Rangers: 1. Jemma COOKSON, 2. Kelsey HOCKING, 4. Chole GOLDSMITH, 6. Brianna STEELE, 7. Brooke MORGAN, 9. Ella MacLEOD, 10. Hannah WILCZYNSKI, 11. Olivia KIER, 13. Erin DACEY, 14. Hannah ALLEN, 15. Kelsey COOPER PHILLIS, 16. Emmeline DAVIES, 17. Danya MAWASS, 21. Jessie FOX.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

Woonona FC: 1. Hayley DUNNE, 2. Zoe CONNERY, 3. Kaisha PARSONS, 4. Cassidy WEARING, 5. Jessica HEGARTY, 6. Miya MARTIN, 7. Cheri OSBORN, 8. Layla SPARENBURG, 9. Keeley DAVIES, 10. Tatum ETHERDEN, 11. Hannah BYRON, 12. Shannon NEAVES, 13. Abby O’CONNELL, 14. Sine HAMILTON, 15. Georgia ATKINSON.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

- By Pete Nowakowski

Girls U14s: Golden goal drama sees Bossley Sports defeat Avalon

A dramatic golden goal finish saw Bossley Sports defeat Avalon 2-1 in the U14s Girls Final on Saturday morning.

Briony Norton cancelled out Ashleigh Hart’s opener in the first half, and with nothing to separate the sides at full time it was Cassandra Araujo’s opportunistic finish that decided the final result.

Norton was in the thick of the action for Bossley Park throughout the match, narrowly missing an early flurry of chances before Avalon found their feet and the lead as Hart placed a clinical finish inside the near post.

Bossley Park responded accordingly and soon found themselves level as Norton capped off an incisive counterattack with a well-placed finish.

Both sides were predominantly limited to long range efforts throughout the second period; Lucinda Coleman saw her 35 yard attempt held shortly before succumbing to injury after a solid challenge.

Jacinta Mohammed handed Norton the best chance of the second period to Norton, however the in-form striker skewed her finish wide of the far post.

With scores level at the full time whistle the sides went into extra time which was decided in the first period as Araujo was on hand to tuck Norton’s rebounded shot into an open goal to seal the golden goal victory for Bossley Sports.

Match Stats:

Avalon 1 (Ashleigh Hart 5’)

Bossley Park 2 (Briony Norton 18’, Cassandra Araujo 68’)

Avalon: 2.Eliza McEwan, 2.Xanthe Shepherd, 4.Lucinda Coleman, 5.Gabriella Dent, 6.Genra Frew, 7.Christie Brandt, 8.Darcie Benthan, 9.Emily McGain, 10.Lara Simpson, 11.Abbey Dunbar, 12.Ashleigh Hart, 13.Zoe Johnson, 14.Ella Smith, 15.Kira Van Druten

Bossley Park: 6.Jessica Ojeda, 7.Amelia Reyes, 4.Elaine Lewis, 9.Erica Acosta, 8.Nicole Araya, 14.Daniella Sepulveda, 10.Tahni Singhini, 3.Briony Norton, 17.Jacinta Mohammed, 2.Brooke McDermott, 5.Anthea Mihalates, 23.Alicia Bitetto, 13.Cassandra Araujo, 11.Amanda Ciantar

-By Michael Shoolman

Girls U16s: Resurgent South West Slopes come from behind to defeat Gymea

South West Slopes fought back from a goal down to defeat Gymea United by a 2-1 scoreline in the U16s Girls final.

Olivia Moore cancelled out Ameilia Campbell’s early opener before Kirby Piper-Bye rounded off the scoring before half time.

Campbell gave Gymea the early lead when she caught Slopes goalkeeper Tennille Stephens off her line, beating her with a lobbed finish from the edge of the box.

Slopes looked to find a route back into the match via set pieces as Emma James saw her free kick saved before Jessica Doolan fired one over from the edge of the box.

As Slopes found the feet their they also found the equaliser midway through the half as Moore turned the ball in; Jordan Douglass the architect after salvaging the ball on the byline before delivering an inch perfect cross for Moore.

With momentum running in their favour Slopes hit the lead soon after as Isabella Flannery turned her marker inside out before crossing to Piper-Bye who found the lead with a crisp finish via the inside of the far post.

Gymea goalkeeper Ellen Ryan kept her side in contention minutes later as she produced a brilliant point blank save to deny Douglass, tipping the ball onto the crossbar before safely gathering the rebound.

Laine Palmer almost found an equaliser late in the half as she ran onto Aleisha Oberg’s defence-splitting pass, however Stephens mad e a brave block to deny the goal at the expense of a corner.

As the match wore on and the scorching heat increased chances became few and far between for both sides, yet both keepers were up to the task when called upon as Slopes held on for victory.

Match Stats:

South West Slopes 2 (Olivia Moore 22’, Kirby Piper-Bye 28’)

Gymea United 1 (Ameilia Campbell 5’)

South West Slopes: 1.Tennille Stephens, 2.Pheobe McGeoch, 3.Tanealle Eccleston, 4.Olivia Moore, 5.Annie McGrath, 6.Jessica Doolan, 7.Kirby Piper-Bye, 8.Taylah Phillis, 9.Ashley Holder, 10.Jordan Douglass, 11.Tegan French, 12.Emma James, 13.Isabella Flannery, 14.Katie Hearne, 15.Samantha Doolan

Gymea United: 1.Ellen Ryan, 2.Caitlin Dooley, 13.Jamie Hick, 10.Ruby Hills, 11.Laine Palmer, 6.Rachel Holland, 4.Ebony Lane, 8.Lianna Ludton, 21.Aleisha Oberg, 18.Ameilia Campbell, 15.Chanel Coombes, 7.Maddison Malloy, 12.Asheligh Twoomey

-By Michael Shoolman

U18s Women: Ravens nerves prevail in Shootout glory

In the battle between Manly/Warringah districts’ Seaforth FC and Gladesville Ravens, the girls had to take on more than just the pressure of a Grand Final.

There was the heat. There were the vocal supporters on the sidelines. There was pride. And as always, there can only be one winner.

Kicking off at midday, the game was played at a much slower pace than expected. Both teams seemed content to play a short passing game interweaved with a kick and chase brand of football in the hope of getting an early goal.

Gladesville’s Clarie Fameli might claim she had the first chance on goal but it was Seaforth’s Ciara Harding who filled the spectators with jubilation when the pacey forward walked the ball around Gladesville’s goalkeeper but was unable to capitalise on her good shooting position.

The majority of the opening passage of play was in Seaforth’s half. Their defence providing time after time difficult to break down as each of Gladesville’s attacks were met with a sea of red jerseys.

Despite the scores locked at 0-0 at the break, there were a number of stand out players who looked as though they had the ability to change the game given any opportunity. For Gladesville it was Georgia Brown, Rosie Bisset and Jessica Weston who looked most likely to swing the match in favour of the black and white Ravens.

The second half brought even more half chances and missed opportunities as first a glancing header sailing wide of the goal for Seaforth followed by Gladesville Raven’s Matilda Vaughan missing an open goal after a piece of magic from Rosie Bisset down the right flank.

Despite Seaforth’s and Gladesville Raven’s best counter attacking efforts, the two teams were unable to get a goal in the dying moments of the game. Extra time and Golden Goal seemed inevitable.

Seven minutes into the first period of extra time and it was Gladesville Ravens who looked to have secured the win after Ellen Schiffler scored a header off a corner. The assistant referee on the sideline correctly deeming the goal offside meant it was game on at Valentine Sports Park.

Seaforth looked the have won the game in midway through the second period of extra time as Phoebe Layden played a lovely one-two with Ciara Harding. An outstanding save from Deniz Yuzguo the only thing stopping the team in red from claiming the win.

With the full time whistle blown, the match finished 0-0. Penalties were next. Almost every spectator had moved to the edge of their seat in anticipation of what would happen next. Some saying “Penalties are a horrible way to win” others were just proud of their daughters who had made it this far in the competition.

Galdesville Ravens took the first penalty. Jessica Weston coolly slotting the ball home to get the first goal of the game. Unfortunately for Seaforth, their goalkeeper who decided to take her side’s first penalty performed a recreation of David Beckham’s penalty and hit the ball high over the goal. Rachel Shore and Matilda Vaughan also claimed goals for Gladesville Ravens whilst for Seaforth FC it was Simone Shearsby, Alexandra Miller and Sarah Hopkinson who made sure the girls in red stayed within reaching distance of the Championship.

With both sides having scored three times, the game moved into sudden death penalty shoot out. With the electric atmosphere and the nerves higher than they had been all game, Gladesville Ravens’ Kathryn Morgan stepped up and scored a brilliant penalty.

Seaforth needed to score if they wanted to stay in this game. Hannah Griffiths taking the long walk up to the penalty spot. Time slowed down as Hannah lined up her shot. Hannah’s kick missing the goal completely meant Gladesville were crowned the Champions of Champions for 2012.

Match Stats

Seaforth FC 0

Gladesville Ravens 0

Saturday 20^th October, 2012

Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood

Referee: James Tesoriero

Assistant Referees: Rod McDonald and Paul Elson

Seaforth FC: 2. Ciara MARDING, 3. Phoebe LAYDEN, 4. Tess GRUETER, 5. Taylan JONES, 6. Hannah Griffiths, 7. Madeleine KILPATRICK, 8. Rory TREDINNICK, 9. Sarah HOPKINSON, 10. Tahnee DEVINE, 11. Jane MACHART, 12. Rochelle SHARPE.

Substitutions: 1. Kate GEDDES, 14. Kate CHISWELL, 15. Simone SHEARSBY, 16. Alexandra MILLER.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

Gladesville Ravens: 9. Rosie BISSET, 5. Alexandra FALZON, 2. Claire FAMELI, 8. Celeste LOYZAGA, 3. Madeleine MORGAN, 10. Kathryn RAMSAY, 6. Ellen SCHIFFLER, 11. Stephanie SEAMAN, 15. Rachel SHORE, 12. Jessica WESTON, 7. Caitlin WOOD.

Substitutions: 1. Deniz YUZGUC, 21. Georgia BROWN, 20. Matilda VAUGHAN, 13. Winona ENRIGHT.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

- By Pete Nowakowski

U18s Women: Ravens nerves prevail in Shootout glory

In the battle between Manly/Warringah districts’ Seaforth FC and Gladesville Ravens, the girls had to take on more than just the pressure of a Grand Final.

There was the heat. There were the vocal supporters on the sidelines. There was pride. And as always, there can only be one winner.

Despite Seaforth’s and Gladesville Raven’s best counter attacking efforts, the two teams were unable to get a goal in the dying moments of the game. Extra time and Golden Goal seemed inevitable.

Match Stats

Seaforth FC 0

Gladesville Ravens 0

Saturday 20^th October, 2012

Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood

Referee: James Tesoriero

Assistant Referees: Rod McDonald and Paul Elson

Substitutions: 1. Kate GEDDES, 14. Kate CHISWELL, 15. Simone SHEARSBY, 16. Alexandra MILLER.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

Substitutions: 1. Deniz YUZGUC, 21. Georgia BROWN, 20. Matilda VAUGHAN, 13. Winona ENRIGHT.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

- By Pete Nowakowski

Under 21 Women: Wanderers edge out Southern Districts

Following a scoreless first-half, Katie Higgins slotted home the eventual winner late in the second-half to clinch back to back Under 21 Women EA Sports Champion of Champions for Hurlstone Park Wanderers.

Hurlestone Park Wanderers almost took the lead from a near post corner early on, but Southern Districts goalkeeper Sharee Ryan was alert and equal to it.

Both sides kept their shapes well in order during the opening exchanges, with neither side able to craft out any real clear cut chances it what was proving a real arm-wrestle affair.

Southern Districts sprung to life on 22’ minutes as Tania Baban received a neat through ball to go one on one with Wanderers custodian Romy Maguire, but Maguire made sure the score remain locked at 0-0 after rushing out to thwart the danger with an excellent save.

Wanderers midfield anchor Tess Noble let fly a shot from the edge of the area in the 35’ minute that failed to trouble Ryan in goal as both sides defensively remained resolute.

Following the break, Liana Babic struck a venomous shot from a free kick that Romy Maguire fumbled out for a corner. The resultant corner, again by Babic almost found its way into the back of the net but instead trickled out for a goal kick as both sides battled on in the hot conditions.

Katie Higgins finally broke the deadlock on 71’ minutes for Hurlstone Park Wanderers with some individual brilliance, catching Ryan off guard with a beautiful long range shot that pummelled into the back of the net to make it 1-0.

Despite Southern Districts late flurry of corners and attacking raids, Hurlstone Park Wanderers stood firm to ensure they secured the victory with Higgins goal proving to be the separator between two very closely contested sides.

Match Stats:

Southern Districts 0

Hurlstone Park Wanderers 1 (K Higgins 71’)

Saturday October 20^th, 2012

Valentine Park, Glenwood

Southern Districts: GK.S.Ryan; 2.R.Williams, 3.L.Wotton, 4.L.Babic, 5.R.Dotti, 6.L.Carnevale, 7.T.Baban, 8.H.McPherson, 9.E.Miller, 10.A.Danielson, 11.A.Harpas, 12.J.Olarte, 14.J.Carnevale, 15.L.Schwizler, 16.T.Fuchs, 17.G.Rodriguez

Hurlstone Park Wanderers: GK.R.Maguire; 2.E.Fox, 3.R.Cox, 4.T.Noble, 5.I.Adolpe, 6.K.Higgins, 7.H.Moffat, 8.S.Ismen, 9.E.Parker, 10.L.Paddon, 11.M.Paradisis, 12.C.Armitage, 13.I.Coultan, 14.E.Poole, 15.G.Brackenbury-Soldenhoff, 16.B.Wonders

-By Dean Southern

AA Women: Manly Vale FC too strong for Epping YMCA

Manly Vale FC clinched the All Age Women Champion of Champions trophy with a near flawless 90’ minutes of football to steamroll Epping YMCA 3-0.

The Manly Warringah Football Association side had all the running in the early stages with Joanne Greco pulling the strings in midfield with some great touches on the ball.

In only the 3’ minute, Greco made a neat run inside the penalty-area to meet Amanda Thomspon’s cross, though her header finished wide of goal.

Epping YMCA struggled to play out of their own half with Mel Corringham and Giulia Casson the most lively for the side; however front pairing Alex Thompson and Emma Clarence did not receive the required supply in the front-third.

Manly Vale deservedly opened the scoring on 13’ minutes via Greco. The midfield maestro pushed forward to drive home a loose ball inside the penalty-area following some fine build-up play by Eliza Ashcroft and Anna Granberg.

Epping responded immediately with defender Lisa Collins getting forward following the re-start. The Epping number 12 played a neat through ball over the Manly Vale defence, though goalkeeper Surrey Hodges was quick off her line to thwart the attempt.

Hodges was forced into a routine save 1’ minute late when claiming a long-range attempt from Alex Thompson.

Manly Vale had chances to double its lead on multiple occasions as Granberg’s lunging effort on 31’ minutes only just failed to divert Monique Sheehan’s cross from the right into the back of the net.

Philippa Robinson, another standout performer for Manly Vale, then saw her long-range drive, only just, float over the crossbar following some more suspect defending at the back by Epping YMCA.

Manly Vale did find a second goal only moments before the break and it arrived via Amanda Thompson. The energetic midfielder rose highest inside the penalty-area to send her glancing header into the back of the net.

Following the interval, Epping started the half on the front foot with some good possession, however the final pass in the final third was lacking. Kristy Bown tried her luck from distance on 51’ minutes to no avail – shot finished well off target – before being forced from the field with injury.

Manly Vale resumed its dominance of possession across the park with the Philippa Robinson show taking centre stage. The skillful number 10 played a sensational turn on the edge of the penalty-area on 65’ minutes, ridding herself of three markers before blasting wide of goal. The attacking midfielder’s class and composure deserved a goal for her effort, and the supporters present were appreciative of the playmaker’s showing.

Manly Vale put the result beyond Epping’s reach in the 67’ minute when Monique Sheehan’s persistence down the right saw her win Manly Vale a penalty. Granberg took the spot-kick responsibility, blasting the ball into the top right-hand corner and securing Manly Vale FC a much deserved grand final triumph.

Match Stats

Epping YMCA 0

Manly Vale FC 3 (Joanne Greco 13’, Amanda Thompson 43’, Anna Granberg 67’)

Epping YMCA: 1.Rebecca Barton; 2.Kylie Johnson, 3.Nicole Ridley, 4.Lauren Moore, 5.Mel Corringham, 6.Kathryn D’Amore, 7.Amy Scott, 8.Sara Coco, 9.Kim Waterhouse, 10.Bronwyn Kiceec, 11.Alex Thompson, 12.Lisa Collins, 13.Michelle Reed, 15.Emma Clarence, 17.Kate Fabro, 22.Giulia Casson, 15.Felicity Cox, 31. Kristy Bown

Coach: David Smith

Manly Vale FC: 1.Surrey Hodges; 2.Eliza Ashcroft, 3.Alana Wallis, 4.Erin Colwell, 5.Alisha Wells, 7.Joanne Greco, 8.Amanda Thompson, 9.Michelle Garnett, 10.Philippa Robinson, 11.Anna Granberg, 12.Jacquelyn Bohm, 14.Melanie Clancy, 15.Lauren Turner, 16.Lucinda Clay, 18.Chloe Le Moy, 21.Vanja Tcherneva, Monique Sheehan

Coach: Tony Bruzzano

Manager: David Hodges

-By Joseph Carlucci

U30s Women: Riverstone Schofields grab Golden Goal glory over Marton FC

Heading into this fixture both sides were fired up and on the hunt for glory.

A win today would deem one side the Champions of all Champions whilst for the losing side, tears would follow.

With most spectators having just found their seats, Marton FC got the ball moving to get this fixture under way. It took just a handful of seconds before Riverstone Schofields took hold of a loose ball and went on the attack. Maria Dyson getting the better of Marton FC’s keeper with just 22 seconds on the clock. A fine way to start the match and an even better goal to give the Riverstone Schofields supporters something to cheer about.

12 minutes later and Riverstone Schofields found themselves extending their domination over the game. A free kick fired into the goalmouth was pushed into the back of the net by midfield maestro Kim Norris. A two-goal lead for Riverstone Schofields and the team in red were looking confident of going on and winning the game strongly.

The following 15 minutes was filled half chances and missed opportunities for both sides. Marton FC coming closest to getting a goal in the 25^th minute after Katrina Faulkner played Elisa Stewart into space who will claim the ball took a bounce before striking the ball high over the goal.

After hour an hour of play, Marton FC finally found themselves a way back into the game with Leah Spelta hitting the back of the net off a corner. Katrina Faulkner fired the ball into the goalmouth hoping that one of her attackers would get a head to it. Marton FC’s midfielder Leah Spelta out jumping her defender to get her name on the score sheet and giving her side a way back into tis final.

With just a handful of minutes of play remaining, Marton FC found themselves an equaliser. A hopeful long ball fired up field was met by Marton FC’s striker Elisa Stewart who thanks to her lightning quick pace was able to beat her defender and beat the keeper to slot the ball into the bottom corner of the net. The scores were level at 2-2 heading into the break.

To kick off the second half, Riverstone Schofields went for the audacious move of playing three strikers in the hope of finding a winning goal in the remaining 40 minutes of play. Cindy Metcalfe, Michelle DeBeus and Kim Norris was left in charge of finding a goal and beating the Marton FC’s sturdy defensive unit.

Although the second half remained goalless, there were plenty of opportunities for both sides with Marton FC’s Elisa Stewart looking the most likely to make a difference for Marton FC thanks to her pace up front and willingness to take on any defender in her path.

Just before full time, Riverstone Schofields did have the opportunity to seal the win after Kim Norris continued to cause havoc in the final third. A deep cross to the back post was meet only by Marton FC’s centre back Kylie Gandy who cleared the danger away.

The referee blew for full time with the scores still level at 2-2. This meant that extra time and the dreaded golden goal was inevitable.

Riverstone Schofields looked the hungrier of the two sides in the opening 10 minutes of play with Michelle DeBeus controlling play in the final third thanks to her ability to hold up the ball and bring other players into the game.

In the 86^th minute though there was finally a winner. A low pass across the face of the goal by Michelle DeBeus was met by the foot of Kim Gibbs who will surely now insure her foot for at least a million dollars. That goal meant that Riverstone Schofields would be crowned Champions at the 2012 EA Sports Champions of Champions tournament.

For Marton FC though, this loss might have been their first all season but with the squad’s experience and quick thinking, there is no doubt we will see this team back in 2013 in the finals.

Match Stats:

Riverstone Schofields 3

Marton FC 2

Sunday 21^st October, 2012

Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood

Referee: Andrew Passons

Assistant Referees: Dane Johnson and Jack Casey

Riverstone Schofields: 1. Deanne STAPLES, 10. Leanne BLOOM, 9. Sharon BROWN, 6. Michelle DEBEUS, 15. Jadene DeHANGE, 3. Kristine DEBONO, 11. Maria DYSON, 8. Kristy FOSTER, 13. Kim GIBBS, 4. Kristy HORTON, 14. Felicity HUNTINGTON, 2. Cindy METCALFE, 7. Kim NORRIS, 12. Hayley PHILLIPS, 5. Jeanette WARD, 19. Charmian WHITEHURST.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

Marton FC: 1. Melissa Newell, 2. Kylie GANDY, 5. Christine DEACON, 6. Megan LAVENDER, 7. Amanda DUNCAN, 9. Katrina FAULKNER, 10. Jennifer DOSSETTO, 11. Simone COTTERAL-DORMER, 13. Rhonda SMITH, 15. Debbie KEMP, 16. Leisa ELLIOTT, 17. Joanne ROGERS, 18. Elisa STEWART, 19. Jill DANES, 20. Leah SPELTA, 21. Louise VANDERGRAAF.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

- By Pete Nowakowski

U/12 Boys: Marconi Juniors too classy for brave Seaforth

Marconi Juniors were a class above in the U/12 Grand Final, a 4-0 win against Seaforth underlining their quality and dominance of the match.

Marconi Juniors started strongly with Fabian Monge and Alessi Jafari controlling the game in midfield.

The first genuine opportunity fell their way when a delightful turn from Rory Jordan on the edge of the area took him into the area, only to fire his shot wide of goal. Jordan had another chance a few minutes later and although this time he shot on target, Ben Rymill showed safe hands in the Seaforth goal.

Jordan was looking to be the major threat, his pace causing problems for the Seaforth defence and the service from Monge was exemplary. Fortunately for Seaforth though, Rymill was standing strong in goal.

The pressure eventually tolled in the 17' minute when Billy Nunes ran at Joe McCauley down the right and when he stood a ball up to the back post it slipped through Rymill's hands and found the back of the net.

The wind was in their sales now and they doubled their lead almost immediately. Rymill made a good low stop to deny Muhammad Michman, but Jordan was on hand to slid home the rebound.

The match was disrupted by injury stoppages throughout the half but when the game finally did get into a good rhythm, Marconi Juniors scored a glorious third.

It seemed ambitious when Corey Cuelho lined up a shot from 30 yards, but his strike arrowed past Rymill and into the top corner. It was a spectacular goal and one befitting the occasion.

Seaforth came out for the second half playing with renewed ambition, despite the herculean task ahead of them.

Nick Bannigan and Mathis Guichon were threatening in the attacking third, but they lacked a killer pass to break open the Marconi defence. Mikey Howie showed some nice touches in midfield though and looked the most likely source of creativity for the Manly-Warringah representatives.

Marconi though, put the game to bed in the 35' minute with a goal beautiful in its creation. Gian Sacco split the defence with a pass that released Cuelho down the left and his square ball was tapped in by Michman, who was left with the simplest of tasks thanks to the wonderful work of his teammates.

Seaforth battled gamely in the knowledge that the game was out of reach. Nunes nearly put the icing on the cake when his beautiful free kick hit the crossbar in the final minute, but once the threat to goal was cleared the referee blew for full time, the scoreline confirming the class of Paul Okon's Marconi Juniors side.

Match Stats

Marconi Juniors 4 (Nunes 17', Jordan 18', Cuelho 30', Michman 35')

Seaforth 0

Marconi Juniors: 1.D Lopez, 2.Thomas Draca, 3.Alex Tourgelis, 4.Jared Dulaurent, 5.Alessi Jafari, 6.Corey Cuelho, 7.Thomas McPherson, 8.Fabian Monge, 9.Adrian Valenti, 10.Billy Nunes, 11.Gian Sacco, 12.Muhammad Michman, 13.Rory Jordan

Seaforth: 2.Liam Burke, 3.Joe McCauley, 4.Tom Dubourdieu, 5.Nick Bannigan, 6.Mathis Guichon, 7.Ben Rymill, 8.Josh McMenamin, 9.Harper Macris, 10.Mikey Howie, 11.Alex Giles, 12.Alex Reidy, 14.Joa Aitken, 15.Evan Peake, 16.Arttu Piislia

- By Matthew Connellan

Under 13 Boys: Figtree put Rangers to the sword in five goal rout

Figtree defeated North Epping Rangers 5-0 in the Under 13 Boys EA Sports Champions of Champions final showcasing some excellent finishing by the South Coast side for everyone to see.

Daniel Carella opened the scoring for Figtree after shooting first time into the roof of the net from a Daniel Chicharo pass inside 10’ minutes.

North Epping Rangers midfielder Joshua Stern tried his luck from an acute angle moments later with a free kick, but his effort ruffled the side netting.

Luke Skrivancic made an encouraging run down the sideline and delivered a neat cross into the box that was smothered up by the alert Figtree custodian Jarrod Twigg on 15’ minutes.

Emmanuel Kamara made it 2-0 after 20’ minutes, smashing home a wonder strike from 20 yards out that gave Rangers goal keeper Christian Knezevic no chance.

Joshua Stern tried his luck from some distance in the 30’ minute but Jarrod Twigg made an excellent save to keep the ball out of the net, parrying the ball to safety while tracking backwards.

It was end to end action as Figtree’s Emmanual Kamara smashed his shot just wide before the stroke of half-time.

North Epping failed to find a way into the match following the break with Figtree getting the second-half underway in similar fashion by adding a third goal via the boot of Daniel Chicharo in the 40’ minute after some brilliant build up play.

Figtree were gifted a penalty in the 45’ minute and Josh Head calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net, only for the referee to order a retake due to a Figtree player entering the box before the kick was taken. Unfortunately the retake wasn’t successful and blasted over the crossbar.

Depsite the missed penalty, Figtree got on with the job and Manny Hondroudakis made it 4-0 with a wonderful shot outside the 18 yard box after 52’ minutes before Daniel Carella slotted home to make it 5-0 with the last kick of the game in what was a rock-solid effort by Figtree against a very competitive North Epping Rangers side.

Match Stats

North Epping Rangers 0

Figtree 5 (D Carella 10/60’ E Kamara 20’ D Chicharo 40’ M Hondroudakis 52’)

Sunday October 21^st, 2012

Valentine Park, Glenwood

North Epping Rangers: GK.C.Knezevic; 2.D.Hempill, 3.M.Muranty, 4.J.Parkinson, 5.M.Knight, 6.K.Thornton, 7.H.Joslin, 8.A.Sandhu, 9.N.Stubbs, 10.J.Stern, 11.H.Foristal, 17.L.Skrivancic, 19.L.Carfax, 24.W.McLachlan

Figtree: GK.J.Twigg; 2.J.Kalmanidis, 3.T.Rutty, 4.T.Maclou, 5.J.Head, 6.M.Hondroudakis, 7.M.Faulkner, 8.A.Gallo, 9.E.Kamara, 10.R.Akhurst, 11.D.Carella, 12.C.Popovski, 13.D.Chicharo, 14.W.Ramsay, 15.C.Graham

-By Dean Southern

U14s boys: Putney Rangers too slick for Connells Point

Putney Rangers have been crowned Champions of the under 14s boys competition at the EA Sports Champions of Champions tournament thanks to a Jayden Baikie goal in the 35th minute.

Battling the early heat as well as vocal supporter on the sidelines, Gladesville Hornsby District side, Putney Rangers took on the St. George association winners Connells Point in what proved to be a feisty affair.

Thanks to a mixture of nerves and excitement, both sides struggled to get control of the ball in the opening ten minutes however it was Connells Point who had the better start with front man Stefan Sarandopoulos narrowly shooting wide of the goal after some fantastic build up play from winger William Monaha.

Heading into the break, Putney Rangers started to hit their stride playing a pretty passing game mixed with a strong counter attacking brand of football. It was the young winger come striker Jayden Baikie who was the bright spark for the team in red with his pace down the flanks as his willingness to take on his defender.

The first half might have remained scoreless but the final seconds of the half were filled with Connell Point hitting the side netting twice sending shock waves through Putney's defence.

The team in red got the game under way for the second period of play and were instantly on the attack. Whatever the pep talk was that these boys received was obviously a meaningful one as only Connell Points' goalkeeper was able to deny an opening goal just moments after the restart.

In the 35^th minute of play, Putney took the lead. A lovely through ball from Cameron Court playing Jayden Baikie into space through the middle meant Jayden was able to knock the ball into the back of the net beating the Connells Point keeper, Christopher Keryakos.

Connells Point had a golden opportunity to find an equaliser with ten minutes remaining to play through Reece Gledhill however some brilliant last ditch defending from Ethan Harris was enough to block the shot.

With the clock ticking down, the frustration started to settle in with Connells Point’s centre forward Stefan Saradopoulos sharing some choice words with Putney Rangers left midfielder, Haydn Houssenloge. Both players lucky to escape a yellow card from referee Toby Williams.

The final kick of the game came from Connells Point’s Cooper Lean who volleyed in a low, hard ball aiming for the bottom corner of the goal but only found the Putney Rangers goalkeeper James Conagham.

Match Stats:

Putney Rangers 1 (Baikie 35’)

Connells Point 0

Saturday 20^th October, 2012

Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood

Referee: Toby Williams

Assistant Referees: Jack Morales and Aleesha Morales

Putney Rangers FC: 1. James CONGAGHAN, 2. Cameron COURT, 3. Tony CHEN, 4. James HANLON, 5. Haydn HOUSSENLOGE, 7. Ethan HARRIS, 9. Jack ARMSON, 10. Jayden Baikie, 11. Nathan GREEN, 12. Andrew CHAPMAN, 13. Jarrod CHATER

Substitutions: 6. Caleb PURCELL, 8. Morgan LING, 15. Michael NGO

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

Connells Point FC: 1. Christopher KERYAKOS, 2. Cooper LEAN, 3. Mark MIFSUD, 4. James SAAB, 5. Nicholas RUSSO, 6. Brian KONG, 7. Tivon MEGASE, 8. Reece GLEDHILL, 9. Stefan SARANDOPOULOS, 11. William MONAHA, 14. Anthony KHOURY

Substitutions: 10. Daniel MACRIS, 12. Ryan MUSGRAVE, 15. Steven CASH, 16. Billy RICHARDS.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

- By Pete Nowakowski

Under 15 Boys: Fairfield Hotspurs too strong for Hawks

Fairfield Hotspurs put in a dominant display to defeat a resilient Menai Hawks side 3-0 in the Under 15 Boys EA Sports Champions of Champions final.

Fairfield Hotspurs jumped into the lead as early as the 8’ minute, with Nathan Irusta showing great composure to slot home a penalty.

It was end to end action early in the piece with both sides trading attacking blows with Menai Hawks looking to make use of the height of Jack Thorne with a high ball into the box, but the striker was unable to direct his effort on target.

Nathan Irusta did well to dispossess his marker and deliver a tantalising cross into the box to find Peter Khouchaba free at the far post on 25’ minutes, but his glancing header finished on the wrong side of the post.

Following the break, Fairfield Hotspurs doubled their advantage just after the restart. Some great footwork by Brendan Warda saw him create space inside the area, letting fly a shot that Hawks shot stopper Dylan Sutic could only parry – with the rebound falling to Anthony Zappia who tapped into the empty net.

Despite falling behind, Menai Hawks refused to give up and some great passing and movement saw the Hawks bomb forward into Hotspurs territory on numerous occasions in search for a goal.

The Hawks best chance came in the 60’ minute, after a scramble ensued inside the box with Rody Dawood making a string of fine saves to keep the Hawks scoreless.

With literally the last kick of the game, Peter Khouchaba made sure of the result by scoring with his head after peeling off to the back post unmarked to make it 3-0 in what was a truly entertaining clash.

Match Stats:

Fairfield Hotspurs 3 (N Irusta 8’ A Zappia 37’ P Khouchaba 69’)

Menai Hawks 0

Saturday October 20^th, 2012

Valentine Park, Glenwood

Fairfield Hotspurs: GK.R.Dawood; 2.B.Kirby, 3.D.Lilly, 4.J.Cunico, 5.N.Irusta, 6.L.Ferreira, 7.M.Hanna, 8.A.Zappia, 9.B.Warda, 10.J.Lepore, 11.P.Khouchaba, 14.J.Kosso, 23.M.Ciarleglio

Menai Hawks: GK.D.Sutic; 2.L.Azzopardi, 3.J.Williams, 4.N.Samios, 5.L.Basic, 6.B.Barlow, 7.J.Thorne, 8.L.Sparke, 9.A.Agius, 10.J.Locaputo, 11.R.Brissett, 12.S.Stratton, 13.M.Downes, 15.J.Towell, 23.J.Coelho

-By Dean Southern

U16s boys: Extra-time winner gives Bellambi JSC thrilling victory

The Grand Final of Grand Finals.

A win for either team would provide hero status amongst their footballing peers; a loss would leave nothing but tears and sleepless nights. After all, this is why we love the round ball game so much. This is the Champions of Champions.

Bankstown Sports Strikers in their traditional green and yellow kits got the ball moving and were instantly on the attack against their red and green counterparts, Bellambi JSC.

From the moment the starting whistle blew, it was obvious who the architect of Bankstown Sport Strikers play would be, centre forward Brennan Fussell. The tall, pacey attacker was the perfect link between the midfielder and the final third of the field whilst also providing plenty of entertainment for those on the sidelines with his ability to beat a defender with ease.

Some desperate defending from Bellambi’s Jesse Tyssen in the opening ten minutes of play was enough to deny Mahmoud Elomar an opening goal for Bankstown Sports Strikers. A fantastic strike on goal but an even better save was the proof of both teams’ focus and dedication towards this fixture.

Bellambi’s Franco Ledesma found himself in a shooting position midway through the first half however a less than pretty challenge meant Bellambi were awarded a free kick in a prime position. Daniel George stepping up to take the free kick which clipped the crossbar much to the surprise of the Bankstown Sports goalkeeper who predicted the ball to sail over the goal.

With just three minutes before half time, Bankstown Sports Strikers found themselves in front. Youseff Nasreddine firing in a long range free kick forcing the Bellambi keeper Billy Deniz to come off his line to collect the ball. Unfortunately for Bellambi, Billy Deniz couldn’t hold onto the ball which in turn dropped in front of midfielder James Miotto who pumped the ball into the back of the net to put his side in front just before the break.

Two minutes into the second half and Bellambi got themselves an equaliser, putting a smile back on the faces of the boys in green and red. With a long ball over the top of Bankstown Sports Strikers’ defence, Bellambi’s captain Daniel George found himself with space and time to catch the Strikers’ goalkeeper in no-mans-land before nudging the ball into the back of the net.

Both sides got into some good positions however were unable to capitalise on their chances. With the scores level at a goal each, extra time and the pressure filled golden goal time started.

Bellambi looked the better of the two sides during extra time with Junior Mushaba a bright spark up front as he linked up with James Wakeling time after time in the final third of the pitch. Bankstown Sports Strikers on the other hand were really struggling with the demand of extra time and it wasn’t long until players started dropping likes flies due to cramps and niggling injuries.

With the scores still level and just seconds left on the clock, a penalty shoot-out looked likely. That was until Bellambi’s captain Daniel George managed to get the winning goal in the 95^th minute of play by scoring off a corner.

A well-deserved win for Bellambi who are a small club based in the Illawarra made famous for two things. Firstly producing one of the best left sided players to ever grace the Australian National Team, Scott Chipperfield. And Secondly, Mark Tyssen’s 2012 under 16s squad who were crowned minor premiers of the Football South Coast competition, winners of the Robert Brown Cup, Champions of the State Cup and finally the Champions of Champions winners.

Match Stats:

Bankstown Sports Strikers 1 (James Miotto 32’)

Bellambi JSC 2 (Daniel George 37’, 95’)

Saturday 20^th October, 2012

Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood

Referee: Brett Lorimer

Assistant Referees: Keith Yau and James Ford

Bankstown Sports Strikers: 1. Christopher BUTLEY, 4. Jay PHOUISANGIEM, 2. Frank FERRANTE, 6. Jackson RYAN, 29. Evan LOIZOU, 12. Bennan FUSSEL, 7. Zac BELANI, 20. Youseff NASREDDINE, 28. James MIOTTO, 8. Jason HOOPER, 9. Alex GHABACHE.

Substitutions: 13. Hassan EL CHEIKH-ALI, 10. Mahmoud ELOMAR, 14. Adam IACONA, 11. Adam TAHERE.

Yellow Cards: Evan Loizou 33’

Red Cards: Nil.

Bellambi JSC: 1. Billy DENIZ, 2. Jesse TYSSEN, 3. Kevin ANDERSON, 4. Chris ZANETTI, 5. Curtis GUNES, 6. Jean BUKASA, 7. David DIEUDONNE, 8. Francesco LIBERTI, 9. Jamie WAKELING, 10. Junior MUSHABA, 11. Daniel GEORGE

Substitutions: 12. Matthew WALLACE, 14. Brendon FROOM, 15. Des BAROS, 16. Franco LEDESMA, 17. Imran AGAS.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil.

- By Pete Nowakowski

Under 17 Boys: Awesome Auburn Districts spank Figtree

Auburn Districts showed why they have remained undefeated in all competitions over the past two seasons, putting in a fine display to defeat Figtree 6-0 in the Under 17 Boys EA Sports Champions of Champions final.

Moustafa Rifai wasted no time to open his account and had his side up within the first 30 seconds of the match with a well taken goal.

Despite the hot conditions, both sides started the game at a frantic pace but it was Figtree’s custodian Aydin Basoglu who was certainly the busier of the two early on, making a string of early saves to keep his side in the contest.

Auburn Districts made it 2-0 in the 20’ minute, as Moustafa Rifai pounced on the loose ball following a corner.

Just moments later Auburn’s Yasir Naderi made a rampant run towards goal, letting fly a shot that deflected just over the crossbar.

Down the other end, Luke Simon showed great pace and composure to deliver a magnificent near post cross that Hassaniyan Alzaidi smothered up comfortably.

Following the break, Figtree won a penalty not long after the restart. Bradly Cascio stepped up to the plate but slid his shot across goal, missing the target.

Just some moments later Auburn were gifted a penalty after some nice footwork by Haidar Al Shinawa saw the striker brought down in the box. Elli Esber stepped up and made no mistake – slotting the ball into the bottom right hand corner in the 49’ minute to make it 3-0.

Less than five minutes later Elli Esber was at it again, scoring in the 55' minute after winning the ball deep inside Figtree’s box and taking Basoglu by surprise with a clever near post finish.

Figtree had an opportunity to pull a goal back in the 60’ minute but Ben Goodhew’s effort packed too much power as it blasted over the crossbar from close range.

Omer Elustu made it 5-0 with a clinical finish after 63’ minutes, slamming the ball into the back of the net after finding space inside the box.

Less than five minutes later Elustu finished a superb half volley from 25 yards out into the back of the net only to be called back for off-side.

Auburn were still not finished though, and made it 6-0 after Haidar Al Shinawa darted inside the box to shoot past the hapless Basoglu in the 77’ minute to round off an impressive display.

Match Stats:

Figtree 0

Auburn Districts 6 (M Rifai 1/20’ E Esber 49/55’ O Elustu 63’ H Shinawa 77’)

Saturday October 20^th, 2012

Valentine Park, Glenwood

Figtree: GK.A.Basoglu; 2.B.Cascio, 3.B.Goodhew, 4.S.Kaleski, 5.K.Kandilas, 6.K.Kefford, 7.S.McDougall, 8.L.Melkerts, 9.R.Morgan, 10.J.Pierro, 11.J.Reid,12.L.Simon, 13.H.Till, 14.C.Twigg, 15.J.Uzunovski, 16.A.Williams

Auburn Districts: GK.H.Alzaidi; 2.M.Tobbie, 3.Y.Bah, 4.O.Elustu, 5.A.Rubaa, 6.E.Karatas, 7.M.Rifai, 8.Z.Hassan, 9.H.Shinawa, 10.M.Rady, 11.Y.Naderi, 12.C.Nguyen, 13.J.Elsamad, 14.O.Elrish, 15.H.Abed, 16.E.Esber

-By Dean Southern

Boys U18s: Gunners shoot down Enfield with golden goal

Gunners SC sealed the Boys U18s final with a dramatic golden goal to overcome a resilient Enfield Rovers by a 1-0 scoreline.

Jimjay Aloese was the hero on the day; his 95^th minute goal proved decisive after the industrious striker threatened the Enfield backline throughout the match.

Joseph Ferrone gave Gunners an early scare with a cheeky attempt direct from a corner that curled inches over the crossbar; Gunners custodian Nick Pedreira was arguably alert to the attempt.

Gunners were limited to long range efforts during the opening stages before the match was briefly interrupted by a Powerade tent blown across the pitch by an increasing cross-pitch wind.

Aloese came close to opening the scoring for Gunners soon after with a rasping drive from the edge of the box that required a sublime save from Alexander Bendeich to keep the scores level.

Gunners looked to be on top as the half wore on yet other than another Aloese effort that flashed past the far post neither side came close top opening the scoring before the interval.

The second half proved to be a real test for the players as the scorching heat continued to rise and fatigue began to set in.

Bendeich almost gifted Gunners the lead as he spilt a high ball yet the keeper made up for his error by getting his body behind the ball as Liam Piggott looked to apply the finish.

Bendeich was again on hand to keep his side level just as he punched clear Jarrod Risby’s goal-bound free kick just after the hour mark.

Chances were few and far between before a late flurry of attacks could have seen either side grab a late lead, with Cameron Wallace and Aloese going closest before Enfield couldn’t find the final touch they needed in a goal mouth scramble in the closing minutes of normal time.

With nothing separating the sides at the full time whistle the match went into extra time.

Nicholas Smythe went close for Enfield as they threatened from a corner yet the Gunners defence was on hand to deflect his finish wide.

Gunners found the decisive goal soon after as a swift counterattack concluded with Aloese grabbing a well-deserved golden goal to wrap up the narrow win for his side.

Match Stats:

Gunners SC 1 (Jimjay Aloese 95’)

Enfield Rovers SC 0

Gunners SC: 1.Nick Pedreira, 12. Matthew Wallace, 3.Cameron Wallace, 4.Ryan Capps, 5.Craig Jackson, 6.Dylan Karan, 7.Joshua Allen, 9.Luke Shirley, 11.Jarrod Risby, 14.Jordan Omrod, 17.Jimjay Aloese, 8.Liam Piggott, 10.Luke Matthews, 15.Aiden Shortland, 16.Nabil Daoud

Enfield Rovers: 1.Alexander Bendeich, 2.Dominic Cavagnino, 3.Julian Cardona, 5.Paul Salvarinas, 6.Nicholas Smythe, 8.Ricardo Romeo, 9.Gianluca D’Amico, 10.Andrew Gouveia, 12.Joseph Ferrone, 15.Robert Patruno, 17.Justin Scalone, 14.Andrew Ghajar, 26.Adrian Dellaia

-By Michael Shoolman

U21s Men: Lilli Pilli show class in Finals victory over Lindfield FC

Being the best is not good enough when you’re 21. The target is always to become the Champions of all Champions and at Valentine Park, there would only be one team who could earn that tittle. Lilli Pilli FC scoring a goal in each half to claim a win over Lindfield FC.

The match started at a furious pace with both sides going on the hunt for an early goal. Lilli Pilli looked the most likely to open the scoring however it was Lindfield’s defence who time after time did their job and stood tall protecting their goal.

Thanks to both sides physical prowess, the referee Alessandro Biandino was kept busy in the centre of the field trying to maintain order in a fixture full of testosterone and nerves as well as more slide tackles than you would find in a Kevin Muscat Appreciation Society.

As the sides headed towards the first drinks break of the afternoon, the crowd might not have seen a goal but there were plenty of shooting opportunities for even a neutral supporter to sit on the edge of their seat. It was Lindfield FC’s Adam Cloughton who looked to be the midfield maestro dictating play and being the all important link between defence and attack.

In the 34^th minute though, Lilli Pilli finally got the goal they had been pushing and fighting for all game. Morgan Perry delivering a fine cross from the sideline was finished by Jay Woods. The cheers from the sidelines could be heard from a mile away.

The second half started in fine fashion with just as many physical challenges as we saw in the opening 45. Lindfield winning the physical battle of the match but were also in front in the yellow card tally. Sadly though the match is won and lost by goals and for that fact, Lilli Pilli were in complete control.

A quick throw in over the top of Lindfield’s defence by Chris Boland gave Redah Hassan a chance to stretch his legs and have a shot on goal. The Lindfield goalkeeper looked to be easily beaten but the goal itself was anything but difficult. A fantastically worked goal for Lilli Pilli sealing the result for the squad wearing their famous green and gold strip.

As the minutes ticked over, Lilli Pilli’s defence got stronger and stronger countering everything that Lindfield FC could throw at them. A curling free kick over the goal in the dying moments of the game by Lindfield’s Simon Scougall summed up his side’s performance all game. It was close but not close enough.

With the blow of Alessandro Biandino’s whistle, Lilli Pilli were crowned under 21 Champions at the EA Sports Champions of Champions tournament held at Valentine Sports Park. An outstanding performance capped off by a goal in each half means this is a day which the boys will forever remember.

For Lindfield FC however, the pain of a loss might hoover in the minds of their players however there should be no shame in the team’s performance who will now have the motivation to go on and challenge in 2013 to go back to back grand final appearances.

Match Stats:

Lindfield FC 0

Lilli Pilli FC 2 (Morgan Perry 34’, Redah Hassan 60’)

Saturday 20^th October, 2012

Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood

Referee: Alessandro Biandino

Assistant Referees: James Gnym and Lachlan Abood

Lindfield FC: 1. Chris CEPAK, 2. Shaun NADAISAN, 3. Florian LINKENHEIL, 5. Jack HEALY, 6. Brett ARMSTRONG, 9. Raphael ELDER, 15. Jack RICHARDSON, 17. Tom GOLDING, 22. Adam CLOUGHTON, 24. Agneesh LAHIRI, 26. Jack McLEAN

Substitutions: 18. Maxwell MARGALIT, 27. Matthew VENTURA, 29. Antoine CLEUET, 32. Fabian COWLING, 34. Simon SCOUGALL.

Yellow Cards: Fabian Cowling.

Red Cards: Nil.

Lilli Pilli FC: 1. Scott RICHARDSON, 3. Jesse ASKEW, 5. Chris BOLAND, 8. Keegan MOORE, 9. Dylan TURNER, 10. Ned STEDLZER, 11. Mitchell DURRINGTON, 12. Jay WOODS, 16. Dale CROSS, 27. S. KING, 33. Josh BOGG.

Substitutions: 4. Morgan PERRY, 6. Mitchell PARKER, 7. Steven HOLBEACH, 25. Redah HASSAN

Yellow Cards: Jay Woods, Keegan Moore, Dale Cross.

Red Cards: Nil.

- By Pete Nowakowski

All Age Men: Pittwater score last minute winner against Kenthurst

Pittwater RSL scored a last kick of the game winner to defeat Kenthurst 2-1 in the All Age Men Grand Final, the showpiece event delivering all the drama expected of the occasion.

As expected the match was high intensity from the outset with the tackles flying in.

In keeping with that, it was an untidy goal that gave Kenthurst a 7' minute lead courtesy of Ben Davis. A long throw lead to a scramble with Pittwater goalkeeper Dean McCreath making two good saves, before the ball was eventually bundled over the line by Davis, who was in the right place at the right time.

In the 14' minute Kenthurst should have doubled their lead when Paul Knipler showed remarkable pace to race clear of the Pittwater defence, but one-on-one he was denied by the feet of McCreath.

Kenthurst were having plenty of luck with balls over the top and McCreath had to be alert in coming off his line to clear another threatening pass, the goalkeeper taking a huge hit in the process. After a period of treatment, he was able to continue.

McCreath was momentarily unsettled, failing to deal with some testing high balls from Kenthurst set pieces, though the swirling breeze that descended upon Valentine Sports Park was certainly a hindrance.

Davis should have doubled his and Kenthurst's tally in the shadows of half time when a piercing ball set him free of the Pittwater defence, but when faced with the imposing figure of McCreath, he sliced his shot wide of the target.

Pittwater RSL resumed the second half with renewed intensity and they were rewarded with an equalising goal in the 48' minute.

A quick throw in caught the Kenthurst defence out and when Alex Lee crossed low into the area, Matt Geekie turned the ball into his own net.

The second half was scrappy as neither side committed too much to attack for fear of conceding on the counter attack.

Neither McCreath nor Kenthurst keeper Greg Marks were unduly troubled in the opening half an hour of the second half, leaving the match open for some late drama.

Pittwater were certainly proving far more threatening than they did in the first half and in the 78' minute they came close to breaking the deadlock when Charlie Fyfe shot narrowly wide with a sweet right footed shot.

The late drama certainly unfolded though, as Pittwater snared a 93' minute winner through midfielder Cameron White, who had been outstanding all day. Some trickery down the left followed by a cross, unlocked the Kenthurst defence and White was on the spot to bundle the ball home and take the trophy home for his side.

Match Stats

Kenthurst 1 (Davis 7')

Pittwater RSL 2 (Geekie (OG) 48', White 90'+3')

Kenthurst 1.Greg Marks, 2.Cristiano Lima, 4.Ben Davis, 5.Matt Geekie, 6.Rick Ward, 7.Tom Geekie, 8.James McLaughlin, 9.Paul Knipler, 10.Pat Polito, 11.Michael Pearson, 13.Hassan El Khansa, 18.Chris Ward, 28.Matt Ward, 29.Michael Thornton, 31.Nate Gray, 32.David Lowery, 33.James Lowery

Pittwater RSL: 1.Dean McCreath, 2.Jarrad Roach, 6.Jon Walker, 7.Matthew Wilson, 10.Glannadam Bosward, 11.Simon Cummings, 15.Will Walker, 16.Charlie Fyfe, 18.Danny Drazic, 20.Joshua Yeates, 24.Matthew Phillips, 26.Cameron White, 27.Edward Weber, 28.Stefano Teghini, 31.Paul Martin, 33.Thomas Cotter, 36.Alex Lee

- By Matthew Connellan

Over 35 Men: Northbridge overpower Engadine Eagles 4-3 in seven goal thriller.

Northbridge overpowered Engadine Eagles 4-3 in a seven goal thriller that was decided in golden goal in the Over 35 Mens EA SPORTS Champions of Champions final.

Northbridge looked the goods and were cruising along at 3-0 up with 25’ minutes left on the clock, but a massive fight back by Engadine Eagles sent the game into extra-time with former Socceroo Jason Van Blerk scoring the winner in golden goal.

Northbridge carved out the first real chance of the game as Rory Collins delivered a tantalising cross into the box finding Shaun Kendrigan, but his grounded shot was no trouble for Glenn Hickey after 10’ minutes of play.

Jason Van Blerk won his side a penalty on 26’ minutes after being brought down in the box, and converted with a powerful low left footed drive to put Northbridge up 1-0.

Engadine Eagles were struggling to combat Northbridge’s passing game in the early stages but almost equalised as Matt Yim gave the ball away in his own area, with Michael Payne intercepting the wayward pass only for Brett Hatherall to smother up his shot from close range.

Ex-Socceroo Jason Van Blerk turned provider in the 40’ minute with an in-swinging corner that was powerfully headed into the back of the net by Craig Moffitt which put Northbridge in a commanding position.

Northbridge’s Chris Charlton almost pulled off a spectacular just before half-time with a magnificent half-volley that bounced off the crossbar.

Following the break, Northbridge had a great chance to stretch their lead even further as Gavin Dennis delivered a cross met by Scott Moffitt, but he couldn’t control his shot.

Northbridge didn’t have to wait long though as Chris Charlton showed great control to bring the ball down and cross, finding the head of Gavin Dennis who cleverly directed his header into the top corner to make it 3-0 after 54’ minutes.

Engadine failed to give up and pulled a goal back in the 66’ minute as Damon Emanuel sent a high ball into the box that was miss-headed by Craig Moffitt into his own net.

Some nice footwork by Michael Payne saw him brought down on the edge of the area in the 78’ minute with the Eagles punishing Northbridge’s ill-discipline as Edward Kralj smashed the loose ball past Brett Hatherall to make things interesting with roughly 10’ minutes on the clock.

Engadine Eagles were truly alive having come back from 3-0 down just a few minutes later after Klete Loveday equalised with a stunning strike from 25 yards out on 81’ minutes to make it 3-3.

Engadine’s late three goal flurry ensured the game would go to extra-time, but it was none other than Jason Van Blerk who decided the result with a well-taken free kick from 20 yards out that finished in the top corner in the first half of golden goal.

Match Stats

Northbridge FC 4 (J Van Blerk 26/96’ C Moffitt 40’ G Dennis 66’)

Engadine Eagles 3 (C Moffitt OG 66’ E Kralj 78’ K Loveday 81’)

Sunday October 21^st, 2012

Valentine Park, Glenwood

Northbridge FC: GK.B.Hatherall; 4.C.Charlton, 5.C.Moffitt, 6.M.Yim, 9.R.Collins, 10.R.Mathews, 11.S.Kendrigan, 12.P.Brockington, 13.J.Koch, 14.J.Van Blerk, 17.A.Townsend, 20.D.Fleming, 21.D.Segreto, 22.S.Moffitt, 27.G.Dennis, 28.G.Lee, 29.D.Tuddenham, 35.M.Minor

Engadine Eagles: GK.G.Hickey; 2.R.Bennison, 4.S.Clinch, 5.K.Loveday, 6.A.Bryett, 7.M.McKinnon, 8.M.Fielding, 9.M.Payne, 10.P.Burke, 13.E.Kralj, 14.D.Wilson, 16.B.Johnston, 17.B.Anderson, 19.W.Turner, 20.D.Emanuel, 27.G.Lerond, 31.G.Brosens

-By Dean Southern

Over 45’s: Inter Lions seal O45s triumph

Canterbury Association’s Inter Lions avenged last season’s semi-final loss to Southern Districts with a gutsy showing in the 2012 Over 45s grand-final.

Trailing by two goals midway through the first-half, the Canterbury Association side sent the match into extra-time before sealing the deal with a tense penalty shootout triumph - delivered sweetly by inspirational captain Francesco Speranza.

This Lions squad on more than a handful of attempts failed to reach the grand-final of this competition, making this win ever so special following another dominant season in the Canterbury Association.

The windy conditions, and bumpy surface, made the going tough early on for both sides as both sets of players looked to find their feet.

The reigning champions, Southern Districts, settled first with Goce Krstevski trying his

luck from outside the penalty-area, before Michael Collins added further pressure to Lions’ goalkeeper Tony Scicchitano with a whipped in cross that the shot-stopper managed to punch clear.

On 8’ minutes, Southern Districts hit the lead. Former Sydney United legendary defender - in the National Soccer League - Velimir Kupresak powerfully headed home from a Peter Rokancevski corner, leaving Scicchitano helpless.

Inter Lions’ response was swift, and it arrived via the subtle touches of captain Speranza. The number 10 played an exquisitely lobbed ball over the defence and into the path of Stephen Lipari, though the left-sided winger was thwarted by some stringent defending as he closed in on goal.

2’ minutes later, the same duo combined for the Lions, however this time Speranza’s sensational assist was called back by the linesman as Lipari, only just, strayed offside.

Inter goalkeeper Scicchitano was called upon to save bravely at the feet of Vince Lentini at the other end. Lentini showed strength and pace to create an opening for himself, though the brave shot-stopper was equally aware to get down quickly.

The Lions had a huge chance to draw level in the 14’ minute via a set-piece. Lipari’s corner from the right was headed by Mauro Roselli – another fine performer for the Lions – into the path of Anthony Murphy who only just failed to divert the ball home from close range.

Southern Districts’ Biaggio David had a busy afternoon with some impressive set-pieces, and long range efforts. David picked up a loose ball inside the penalty-area on 17’ minutes however blasted his wild attempt wide of goal.

A positive 10’ minute spell followed for Inter Lions. The Canterbury Association side created successive chances via Speranza, though the number 10 saw his efforts thwarted on both occasions by some desperate defending.

On 29’ minutes, Southern Districts doubled its lead. David was the hero with a phenomenal strike from distance that moved awkwardly in midair as Scicchitano was left routed to the spot.

The joy of a two goal lead was short-lived however, as Frank Peronace’s searching ball from the left-flank picked out a lunging Claude Lopino who managed to hit the ball first-time past an outstretched Peter Lynch to re-open the contest.

After the half-time break, Inter Lions resumed its quest to find an equaliser. Speranza was again the orchestrator with a pinpoint free-kick finding the head of Lopino, however the striker’s looping head finished over the crossbar.

Speranza then went close himself with a free-kick on the edge of the penalty-area. The set-piece specialist perfectly lofted the ball over the wall, however failed to get enough dip on the shot that seemed destined for the top corner.

Southern Districts were denied a chance via the feet of Zeljko Vukancic – denied again by a brave Scicchitano – before Speranza stung the chest of Peter Lynch at the other end with another free-kick.

The Lions did find their equaliser in the 71’ minute as Lopino’s drive on goal came off the arm of a defender. Lipari accepted the responsibility of lining up the spot-kick, netting with a fabulous finish to the goalkeeper’s right.

Late chances at both ends failed to provide a goal – most notably Gary Danielson’s header from point-blank range that was somehow kept out by Scicchitano - and it was a tense period of extra-time that followed with neither side wanting to give an inch.

There was huge concern for the Inter players when Scicchitano remained immobile inside the penalty-area after being fouled when attempting to claim a cross, though the shot-stopper did get back onto his feet and played a massive part in the penalty-shootout triumph, capped off in the end by captain Speranza.

Penalty shootout sequence:

Biaggio David (SD) – Goal – tucked in neatly to the goalkeeper’s right.

Claude Lopino (IL) – Goal – goalkeeper parried onto his left-hand post, though did find the back of the net.

Michael Collins (SD) – Save – goalkeeper made a tremendous save with his feet.

Dominic Di Giacomo (IL) – Miss – effort blasted over the crossbar.

Goce K

Krstevski (SD) – Goal – converted into the bottom right-hand corner.

Stephen Lipari (IL) – Goal – slotted into the right-hand corner.

Velimir Kupresak (SD) – Goal – cool finish to the goalkeeper’s left.

Peter Ianni (IL) – Goal – expert finish into the bottom left-hand corner.

Vince Lentini (SD) – Miss – ball richocheted off the goalkeeper’s right-hand post.

Francesco Speranza (IL) – Goal – tucked home nicely into the bottom left-hand corner.

Match Stats

Inter Lions 2 (Claude Lopino 30’, Stephen Lipari 71’)

Southern Districts 2 (Velimir Kupresak 8’, Biaggio David 29’)

Inter Lions won 4-3 on penalties

Inter Lions: 1.Tony Scicchitano; 2.Dominic Di Giacomo, 3.Frank Peronace, 4.Mario Testa, 5.Mauro Roselli, 6.Ennio Morson, 7.Peter Ianni, 8.Anthony Murphy, 9.Carlo Logiudice, 10.Francesco Speranza, 11.Stephen Lipari, 18.Claude Lopino, 13.Bruno Severino, 14.Joe Montuoro, 15.James Burns, 16.John Calcara

Coach: Peter Ianni

Manager: Bruno Severino

Yellow Cards: Mauro Roselli 92’, Frank Peronace 97’

Southern Districts: 1.Peter Lynch; 2.Peter Rokancevski, 3.Michael Collins, 4.Mark Jukic, 6.Pedro Orellana, 7.Vince Lentini, 8.Goce Krstevski, 9.Biaggio David, 10.John Amoroso, 11.Zeljko Vukancic, 13.Luca Dajanovic, 14.Eddie Odisho, 15.Gary Danielson, 16.Velimir Kupresak, 17.Zoran Jurica, 18.Frank Valastro

Coach: Sam Lentini

Assistant Coach: Frank Toscano

Manager: Rosanna Lentini

Yellow Cards: Biaggio David 50’, Velimir Kupresak 55’, Luca Dejanovic 93’

-By Joseph Carlucci

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