12.02.10 - United’s night series on the line

Swan United meets Cockburn City tonight in the final group game in the Bam Creative Night Series at Dorrien Gardens at 6.30pm.

A victory to Paul Lincoln side will see them progress into the quarter finals, but they will have to improve on last weeks defeat against Perth. “I believe any team would have been over run by Perth last week, they were excellent. But that result is gone, it’s in the past and we’re looking forward to Friday’s game against Cockburn,” said Lincoln.

The Coach is expecting a tough game against Scott miller’s side, but said his players are ready for the game. “I saw them against Perth in Round 1 so it’s important we don’t let them dictate terms in midfield. Our guys are keen to respond after a very poor performance last week and I expect them to bounce back and get a result,” added Lincoln.

In team news Darko Ilomanoski is in doubt with a shoulder injury but Lincoln said they will be changes. “Changes have to be made from last week and at this stage I’m unsure of the line up but it will be clearer after training. We need the win and the players know that, I’m sure they want to make up for last weeks defeat, like me,” explained Lincoln.

Cockburn have brought in former Perth Glory trio David Tarka, Adrian Webster and Marc Anthony, while Shane Nunes has returned from the VPL. Anthony missed last week’s loss to Stirling Lions with injury and miller will hope he is fit for tonight’s clash. One player who will be missing is youngster Michael Grigo, who was carried off on a stretcher last week with a serious knee injury and will have surgery next week. On behalf of the Swan United club we wish Michael a speedy recovery.

Entry to the 2010 Night Series is $8 for adults, $4 for concession holders with children under the age of 15 admitted free.

07.02.10 - Lincoln embarrassed by Swans performance

After a fine start to the Bam Creative Night Series campaign the Swans slumped to 0-7 defeat against the Night Series champions Perth SC at the BGE Stadium - Dorrien Gardens in round two on Saturday evening.

A David Onoforo hat-trick and singles to Ian McMurray, Dom de Felice, Greg Sharland and Robert Sciascia put’s the Swans at the bottom of Group A on goal difference, although all the four clubs have three points.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was obviously very disappointed with the result and the performance of the side. “It was an embarrassing performance by us tonight and it highlighted that defensively we have a lot of work to do. When you lose someone of the experience of Aaron Cole (who has re-joined Perth) and the injury to Darko (Ilomanoski) if shows and we will need to tighten up in that department,” said Lincoln.

Lincoln was impressed with Perth and gave credit where credit is due. “To Perth’s credit they were very good and we couldn’t match them. We tried changing formations and moving players around but to no avail. We will learn from it and need to move on quickly and hone all our energy into Friday’s game against Cockburn City, which is now a mini final for us,” added Lincoln.

06.02.10 - Perth give United a master class

Perth SC 7 Swan United 0

Perth SC showed there is no way they will let their grip of the night series crown slip after thrashing Swan United 7-0 in Saturday’s late Bam Creative night series game at The BGC Stadium - Dorrien Gardens.

It was a superb performance from Graham Normanton’s side with a hat-trick from David Onoforo the highlight, with other goals from Ian McMurray, Dom de Felice, Greg Sharland and a fantastic solo goal from youngster Robert Sciascia.

Perth made four changes to the side that were beaten 1-2 against Cockburn City last week with Jason Saldaris replacing Luke Martino in goal, while Matt Danskin, Dom de Felice and Simon Wilson came in, replacing the injured Craig Simpson, while Robbie Puca and Genaveo Human dropped to the bench.

The Swans made three changes to the side that beat Stirling Lions 4-0 last week with Cory Hugo replacing Daniel Agudelo in goal, while Trent Wood replaced the injured Darko Ilomanoski and John Hunter replaced Liam Boland who dropped to the bench.

Perth was out of the blocks early and they were ahead on seven minutes. Sciascia’s ball into the box cleared everyone, but it was Onoforo who reacted the quickest at the back post and his cross deflected up and over Hugo and into the net.

It was one-way traffic and on 12 minutes Sharland’s run and cross down the left finished with a pin-point cross that Onoforo headed wide from close-range.

After the initial onslaught the Swans went close on 28 minutes, Brendan Craig’s corner from the right was headed just wide by David McNally (left) at the back post.

But Perth’s dominance was rewarded again on the half hour when they made it 2-0. Again it was Sciascia who was the provider, his cross found Onoforo in the penalty area, whose shot was blocked but De Felice fired home the rebound.

Perth went close again moments later, Ian McMurray’s half volley whistling past the far post from 10-yards, but the big Scotsman didn’t have long to wait to get on the score sheet ,when he made it 3-0 on 36 minutes. Sharland pace took him clear down the left and his cross picked out McMurray who fired home from eight-yards.

It was turning into a rout and it was 4-0 six minutes later. It was a great team goal, starting with Wilson in the middle of the park, who found Onoforo who slipped in Sharland, who finished clinically past a stranded Hugo.

Just before half time the Swans had their best chance of the game, James Sammut and Roberto Lujan combining down the right, and Lujan’s cross picked out the unmarked Hunter (right) who blazed over from close-range.

Perth began the second half like they finished the first and went close in the opening minute. Michael Black’s long-range shot well saved by Hugo.

The Swans were struggling to break down Perth’s defence with Shaun Kilkelly and Trent Kay outstanding, and all the Swans had to show for their pressure was long-range shots from Sammut which were saved by Saldaris.

Perth on the other hand were cutting the Swans apart and on 61 minutes Sciascia fed Onoforo down the left channel and his powerful shot crashed off the underside of the crossbar and second half substitute Andreas Oliviera’s follow up shot was blocked by Shane Webb.

It was 5-0 sixty seconds later, Oliviera and McMurray combined to send Onoforo clear, and the WA state striker finished clinically past Hugo.

There was no let up from Perth as they continued to press forward and it was no surprise when they made it 6-0 on 78 minutes. This time Onoforo was the provider finding Sciascia on the left, the youngster drifted inside and chipped deftly over Hugo from the edge of the box to score a sensational individual goal.

The Swans had no answer as Perth played some great attacking football that had the crowd applauding, and they were on their feet again on 75 minutes when they made 7-0. This time Wilson and Sciascia combined to find Onoforo who fired low past Hugo to complete his hat-trick.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln was looking forlorn on the bench and it could have been worse for his side on 84 minutes when Onoforo’s shot on the run was well saved by Hugo low to his right.

It was a happy Graham Normanton after the game, the Perth Coach who is still recovering from knee surgery was delighted with side’s performance and that of youngster Robert Sciascia. “I can’t ask for anything better than that, the goals we scored were tremendous and I thought we played some great football tonight which was pleasing. We worked a few things at training and it worked out perfectly so I’m delighted,” said Normanton.

“Robert (Sciascia) has come up through the ranks at our football club and he’s been overseas for a while but I’m glad to have him back, and his finish tonight was top class he is a great addition to our squad for the season,” added Normanton.

Perth SC - GK Jason SALDARIS, 2 Trent KAY, 5 Michael BLACK (10 Andreas OLIVIERA 58’), 6 Shaun KILKELLY, 7 Matt DANSKIN, 9 David ONOFORO, 13 Simon WILSON, 16 Ian MCMURRAY (17 Genaveo HUMAN 72’), 18 Dom DE FELICE (22 Jason POTTIER 65’), 23 Greg SHARLAND, 24 Robert SCIASCIA - Subs not used - RGK Luke MARTINO, 8 Robbie PUCA

Swan United - GK Cory HUGO, 3 David MCNALLY, 5 Brendan CRAIG 6 Brendan KNOX, 7 Shane WEBB (12 Steven GUEST 72’), 8 Roberto LUJAN, 9 James SAMMUT, 10 John MANSARAY (23 Liam BOLAND 58’), 13 Trent WOOD, 21 Leo HARMAN, 22 John HUNTER (19 Jake HARMAN 72’), - Subs not used - RGK Daniel AGUDELO

Referee - Joe Fusari - Assistants - Alan Rush and Amit Hosany

05.02.10 - Perth SC v Swan United – Preview - Bam Creative Night Series Round Two

Its round two of the Bam Creative Night Series this week and the Swans take on current holders Perth SC at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday evening (8pm)

The Swans, who beat Stirling Lions last week 4-0, go in to the game full of confidence and a victory to the Swans will put them in the box seat for a semi-final spot, but Coach Paul Lincoln knows Perth will be hurting after a 1-2 defeat against Cockburn City in round one

“I’m confident we can give a good account of ourselves on Saturday,” said Lincoln.

“We finished the game off well last week and the players are really looking forward to a tough game against last season’s champions. I’m sure they will be looking to rebound from last weeks defeat so it should be a cracking game,” added Lincoln.

In team news Cory Hugo (left) returns to the squad after missing last week due to the birth of his daughter, but Darko Ilomanoski will miss the game with injury, while Morgan Dendle will again not be risked due to injury.

Lincoln said he will not take any chances with players with slight injuries. “Morgan is still not ready for selection but he is close, so we’ve decided to give him another week off,” said Lincoln.

“Darko will also not be risked after an injury against the Lions last week, and we will monitor him ahead of next week’s game against Cockburn, but Stephen Guest is available after injury” added Lincoln.

Perth will be without defender Craig Simpson, who was carried off with a suspected broken ankle last week, and former Swans skipper Aaron Cole is struggling with injury. But the club has great depth and Coach John Coyne, who has taken charge of match day duties due to a knee surgery for Graham Normanton, will be looking for his team to rebound.

Club skipper Robbie Puca and striker Andreas Oliviera made a return to first team action last week after a horror couple of years due to injury, while youngsters Simon Wilson, Michael Black and Robert Sciascia will be hoping to again impress the coaching staff after good performances last week. Up front David Onoforo and Ian McMurray will need to be watched closely by the Swans, the pair are forming a good partnership.

02.02.10 - Lincoln not getting carried away by opening Victory

Swan United Coach Paul Lincoln was delighted with the win against Stirling Lions in the opening game of the Bam Creative Night Series on Friday night, but he isn’t getting carried away by the win. “Our preparation this season has been better and we’ve started the night series well, but we’re not getting carried away we now it’s only a pre-season competition and we still have a number of things to work on,” said Lincoln.

The Swans struggled in the first half but Lincoln was happy the way the lads ran out the game. “We started slow on Friday but we had a chat at half time about a few things and I thought we dominated the second half and scored some great goals.

“We weren’t using the flanks enough and we spoke about it at half time and to their credit the boys improved in the second half. “Roberto Lujan was causing them problems with his pace down the flanks, and Shane Webb and Trent Wood too.

“Our final ball from the flanks in the first half was poor but that improved in the second half and quality balls into the box saw us go close on a number of occasions and John Hunter headed home superbly for the third," said Lincoln.

The best was saved for last when Brendan Craig’s solo run and goal made it 4-0 and Lincoln was delighted for the youngster and he his already looking forward to the next game against Perth SC. “Brendan’s goal was fantastic and ended the night off well for us it was a cracking goal.

“We hit the training track Tuesday night to prepare for a big clash against Perth SC next Saturday. Both myself and assistant Jamie Goodman have a number of things to work on but we’re starting to see some good passages of play, we now have to execute them a lot more,” explained Lincoln.

Swan United 18’s players required

Swan United Football Club are looking for players for their under 18’s side for season 2010.

Please contact Coach Dejan Vilic on 0402 178 005 or assistant Coach Danyal Bennett on 0404 189 113 or Peter Simcox on 0418941583

Boland strikes against his former club

It was a dream debut for new Swan United striker Liam Boland on Friday evening. The big striker scored the second goal in the Swans 4-0 win against his former club Stirling Lions in the Bam Creative Night Series.

After the game he spoke to www.swanunited.com and he was delighted the team got off to a good start in the night series. “I was a little bit nervous at the start of the match, but I worked hard and the lads did really well and we come through in the end with a good win,” said Boland.

After a quite first half Boland came into the game in the second half and he popped up in the 50th minute to add the Swans second.

Leo Harman sent Shane Webb clear down the right, his cross picked out Boland at the back post and the big striker fired home at the second attempt from five-yards. “Linc’s had a chat with me at half time and he told me to hold the ball up more and make space. I did that and we controlled the second half and I was fortunate to score from a great Webby cross, which was good, and the lads worked hard all game and I thought we deserved the win” said Boland

29.01.10 - Swans maul the Lions

Stirling Lions 0 Swan United 4

Swan United began there Bam Creative Night Series with an emphatic 4-0 victory against Stirling Lions at The BGC Stadium- Dorrien Gardens on Friday night.

A first half penalty from Swans skipper Brendan Knox put the Swans on their way. Former Lions striker Liam Boland added a second, before late goals from John Hunter and Brendan Craig sealed the victory for Paul Lincoln’s side.

The Lions, who went into the game without their overseas players, who hadn’t received international clearance, began well and had the first opportunity on five minutes. A great ball by Jordan Rhodes found youngster Ndumba Makeche, he turned well in the penalty area but his shot was saved low by keeper Daniel Agudelo.

It was Makeche again on 13 minutes, this time he found Jamie DeAbreu on the right. He went around Brendan Craig and crossed from the bye-line, but Agudelo was alert to save.

The Swans settled and on 17 minutes new signing Roberto Lujan’s long-range shot was saved by Lions keeper Kevin Miller. Then four minutes later a curling 20-yard free kick from Knox beat Miller but the crossbar came to the Lions’ rescue.

With the first goal so important for both sides there were chances at both ends. First on 24 minutes Makeche raced past Darko Ilomanoski into the penalty area and the Lions players were adamant the former Lions skipper had handled the ball but referee Michael Tolmie waved away their protests for a penalty.

Then on 34 minutes Leo Harman’s cross from the right was miss-judged by Miller, and John Mansaray’s follow up shot was blocked by the relieved keeper.

The decisive opening goal came on the stroke of half time, Knox and Shane Webb combined to find James Sammut. His run into the box was ended when he was brought down by Michael Pugliese and referee Tolmie pointed to the spot. Knox (left) stepped up and sent Miller the wrong way to give the Swans the lead at the break.

It was a perfect start to the second half for the Swans when they doubled their lead five minutes in. Leo Harman sent Webb clear down the right, his cross picked out Boland at the back post and the big striker fired home at the second attempt from five-yards.

The Lions looked to hit back immediately, Tom Kennedy’s long-range shot was deflected wide by Craig, and moments later Rhodes’ shot from the edge of the box but was saved well by Agudelo.

Both sides made changes as legs began to tire and Lions’ substitute Andy Brown went close to halving the defect on 70 minutes. Rhodes’ corner found the big striker unmarked at the back post but he fired wide from close-range.

It was the Swans who added to their lead on 80 minutes. A quick short corner from Sammut caught the Lions napping, and Trent Wood’s inch perfect cross was headed home powerfully by Hunter from six-yards.

Then three minutes later it was nearly 4-0. Again the Lions were asleep at a corner and it was déjà vu, Sammut found Wood again and this time his cross was headed powerfully by David McNally and Miller saved on the line, but referee Tolmie awarded the goal but after consulting with his assistant disallowed it as it hadn’t crossed the line.

It was all one-way traffic as the Swans dominated the final ten minutes and it was no surprise when they added a fourth on 86 minutes. Craig picked the ball up on the half way line and raced past three Lions players before finishing low past Miller from the edge of the box.

A good start for the Swans and Coach Paul Lincoln was pleased with the performance. “Our preparation this season has been better and we’ve started the night series well. We started slow tonight but we had a chat at half time about a few things and I thought we dominated the second half and scored some great goals,” said Lincoln.

Stirling Lions - GK Kevin MILLER, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 5 Daniel STOITIS, 7 Jamie DEABREU, 8 Matt ITALIANO, 9 Keith CLEVENGER, 10 Jordan RHODES, 11 Ndumba MAKECHE, 22 James DAVIS, 23 Tom KENNEDY, 24 Clayton AMEZ - Subs not used - RGK James TURVILL, 14 Andy BROWN, 18 Jake GEDDES, 19 Paul RECHICHI, 21 Jason TRPVESKI

Swan United - GK Daniel AGUDELO, 3 Darko ILOMANOSKI, 5 David MCNALLY, 7 James SAMMUT, 8 John MANSARAY, 9 Shane WEBB, 12 Brendan KNOX, 21 Leo HARMAN, 22 Brendan CRAIG, 23 Liam BOLAND, 24 Roberto LUJAN - Subs not used - RGK Jordan HOWELL, 6 Trent WOOD, 10 John HUNTER, 13 Jake HARMAN, 19 Thomas SHEPHEARD

Referee - Michael TOLMIE - Assistants - Kevin TAYLOR and David JOHNSON

29.01.10 - Let the season begin

Swan United’s 2010 season begins in earnest on Friday evening when they met Stirling Lions in the first round of the Bam Creative night Series at Dorrien Gardens with a 6.30pm kick off.

The Swans have only played two practise games, with a 2-0 win against Canning City and a 0-1 loss against Forrestfield United, but Coach Paul Lincoln is looking forward to the competition. “We started pre-season earlier this season and the boys have worked really hard in the heat, and we’re really looking forward in testing ourselves against fellow premier league sides in the night series competition,” said Lincoln.

“We have a number of new faces in the side and it’s exciting to see how we gel against the Lions. Like us they will have a number of new faces in their squad and will try out some of their young players too. It will be nice to have former Lions players Darko Ilomanoski (left), Jake & Leo Harman and Liam Boland in the squad, as players enjoying coming up against their former clubs,” added Lincoln.

Also in the squad for the clash are new signings James Sammut, John Hunter and Roberto Lujan, while Brendan Knox returns after his overseas trip last season.

The new look Night Series was launched on Wednesday night, with over 100 guests in attendance at the McInerney Ford showrooms in Morley.

Guests enjoyed drinks and canapés on the showroom floor whilst the highlight of the night was the parade of the new JJAB team kits, supplied free to each of the 12 clubs, which was modelled by Swans midfielder Brendan Knox.

In attendance was the Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hon Terry Waldron, Town of Vincent Mayor Nick Catania and the Hon Alannah MacTiernan, all whom were showing their support for the beautiful game in Western Australia.

“It is an exciting time for the world game here in Western Australia and Football West is delighted to launch the fantastic new Bam Creative Night Series as the precursor to what will be a huge year of football” said Football West Chairman Mr Kevin Campbell AM.

The popular pre-season tournament has been revamped this year to include a three group round robin stage, with the teams battling it out to reach the knockout Quarter Final stage.

With a plethora of new sponsors, including new naming rights sponsor Bam Creative, supporting sponsors McInerney Ford, Hot Water Heaven and Bobby 10 Football World, and apparel supplier JJAB, the prize money has also increased, making the tournament more than just a warm up for the regular season.

The Bam Creative Night Series kicks off this weekend, with double headers being played on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings at BGC Stadium- Dorrien Gardens, E&D Litis Stadium and Clipsal Stadium.

Fixtures

Friday, 29 th  January- BGC Stadium- Dorrien Gardens

6.30pm Stirling Lions v Swan United

8.30pm Perth SC v Cockburn City

Saturday, 30 th  January- E&D Litis Stadium

6.00pm Mandurah City v ECU Joondalup

8.00pm Floreat Athena v Armadale

Sunday, 31 st  January- Clipsal Stadium

6.00pm Western Knights v Balcatta

8.00pm Sorrento v Inglewood United

Swans add another keeper to the roster

Swan United added another keeper to their roster for 2010, well Cory Hugo did.

On Monday 25 th January at 12.45pm, baby Kate Ashlyn Hugo was born, weighing in at 8lbs 2oz. Both Kym and baby are doing well, and grandma and grandad Bev and Vic are thrilled with the new arrival.

From everyone at the Swan United Football Club congratulations to Kym and Cory!!!!!!

Swan United junior’s additional registration evening.

With the Football West season just around the corner the interest in the world game is hitting record numbers. The Swan United FC juniors have added an additional registration day to give the youngsters in the area the opportunity to register with the club.

The new date is Wednesday 10th February 6-7pm at Midland Oval. Get along and register your child to play for the black and whites for season 2010. ‘Come on you Swans’!!!!

22.01.10 - Lincoln upbeat despite loss

Despite going down 0-1 to Forrestfield in Thursday night’s pre-season game, Swans Coach Paul Lincoln is upbeat heading into their BAM Creative/McInerney Ford Night Series opener against Stirling Lions next Friday night at the BGC Stadium at 6.30pm.

“Thursday nights game was a good hit out for the boys and we created a number of chances but didn’t convert. We have a big squad and I rotated the side around to see how players adapted to different positions and we did OK.

“Forrestfield took their chance well but on chances we should have wrapped the game up earlier, but winning pre-season games is not the be all or end all it’s a chance for the new players to gel and I believe were heading in the right direction,” explained Lincoln.

The club began pre-season training early and Lincoln believes it will help the side run out games better this season. “Attendance of pre-season has been excellent and the guys have been working hard, we have been able to have two scratch matches to date with those that need another hit out to play against Bayswater on Sunday. Our preparation along with a stronger squad this season bears well for a better showing in this year’s night series,” explained Lincoln.

The club have signed former Stirling Lions skipper Darko Ilomanoski for the 2010 season, and Lincoln is hoping to add three or four more players to the roster this week. “We’ve had Leo and Jake Harman and Morgan Dendle training with us and they will play in the night series and we hope to sign them up for the season,” said Lincoln.

“All three players have indicated that they want to play for the club for the season and we are in the process of finalising agreements. Morgan can play in various positions and is a hard working player, while Leo Harman and Jake Harman provide experience and both have played for a long time in the state game. Leo can play in midfield or in defence so he provides flexibility, while Jake is a predator around the box so I’m hoping he scores goals for us,” added Lincoln.

Another player to return to the club is keeper Daniel Agudelo (left), who missed all last season due to injury, and Lincoln is happy to have him back in the squad. “It’s great to see Daniel back into it after having an extended lay off. He has the qualities to play first team football and will be given an opportunity to do so,” said Lincoln.

With the departure of club skipper Aaron Cole this season Lincoln has thought long and hard about a replacement and all will be revealed next week. “I have decided on the leadership group for the side and a captain and all will be revealed on Thursday Night after training when all three teams head back to the Swan United clubroom for dinner,” said Lincoln.

21.01.10 - Swans in action on Thursday night

Swan United continues their 2010 pre-season with a game against first division side Forrestfield United at Midland Oval on Thursday (21.01.10) night (6.45pm)

New signing James Sammut will play tonight after injury, and is looking forward to the game. “I’ve trained well on Tuesday and ran at full pace so I’m looking forward to getting in some game time before the Night series,” said Sammut.

Darko Ilomanoski (left) will also be in the starting line after joining the Swans for the Night Series. The former Stirling Lions defender will play for the club in the night series and Coach Paul Lincoln is delighted to sign the defender.

“We’ve lost a great deal of experience in our side with Aaron Cole, Damian Scali and Dom Ando leaving and retiring respectively. Darko is a great leader on the park and has great experience in the premier League and would be a great replacement for Aaron. We’ve had a chat to him and he has decided to join us for the whole season which is great,” said Lincoln.

The under 18’s and 23’s are in action on Sunday (24.01.10) when they take on Bayswater City 18’s and 23’s at Gibney Reserve Maylands. Both games will kick off at 10.30am

18.01.10 - Lujan double sinks Canning City

Swan United 2 Canning City 0

A brace from Swan United new striker Roberto Lujan was enough to get their 2010 pre-season off to a wining start with a 2-0 win against first division side Canning City at Midland Oval on Sunday morning.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln was happy with the first hit out of the season. “I was happy with the performance considering it was our first hit out for the season, we created some good chances and I think our keepers only had to make two saves.

“It was good not to concede and with the depth of the squad I was able to mix the players around. I thought Brendon Knox and Leo Harman had good games whilst Roberto Lujan took his first goal well,” said Lincoln

The temperature was touching 30 degrees at the 9am kick off and the game was played in three 30 minutes periods, and it was City first to go close, Emlyn Whetnall’s long-range shot on two minutes, was straight at Swans’ keeper Daniel Agudelo.

The Swans hit back moments later Brendan Knox’s corner was headed just wide by John Hunter and Jake Harman’s shot on the turn flashed wide.

As the half went on the Swans began to get on top and City keeper Stuart Delgardo saved well from Hunter’s low shot and he did even better on 20 minutes superbly tipping over Jake Harman’s close-range shot.

Delgardo was in the action again on 30 minutes, John Mansaray’s (left) cross from the right picked out Jake Harman who’s first time shot was well saved by the Canning custodian.

City went close before the first break; Jack Richardson snap shot from the edge of the box was saved low Agudelo at his far post.

The weather began to take affect in the second period, with few chances. The best for the Swans came from Hunter who fired over from long-range, while Cory Hugo was alert to save Daniel Cappalaro shot as both sides went into the final break all square.

Swans finally brought through on 73 minutes, a good run and pass by Niall Murphy down the left sent Lujan clear, and the Bolivian’s pace took him clear and he finished clinically past Delgardo.

Canning pressed late in the game looking for the equaliser, Pravin Guna good run and shot was only inches past the far post, and Whetnall’s long-range free kick was saved low by Hugo.

The second goal came on 88 minutes, Dave Evans back pass put keeper Delgardo under pressure and Lujan was alert to charge down the keepers’ clearance, and rolled the ball into an empty net.

It was a good start for new signings John Hunter and Lujan, with trailing players Morgan Dendle and Leo and Jake Harman, Niall Murphy and Charles Popov also impressing on the day.

Squads - Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, GK Cory Hugo, Brendan Craig, Morgan Dendle, David McNally, Leo Harman, Roberto Lujan, John Mansaray, Brendan Knox, John Hunter, Thomas Shepheard, Jake Harman, Steven Guest, Jake DeRa, Shane Webb, David Paone, Niall Murphy, Charles Popov

Canning City – GK Stuart Delgardo, Dave Evans, Joe Ives, Mark Donnelly, Joe Maider, Nathan Hubbard, Blake Readwin, Michael Lochlin, Jack Richardson, Daniel Cappalaro, Pravin Guna, Simon El Chami, Sam Ainslough, Colin Maguire, Emlyn Whetnall

Referee – Guy Lenoir

14.01.10 - Cole heads home

Swan United skipper Aaron Cole has re-joined Perth SC for season 2010. The big centre half who has been outstanding at the back for the Francis Street club said the decision to leave the Black and whites was one of the biggest in his long and illustrious WA career. “It was a very tough decision given I had made several friends and the club looked after me. But after a great deal of thought the chance to return to the club where my football career began was too good to turn down,” said Cole.

“I never left Dorrien Gardens on bad terms and the door has always been open for me to go back and I see them as the most professional club in the league and I still have several friends in the club, so I’m looking forward to next season,” added the Swans 2008 and 2009 player of the year.

Cole who joined the Swans in 2007 has been a leader on and off the park and he will miss a number of things from the Swan Valley. “It’s been a great experience for me in my time at the club, and I will always remember my time there with fondness. I’ve enjoyed seeing the talented youngsters coming into the side in my time there, like David McNally and Shane Webb to name a couple, and this bodes well for them in years to come. Another thing I’ll cherish is the players’ trips at the Swans, ask any past or present player about them they are awesome and I’ll never forget them,” added Cole.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln, although disappointed in Cole’s decision, wishes him all the best in the rest of football career. “Aaron has provided a valuable service to our football club and his move to Perth opens the door for another player to make his mark. It’s not a big blow for the club its part of football,” said Lincoln.

“Coley was appointed Captain of the team when I took charge and is an influential player, he has been our Fairest & Best player for the past 2 years, the loss of him along with Damien Scali and Dom Ando will take a lot of experience from the side and we are hoping to add some experience with new players. It’s a new chapter in the book of Swan United FC and I’m looking positively towards season 2010 and believe we will be competitive,” added Lincoln.

With the new season just around the corner Cole was approached by a number of clubs regarding his services but he is sure he’s made the right decision. “I was contacted by a few clubs but I was always going to play for either Perth or Swan. Like I’ve said it was a difficult decision to make and I spoke Swans coach Paul Lincoln and was up front with my decision. I wished him and the club all the best next season and I’m looking forward to the challenge and a good and injury free year at Perth. “Also given Perth’s winning nature I’m looking forward to winning some trophies with the club, which would be great,” added Cole.

Swans in action in pre-season friendly

Swans 2010 season begins on Sunday when they take on Canning City at Midland Oval on Sunday morning (9am).

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln and his assistant Jamie Goodman is looking forward to seeing his new look side in action against the side that were relegated from the Premier League last season. Former City striker Roberto Lujan will come up against his former team mates while James Sammut, Liam Boland and John Hunter will also make their Swans debut in the game.

The club have four players training with them at the moment and Lincoln is hoping to sign them so they will be available for the up-coming Night Series competition.

Scali enjoying new role at the Swans

After a stellar playing career with the Swans, striker Damian Scali is putting his experience back into the club with his new role as football development officer.

Scali, who played over 250 games for the black and whites and scored over 100 goals, is enjoying his new role and hopes to bring on some of the talented young players into the senior set up. “At the moment it’s all about planning for the season ahead. I’m excited but at the same time nervous of making the new role work,” said Scali

“It’s an important role which is ever changing and I’m going to rely on many people to help to get the development of players at the club working as it should be. The club are lucky to have Nick Edwards and some great coaches who have been amazing in their dedication to getting this process up and moving,” added Scali

With the merger between Swan IC and Swan Districts now in its second season Scali believes the partnership is blossoming. “To have over 450 kids playing under the same logo as the seniors can only be an advantage,” said Scali.

“We’ve started to bring some of the junior players into the senior set up with our under 18’s. Hopefully one day we can say the first team is purely made up of players who have come through our system. As a club we are never going to be in the position to buy a league winning team, however we may be able to do it through the juniors, which when it comes it will be even sweeter,” explained Scali

Swan Junior set to fly in 2010

It may still be early, but the Swan United 2010 junior programme is in full swing after successful trials during November and December.

Junior Development officer Nick Edwards has overseen the trial process and he has been delighted by the standard of the youngsters trying out for the club. “Trials have gone really well with a great turn out. We assessed and observed over 100 players during the four week process and it has been an extremely difficult process,” said Edwards.

“We have had to make some hard decisions and place players into our 1st teams, but the coaches have been fantastic and all helped. It’s been a major change for the club to run these trails and hopefully it will only make us stronger,” added Edwards.

With the merger between the seniors and juniors last year, Edwards believes the club is growing and sees many positives. “At Swan United the committee have decided to keep costs down for the junior players at registration, so again in 2010 we have stayed away from implementing what other clubs called ‘Academy’, instead we recommend our players to go through Aaron Tighe’s School of Soccer (www.tighesoccer.biz) for extra coaching,” explained Edwards.

“In saying this though, it is something we take seriously and we want all our Coaches qualified via Football West, and as the club goes forward in future years we will need to put in place a well organised and cost effective structure with highly qualified Coaches,” added Edwards.

Last season Edwards introduced the Swan United junior player pathway, and he is delighted with the way it’s progressing. “Our pathway is in full swing with most of our under 16’s from 2009, now given the opportunity to try out for our under 18’s state Premier league side. My job has been to encourage players to make that step and our senior coach Paul Lincoln’s job is to spot them and pull them out for the 23’s and first team.

“It’s great having Damian Scali as an important member of the committee and his contribution to the future of our player pathway. It’s an on-going job which will take a few more seasons to see more junior Swans playing in the senior side, but I‘m sure a few players will be playing in the 23’s this season,” said Edwards.

Hunter flies into the Premier League with The Swans.

Forrestfield United teenager John Hunter has been a stand out for the club over the past three years, but after careful consideration the 19-year-old has made the difficult decision to leave the club and has joined The Swans in the Premier League for season 2010.

The decision was made more difficult for the midfielder as his dad, John, is the senior coach at the Hartfield Park club, but he believes it the right decision. “It was a tough decision on my part to leave the club, that I’ve been apart of since I was a youngster. Football wise Forrestfield is a great club with a very strong and successful youth setup,” said Hunter.

John Hunter senior was a standout striker for many Premier League clubs including Floreat Athena and Inglewood United. He won the 1990 gold medal as the leagues fairest and best as well as capturing the gold boot in the same season, and represented WA on many occasions including against Moscow Torpedo in 1990.

“On a personal level Forrestfield has some of my closest friends, and my dad as the coach which all make the decision harder. He has been great about my decision to join the Swans, and he has coached me since I was five so he has been there from the start and is a big influence on the player I am today. As for me moving on, dad say’s I’m ready and is excited for me, and I’m very happy to be at Francis Street for 2010,” explained Hunter.

The midfielder, who scored eight goals for Forrestfield last season, is looking forward to the challenge in the Premier League. “Playing in the Premier League has always been in my thoughts, it was just a matter of timing for me and being able to compete and succeed at first team level. The Swans have given me the chance and I now have to show Paul Lincoln I’m good enough to be in the starting line up,” said Hunter.

“The club performed well last season, and Linc’s said he is aiming for the top four and that’s great. Hopefully I will add more depth to the squad, and my height, strength and pace will help me compete at the higher level. I’m always striving to improve on the previous season, and if I do that I will know then, that I’m heading in the right direction.” added Hunter.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln is delighted to have signed the attacking midfielder. “John is a good player that I’ve had my eye on for a while. He has a good work ethic good and pace, and is tall and strong for his age. He hasn’t played at our level before, but I have the confidence in him that he will live up to my expectations,” said Lincoln.

He leaves behind the club he has played for all his life and he has fond memories of his time there. “I had good success throughout all my years at Forrestfield, and I’ll never forget them. Being part of the first under 18’s division one side ever to win the cup in 2008 when we beat Stirling Lions 4-3 on penalties was definitely my highest achievement,” said Hunter.

Let the season begin

It’s still 2009, but when most of us are looking forward to Christmas dinner the Swan United pre-season training for 2010 has begun.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln and his assistant Jamie Goodman put the first and 23’s squads through some gruelling training sessions last week and on Sunday in hot conditions, a beep test and some endurance running at City Beach.

Lincoln has been impressed with some of the player’s fitness this early into the campaign and has liked the look of some of the new recruits and some other players who are trying out for the side. “We’ve started early this season, as we probably lacked a little fitness early last season and we want to hit the ground running in 2010,” said Lincoln.

“The lads have really worked hard in the off season and the new signings has given the squad a new look, and I’m really excited about the season ahead,” added Lincoln.

New recruits James Sammut, Liam Boland, Roberto Lujan and John Hunter looked impressive and will no doubt add depth to the squad next season. Another boost for the club is the return of Brendan Knox who has been overseas.

The club have been busy off the pitch too with a new pitch laid at Francis Street, while the clubs new warm up pitch at the rear of the clubrooms will be ready for the new season.

Injury set back for Swans youngster

It was a successful 2009 season for Swan United teenage striker Niall Hughes, but it was brought to a grinding halt after the big striker was diagnosed with a broken foot, which will side him for a least another month.

The injury had hampered him for the last few games of the season, but he battled through the pain barrier to help the Swan United under 18’s lift the Soccer Pools Cup. “The injury happened when I was tackled from behind against ECU Joondalup towards the end of the season. It was pretty sore and I knew I’d done some damage but not a fracture. If I knew the extent of the injury then I would have sat out the rest of the season, but it was a great experience to play in the winning cup final win for the club,” said Hughes.

The 18-year-old has missed big games in the past due to injury, and he wasn’t going to miss the final and lasted 70 minutes in the 4-1 win against Inglewood United, and he hopes the injury will heal over the off season. “The injury is a fracture through the middle of the cuboid bone, which is the tarsal bone on the outside of the foot. I was determined to play in the final after missing the last two league games with the injury and we thoroughly deserved the win in the final,” added Hughes.

Hughes has headed back to the UK for a family holiday and will look to hit the track when he returns in January. “I’ve got a protective boot on at the moment to keep it in position, although it’s not protected from the cold English weather,” joked Hughes.

“The doctor has said I can remove the protective boot the first week of January, so I will be behind the rest of the squad as they have begun the pre-season early. I know I will have to work hard on my fitness and get back into shape, and I hope to get a run in a few pre-season games and show Linc’s what I’ve got and cement a first team spot and push on with my football,” explained Hughes.

Swan Coach Paul Lincoln hopes the youngster’s injury heals quickly. “It was unfortunate for Niall to get the injury but he has indicated that he will be back at training mid to late January 2010.

“He had a mixed season in 2009, but we know Niall is a talented player. He needs to work hard on his fitness, but I have no doubt he can play first team, but that will be up to Niall,” said Lincoln.

The English born striker was an integrual part in the Swans 18’s and 23’s sides last season and he was delighted to have the opportunity to play in the first team in a few games as well. “I really started to enjoy my football towards the end of the season, especially with me getting time with the first team and learning from the older guy’s like Damian Scali, Aaron Cole and Dom Ando. The 23’s should have finished higher in the league, and I think we matched it with the top teams during the season, but we were inconsistent,” said Hughes.

The youngster began his football in the UK with Northbank FC, Kingstown United and he trained at the Everton FC academy as a youngster. He moved to Perth four years ago and has progressed through the ranks at the club, but he is enjoying his first trip back to his home town Carlisle. “It has been great catching up with my mates and family, who I haven’t seen for a while. I went to watch Carlisle at home last week against Hartlepool United, and hopefully I will get a ticket for the Everton v Carlisle in the FA Cup, which is a dream game for me being an Everton fan from Carlisle,” added Hughes

27.11.09 - Swan United Pre-season BBQ

Swan United's 2010 season campaign begins on Thursday night (3rd Dec) with the clubs annual pre-season BBQ at the clubrooms from 6.30pm.

Coach Paul Lincoln is looking forward to the new season and Thursday night is important to catch up with new signings and potential new signings.

“We’ve recruited well this season and we’ve a number of players coming on Thursday to have a chat to us and see what we can offer them. It’s an exciting time for the club and one assistant Coach, Copper (Jamie Goodman) and I have worked tirelessly on in the off season,” said Lincoln.

“We gave some of our younger players an opportunity last season and Shane Webb showed them all if you work hard at training and play well in the 23’s you will get a chance in the first team. We have a number of players who will be pushing for a first team spot and add the new signings we have, I’m really excited about the season ahead,” added Lincoln.

14.11.09 - Lujan joins the Swans

Swan United continues to add to their squad for the upcoming Football West Premier League season by signing Bolivian Robert Lujan from Canning City. (Right - Photo by Brett Klucznik )

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder joins the Francis Street club after a year at City and is looking forward to the new challenge with the Swans. “I had a very good time with Canning City, the players were great and that made my decision to leave difficult, but after we we’re relegated I decided to move to another Premier League club,” said Lujan.

“I don’t think the relegation was because of the lack of quality in the side, it was probably because we didn’t have enough experience in the side.    This made it difficult for everyone concerned to establish the squad we had and grow from there for next season. I want to improve my game, and you cannot make your football grow taking a step backwards, so the move to Swan is great challenge for me,” explained Lujan.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln was impressed with Lujan’s performances last season and was very keen on signing him. “After we heard Roberto was looking for a new club we spoke to him and put our case forward. He was very keen after our lunch and I was delighted when he rang me back to confirm. He brings pace and skill to our squad and I’m very excited heading into next season,” said Lincoln.

Lujan arrived in Perth in 2008 after playing in Bolivar as a youngster. “I started when I was eight-years-old in Bolivia, “Bolivar Soccer Club” it’s the most important soccer team in Bolivia.

“I played for them until I was 16, then I got promoted to their Professional team and played there for three years. While I was there I earned my biggest achievement, being a sub for a final of the South American Cup where we played against Bocca Juniors from Argentine, unfortunately we lost but it’s an awesome experience that I will never forget. 

“Unfortunately I got injured at the end of 2006, and didn’t play for a while, but after moving to Australia I played for Perth S.C. before heading to Canning,” explained Lujan.

The Swans brought on a number of youngsters last season which bodes well for the club and Lujan is looking forward to working with them. “I am ready to give my best for the good of the team. The South American style I have in my game, combined with all the hard work in the field that I think characterize the Australian player, and that I have learnt from them, it’s going to be lethal,” said Lujan.

12.11.09 - Swans need you

With the new season only a few months away the club is looking for a under 23’s coach to replace Domenic Ciullo who has decided to leave the club. We would like to thank Domenic for all his work during last season and wish him all the best for the future.

We invite applicants to send their resumes to the new Swan United football development officer Damian Scali on - scali.damian@cathednet.wa.edu.au or telephone him on 0411120710 or emailed.

Also the club are hoping to enter more all girls teams from under 12’s to under 16’s. If there are any girls who would like to play for United next season please contact Nick Edwards on - edwardsforce@three.com.au or phone him on 0415810699

07.11.09 - One last time in Black and White for Scali's

When Swan United striker Damian Scali was applauded off the pitch after a 1-1 draw with Floreat Athena at Francis Street in the last game of the regular season, it brought down the curtain on the 33-year-old career, and he thought it was the last time he would wear the clubs black and white shirt.

How wrong he was and on Saturday he will don the shirt again after the club arranged a joint testimonial match between his select side and Carlo Scali’s select side at Francis Street, with a 3pm kick off.

Both sides are packed with former Swan IC/United players, and will celebrate the clubs most prolific goalscorer, Damian, and the clubs record appearance holder, Carlo, with a game and a testimonial dinner after at the 7th Avenue Bar, Helena Street Midland.

Damian, (left) who has played 251 games for the club, scoring 106 goals in the process, made his debut for the senior side as a 20-year-old against Stirling in 1995. In his 14-years at Swan he won one club fairest and best award, twice was runners-up and was top goalscorer on nine occasions. He is looking forward to the day and to catch up with some old friends. “It should be a great day. I have been overwhelmed with the amount of players that have shown an interest in Carlo’s and my game, so it will be great to catch up with everyone again,” said Damian.

There will be a number of players from the past and present on show and Damian when asked for players to watch, he mentioned three. “One is Mick Da Re. He is a swan legend, silky smooth skills, issues might be the fact that he can’t see anymore,” said Damian.

“Then there’s Mario Romeo, another Swan legend, fantastic dribbling ability, pace, issues might be the fact that he has already done a hamstring in the warm up sessions. Then there is Danyal Bennett, a Midland legend, all heart, good dribbler, issues are that if he was a horse you would have put him down,” joked Damian.

He may have only just stopped playing for the black and whites, but Damian is putting something back into the club and he will be involved off the field. “I am on the committee at the club as development officer looking after players and coaches at the club juniors to seniors with the help of junior coaching co-ordinator Nick Edwards, so I am really excited about that,” explained Damian.

For Carlo,(right) his first game for the club was in 1986 against Ferndale, as a 14-year-old, but his senior debut came against Whitford City two years later. During his 400 plus games for the Swans Carlo won the Premier League Gold Medal in 2001, and was runner up in 2000. He also won the division one gold medal in 1998 and 1999, and he also won the clubs fairest and best on three occasions.

After retirement he went on to Coach the club for three seasons, and he is honoured by the clubs decision to grant him and Damian a testimonial. “I’m looking forward to putting on the boots again, but a bit concerned with keeping up with Damian’s team, as he has a team full of players who have just retired or still playing and my team is full of has been’s like me. But the testimonial will be a great honour and playing with Damian makes it an even more special occasion. I am also looking forward to playing with a few guys that had a big impact on me over the years and I am sure we will all enjoy having a few drinks afterwards,” said Carlo.

He also named a few players we need to watch for on Saturday. “I am keen to see Carmelo Sciacca and Roy Meier team up front for us, with a Mario Romeo cameo as well (he reckons he is good for 10 mins).

“I think our defence is going to have to stand up and with Frank Letizia in goals and Justin Everley, Carlos Echeverria, Darren Frrema and Franc Raschella in the heart of defence we should be OK.

“For Damian’s team, I think that Damian is the once to watch, as he is the goal scorer in the team. A few others will be Miki Vujacic and Tony Cumace, especially on free kicks and the dangerous Tony Trusso in general play, but mainly the great ‘Monterosso’,” joked Carlo.

One player who has played with both players is Michael Di Fulvio, and despite a torn hamstring (well a twinge anyway), the big defender is determined to take his place in the side. “Doogs, is trying everything he can to be fit, he keeps telling me he will be the difference! He is very good at doing those effective decoy runs to the back post,” said Carlo. While Damian said, “Well I scored a hat-rick against him last time we played against each other in 2002 so I hope he plays.”

But Doogs has another side to this story. He said, “Damian’s only ever hat trick at senior level is a myth as in fact one of those goals scored was an own goal by myself when playing for Inglewood. The fact that he confirmed the goal with the referee confirms his hidden guilt.” the story goes on.

On the big day for the pair Di Fulvio is delighted all the former players have agreed to play. “Saturday’s game is a small gesture from friends and ex teammates to thanks both Carlo and Damian for years of loyal service. The club was built around these guys and their influence on not only the players but supporters as well will never be forgotten.

“The fact that both players could have easily filled their teams 2 or 3 times over shows the popularity of Carlo and Damian. We have just under 40 wanting to play this week with around 50 or 60 guests coming to a dinner afterwards, ift should be a great day,” said Di Fulvio.

Finally Di Fulvio gave us some gossip from the changing rooms regarding Damian to finish. “Firstly Damian’s in house nickname is ‘Gaudoin’ as he was the first bloke to rock up training in “grass cats” citing “impact on the joints” as major reasons for the hockey boots. He lasted only the one season sporting the gaudoins.

“Finally Damian’s biggest gripe in WA football is the fact that the majority of his Gold medal votes were given to Carlo as mistaken identity and that he was robbed at least 50% more votes over his career. The fact that Carlo polled votes whilst on a European holiday gives this claim some merit,” explained Di Fulvio.

On behalf of the club I would like to thank both Damian and Carlo for there services to the football club and hope Saturday is a great day for you both, as you both deserve it.

Carlo’s Squad - Frank Letizia, Justin Hugo, Mick De Re, Carmelo Sciacca, Darren Freeman, Andy Watson, Michael Di Fulvio, Franc Rashella, Rory Mouttet, Dean Nicolaou, Terry Nicolaou, Paul Lincoln, Roy Meier, Carlos Echeverria, Greg Scali, Mario Romeo - Coach Len Dundo

Damian’s Squad - Cory Hugo, Jason Antenucci, Aaron Cole, Robert Monterosso, Greg Cicanese, Tony Cumace, Paul Dundo, Miki Vujacic, Tony Trusso, Michael Knox, Peter Simcox, Dom Ando, Damien Todorovic, Peter Markham - Coach Cos Scali

Goodman heads to the Swans

Jamie Goodman has joined Swan United as assistant Coach for season 2010. The former Inglewood United, Wanneroo, Bayswater and Morley coach will join Swans head coach Paul Lincoln to steer the Swans hopefully to the top five.

The 37-year is looking forward to the new challenge in the Swan Valley and can’t wait for the season to begin. “Linc's and I have kept in contact over the years and have had conversations about coaching together at some stage. This year the timing was right and I leapt at the opportunity. We played two seasons together at Inglewood, and he is a great bloke and was very professional on how he prepared for games then, and nothing’s changed. He has done great things at Swan this season, and the future looks bright for the club with the merger between Swan IC and Swan Districts juniors,” said Goodman.

Goodman was in charge at both Bayswater and Morley last season and was disappointed not to get the job at Morley. “It has been an interesting year for me to say the least. The thing I take out of this year is that if the whole club is not pulling for the same goals it creates adversity. I have loved working with the players and other coaches at both clubs but some of the behind scenes antics have been an eye opener,” explained Goodman.

“When Tom Kilkelly asked me to come to Morley, I did not expect to be caretaker coach for the last five games. It was hard to fathom the reasoning behind Tom's exit but the players got together and put in some good performances for me. Peter Johnson was appointed by the make shift board for next season with two games to go. There was no interview process or consultation as to what I could bring to the club. I thought I could take the club further forward and believed with a few additions to what was already there was potential to give the league a good shake next season but the board decided to go in another direction.

“I have been lucky enough to be given opportunities to give something back to the game when I retired. I have coached at a few more clubs that I would like but each new challenge provides the opportunities to continue to gain experience and knowledge,” added Goodman.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln is delighted to have Goodman on board. “I sat down with the club at the end of the season and I was delighted to be appointed to the senior Coaching role for 2010. I told the club I needed an assistant this season and I’m delighted that Jamie has joined us. Copper, to his mates, is a great bloke and brings a vast amount of coaching experience to the club and I’m looking forward to working with him,” explained Lincoln.

Goodman believes the partnership will be good for both parties and he hopes the Swans can challenge for a top five finish next season. “Linc's did a fantastic job last year and was only a few minutes away from playing finals football. He is very passionate and commands discipline from the players. I think I can complement Linc's very well. We both have been around football in WA for along time, and we both want to play good football and want Swan United to be a successful club in the near future. I will give Linc's someone to bounce off, with him being a former striker and me being a defender we can pool our knowledge and work on all facets of the game forming a more complete side,” said Goodman.

The Black and whites unearthed some talented youngsters last season and Goodman believes the new signings the club has made already will improve the squad greatly. “There are some great young players at the club, and Linc’s has identified a number for us to work on which is excellent. I watched the under 18's cup final and was very impressed with some of the young talent on display and some of those have already had a taste of first team football.

‘With the quality and experience Aaron Cole and Cory Hugo I think the future looks bright for the club. With the signings of James Sammut, Roberto Lujan and Liam Bolan to date there is an injection of more exciting youngsters. We want to play in finals and with a developing side we believe we can do that next season,” said Goodman.

30.10.09 - Swans sign Lions youngster

Swan United continues to bolster their squad for 2010 by signing talented teenage striker Liam Boland from Stirling Lions.

The youngster impressed Swans coach Paul Lincoln during the season and he is delighted to have signed him. “I watched Liam a couple of times last season and was impressed with his football and I believe he can have a big impact for us next season,” said Lincoln.

“I spoke to him and his father regarding next season and was delighted when he agreed to join us. He is big and strong and is good on the floor and in the air; he is very ambitious and wants to learn. I believe he is a player who has a great future in the game and he will give us some much needed fire power up front with the loss of Damian Scali,” added Lincoln.

Boland leaves Macedonia Park after one successful season, and his two goals in his final game for the Lions won them the under 23’s Soccer Pools Cup final. “It is never easy to change clubs, and Stirling has been fantastic to me from the President through to the supporters. I have some good friends at Stirling and the coaches were very supportive, especially Willy Herd who recognised that I could contribute to his Reserve's team,” said Boland

The youngster began his football career at Bassendean Caledonian in 1999 as a six-year old before moving to Morley Windmills, Inglewood United and Perth SC. He captained Perth Premier 15s in 2006-07 to win the Premiership and Knockout Cup and a successful trip to Italy and Spain with the Marocchi brothers and brought back the Italy Cup. He was a member of the under 16’s WA Futsal side that travelled to Canberra this season and was also a member of the WA State schoolboy’s side where he was tournament top goal scorer with seven goals.

He also represented Football NSW on an international trip to Portugal and Spain in October 2007, and played against Sporting Braga, Boa Vista, Benfica, Melgace, Celta Viga and Sportling Lisbon, scoring four goals, including the winner in a 1-0 win against Benfica. He also spent six months at Cruzeiro Football Club and Athletico Mineiro Football Club in Belo Horizonte, Brazil in 2008 where he lived and trained with elite young Brazilian footballers.

He is looking forward to his time at Francis Street and can’t wait for the season to begin. “I’m looking forward to the new challenge in the Premier League at Swan and showing what I can do at that level and playing with some of the lads that I have played with previously. (James Sammut, Brendan Craig, Million Butshiire), so I can’t wait for the season to begin,” said Boland.

“When I met coach Paul Lincoln he impressed me with his understanding of my game and an appreciation of what I could bring to the club,” added Boland.

24.10.09 - Sammut signs for the Swans

Swan United Coach Paul Lincoln has wasted no time in strengthening his squad for 2010, signing former Perth Glory youth midfielder James Sammut from ECU Joondalup.

The talented midfielder has agreed to a two year deal, and the former Inglewood United, Floreat Athena and ECU Joondalup player has been on top of Paul Lincoln’s wanted list and he is delighted to have signed him. “James is a player I’ve been trying to sign for a while. He has a great engine and has a great football brain. We’re delighted he chose to come to Francis Street and he is the first of a number of new faces we are hoping to get to the club for next season,” said Lincoln.

Sammut is looking forward to a new challenge at Francis Street. “I have spoken to Linc's on a few occasions and he showed a great deal of interest on getting me down at the club. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the club and know a few of the lads that are playing their. The club has a good future ahead of them and hopefully I can bring something to the team. Paul has spoken to me about the way he wants his side to play football and they are very similar to the style of game I like to play. It was a decision that needed to be made and one that I’m sure will benefit my football,” said Sammut.

It was a frustrating time for Sammut last season at Floreat Athena and ECU, but that’s in the past. “Obviously last year was very disappointing for me. At Floreat it was difficult not getting a lot of game time with not doing any of the pre-season because of Glory commitments and then making the move to ECU.

“At the time the move to ECU was one that I needed to make because I needed to be getting game time. Whether the move to ECU was a long term or short term move was one I wasn't going to make at that time and just wanted to enjoy the second half of the season with ECU and starting getting back to playing the good football I know I can. But before the last game of the season I had a difference of opinion with the ECU coach, which was disappointing, but nothing to big and was sorted out shortly after, but I missed the last couple of game. I thought I played some good football at ECU, but there are things that I can learn from the 09 season, which will make me a better player,” explained Sammut.

The Swans impressed last season and a number of youngsters pushed their way into the side and impressed, and Sammut is looking forward to the season ahead with his new side. “Swan had a good season last year which may have been unexpected by some but to their credit they played some good football. The youngsters that are coming into the side are performing well, which is another positive for the club in the years to come. The style of football Linc's wants his team to play is how I enjoy playing so hopefully my attacking game will fit in well with Swan. Just talking to Linc's you can tell his has a good understanding of the game and the way he wants to play. I am a player who likes to get on the ball and play football which Linc's wants his team to do so I think I will fit right in. Hopefully this season I can get back to scoring goals and make 2010 the best season I have had,” said Sammut.

The club have lost veteran striker Damian Scali and midfielder Dom Ando due to retirement but Lincoln has pin pointed some good young players to fill their roles, and the club has recruited strongly for 2010, which Sammut believes the club are on the up. “ Obviously Damian and Dom are two players I’m sure the club would of loved to be playing next year but Linc's has spoken to me about the young players he is looking at getting down and it is exciting for the club. I can't wait for the night series let alone the start of the new season. Swan has a good future ahead of them and I am glad to be apart of it and hopefully I can contribute in a big way next year. I think we will have a strong squad next year and will contest for finals,” said Sammut.

Lincoln up beat on new signings

Swan United has bolstered their squad for the new season by adding new players and a new assistant coach for 2010.

The loss of Damian Scali and Dom Ando to retirement has left a hole in the Swans squad, but Lincoln has acted quickly to sign four players for next season.

“I sat down with the club at the end of the season and I was delighted to be appointed to the senior Coaching role for 2010. I told the club I needed an assistant this season and I was told funds would be available to sign some players I’d had my eye on. I’m delighted to announce that Jamie Goodman has joined the club as my assistant for 2010. Copper to his mates brings a vast amount of coaching experience to the club and I’m looking forward to working with him,” explained Lincoln.

“Also we have secured the services of James Sammut from ECU Joondalup, teenage striker Liam Boland from Stirling Lions, a player who has a great future in the game and he will give us some much needed fire power up front with the loss of Damian Scali.

“Another player I was keen to sign was Roberto Lujan from Canning City and was delighted after meeting with him that he agreed to join us next season.

“We are still talking to a number of players regarding next season and it’s given the whole club a great boost with the players we have signed and the interest from others to join us. Last season was an improvement on 2008 but a strong squad is needed and the players we are signing are improving that squad greatly,” added Lincoln.

04.10.09 - Swans youngsters take out Soccer Pools Cup Final

A brace from striker Christian Lopez has helped Swan United to a 4-1 victory against Inglewood United in Sunday’s Soccer Pools Cup Final at Dorrien Gardens.

Also on target for the Swans was Niall Hughes, and an unfortunate own goal from Viktor Atanasovski, while Lee Carr scored Inglewood’s consolation goal late on.

It was a beautiful day for football at kick off in front of a healthy crowd, and first to threaten were Inglewood. Swans defender Shane Webb was caught in possession by Henock Butshiire on the left on eight minutes. His cross was punched clear by Jordan Howell’s, only to Paul Monaldi on the edge of the box, whose volley flashed wide.

Then 60 seconds later, and with their first attack the Swans hit the front. Andy Alverez sent Lopez clear down the left, and as he turned inside David Trajkoski the defender brought him down and referee Michael Frost had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Hughes kept his nerve sending keeper Joel Van der Meer the wrong way to give the Swans the lead.

Inglewood looked for a quick response and on 20 minutes Dean Dzukleski ball into the box found Anthony Papilia, whose header was only inches over the bar.

With Inglewood settling after the early goal, they were hit again on 26 minutes when the Swans doubled their lead. Again it was Alverez (right) with a perfectly weighted pass that sent Lopez clear. The Inglewood defence looked for a flag that never came and the Swans striker finished clinically past Van der Meer.

There was action at both ends as the game began to open up. First on 34 minutes a good run by Lopez ended with a shot that flew wide of the post, while moments later a free kick from Inglewood’s Adam Brown was headed wide by Butshiire

As the half ended Swans keeper Howell denied Paul Monaldi with a smart save low down at his near post, while in first half stoppage-time Lopez’s shot beat Van der Meer but Papalia was alert to clear the ball off the line.

The Swans opened brightly in the second half and after 50 minutes Tim Hill’s corner was flicked on by Lopez and Webb’s volley at the back post went wide. Their pressure paid off with the third goal on the hour. An innocuous ball into the box was miss-hit by the unfortunate Atanasovski sending the ball past his own keeper Van der Meer and giving the Swans a 3-0 lead.

It was 4-0 two minutes later, Hill’s corner from the left found the unmarked Lopez who scored from close-range.

The Swans were dominating and moments later Webb, who was outstanding at the heart of the Swans back-four, sent Hughes clear but Van der Meer was alert to save well.

To Inglewood’s credit they never gave up and as the game entered the final 15 minutes they began to put pressure on the Swans back-line. Brown’s run and shot whistled past the post, while Papalia’s long-range shot was saved low by Howell. At the other end Van der Meer was earning his money saving Lopez’s snap shot on 77 minutes.

Then on 83 minutes Van der Meer was beaten, after Alverez picked out Ben Sipos on the left of the penalty area, but Trajkoski was back on the line to clear the danger.

Inglewood continued to press and on 85 minutes Papalia’s snap shot from eight-yards was superbly saved by Howell at full stretch, but moments later Inglewood scored their consolation goal. Alex Gismondi’s cross from the right found Carr who fired home from 10-yards.

Swans Coach Gary Mateljan (left) was delighted with the win. “It was a great all-round team performance today. So often you get to finals and lose it at the last hurdle. But today we were switched on from the first whistle and I couldn’t be any happier,” said Mateljan.

“Our backline today was great and we never gave them a sniff, while strikers Christian and Niall gave them allsorts of problems up front. It’s been a long season but it’s fantastic to take some silverware back to Francis Street,” added Mateljan.

Inglewood United Coach George Rimpas was disappointed with the result, but he was happy the way his young side fought out the game. “It’s hard when you cop a penalty early and a second which we all thought was offside, but we couldn’t fight back this time.

“We’re very proud that we got here, and we’ve promoted a number of players from our under 16’s. We never gave in and got some reward late on with the consolation goal, which was very pleasing,” said Rimpas.

Under 18’s Soccer Pools Cup Final

Swan United 4 (Hughes 9’ (pen), Lopez 26’ & 62’, O’G (Atanasovski) 60’)

Inglewood United 1(Carr 87’)

Dorrien Gardens, Sunday, October 4 th 2009

HT: 2-0

Att: 300 (Approx)

Referee - Michael Frost - Assistants - Tony Chorley and Gabriele Merlacco - Fourth Official - Scott Ferguson

Swan United - GK Jordan Howells, 2 Ben Sipos, 4 Dara McNally, 5 Matthew Johns, 7 Tim Hill, 8 Owen Curtis (6 Chris Nolen 75’), 9 Braid Craig, 11 Andy Alverez, 12 Niall Hughes (10 Johnny Gevers 82’), 14 Shane Webb, 15 Christian Lopez - Subs not used - RGK Sam Hounsham, 13 Josh Hardy, 16 Marcel Pyra - Yellow Cards - Sipos 38’,

Inglewood United - GK Joel Van der Meer, 33 Lee Carr, 35 Adam Brown, 37 Paul Monaldi (53 Nathan Scully 46’), 38 Dean Dzukleski (34 Brent Korver 83’), 39 David Trajkoski, 40 Vedran Bogdanic, 41 Henock Butshiire (36 Alex Gismondi 67’), 43 Marmadee Toure, 45 Viktor Atanasovski, 46 Anthony Papalia - Subs not used - RGK Brendan Catalano, 49 Andrew Scaldoferro - Yellow Cards - Nil

03.10.09 - Under 18’s Cup Final Preview

Inglewood United v Swan United

The Soccer Pools under 18’s cup final is an all Premier League affair when Inglewood United meet Swan United at Dorrien Gardens (10am)

The Swans have been consistent in the cup, but their league form has been disappointing but Coach Gary Mateljan hopes to end the season with a cup victory. “We’ve struggled in the league but we’ve been in most games this season but little mistakes have cost us dearly. We’ve had a few players from the reserves and first team playing for us this season in the cup which has given us some much needed experience, and they have blended well with the talented youngsters we have at the club,” said Mateljan.

In midfield for the Swans Shane Webb has been instrumental in their cup run, while Niall Hughes has been outstanding up front. Skipper Braid Craig has been solid at the back while Tim Hill has been the supply for many of the Swans goals.

A late goal from Karl Breen in the semi-finals gave the Swans a 3-2 win against Cockburn City, and Mateljan believes the final will be a close encounter too. “We battled hard with ten men in the semis and won through, and the squad got some much needed confidence with the victory. We’ve been beaten twice by United this season, so we go into the game as underdogs, but one thing is for sure everyone will be trying their best to bring the cup back to Francis Street,’ said Matljan

Inglewood has beaten three division one sides to reach the final, and in a nine-goal thriller in the semi-final they overcame Fremantle Spirit 5-4. United coach George Rimpas is hoping for a good performance from his young chargers. “The players have been looking forward to this game for seven weeks since we reached the final. We’ve been preparing for Sunday’s game and like all teams we’ve had injuries and with them all clearing up now we have a full squad to choice from and it’s a good selection headache to have,” said Rimpas.

In midfield Lee Carr has been in great form for the Wood, while top goalscorer Mamadee Toure has scored 14 goals this season and will have to be closely watched by the Swans. Another player to impress this season is Henock Butshiire, brother of Swans and Perth Glory striker Million

Inglewood has beaten the Swans twice this season in the league but Rimpas knows cup finals are completely different. “Previous games are not a true reflection, yes we go in with a psychological edge on the Swans, but all grand finals are tight and it’s who ever play’s well on the day will come out on top,” added Rimpas.

26.09.09 - Late goal denies the Swans the points

An injury-time goal from Floreat Athena midfielder Branimir Mikulic denied the Swans the three points in in the final game of the season, as Damian Scali Scali and Dom Ando bowed out of Premier League football

After dominating the second half it looked like Floreat would leave empty handed before Mikulic headed home a long throw from Adam Bachiller, and he was happy to get something from the game. “Second half we piled on the pressure, but we couldn’t beat Cory Hugo who made some outstanding saves. We left it a bit late but I thought we were patient and didn’t panic and we got the goal which gives us a lift going into next weeks Cup Final,” said Mikulic.

The Swans made two changes to the side that were beaten 1-0 at the Lions last week with youngster Simon Williams, coming in for his league debut, and John Mansaray, replaced the suspended duo Brendan Craig and Shane Webb. The visitors made three changes to the side that beat Canning city 1-0 last week with Callum Roberts, Dean Apelgren and Brad Scott, replacing Daniel Neiderberger, Simon Elton-Bott and Mirco Aleksic.

It was a great day for football and it was the visitors who were first to go close, Bachiller’s long-range shot on three minutes was saved by Hugo.

The Swans, whose Flexible Signage Solutions top five spot vanished last week, began to get on top and on eight minutes John Mansaray’s cross from the right picked out Stephen Guest, but his first time volley went well wide.

With Swans veteran’s Damian Scali and Dom Ando announcing their retirement, the home side were looking to end the season with a victory to celebrate, and on 13 minutes Williams sent Mansaray clear and the midfielder beat keeper Alex Dunn to the ball but his shot rolled agonizingly past the post.

Their pressure paid off on 22 minutes when they hit the front. A long clearance from Hugo was flicked on by Scali and Mansaray (left) streaked clear and fired low past Dunn.

It should have been 2-0 five minutes later, a great run down the right by Williams ended with a pass to Mansaray, who skipped past John Migas, but with only Dunn to beat he fired wide of the target.

Floreat steadied and began to get back into the game and from James Isaia’s cross from the right on the half hour, Roberts fired wide.

Both sides had chances as the tempo lifted, Ando long-range shot curled just past the post for the Swans, while Mikulic’s cross from the right found Scott, whose header was saved low by Hugo.

It was the visitors who ended the half on top and in first half stoppage-time Migas’ cross from the right was headed inches over by Mikulic, but at the break it was 1-0 to the Swans.

Floreat started the second half as they finished the first, on top, and from Jason Barrera’s corner on 55 minutes Mikulic’s header was cleared away by Robert Monterosso, and Bachiller’s follow up shot was saved low by Hugo.

It was one-way traffic as the visitors laid siege to the Swans goal and on 58 minutes Johnny Mirco cut in from the right but his shot from 10-yards went just wide of the post, and moments later David Foster’s close-range header was saved by Hugo.

The Swans keeper was having an outstanding game, and on 65 minutes Roberts’ cross from the left picked out Mikulic, but Hugo (right) saved superbly from his point blank header.

Mikulic was again denied by Hugo on 75 minutes, his shot looked destined for the back of the net, but the Swans custodian palmed the ball away superbly.

Floreat were totally dominating the game, and on 78 minutes Mirco’s run and cross from the right found Bachiller in the box but he headed over from close-range.

Against the run of play the Swans went close to doubling their lead. With Athena pushing men forward, Scali flicked on to Mansaray, and the midfielder rounded Dunn but his shot was cleared off the line by Migas.

Time was running out for the visitors and on 89 minutes Bachiller’s corner fell to Foster, whose first time shot was superbly saved by Hugo and Mirco’s follow up shot was blocked by David McNally.

The Hugo show continue in stoppage-time, a great run and cross by Mirco on 92 minutes found Roberts in space in the box, but the Swans keeper made another outstanding save to deny the striker, and moments later Roberts shot from the edge of the box was pushed away at full stretch by Hugo.

It looked like the Swans would hang on to the points put in the 95 th minute Floreat scored their well deserved equaliser. A long throw from the left by Bachiller found Mikulic and his header beat Hugo much to the delight of the travelling Floreat supporters.

After the game both teams, Coaches and officials lined up to applaud Scali and Ando off the pitch, as the pair retire from Premier League football.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was philosophical after the game. “Floreat are a good side and the boy’s defended well today. If we had taken our chances in the first half the game would have been over, but on the whole Floreat played well in the second half and deserved the point. It was a shame to let it slip late, it would have been a great send off for Damian and Dom,” said Lincoln.

Floreat Athena Coach Michael Roki was disappointed with his side’s first half but happy with their second half performance. “Unfortunately we only turned up for the second half, we looked a little casual in the first half but we made a few changes and stepped it up in the second half. It was like the Alamo for Swans near the end and Cory Hugo was sensational to keep us at bay,” said Roki.

SWAN UNITED : GK Cory HUGO, 2 Dom ANDO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 David PAONE, 7 John MANSARAY, 10 Stephen GUEST, 11 Chris MARSHALL (9 Matthew CATALONO 90’), 13 David MCNALLY, 14 Simon WILLIAMS (16 Christian LOPEZ 76’), 19 Aaron COLE, 20 Damian SCALI - SUBS NOT USED: RGK Alex SUTTON, 6 Andy ALVERAZ, 15 Matt WOOD

Yellow Cards - Mansaray 20’

FLOREAT ATHENA : GK Alex DUNN, 3 James ISAIA, 5 Johnny MIRCO, 8 Adam BACHILLER, 10 Jason BARRERA, 11 Callum ROBERTS, 12 Branimir MIKULIC, 13 John MIGAS, 15 Paul VATISTAS (6 Miki VUJACIC 57’), 18 Brad SCOTT (14 David FOSTER 57’), 22 Dean APELGREN - SUBS NOT USED: RGK Vas VUJACIC, 4 Alex NOVATSIS

Yellow Cards - Nil

Att: 150 (Approx)

Referee - Michael Tolmie - Assistants - Taz Paraskevas and Matthew Southern

Scali bows out of the Swans on top

On Saturday at 4.45pm the curtain will come down on the Premier League football career of long-serving Swan United striker Damian Scali. The 33-year-old will hang up his boots after the weekend’s clash against Floreat Athena, and the decision to call it a day was one he thought long and hard about. “The decision to retire is very difficult, and I have no idea what I am going to do with myself from Sunday onwards.

“Since I was about 5-years-old I have been hanging around this soccer club. I honestly don’t know any different other than showing up on Tuesdays, Thursdays and the weekends, Saturday is going to be the hardest day of my life so far.

“But when you end up in the emergency department at a local hospital, on a Sunday afternoon because you need an injection so you can straighten your back up I think its time to retire.,” explained Scali.

The striker will again top the Swans goal scoring chart this season, and will go close to the Football West Golden Boot, which is a far cry to his early days at Francis Street. “I’ve always said that every time I win the leading scorer at our club it cant be good because we obviously are not going very well in that year.

“The years we have made finals and won cups I have finished second or third in this trophy, and when I have won the award we have been in relegation fights so I used to not like winning it.

“However, moving to be a striker in the last two years has meant that I am relied on to score so I have really enjoyed that, but really, the boys have done all the work and made scoring the goals very easy. I even said the other week that if I won the Golden Boot every other striker should be ashamed of themselves,” joked Scali.

With over 200 games for the black and whites, Scali has had many coaches, was there one who had a big influence on his career. “Well, this is tough, said Scali.

“My dad was my coach all through my junior years and my ability to read the game and score goals is no doubt down to what he taught me. Anything I have done in the game is due to him, his encouragement, yelling, ideas and gene pool - I guess my mum helped in that area as well!

“As a senior coach, there is no doubt that my best soccer was played with Eric Williams. I think he just had the team structure tailored to me playing the best I can, and obviously Gary Marocchi, who led us to two cups is right up there as well,” said Scali.

Scali has played with and against a number of great players but who was the most difficult he had played against and the best Swans player he had played with? “Toughest player would have to be between Mark Pottier, Todd Howarth and Stuart Montgomery. All three are very skilful, strong, fast, score goals and have caused us no end of trouble over the years. There are many more such as Norrie Sutton who ran me ragged and Paul McVittie who was very good as well,” said Scali.

“The best Swans player would have to be my cousin Carlo. That’s because he knows my game more than anyone, and probably set me up more than anyone. I would hope that Carlo and I had a little to do with Swan being where they are now,” explained Scali.

Scali, who has helped the Swans to two Boral Cup victories and promotion from the first division in 1994, are memorable moments for him and he will never forget them. “I’ve enjoyed every game I’ve played for this club, but the highlights would be winning back-to-back cups in 2003 and 2004, but as a club getting promoted in 1994 to the premier league for the first time was special. We celebrated all night, with everyone who had put so much into the club has to be my most memorable moment. To have the whole club singing all night in a warehouse in Midland is something I will never forget,” said Scali.

Former Swans player and Coach, Carlo Scali, knows Damian will be sadly missed around the club. “Damian Scali has been part of the furniture at Swan, longer than me. As my Cousin, I have seen him play juniors with my brother, and I also was lucky to play with him for many years in the seniors. He's has without doubt become one off the most consistent players in the league and one of only a few that can play equally well anywhere in the spine of the side.

“Damian has scored some of the best goals I have seen, has been a great captain, an excellent player and a passionate supporter of the team. It was great watching him grow as a player, even better playing alongside him and I am sure the whole club is as proud of his achievements as I am,” said Carlo.

Current Swans coach Paul Lincoln, also played with Damian, and wished him all the best in his retirement. “Damien and I have enjoyed the highs and lows of our great game. He has been an important player for me over the past two years, not only has he been the team’s leading goal scorer and can finish with authority, it’s his ability to play anywhere in the spine that shows his class as an all round footballer. He has had a fantastic career and is a true champion of the club,” said Lincoln.

So from Sunday morning Scali will have other plans for the pre-season, but he will miss the football. “What’s next’s for me - no idea. “I still want to remain involved at the club but how I am not sure; I will need something to do every Saturday, maybe something will pan out in the next few months.

“I will miss not being able to fight out on the pitch for the club as a whole. Knowing that I’m representing everyone who have had anything to do with the club, against the best clubs in the state. I will miss the emotional points that happen on a Saturday - scoring in the last minute to win games, celebrating with the fans near the canteen, singing the song in the change rooms after a game. I will also miss the friendships I have made in the change rooms, the rubbish talk that goes on amongst the players, and the fun we have, and of course the player’s trip, thanks for the memories guy’s,” explained Scali.

Ando flies the Swans nest

Swan United defensive midfielder Dom Ando will end his Premier League football career on Saturday, after announcing his retirement from the game to his teammates on Tuesday evening.

The 35-year-old, who has played for Perth Azzurri, for 19 years, then Bayswater City, Fremantle City, Inglewood United, Bassendean Caledonians and finally Swan United, believes he has made the right, but difficult decision. “I’ve been playing the game I love for 31-years now so the decision to retire was difficult, but I believe I’ve had a good run in the game and I’ll look forward to watching on a Saturday from now,” said Ando.

Like all players who retire Ando has worked with a number of players and coaches and has enjoyed every minute. “The local game has been great to play in for a number of years. I’ve had many battles on the park, I’ve won some and lost some but I’ve always gave 100% The most difficult opponent in the league, that is hard to pin point one player as there have been many of players in the state league, but one would have to be Scott Miller due to his pace getting down the line,” said Ando.

“I’ve played along side many talented players but probably the best would be Alan McKenzie. His fitness and ability to read the game was outstanding. I have to include Robert Zabica in goals as well,” said Ando.

Ando has had a number of coaches along the way, and for him one stood out. “While I was at Perth I had Laurie Naven, farther of Gareth and Craig for five years. He was great for me at young age and I learnt a great deal from him,” said Ando.

He has a great three years at Swan and wishes them the best of luck next season. “I’ve enjoyed the club and a highlight for me would be my thunder bolt against Inglewood United a couple of years ago to earn us a 2-2 drew.

“I will miss the team bonding nights at Francis Street and the team trips, but I will not miss pre-season training at the Bickley concentration camp,” joked Ando,

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln praised Ando, who has been a strong contributor in his two-years at the helm of the Francis Street club. “Dom has had a terrific career and has been able to get the most out of himself.

“He played a more defensive role in the team which suited his game and he is a strong tackler, who could hit the ball well with both feet, and although not noted for his goals, when he did score they were top shelf.

“Dom you have had a fantastic career which you should be proud of,” said Lincoln.

19.09.09 - Swans let it slip late at Lions

An injury-time goal from Stirling Lions’ striker Phil O’Callaghan gave them a 1-0 win against Swan United at Macedonia Park, and made it seven consecutive victories for Michael Lyons’ side.

It was a huge game for both clubs with a spot in the top five still a chance before kick off, and the home side made four changes to the side that beat Canning City last week, with Jordan Rhodes, Rick Brewer, Tom Kennedy and Jason Mirco coming into the side to replace Perth Glory trio Dean Evans, Steven Hesketh and Ludovic Boi, while Anthony Fearon dropped to the bench.

The Swans made two changes to the side that were humbled 0-6 by Inglewood United last week, with Brendan Craig and David Paone replacing the suspended Thomas Shepheard, while John Mansaray dropped to the bench.

The home side were out of the blocks early and dominated and in the seventh minute Marc Anthony’s in-swinging corner was punched clear by Cory Hugo and Rhodes follow up shot flew wide.

It was one-way traffic as the Lions continued to dominate and they should have hit the front on 19 minutes. O’Callaghan’s flick sent Rhodes clear, and the midfielder’s shot from eight-yards was superbly tipped around the post by Hugo at full stretch.

With the Lions dominating the Swans were defending desperately, with Aaron Cole and David McNally (left) outstanding. Anthony was pulling the strings in the midfield and his inch perfect through ball on 23 minutes sent Jamie DeAbreu clear, but the youngster’s weak shot was saved low by Hugo.

After soaking up the Lions’ pressure the first opportunity for the visitors came on the half hour, Paone’s long-range shot flew high. Moments later a great ball by Robert Monterosso (right) sent Stephen Guest clear down the right, as he was about to take the shot Michael Pugliese was across with a timely tackle. From the resulting corner Kevin Miller tipped over Craig’s shot. It was the best period of the game for the Swans and they forced four consecutive corners but they came to nothing.

Then on 39 minutes Swans keeper Hugo raced out of his box to clear the danger, he beat Rhodes to the ball but lost control when he was confronted by O’Callaghan, and he crudely brought the striker down well outside the penalty area, and was lucky only to receive a yellow card from referee Ton Klaver.

As the half ended the Swans lifted and Monterosso’s long-range shot on 44 minutes was saved low by Miller, and in first half stoppage-time, Shane Webb’s run and cross from the left was only inches away from Damian Scali at the back post.

Once again the Lions opened the second half brightly and on 53 minutes Rhodes ball into the box was dummied by O’Callaghan, and luckily for the Swans the ball drifted just wide of the far post.

On the hour the Lions again went close, Anthony’s in-swinging corner was punched clear by Hugo, but the ball fell to Pugliese who’s first shot was well block by Chris Marshall. But in the goalmouth scramble Pugliese’s follow up shot was superbly cleared off the line by Monterosso. The Lions were adamant the ball had hit the arm of the Swans defender but the referee waved away their penalty claims.

As the game entered the final 15 minutes it was end-to-end football as both sides knew a point wasn’t enough. First Anthony’s through ball sent Rhodes in on goal, but a great covering tackle from Webb cleared the danger. Then at the other end Monterosso’s cross from the right was flicked on by Scali, but Guest volley at the back post was wide.

The crowd were on the edge of their seat’s as the intensity lifted, and when Rhodes sent Lions’ second half substitute Ndumba Makeche clear it looked like the youngster would score, but he blazed over from eight-yards.

Then it was the turn of the Swans to press, Monterosso sent Craig in down the right, but Miller was out bravely to save at his feet. Moments later it was Craig again who was sent clear by a superb Webb (left) through ball, but his shot from six-yards was superbly saved by Miller.

Michael Lyons’ side were pushing for the victory, and on 80 minutes DeAbreu was sent clear and Hugo again came to his sides rescue again parrying his low shot, but from the rebound Makeche found DeAbreu again, and the crowd thought it was the winner, but again Hugo produced a stunning save to deny the youngster.

It was every man to the pump for the Swans as the Lions went into overdrive, and moments later O’Callaghan thought he had scored but his close-range shot was cleared off the line by Guest.

The game took another twist on 84 minutes when Craig was given his second yellow card by referee Ton Klaver for knocking the ball away. It looked a harsh decision, but those are the rules and the Lions could smell a victory.

They through everything forward and the Swans were hanging on; Matt Italiano’s shot was deflected wide by McNally and Anthony fired straight at Hugo on 87 minutes.

Then as time ticked in to stoppage-time Anthony found the overlapping Italiano on the right, his pin-point cross found O’Callaghan unmarked at the back post, who headed home, despite Hugo getting a hand to it.

It sparked huge celebrations in the Macedonia Park crowd and at the final whistle for the first time this season the Lions sit in the top five, and a spot in the Flexible Signage Solutions Finals Series is within their grasp.

Lions’ Coach Michael Lyons was delighted after the game. “I thought we had the better chances today but we didn’t convert. We all know in this game you have to take your chances, but fair play to the boy’s they stuck at it and we got the rewards in the end.

“We knew what to expect from Swan they battled all afternoon and Kevin Miller kept us in the game with a couple of vital saves. It’s great to reach the top five and we now hope to stay in there,” said Lyons

For Swan Coach Paul Lincoln, ill discipline had cost his team. “I’m really disappointed today, I spoke to the boy’s at half time to keep their discipline, as we couldn’t afford to get players sent off, and what happens, Brendan get’s a second yellow card and our backs are against the wall.

“We had opportunities in the game and we opened them up down the flanks, but again we’ve let ourselves down, and in this game it’s hard when you get players sent off, and today we were again punished,” said Lincoln.

STIRLING LIONS : GK Kevin MILLER, 2 Michael PUGLIESE, 3 Rick BREWER (8 Jason TRPEVSKI 81’), 4 Tom KENNEDY (5 Matt ITALIANO 68’), 6 Matt ALLEN, 7 Jamie DEABRUE, 9 Phil O'CALLAGHAN, 10. Jordan RHODES, 11 Jason MIRCO (12 Ndumba MAKECHE 59’), 14 Daniel STOITIS, 16 Marc ANTHONY - SUBS NOT USED: RGK Tom DIXON, 13 Anthony FEARON

Yellow Cards - Nil Red Cards - Nil

SWAN UNITED : GK Cory HUGO, 2 Dom ANDO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 David PAONE, 9 Shane WEBB, 10 Stephen GUEST, 11 Chris MARSHALL, 13 David MCNALLY, 14 Brendan CRAIG, 19 Aaron COLE, 20 Damian SCALI (16 Christian LOPEZ 82’) - SUBS NOT USED: RGK Alex SUTTON, 7 John MANSARAY, 15 Karl BREEN

Yellow Cards - Guest 15’, Craig 37’ & 84’, Hugo 39’, Webb 87’ - Red Cards - Craig 84’

Att: 250 (Approx) Referee - Ton Klaver

12.09.09 Ten man swans humbled by Inglewood (by Chris Leitch, Football West)

Inglewood United collected six second half goals, with Albert Osei-Tutu netting a seven minute hat-trick, to decimate a ten-man Swan United 6-0 at Francis Street. Coach Shane Pryce was pleased with his side's execution to make the most of the strong westerly that blew straight down the pitch. "Okay, step back and have a look at it - it was against ten men for a long time but you've still got to go and win the game and the boys did really well," he said. "Going with the wind it's a different ball game, so I wanted them to concentrate on getting it wide and getting their crosses in. When you look at our goals, we score a lot through that."

There were few positives to come from the day by Swan, who failed to make the most of the breeze in the first half before Tom Shepheard was shown a red card in the 36th minute for foul and abusive language. Coach Paul Lincoln was confident coming into the match, with wins from four of his last five outings, but he said his side paid a heavy price for the sending off. "I lost Million Butshiire to the Glory, I lost Brendan Craig to suspension and I lose one of my better forwards, I just don't have the depth," he said. "Our decision making was poor, when we concede a goal and they got the second one, we went a bit flat, there was no energy to get forward, we were pretty messy today."

Cory Hugo (left) had a nightmare second half, the Swan goalkeeper dropping the ball into his goal after taking Alex Stamatiadis' 51st minute shot on the line. Osei-Tutu put away his first seven minutes by getting the first touch on a Mladen Kovacevic cross, and soon after converted at close-range after a good build-up involving Danny Richman and Jason Colli.

In the 66th minute Stamatiadis drew Hugo off his line before unselfishly putting the ball with Osei-Tutu, who fired his third into an open goal. With the breeze behind them, Inglewood's players were encouraged to shoot from almost anywhere and with five minutes left former Swans striker Alex Cocking opportunistically added his name to the scorers.

Cocking iced the cake two minutes into stoppage time by expertly controlling the ball before hitting a powerful shot that curled away from Hugo's dive to end up in the top corner.

SWAN UNITED: GK Cory HUGO, 2 Dom ANDO (15 Karl BREEN 70'), 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 7 John MANSARAY, 9 Shane WEBB (5 David PAONE 67'), 10 Stephen GUEST, 12 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 13 David MCNALLY, 14 Chris MARSHALL, 19 Aaron COLE, 20 Damian SCALI. SUBS NOT USED: RGK Alex SUTTON, 11 Matt WOOD, 16 Christian LOPEZ

INGLEWOOD UNITED: GK Oliver TASESKI, 6 Matt WARDLE, 9 Rory GRANT, 12 Danny RICHMAN, 13 Alex STAMATIADIS, 16 Aaron COLLI (5 Sandi LONCAR 72'), 18 Jason COLLI, 19 Rikki SMITH, 20 Albert OSEI-TUTU, 22 Matt WORTON, 27 Mladen KOVACEVIC (15 Alex COCKING 67') SUBS NOT USED: RGK Lewis ITALIANO, 26 James DUNCAN

11.09.09- Swans host Inglewood Unitedin round 20

The Swans host Inglewood United in round 20 of the Football West Premier League on Saturday and a victory could put Paul Lincoln’s side a step closer to the FFS top five finals.

Swans will be without striker Million Butshiire who has joined the Glory youth side while former Inglewood defender Brendan Craig is suspended. Coach Paul Lincoln has been pleased with his side’s performances and hopes to continue for the next three weeks. “The players are aware of what is required from an individual and team perspective and it would be a terrific experience for the younger players to taste finals football. There is along way to go before then and we face a tough test on Saturday against Inglewood United. They are playing well and recently knocked league leaders the Western Knights out of the cup, and they have won their past two games so we are well aware that it will be a difficult game, but we go into it confident we can win our 9th game of the season,” said Lincoln.

Inglewood United will be without midfielder Michael Baczynski through suspension, but new Wood coach Shayne Pryce will be looking for a similar result to their last visit to the Swan Valley when they left with a 3-1 win, and if that happened they will leapfrog the Swans on the table. Young midfielder Alex Stamatiadis believes the side has bonded well despite coaching upheavals during the season. “ ‏ This season has been difficult for the whole club in general, with three different coaches this year it’s hard for a team to settle down and play the same style. Although that’s happe ned the boys have done well too be battling for a top 5 finish and we go to Swan full of confidence and looking for three points,” said Stamatiadis.

Swan youngsters in top four finals

Three Swan United sides have made the top four finals in their leagues, and play their opening finals game on Sunday.

Joe Silvestro’s under 13’s face Balga at Grindleford reserve at 10am. The side finished top of the table in the regular season 13 points clear of second placed Whitford City and hope to take off the top four finals- good luck!!

Dave Davies’ under 14’s division 2 finished fourth in the league and face league leaders South Perth United at Coker Park with a 12 noon kick off, while Arthur Coniglio’s under 14’s south division one side finished third in the league , level on points with Canning city, who they meet on Sunday at Hossack Reserve on Sunday at 9am.

Good luck to all three sides on Sunday, enjoy the day!!!!

05.09.09 - Swans edge closer to FFS top five finals

ECU Joondalup 2 Swan United 3

Swan United moved closer to a spot in the Flexible Signage Solutions top five series with a hard fought 3-2 win against ECU Joondalup at the Edith Cowen University Arena on Saturday.

An early double strike from Damian Scali put Swans on their way to their first victory at Joondalup in the league since 2001, and although ECU hit back with two goals from Dale McCulloch, the winner came from teenage midfielder Shane Webb (left) just after half time, and he was delighted with the three points. “The boy’s played well today. We were up for the game and we knew a win would edge us closer to the finals. It was a good all-round performance and the younger lads stepped up today which would be pleasing for Linc’s. We now have to continue with our form in the next couple of weeks and we’ll see what happens,” said Webb.

The home side made two changes to the side that beat Cockburn City 2-0 last week with Dan Allan replacing Jamie Kuzmanovich while Aaryn Williams, who has just returned from the UK after training at Premier League side Portsmouth, replaced the injured Garin Collins at right back. The Swans also made two changes to the side that lost 0-4 to Western Knights last week with Stephen Guest replacing the injured Trent Wood, while skipper Aaron Cole returned in place of Dom Ando, who dropped to the bench.

It was bitterly cold afternoon in the Northern suburbs, but that didn’t seem to bother the Swans and they were ahead on five minutes, and what a goal it was. ECU gave the ball away in the middle of the park and Scali (right) looked up and saw ECU keeper Andy Petterson off his line and the veteran striker lobbed him from all of 30-yards to make it 1-0.

With both sides pushing for a top five spot it was just the start the Swans were looking for and it got better two minutes later. Brendan Craig’s corner from the right found an unmarked Scali, four-yards out and he headed powerfully past Petterson to score his 13 th goal of the season.

The visitors were dominating, and on 12 minutes Craig’s free kick from the left found Cole but his header was straight at Petterson who saved, and five minutes later the ECU keeper saved low from Scali.

After a nervous start, ECU steadied and began to get back into the game and on 24 minutes John Higgins’ long-range free kick had to be tipped over by Cory Hugo.

Although ECU began to create chances, it was the Swans who should have increased their lead on the half hour. Scali found the overlapping Thomas Shepheard down the right, his cross found the unmarked John Mansaray in the box, but somehow the midfielder blazed over from close-range.

That miss came back to haunt the Swans as sixty seconds later ECU scored. A cross from the right by Aaryn Williams wasn’t dealt with by the Swans defence and in the goal mouth scramble McCulloch fired home from close-range.

With half time looming the home side levelled, again a defensive error cost the Swans. This time Cole was caught in possession by Jamie Watt and as he was about to pull the trigger David McNally came across with a timely tackle. But from the resulting Tommy Amphlett corner, slack marking in the penalty area allowed McCulloch to nip in and head home from five-yards.

Both sides knew an early goal would be vital in the second half and it went the way of the visitors on 51 minutes. A shot from Scali seemed to hit the arm of Charlie Comyn-Platt in the penalty area and the Swans appeals for a penalty were turned down by referee Steven Gregory, but ECU seemed to stop for an instant and Webb punished them firing home from the edge of the box.

It was an entertaining game for the small crowd who had braved the weather, and there were chances at both ends. First on the hour McCulloch, who was outstanding in the middle of the park, found Watt, whose shot was saved low by Hugo and moments later Robert Monterosso’s cross from the right deflected up and over the stranded Petterson but young Aaryn Williams was alert to clear the ball off the line.

With only one defeat in their last six matches the home side were pushing for the equaliser and on 84 minutes they had their best opportunity. Amphlett played in second half substitute Ryan Williams clear down the right, the youngster delayed his shot and McNally was across with timely tackle to clear the danger.

With time running out ECU had one final surge, and from a free kick deep into stoppage time even keeper Petterson came up, but it came to nothing and the Swans ran out winners and edge closer to a spot in the end of season finals.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln (left) was delighted with his team’s performance. “We started off terrific, but to Joondalup’s credit they came back well to level before half time. I told the boy’s at the break we couldn’t afford to let two goal leads slip and they responded well and I thought we deserved the points in the end,” said Lincoln.

“Our youngsters stepped up today, Shane Webb was outstanding and Brendan Craig was excellent too. It’s a good sign for the club to see these lads performing well, and it’s another win on the road which is pleasing,” added Lincoln.

ECU Coach Syd Amphlett was disappointed with the result but was pleased the way his side fought back from conceding two early goals. “We’re disappointed with the loss, but credit to our lads they never gave up and we pushed hard for the equaliser late, but credit where credit’s due, Swan defended well in the last 25 minutes,” said Amphlett

“We’ve had five wins out of seven and with three games remaining we’re confident we can make the top five, we are now focused on next weeks game at Armadale,” added Amphlett.

ECU JOONDALUP : GK Andy PETTERSON, 3 Aaryn WILLIAMS (10 Ryan WILLIAMS 75’), 4 Charlie COMYN-PLATT, 5 Jamie SAMMUT, 7 John HIGGINS, 8 Scott BLACKMORE, 9 Jamie WATT, 11 Jake BENSON-COOPER, 13 Tommy AMPHLETT (2 Max POPE 86’), 14 Dan ALLEN, 18 Dale McCULLOCH - SUBS NOT USED : RGK Chris McCRONE, 12 Tommy SWATTON, 15 John WALMSLEY

Yellow Cards - Sammut 83’

SWAN UNITED  - GK Cory HUGO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 7 John MANSARAY, 9 Shane WEBB, 10 Stephen GUEST (2 Dom ANDO 75’), 11 Million BUTSHIIRE, 12 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 13 David MCNALLY, 14 Brendan CRAIG, 19 Aaron COLE, 20 Damian SCALI (5 David PAONE 90’) - SUBS NOT USED  - RGK Alex SUTTON, 15 Karl BREEN, 16 Matt WOOD

Yellow Cards - Webb 32’, Mansaray 45’

Referee - Steven Gregory - Assistants - David Currie and Kevin Taylor

Att: 150 (Approx)

Swans under 23’s fight back to earn a point

Swan United under 23’s fought back from 1-3 down at half time to secure a 3-3 draw at ECU Joondalup on Saturday. United made a great start and were ahead early when Christian Lopez scored but ECU began to dominate and two goals from Craig Cheeseman but them in front. He had a chance of a first half hat-trick but he missed from the penalty spot, but just before half time Tom Swatton scored to give the home side a 3-1 lead.

Dominic Ciullo’s side fought back magnificently in the second half and Lopez added his second and when Simon Williams scored with fifteen minutes left it was game on. Both keepers made great saves to keep the scores level at the end and Ciullo (left) was happy with his side’s performance. “The boy’s showed great character today to come from 1-3 down, and were starting to gel after losing a number of payers during the season. The morale is great in the squad and we hope to finish the season off with a few wins,” said Ciullo.

For ECU coach David Tough it was one that got a way. “Swans played very well today, but we’ve not performed for the last four games which is disappointing. We were 3-1 up at half time, but we gave the ball away to many times in the second half and they punished us,” said Tough.

“We’ve drawn to many games this season and that has been our down fall, but congratulations to Inglewood on the title they are worthy winners,” added Tough.

In Saturday’s other game Gary Mateljan’s under 18’s were beaten 0-3 by league leaders ECU Joondalup.

05.09.09 - Swans head to Joondalup in Round 19

ECU Joondalup v Swan United

It’s fourth v fifth when the Swans meet ECU Joondalup at the Edith Cowen University campus on Saturday in round 19 of the Football West Premier League (3pm). The Swans do not have a good record on the road at ECU and their last win there was in 2001 when Paul Borg and Carlo Scali scored in a 2-1 victory.

The Swans will be sweating on the fitness of Aaron Cole but Paul Lincoln is hoping to put an end to their poor record in the Northern suburbs. “Joondalup have been in good form and have marched up the ladder, it will be a difficult game for us and we will have to be on our metal to take three points and end our barren spell there. I have said to the players we have to take each week as it comes and not look forward to the top five, if we generate enough points after round 22 we are rewarded with finals football,” said Lincoln.

ECU too has injury concerns heading into the game, Garin Collins doubtful with a hamstring injury, but they welcome back Ryan and Aryan Williams from their trials overseas. Coach Syd Amphlett hopes to continue their good run and get some revenge from the last time the two sides met. “It’s another tough game where both teams are looking to cement a top five spot. We also want revenge for the 4-1 hammering we took at Swan earlier in the season where we played poorly. Our intentions were always to be in the top five and believe this will not be finalized until the last game of the season with several clubs still in with a shout,” said Amphlett.

Fitness battle for rival stars

It’s a huge game on Saturday at the Edith Cowen University Arena when fourth placed ECU Joondalup entertain Swan United. Two players who will have a big bearing on the game are both struggling to be fit for the clash. Swans skipper Aaron Cole (right) is still being troubled by a calf strain, while ECU’s Garin Collins (below) has a hamstring problem.

Collins, who re-joined the club from Sorrento this season, has been in great form and he knows the importance of Saturday’s game and he hopes to get over the hamstring problem. “It’s a massive game on Saturday. There's never a shortage of goals in the fixture and hopefully we can pick up the points to keep us in the top five, as well as a little bit of revenge for the thumping we took from them at their place earlier in the season,” said Collins.

For Cole, a calf muscle strain ended his run off playing in the last 16 games, but he hopes to takes his place in the Swans back four for Saturday’s game. “It's a real six pointer for both clubs on Saturday, a win will secure a solid position in the five and a loss would put either of us back in the pack again,” said Cole.

Both sides have picked up in recent weeks, and Collins is expecting a tough game. “Swans have picked up over recent weeks and are in fifth spot on the table. Coley is solid at the back and a threat at set pieces, Scali is a proven goal scorer and Tom Shepheard always causes us problems. I’m happy David Perich isn’t playing, he always seems to score against us, and in my opinion he is one of the most under-rated players in the league,” said Collins.

ECU Joondalup Coach Syd Amphlett say’s the signing of Collins from Sorrento was a great acquisition for the club. “Although signed primarily as a striker, Garin has the ability to fill any role and has played in every position other than goalkeeper during his three stints with ECU. He played right back against Canning last week after Ryan McDarby suffered a long term injury and played as though he had been there his entire career. He is a very experienced player whose work rate is second to none,” said Amphlett.

Cole knows ECU will be looking for revenge and that they will have to watch Collins closely on Saturday. “The game at the start of the year against ECU means very little given they have recovered well. They have recruited well but I feel the main danger is on the wings for them as they are quick and create a lot of attack from wide.

“Garin is a quality player and a great bloke too. If he plays up front Dave McNally and I will have to be on our toes but feel confident we can hold our own,” said Cole.

Swan United coach Paul Lincoln had no hesitation in handing the skippers armband to Cole at the start of the season and has been delighted with his performances this season. “Aaron’s season started slowly and with more games he has found his form from last season. Unfortunately his injury last week kept him out of the Knights game and his presence was missed. Aaron has a lot of pride in his performance, and he has tasted finals football and wants to take Swan to them this season,’ said Lincoln.

Wood breaks back into Swans line-up

It’s been a season of highs and lows for Swan United teenager Trent Wood. He began the campaign with an opportunity to be on the Fox 8 TV show ‘Football Superstars’ before returning to Perth and ending up in hospital. Now he is back to full fitness and cemented a spot in the Swans starting line up, and he is looking forward to the rest of 2009. “My season was interrupted at the start, due to the fox 8 football superstar competition. Then returning from Melbourne I then had an operation to remove my appendix immediately. Since then I have got myself back to full fitness and pushed myself for the first team.

”We’re playing some football at the moment and our form has been great. We had a slip up last week against the Knights but we hope to rebound this week against ECU Joondalup,” said Wood.

The Swans have surprised many this season and currently sit in fifth spot on the table. Coach Paul Lincoln along with players Aaron Cole, Damian Scali and Cory Hugo, have passed on their experience to the younger players and Wood believes it has helped him and the other younger players at Francis Street. “Linc’s has done a terrific job in getting the experienced players in the mix with the younger players, which is starting to produce some consistent results. We do have a young squad with Brendan Craig 18, Shane Webb 17 and myself all under 20, and to have Aaron, Damian, Cory and Dom Ando, has helped us younger players through out the season with positive feedback and advice,” added the former Forrestfield midfielder.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln has been delighted with the form of the teenager. “Trent has been in good form in recent weeks, but like most of his team mates he struggled last week against the Knights. He is a hard worker and needs to find consistency in his game, I would like to see Trent taking on players and getting forward more in the weeks too come,” said Lincoln.

The 19-year-old won the Perth audition for the ‘Football Superstars show’ and he eventually finished eighth, and the youngster really enjoyed the time in the spotlight. “The show was a huge experience for me; I have never done anything like that before in my life. It gave me the chance to train with Melbourne Victory and man mark such players as Archie Thompson and Danny Allsop as well as marking Shane Smeltz against Gold Coast United. I was more then happy to be apart of the show and really enjoyed it,” explained Wood.

There were something’s that happened in the house that Trent didn’t want to talk about but there were some funny moments. “When you get a bunch of lads in house together, things do happen,” said Wood.

“The night the boys were caught drinking on television, we didn't exactly stay at the house; all nine of us caught a 30 minute train ride into the city and went to a few clubs. I also recommend players to stay away from the ice baths, there far to cold,” said Wood.

“I still keep in contact with some of the lads from the house. Luke, the winner of the show, also Steve, who is now contracted with Gold Coast United, on a regular basis which is great,” added Wood.

Wood worked with Victory Coach Ernie Merrick on the show and he has a high regard for him. “He is a terrific coach and knows exactly what he is talking about, and he is an attacking coach who loves to score goals. Unfortunately for me Ernie played me as a right back so I didn't have the opportunity to show him my ability in attack,” said Wood.

29.08.09 - Knights put Swans to the sword

Western Knights continued their march towards there first league title in five years after a 4-0 victory against Swan United at Francis Street in round 18 of the Football West Premier League on Saturday.

The league leaders gave a scintillating attacking performance, which gives a warning to the rest of the FFS top five series sides that they will take some beating in October. Midfielder Barry Devlin believes they are peaking at the right time of the season. “The Swans had won three in a row, and to come here, where we haven’t had a good record, and get the three points and a clean sheet is a good result, “said Devlin.

“We were coming off two poor performances but to score four helps our goal difference and with four games remaining it’s in our own hands now,” he added.

The home side were forced into one change with skipper Aaron Cole missing through injury, he was replaced in the starting line up by Thomas Shepheard. The Knights also made one change with Perth Glory Youth striker Mario Marcinko replacing Duane Hepburn, who dropped to the bench.

On a beautiful day for football, it was the Knights that opened well and were ahead on 10 minutes. Anthony Campbell played Marcinko in on the right and he finished clinically past Cory Hugo from five-yards.

With Perth SC not playing on Saturday the Knights knew a win would give them an eight point buffer at the top of the table and they continued to dominate and went close again on 24 minutes. David Micevski’s free kick from the left was only half cleared by Brendan Craig and Daniel Micevski’s sweetly timing volley from the edge of the box was superbly saved by Hugo at full stretch.

The home side were struggling to create anything in the final third, but on the half hour they went close. John Mansaray found Trent Wood down the right; he fed Robert Monterosso whose cross was headed wide by Million Butshiire.

Then six minutes later the Knights doubled their lead. A long throw from David Micevski was flicked on to Campbell, the Swans defenders didn’t clear the loose ball, and Stuart Ferguson’s shot looped up over Hugo crashed against the post, and Cormac Dawson was quickest to react firing home from close-range.

After three consecutive league wins, the Swans were struggling to break down the Knights, but they did go close on 37 minutes. A cross from Craig fell to David McNally (right), but the big defender delayed his shot and Ferguson came across with a timely block.

As the half ended the Knights continued to threaten, with the Swans defence working overtime. David Price’s great through ball sent Marcinko clear but his shot was again well saved by Hugo, and in first half stoppage time David Micevski fired wide of the far post.

The Knights started the second half like they had finished the first, and on 50 minutes Campbell’s header found Dawson, who’s shot on the turn beat Hugo but hit the base of the post.

Paul Lincoln’s side had to dig deep and on 55 minutes they should have reduced the deficit. Dom Ando’s ball over the top sent Shepheard clear. The Knights looked for offside but the flag never came, and Shepheard, with only the keeper to beat, fired wide.

This was the best period of the game for the home side and on the hour Craig’s long throw was handled in the area by Okwy Diamondstar and referee Michael Nugus pointed straight to the spot. Damian Scali (left) stepped up sent Fraser Siddall the wrong way but his spot kick crashed off the post.

That miss came back to haunt the Swans and sixty seconds later the Knights made it 3-0. A free kick from all of 30-yards from David Micevski curled over the wall, and despite Hugo getting a hand to it, the ball flew into the net.

Then two minutes later it was 4-0, a long clearance from Siddall was headed back towards his own keeper by Scali, but Campbell showed lighting pace to nip in and flick home from the edge of the box, much to the delight of the Knights supporters behind the goal.

It was all one-way traffic and on 67 minutes the impressive Price sent Marcinko clear and he lobbed the on-coming Hugo, but Craig got back to head off the line. Moments later Price again threaded an inch perfect ball through to second half substitute Karl O’Reilly, whose shot was pushed around the post by Hugo. From the resulting corner Marcinko shot flashed just wide of the post as the Knights continued to dominate.

You could see the Knights were hungry for more goals and from Devlin’s cross on 80 minutes, Marcinko rose unmarked at the back post but headed wide, and in stoppage-time Devlin’s volley from ten-yards dipped inches over the bar.

A superb victory for the Knights and Coach Paul Price was happy with the points and the four goals. “I couldn’t have asked for more from the players today. We created a number of chances, scored four and their keeper pulled off some fantastic saves, it was a great all-round performance,” said Price.

“At the break we discussed the goal difference situation with Perth’s being better than ours and the boy’s came out and didn’t take their foot of the gas. We’ve been creating chances in recent games and not converting but today we did,” added Price.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was disappointed after the game but he acknowledged they were beaten by a better side. “They are a very good side, and I spoke to the boys after the game not to get too disappointed, as the Knights have been the best side in the league all season and we’ve got to learn from that defeat for the rest of the season,” said Lincoln.

“We missed the injured Aaron Cole today at the back. His presence back their helps our young defenders but these things happen in football, we look forward to next week’s big game against ECU Joondalup,” added Lincoln.

Swan United - GK Cory HUGO, 2 Dom Ando, 3 Trent WOOD, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO (5 David PAONE 80’), 7 John MANSARAY, Shane WEBB, 11 Million BUTSHIIRE (10 Steven GUEST 65’), 12 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 13 David MCNALLY, 14 Brendan CRAIG, 20 Damian SCALI (16 Niall HUGHES 80’) - SUBS NOT USED - RGK Alex SUTTON, 6 Chris MARSHALL

Yellow Cards - Shepheard 87’

Western Knights - GK Frazer SIDDALL 2 Barry DEVLIN 3 Stuart FERGUSON 4 Okwy DIAMONDSTAR 5 David ANNALL, 6 Cormac DAWSON (12 Karl O’REILLY 65’), 7 Daniel MICEVSKI (14 Duane HEPBURN 80’), 8 David PRICE, 9 Mario MARCINKO 10 David MICEVSKI 11 Anthony CAMPBELL - Subs not used: RGK David KHUEN, 13 Marco WARMT-MURRAY

Yellow Cards - David Micevski 40’, Hepburn 90’

Referee - Michael Nugus - Assistants - John Taran and Gary Frost

Att: 150 (Approx)

22.08.09 - Swans flying high

Sorrento 0 Swan United 1 (Scali 56')

A goal from veteran striker Damian Scali (right) gave Swan United a hard fought 1-0 victory against Sorrento at Percy Doyle Reserve, moving the Swan Valley club into fourth spot on the table and step closer to the FSS top five series.

It was Scali’s 11 th goal of the season and he was delighted to come away with the three points. “We haven’t won here for a while and to get the double over Sorrento this season is a great achievement for us. They threw everything at us in the last fifteen minutes and we had a little luck but we defended well and the boy’s are delighted to get the points and continue our good run in the league,” said Scali.

The home side made one change to the side that beat Canning 2-1 last time out, James Morgan coming into the side with Daryl Platten dropping to the bench, while the Swans were unchanged from the side that beat Mandurah City 1-0 in round 16.

With dark clouds hovering above, the game got under way and it was the visitors with the first chance on three minutes, Trent Wood was found on the right by John Mansaray who fed Million Butshiire, whose shot from 10-yards was wide of the target.

Sorrento began to get into the game and on 10 minutes they went within inches of taking the lead. A deep cross from Danny Cain caused confusion in the Swans penalty area and after a misunderstanding between keeper Cory Hugo and Aaron Cole, the defender headed against his own post, much to the relief of the Swans skipper it went out for a corner.

The home side were using the wind to their advantage and were dominating, and forced three consecutive corners, and from Glen Thomas’ third on 14 minutes, the Swans didn’t clear their lines and Steve McDonald’s snap shot flashed inches past the post with Hugo well beaten.

It was all Sorrento and on 22 minutes Paul Cunningham’s long-range free kick was pushed over by Hugo and moments later Stuart Montgomery’s shot hit Swans defender David McNally (left) and the Sorrento loud appeals for handball were waved away by referee Michael Tolme.

Then on 32 minutes another Cunningham long-range free kick this time beat Hugo but the crossbar came to the Swans rescue. The home side suffered a blow moments later when Shaun Kilkelly limped from the field, he was replaced by Platten.

After absorbing all Sorrento’s pressure the Swans hit back late in the half. On 39 minutes a great run by Mansaray through the middle of the park was ended by a foul by Cunningham, but his pass had sent Wood clear and the youngster fired home from 10-yards. The Swans were left fuming after no advantage had been played but the goal was not awarded.

With half time approaching Thomas was found by McDonald but the midfielder fired well wide, and in first half injury time Morgan fired wide from eight-yards and at the break it was 0-0.

With the wind behind them, the Swans opened up brightly in the second half, and on 47 minutes Butshiire, who flies out to the Australian under-20 camp next week, played in Mansaray whose shot was blocked by Sorrento keeper Cyril Sharrock, who recovered well to claim the rebound.

The decisive goal came on 56 minutes, Webb was sent clear down the left by Brendan Craig and he whipped in a pinpoint cross which was swept home by Scali from close-range.

It was almost 2-0 eight minutes later, Craig’s free kick found Cole, who headed inches past the post with Sharrock well beaten, and Craig’s curling free kick went inches past the far post moments later.

The home side almost caught the Swans napping with a quick free kick on 72 minutes, Morgan sent Todd Harnwell clear on the left but his cross missed everyone in the penalty area and the chance was lost.

Sorrento coach Steve Neville moved Danny Hill up front to partner McDonald, as the home side looked for the equaliser and on 80 minutes he crossed to McDonald whose header was saved low by Hugo. Then on 82 minutes Thomas’ corner from the right found McDonald whose header was superbly cleared off the line by Mansaray.

The Swans were defending well with Cole and McNally outstanding at the heart of the back four, but with time running out Sorrento began to throw everything forward. On 88 minutes it was Thomas’ pinpoint corner that found Hill who headed inches past the post, and in injury time it was Thomas again who found McDonald whose header beat Hugo, but again Mansaray (right) came to his sides recue clearing off the line again to secure the points for the Swans.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln was proud of his players in the hard fought win. “We withstood their aerial barrage in the first half and rode our luck at times but I thought we over ran them at the end, and the lads worked really hard today and I’m delighted to get the three points,” said Lincoln.

“Aaron Cole was superb, he led by example out their today, but the contribution of the whole side was excellent and we head home to take on the league leaders next week,” added Lincoln.

Sorrento coach Steve Neville was very disappointed after the game. “We had a lot of possession in the first half but it was still scrappy, but in the second half we never turned up. They wanted it more than us today all over the park, it was a very disappointing performance,” said Neville.

SORRENTO : GK Cyril SHARROCK, 2 Danny CAIN, 4 Shaun KILKELLY (6 Daryl PLATTEN 33’), 7 James MORGAN (8 Brodie MARTIN 75’), 9 Todd HARNWELL, 10 Stuart MONTGOMERY, 11 Lewis FLATT, 12 Paul CUNNINGHAM, 13 Steve McDONALD, 18 Glen THOMAS 20 Danny HILL - SUB NOT USED: RGK. Michael LAWSON, 3 Stuart BANKS, 28 Cameron YORKE. - Yellow Cards - Cunningham 38’, Platten 92’

SWAN UNITED – GK Cory HUGO, 2 Dom Ando, 3 Trent WOOD, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO (10 Steven GUEST 92’), 7 John MANSARAY, Shane WEBB, 11 Million BUTSHIIRE (16 Niall HUGHES 86’), 13 David MCNALLY, 14 Brendan CRAIG, 19 Aaron COLE, 20 Damian SCALI - SUBS NOT USED – RGK Alex SUTTON, 12 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 17 Owen CURTIS - Yellow Cards - Nil

Referee - Michael Tolme - Assistants - Stephen Knight and Tony Chorley

Att: 200 (Approx)

15.08.09 - Breen sends young Swans into cup final - Report by Andy Webb

A late goal from Karl Breen has sent Swan United under 18’s into the final of the Soccer Pools Cup, after a 3-2 win against Cockburn City at Frank Drago Reserve this afternoon.

It was a great team performance from the young Swans and they had to do it the hard way after Andrew Catalano was sent off before half time. “We had to fight hard in the second half, after Andrew was sent off, but all the boys were great and we defended well and hit the lead late. I’m absolutely delighted for the club and more important the players,” said Swans Coach Gary Mateljan.

Swans opened the scoring after only three minutes, with Niall Hughes scoring a header at the near post from a corner. Swans and Cockburn both missed chances as the game opened up, but it was Cockburn who equalised with a good shot from the edge of the area on the half hour.

The Swans soon hit the front again with a goal taken coolly from the edge of the area by Tim Hill into the far post. However Cockburn were not to be out done and scored a cracking goal a couple of minutes from half time amid calls of off-side. Catalano was issued a yellow card for disputing the goal and then shown a second yellow for further dissent, somewhat harshly, and sent from the ground. The half ended at two goals each.

Cockburn started the second half pushing forward with the aid of a strong wind, which only got stronger as the half progressed, and an extra man. Swans defence dug in. It was tough going for Swans playing a man down against a very strong breeze. Both keepers made some excellent saves with Swans keeper Jordan Howell pulling off a magnificent saves well into the half to keep Swans alive. Then Shane Webb made a well timed tackle in the area to avert another goal scoring opportunity for Cockburn. It looked like the game might be heading for a draw and a penalty shoot out when with only five minutes remaining Webb hit a long goal ball to Hughes who headed on for Breen to run on and slot away the winner from the edge of the area.

“We had to work hard in the second half against a strong breeze and down to ten men but we got the ball down and tried to play some football and keep possession and it worked,” said Breen.

“It was tough but Gary made the change moving a player back into the middle of the park and we had to support Niall up front and I was happy to score the winner,” added Breen.

10.08.09 - Swans beat the Dolphins

Swan United 1 (Cole 80) Mandurah City 0

Swan United completed a league double over Mandurah City with a hard fought 1-0 win in round 16 of the Football West Premier League on Saturday at Francis Street. The Swans won 3-1 away earlier in the season, their first league win of the season, and Saturday’s three points moved Paul Lincoln’s side closer to an FFS top five series spot.

It was Mandurah, who opened the better, with Chris Wylie and Michael Currie causing problems down the flanks, and they had a number of chances. Farrell Hedges and Nicky Platt should have done better but Cory Hugo saved well to keep the Swans in the game. The best chance for the Swans fell to Perth Glory Youth striker Million Butshiire; he cut in from the left and fired inches past the post.

The second half was a very even affair with both teams trying to gain ascendancy with no real gains. A Brendan Craig cross from the left found Damian Scali who’s well directed header was saved by Mandurah keeper Phil Straker.

Both backlines were well on top in the second half with Aaron Cole and David McNally dominate for the home side while Ryan Townsend and Jay Bonser did likewise for the visitors. In the midfield Swans John Mansaray and Mandurah‘s Craig Young were battling for supremacy in the middle of the park as the game hung in the balance.

The decisive goal came from a free kick on 80 minutes. Craig’s well delivered ball into the box saw Cole and Shane Webb compete with Mandurah keeper Straker. The keeper seemed to have control of the ball but on his way down dropped it into the net. The linesman, who was in a perfect position, flagging straight away for the goal, and there were no complaints from the Mandurah players, and it was a vital goal for the black and whites.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was delighted after the game. “We were under the pump early, but Cory Hugo made some great saves to keep us in the game. Once we settled we created some chances but the final header or shot was not a threat,” said Lincoln.

“We began to get on top midway through the second half, and we managed to get the winner late which was very pleasing,” added Lincoln.

Teams - Swan United – GK Cory Hugo, 4 Robert Monterosso, 13 David McNally, 19 Aaron Cole, 14 Brendan Craig, 9 Shane Webb (11 Niall Hughes 83’), 2 Dom Ando (17 Joshua Tumeo 89’), 7 John Mansaray, 10 Million Butshiire, 20 Damian Scali (12 Rory Hollingham 78’), 3 Trent Wood - Subs not Used – RGK Danyal Bennett, 15 Chris Marshall

Mandurah City - GK Phil Straker, 2 Ryan Townsend (10 Mark Walsh 68’), 3 Nicky Platt, 5 Jay Bonser, 6 Darren Broxton, 7 Chris Wylie, 9 Steven Payne, 11 Michael Currie, 12 Jake Loreto (8 Andy Brown 54’), 14 Farrell Hedges, Rafael Insurralde 78’) 15 Craig Young - Subs not used - RGK Mitchell Henderson-Miller, 4 Jason Godfrey

Referee - Joe Fusari - Assistants - David Scragg and David Currie

Dugdale leaves the Swans on a high

Swan United defensive midfielder Paul Dugdale’s season at the club has ended when he returned to his US College, along with David Perich, to finish his studies, but he left on a high with victory in their final game at Armadale

The former Burnley FC trainee had settled in well at Francis Street and he hopes to return for 2010. “My time in Perth has been great. The place has been a good experience and I have especially enjoyed my time playing with Swan. Paul Lincoln, the players and everyone at the club have been great to me and made sure I felt welcome from the off,” said Dugdale.

“The club has a great environment, a real close knit set of players and staff. It makes training and match days enjoyable, and people are there for the love of the game, which is a big appeal,” he added.

The 23-year-old left on a high with victory in his final game at Armadale, and he was delighted to end his stint on a high. “Both David and I knew how big the game was for us and the club, and were determined to come away from our last game with a win. I thought the first half was easily poised but in the 2nd our quality came through, and I felt it could have easily been 4 or 5. We were both delighted to leave Swan with a win,” explained Dugdale.

There has been talk of a return to Perth next season, but studies come first and he also has some unfinished business in the UK. “I want to give football a go in England once I graduate, and whilst I am still young. I love England but also want to venture the world a bit, and come back to Australia. I have spoken to the club about coming back next year, and they seem keen so I don't see why not. Hopefully we can stay in touch and things can be sorted for next season,” he added.

Swan Coach Paul Lincoln thanked both players for their contribution to the side in their eight game stints. “Both have been great for the club and I'd like to wish them all the best with their studies. Paul has been great for the team and he will be missed, he had an impact in all games. Technically good, reads the game well and is a good decision maker, all in all a quality player," said Lincoln.

"We've spoken to him about next season and depending on his studies he may be able to return for the majority of next season, which will be great," he added.

It couldn’t have started and ended better for Dugdale with victories in both games, and his debut for the club is a special highlight for him to take back to the US. “The first win against ECU was special as we played superb on the day, and to end my stay with the win on Saturday, just because of its importance to me and David, as well as the club as a whole, was also special to me,” said Dugdale.

Damian Scali 100 not out

When Damian Scali converted a 73rd minute penalty against Canning City on Saturday he became the first Swan United player to score 100 goals. Scali, 34, is understandably thrilled at reaching a century of goals. "It is a little bit of an honour to reach this milestone, and all for the same club makes it quite rewarding," said Swan's longest serving player. "When you think about it though, there has really only been three or four players who have played enough games for Swan - Trevor Hatton, Justin Hugo and my cousin Carlo - to achieve this for Swan ... and they probably set all of my goals up!"

Scoring a century of goals was far from Scali's mind when he made his senior debut for the black and white in 1995. "I played my first league game at home against Stirling Toscany, our coach at the time Mickey Cairns told me to follow Gordon Todd wherever he ran," Scali explained. "We won 2-1 and I scored only to be dropped to the reserves the next week to make way for league players coming back from injury, so I guess I thought at that stage I would be lucky to play again let alone score 100 goals. However, as a 11-year old boy helping my dad move the sprinklers on the pitch during the summer months I did used to pretend scoring goals for the first team."

There are many magical memories scattered amongst Scali's 100 goals. "The best goal I scored was against Fremantle City in 2000 when we were on top of the ladder playing against the eventual champions. I played a one-two with Nigel Aubin and tried a very speculative left foot volley from just in front of the centre circle

- somehow it found the net," he said, still somewhat bemused. "All the goals I've scored at our home ground have been enjoyable, but I would have to say the hat-trick I got against Ashfield when we were playing the second last game of the season and the loser basically got relegated was the most important."

Scali admits he almost gave the game away earlier in the year. "I did toy with the idea of retirement and I still am. The main reason is because of injury, I seem to be finding new injuries and illnesses every week and struggling to make Saturday games. Also, my job as a deputy principal takes a lot of energy out of me and does take me away from training on a few occasions," he said. "But I just love playing on Saturdays. I still get nervous on the morning of the game and I'm not sure how I'm going to go sitting on the bench watching the black and whites play ... it will no doubt kill me!"

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln has been delighted with the contribution of Scali in his two years at the helm of the club. “Damien has been great ever since I took over the coaching role at the club. He’s had a good season, but the past 4 weeks Damien hasn’t been able to get his body 100% so we are managing it through so he can see out the season. He is our leading goal scorer and therefore he is a very important member of the team, to score 100 goals is a credit to him and his finishing ability,” Lincoln said.

A few more goals would be the ideal way for Scali to commemorate Swan's trip to Dorrien Gardens this Sunday. "The season is so close from last to fourth, a win could put us in the top five and a loss could put us second last. We can still get relegated and still make the top five so every week is vital," he said. "We have had some great wins over Perth in my time, however, they generally have had the wood over us. We need to think of it as a big game and if we do that our guys tend to lift no matter who plays for us. If we can do that we are capable of bringing home the points."

18.07.09 - Swans let it slip late at Canning

Swan United threw away two points in a 3-3 draw against Canning City at the Willetton Sporting Complex, when a goal two minutes from time gave 10 men City a point, in Saturday’s round 13 clash.

Canning opened brightly and they were ahead on five minutes, Greg Newcombe scoring from close-range. The home side were dominating, but against the run of play the Swans levelled, Shane Webb heading home at the back post on 27 minutes. Canning went into the break leading 2-1, when Aaron Cole brought down Roberto Lujan in the penalty area on 41 minutes and Daniel Trevsiol scored from the penalty spot.

Three minutes into the second half the Swans levelled again, David Perich sliding home a Damian Scali cross from the right. The home side had former Swan defender Jonathan Mathers sent off on 66 minutes, and the Swans went ahead seven minutes later, Scali scoring his 100 th goal for the club from the penalty spot after Paul Dugdale was brought down by Luke Doyle.

The Swans should have wrapped up the points and had four or five chances they failed convert, and second half substitute Paul Oliver made them pay, scoring a cracking free kick late on. - Full report later

It was a better day for the other Swan United team's - Gary Mateljan's under 18's won 2-1, with goals from Shane Karabacak and Karl Breen, while Dominic Ciullo's under 23's won 3-1, with goals from Niall Hughes, Andrea Terni and Matthew Catalano.

Alvarez shines in Swans cup victory

Swan United under 18’s made it through to the semi-finals of the Soccer Pools Cup on Saturday, with another good all-round team performance from Gary Mateljan’s side. One player who was outstanding in the game was 17-year-old Andy Alvarez (right v's Canning), the midfielder showed why first team Coach Paul Lincoln view’s him has a first team player of the future. Alvarez was delighted to reach the semi-finals with the under 18’s. “It was a good victory against Canning, who had beaten us 3-0 in our opening home league game. It’s been a fantastic effort from the players and it’s nice to be in a semi-final of the cup,” Alvarez said.

The youngsters has played a number of games for Domenic Ciullo’s under 23’s side and he made his league debut off the bench in Swans 3-0 win against Stirling Lions, he’s enjoying being part of the club. “It’s been great at the club this season. They have given me an opportunity to play this season, and I’m really enjoying my football. I’ve learnt a great deal from Linc’s and Dom in the senior sides, also Gary and Tony in the 18’s. I missed all last season with injury, so it’s nice to back playing this season,” Alvarez explained.

Swans first team Coach Paul Lincoln is delighted with the teenager’s progress. “Andy is a terrific player his vision is his strength, he passes the ball well, rarely turns it over and brings players around him into the game. His performances this season has warranted him a place in the first team squad. I expect he will make his starting debut within the coming weeks,” Lincoln said.

Alvarez also does extra training during the week to get his fitness up, and he hopes to continue on with his improvement. “My mate Luke plays at Sutherlands Park so I go there to train once a week, so I hope the extra sessions helps me,” Alvarez said.

With the season at the half way mark Alvarez is hoping the 23’s, who have only won two games this season, can get some more wins under there belts. “We’re playing some good football this year, but we’ve been unlucky in most games. I believe if we continue to play like we have been and get that little bit of luck, I believe we can push up the table in the second half of the season,” Alvarez added.

Swans youngster through to Cup Semi-Finals

Swans United under 18's progressed to the Semi-Finals of the Soccer Pools Cup with a 4-0 win against Canning City at Alfred Skeet Oval on Saturday. First half goals from Andrew Catalano, on 24 minutes and Tim Hill nine minutes later set the platform for the young Swans.

Further goals from Catalano four minutes into the second half and man of the match Andy Alverez on 77 minutes wrapped up a good victory.

It was a good all-round team performance with Mathew Johns and Owen Curtis solid at the for Gary Mateljan’s side. (Full report later)

Deeg answers Swans S.O.S.

Former Perth SC keeper Gareth Deeg will don the gloves again in the Premier League for the first time since round 21, last season, when he begins a three game stint with Swan United on Saturday. The 31-year-old has been signed by the Swan Valley club to cover for first team keeper Cory Hugo who is overseas.

Ironically Deeg’s last Premier League game was for Perth SC, against the Swans opponents on Saturday evening, Floreat Athena. He is happy to help out the club and is looking forward to the stint. “Yes I’m looking forward to my time there, hopefully it’s like riding a bike and I have not forgotten too much,” Deeg joked.

Swan United Coach is delighted to have Deeg on board. "Gareth will provide the perfect replacement for Cory, he brings experience and although not match fit he has the quality to hold his own in this league," Lincoln said.

The last time the former ECU Joondalup, Sorrento, Stirling Lions and Perth keeper, played against the Swans he was in goal for the Swans great rivals Perth, but on Saturday he will be trying to keep them out for Paul Lincoln’s side. “Perth Soccer Club is still "my club”. If my work and family commitments were not as much as they are I would still be there. But in saying that, I’m not, and so it’s great to be able to help Linc’s and the boys out as well as the club.

“I appreciate what football in WA has helped me achieve and it’s what brought me to WA, so to help out or put back in is not a problem for me,” Deeg said.

He has big shoes to fill with Swans custodian Cory Hugo, having been in superb form between the sticks this season, but Deeg believes the club has been on a good roll too. “The Swannies are in form and I guess Cory has been to. But there is no stress or pressure as I’m here to help the boys as the best I can and that’s all I can do. It’s a good start for me at the Litis Stadium on Saturday, over the last couple of years my biggest games for Perth have been against Athena. I like playing them as they have a good support base and they always tell me how much they "love" me when we meet,(the fans that is),” Deeg explained.

He will team up with a former Dorrien Gardens teammate at Francis Street, with club Captain Aaron Cole at the heart of the Swans defence. “It just makes my job so much easier with big Coley in front of me. He is a great player and an asset to any team he plays in, but it will be good to have a familiar face in front of me, just in case I forget all the others,” Deeg said.

For Deeg, who again ironically, was joint 2005 Football West Goalkeeper of the Year with Swans Cory Hugo, it’s not his first game in 2009. He played for Wanneroo last week against Fremantle Spirit, but is there still a thought he will come back to play next season? “Last week I was asked by Gerry McEwen at Wanneroo to help them, and I really enjoyed it to be honest, but the body the next day is telling me different. As for next year at this stage I will say no, I do miss the Saturday games, but I just have too much trouble training at night being a shift worker, and I have been doing other things to keep fit, so I won’t say never again but the odds are against it,” Deeg explained.

Under 18’s play Canning City in Cup quarter Finals

Swan United under 18’s have been drawn to play Canning City at Alfred Skeet Oval in the Quarter Finals of the 2009 Soccer Pools Cup. The game is to played on July 4 th at the home of Armadale SC

The draw was made today on ‘The World Football Show on Radio Fremantle, and draw was made by Football West Public Relations and Events Coordinator Kiera Treloar.

The full draw

1st Team - Perth SC v Stirling Lions - Dorrien Gardens

23’s - ECU Joondalup v Stirling Lions

18’s - Cockburn City v Sorrento

1st Team - Western Knights v South West Phoenix - Nash Field

23’s - Bayswater City v South West Phoenix

18’s - Bayswater City v Fremantle Spirit

1st Team - Armadale v Floreat Athena - Alfred Skeet Oval

23’s - Mandurah City v Floreat Athena

18’s - Canning City v Swan United

1st Team - Inglewood United v Shamrock Rovers - Clipsal Stadium

23’s - Inglewood United v Dianella White Eagles

18’s - Inglewood United v Dianella White Eagles

Dugdale at home in Perth

Swan United new import Paul Dugdale has enjoyed his first month at the Premier League club. The 21-year-old was recruited by the Swans for a ten week stint along with David Perich, from Cardinal Stritch University over in Milwaukee, where he was captain of the side.

The English born defensive midfielder has settled well at Francis Street and Western Australia. “Settling in has been easy, the boys at the club are brilliant. From the first day everyone went out of their way to make me feel welcome and a part of the team.

“WA is a great place; I’m situated in Ballajura so I haven't been able to venture around too much, but from what I have seen I have been very impressed, and the weather for winter is not bad either,” Dugdale said.

He made his home, first team debut, on Saturday in the Swans 4-1 win against ECU Joondalup and believes the team is playing some good football at the moment. “I was really confident going into the game, and I think a lot of people underestimate the quality we have at the club.

“The game started off brightly on our part, and once we got the first goal, we always looked like we could get a few more. ECU is a tough team, and I thought our players did very well keeping their composure after some questionable tackles. It was a good team performance and every man played a part in the victory,” Dugdale explained.

He learnt about the club from Swan midfielder David Perich, who played in the same college team, and he was keen to get over here and play. He heads back in August to finish his final year, studying communications over there with a Sport Management minor. “I’m going into my fourth and final year there, and on the pitch we have a good team with a large array of nationalities. I return in August for pre-season in the US, but I hope to push the Swans up into a top five position.

“Having seen quite a few of the other teams, I really believe Swan can easily push for a top 5 spot. I thought that the way we played against Western Nights who are comfortably third, was an indication of where we should be in the league. As long as we can stay injury free, there are a lot of winnable games that are to come for us in the next few weeks, and hopefully we can carry on our form that has seen us beat some quality teams recently.” Dugdale said.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln has been impressed with Dugdale since joining the club. "Paul has been great since his arrival, it’s obvious to see he has been well coached as a junior and understands the game very well. He is relaxed on the ball, has a terrific left foot and can pin point crosses," Lincoln said.

Dugdale was a member of the Burnley FC youth academy side in the UK for a number of years, before heading to the states and he enjoyed his time at the Lancashire club. “From the age of 10 I was at Burnley FC's youth academy. I spent almost five years there until I wasn’t offered a new contract. The highlight for me was obviously playing for the team I support Burnley, who are now in the Premier League. I went on a few tours around Europe with them which were great, but probably the actual signing of my first contract will always be a moment I will remember for the rest of my life,” Dugdale said.

“I then went on to play for a team called Burnley United for two years in which time I suffered a bad injury, fracturing my femur which put me out for quite a while. Not long after I was approached about going to the US,” he added.

The former Clarets youngster was rewarded for a good season in the University side with a place in the leagues team of the year, which he was happy about. (right) “It was a great reward for a good season, so I was extremely pleased. It is not easy as there are so many teams and players that you are competing with. It was the first time for me as well, I have come close before but never been named,” Dugdale said.

His College Coach is Jeff “Bo” Bohacek and he was delighted with his season and his selection in the league select side. "Paul was another captain for us that was solid defensively because he has great field vision, keeps the ball in his possession, and plays with an attacking-style that would make opponent's forwards turn into defenders," Bohacek said.

"When guys like Paul would make a stop and get the ball up to midfield, that's where we become dangerous. He became the distributor, won 50/50 balls, and took control of the offense,” Bohacek added.

Dugdale scored three goals, as the Wolves, the side’s nickname, ended the 2008 season in second place. He has been asked many times about the standard of football in the college system compared to Perth, but believes it’s pretty even. “David and I have been asked a lot how the standard compares to over there, and I would say that all in all it is quite similar.

“We play against better teams over there but we also play against teams that would not stand a chance in this league, and the main factor is fitness over there. Every team has 15-16 players who can play 90 minutes at an intense level, and most teams including ourselves train everyday which makes a big difference,” Dugdale explained.

06.06.09 - United to strong for ECU Joondalup

Swan United moved to sixth place in the Football West Premier League after a 4-1 win against ECU Joondalup in their round eight clash at Francis Street today.

David Perich gave the home side the lead on 11 minutes converting a Shane Webb cross and it was 2-0 eight minutes later. Defender David McNally scored his first goal for the black and whites firing home from close-range after a Paul Dugdale corner.

The visitors had a lifeline on 28 minutes when Tommy Amphlett finished clinically past Cory Hugo, after a quick break from Jamie Watt, but three minutes before the break United made it 3-1. Damian Scali heading home a pinpoint free kick from Dugdale.

It was an even second half, with new United striker, Million Butshiire coming on to make his league debut, and he was involved in the fourth goal. A great run by Brendan Craig found the Australian youth international striker and his shot crashed off the base of the post, but Perich was on hand to fire home from six-yards. (Full report later)

In other games United’s 23’s drew 1-1 with ECU Joondalup, while the under 18’s went down 0-1.

05.06.09 - Swans host ECU Joondalup in round eight

ECU Joondalup visit Francis Street on Saturday, (3pm) in an important match for both sides in round of the Football West Premier League.

The Swans weren’t involved in the cup last weekend and it gave Coach Paul Lincoln an opportunity to watch Saturday’s opponents when they were beaten 1-4 by Perth SC, and some time few a few niggling injuries to clear up. “Last weekend with the bye I gave the team the weekend off and went down to watch ECU play Perth in the Soccer Pools Cup. After a good start ECU fell away and was well beaten. The week off was good for the club we had a excellent Golf Day on the Sunday and the break has refreshed the players and were looking forward to Saturday’s game,” Lincoln said.

The Swans were beaten in their last game at the Knights, but a good second half pushed the third place Knights all the way. “Our last game against the Western Knights we conceded two goals from free kicks that were not followed up which is disappointing as we should of learnt from the first goal. Although we didn’t play well enough to win the game I thought we deserved a point and if we had a better referee we may have well got one,” Lincoln explained.

On the ECU Joondalup clash Lincoln said: “Today game is important and we want to get back to winning ways and a victory will see us move to equal points with our visitors. We expect a physical tough game and hopefully we continue our good form at home,” Lincoln added.

In team news Trent Wood is still in the Fox 8 ‘Football Superstars house, while Steven Guest is suspended. New recruits Paul Dugdale and Million Butshiire are in line to make their home league debuts while David Perich (left) plays his first home game since his return from the USA.

ECU Joondalup won their last league game comprehensively at Canning City, 4-1. In team news Chris Emms may have played his one and only game for ECU this season. Chris arrived from Newcastle Blue Star in the UK, but suffered a severe hamstring strain one day after accepting our offer. He had not played for six weeks and was withdrawn within 15 minutes of the cup tie against Perth last week, and It is now likely that Chris will return to UK.

Meanwhile Scott Bushby has departed for a long stint in the UK, and defender Charlie Comyn-Platt is in doubt with a shoulder injury but will have a late fitness test.

Skipper leading from the front

After a poor start to the season for Swan United, many had them to be sitting at the bottom of the table for most of the season. But with some good recruiting from Coach Paul Lincoln, the Francis Street club have picked up over the past month, with wins at Mandurah City and at home against Sorrento.

A major reason for the turn around is the form of club captain Aaron Cole (right in action against Sorrento), and he is leading from the front. An injury last season hampered the central defender, but he is fit and is enjoying his football this season. “The body is good this year, and I’m enjoying trying to teach the younger players in the squad this season. They give me a great deal of respect and I'm very happy to help them, in fact I'm looking forward to playing on again next year,” Cole said.

Cole believes the squad has improved greatly since the night series, which the Swans failed to win a game, and the opening league game when they were thumped 0-6 at Cockburn. “Our squad was a little bear at the start of the season and we’ve worked hard, and the players have got over injuries and become fitter, and the squad numbers have increased therefore meaning greater competition for spots, which is good for the club” Cole added.

The club has given starts to some of the younger players, the likes of 17-year-old Shane Webb, 19-year-old Brendan Craig, and with the additions of new signing 17-year-old Million Butshiire, the club has a young squad, and Cole believes they will become stronger the more games they play. “The squad is very young, but Linc’s has always said, if they're good enough it doesn't matter how old they are. Shane and Brendan have been in the top 3-4 players every week, and hope they continue to do so and Million has trained well and is very close to his debut which will be exciting to watch.

“Also David Perich has returned from the US and Paul Dugdale has arrived too. Both have settled in well and have added more quality to the squad,” Cole explained.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln had no hesitation in giving the captains arm band to Cole last season, and the big defender hasn’t let him down. "Aaron to me is the best defender in the state league and I had no hesitation in making him the Captain. He was outstanding at the Knights last week and was voted best on ground for us. "His performances on match days are consistently very good, while off the park Aaron is well respected and his generosity is endless," Lincoln said.

It’s a big game on Saturday for the black and whites, with ECU Joondalup visiting Francis Street, and Cole is hoping to continue their good recent form. “The game will be close and given the past, they have all been entertaining games. If we play like we have in the past three weeks I feel confident of a home win,” Cole added.

31.05.09 - Swans youngsters romp into the next round

Queens Park 1 Swan United 8

Swan United under 18's are through to the next round of the Soccer Pools Cup after a 8-1 win in today's second round tie against Queens Park at Dalmatinac Park. A hat-trick from Niall Hughes, Dara McNally 2, and Tim Hill, Christian Lopez and Andy Alvarez saw Gary Matljan's side cruise into the next round..

A superb first half performance from the young Swans saw them 5-0 up at the break, with Hughes, Shane Webb and Tim Hill outstanding in the first half. Queens Park came back into the game in the second half and Blake Marklew headed home their consolation goal late on. Alvarez had a great game and the Swans defence, who were well marshalled by Matthew Johns, were well on top. (A full report later)

30.05.09 - Swans youngsters in cup action this weekend

Swan United under 18's are in cup action this weekend, when they travel to Dalmatinac Park on Sunday to take on first division side Queens Park (10.45am). The young side have improved over the past month, with victories at Mandurah and at home against Sorrento. A poor performance at the Knights last week, but Coach Gary Mateljan hopes they can turn that around against Queens Park on Sunday. "We've worked hard this week on the track and we've pointed out were we went wrong against the Knights last week. It was disappointing but we have to keep reminding the lads, for most of them it's their first season in the under 18's and they will get better," Mateljan said.

The coach is looking forward to the cup game and has told the players not to take the first division side lightly and in cup games anything can happen. "We have to go into this game switched on, because if we don't we will end up losing. We have everthing to lose and they don't, so on the day the lads will have to switched on from the first whistle," Mateljan added.

In team news Mateljan has added a few players to the squad and will go into the game as the only club representative in the cup competition. The squad is - GK Ben Musca, GK Jordan Howell, Daniel De Gasperis, Ben Sipos, Shane Webb, Neill Hughes, Mathew Johns, Owen Curtis, Dara McNally, Matt Lefroy, Braid Craig, Tim Hill, Christian Lopez, Simon Patterson, Andrew Catalano, Callum Gibbins, Josh Hardy, Josh Auguste, Jovan Duricic, Johnny Gedoes, Marcel Pyra              

Kick off is 10.45am, Dalamtinac Park, get down and support the lads !!!!!!

23.05.09 - Knights end Swans good run

The Western Knights ran out 2-1 winners against Swan United in today's Football West Premier League clash at Nash Field . It ended a two match winning streak for United, at a ground they still haven't won at in the Premier League. The Knights raced to a 2-0 half time lead through defender Okwy Diamondstar on 26 minutes and striker Mario Marcinko on 35 minutes.

The Swan hit the bar early in the second half when Brendan Knox met a Paul Dugdale cross and they had two penalty claims turned down by referee Kevin Taylor, before Damian Scali headed home on 89 minutes, from a Robert Monterosso cross. They almost took a point from the game late on, but it was the Knights who ran out 2-1 winners. (Full report later)

It was a bad day for United with the under 23's losing 2-1 and the under 18's going down 5-2.

22.05.09 - Swans take good form to Nash Field in round seven

The Swans hope to continue their good form when they visit Nash Filed on Saturday to take on Western Knights (3pm).

Nash Field has not been a happy hunting ground for the black and whites, having never won at the Mosman Park ground in the Premier League, but Coach Paul Lincoln hopes to continue their good form they showed against Mandurah City and Sorrento. “The last two weeks have been good, and was a credit to the team; I hope to continue were we left off last, as it really was a good team performance. We generally don’t win games in 90 plus minutes, we have a history of losing them.

“Our first goal was pure football and if our finishing was better we could have had more, again we defended well which is important. Confidence is high within the group and if we can continue getting these results we can look forward to an enjoyable season,” Lincoln said.

The coach was happy with the return of midfielder David Perich, who only arrived back in Perth on Thursday afternoon, and defender Robert Monterosso (left) in the Sorrento game. “I didn’t expect David to play as well as he did and I know he would have been disappointed with his performance, he will be better for the hit out and I’m expecting him to show us all his class whilst he is here.

“Monty had a terrific game and was my man of the match. He has the potential to be a very good player at this level, his fitness and well being is the key, he is a lot fitter this season and he knows what is expected to play in the team. His distribution has been letting him down at times and that’s something we need to get right,” Lincoln added.

The trip to Nash Field is always difficult but Lincoln is looking forward to the challenge. “It’s a tough assignment up at Nash Field, they are a very good side having won all their home games this season. We are well placed to cause an upset and go in with confidence and a strong squad,” Lincoln added.

In team news new import Paul Dugdale is available to make his club debut, while new signing Million Butshiire is available after his move from Perth SC on Monday.

Knights’ striker Mario Marcenko is in rare goalscoring form and comes off a hat-trick last week, and along with Anthony Campbell will cause the Swans defence problems.

The Knights will be without the injured David Price in midfield but with David and Daniel Micevski in good form the Knights will head into the game as favourites.

Webb shines for Swans

Many people believed Swan United would be struggling at this stage of the season, but Coach Paul Lincoln has not panicked and has been willing to give youth a chance. One of the young Swans to earn a spot in the side was 17-year-old Shane Webb. The youngster made his league debut in United’s first victory of the season at Mandurah City in round five and regained his spot in the 2-1 home win against Sorrento last week.

After a solid pre-season the teenager is enjoying his football at Francis Street. “It’s been great this season, and it’s good to get opportunity to play first team, although like all players I would like to play more. I think I’ve played well and deserve my place in the side, it’s up to me now to stay there,” Webb said.

The club have some experienced players, in Cory Hugo, Aaron Cole, Damian Scali and Costas Socratous and Webb believes they have been great in his and the other youngsters development at the club. “I think it’s important that senior players provide good support to the juniors. Last season I found it very frustrating, as I wanted to play senior football and wasn’t getting the opportunity. I spoke to the coach, Paul Lincoln, and he told me what was required. I believe my attitude this year has improved significantly, and Linc’s has noticed that and given me more of a chance, which I hope to continue. He has stood by his statement at the start of the season, when he said - ‘If they’re good enough I’ll play them what ever their age” - by giving me a run in the side, he has shown me encouragement this year,” Webb added.

Swans second year coach Paul Lincoln has been delighted with Webb’s form in recent weeks and hopes it continues. “Shane has had to be patient having played a number of games off the bench. He started his first game against Mandurah, and played very well in a position that he is not accustomed to. He is very strong for his age and has a lot of potential, with maturity and the right attitude Shane will develop into a very good player,” Lincoln commented.

The Parkerville teenager has played football for 13-years now and has loved the game as long as he can remember, with dad Andy and mum Ann taking him around the grounds. “I started at the age of four at Mundaring nippers, and played there until end of Under 11's. I then went to Perth Soccer Club for one year and then Sorrento from under 13's to under 15's, where I had Steve Neville as coach and he was excellent. Then I went to Swan and played under 18's, then reserves last year,” Webb explained.

Webb headed overseas for trials in the UK two years ago and enjoyed the experience. “I went over to a Chelsea camp and then to Rotherham for a couple of weeks. They said they were impressed however had already got their youth team for the season. I really enjoyed the experience and training at that level for two weeks and would love to try again sometime,” Webb said

To make his first start at Mandurah was great, and a win to boot was fantastic. He then topped that by starting against his former club Sorrento and coming out on top against them. “It was great to get a win at Mandurah, and to play the whole game was fantastic.

“The wing is not my preferred position, I really would like to play centre back or in the middle of the park but realise I have to be patient as there are good players in these positions. I am lucky that I can play a number of spots so have more chance of getting a game.

“Then to hold my spot in the side and play against my former club, Sorrento, last week and get the three points was great for me and David McNally who has just returned from them. I now need to be consistent and continue to improve my game to secure a permanent first team spot, and hopefully one day be noticed by the Glory,” Webb said.

Swans sign Australian Joey’s striker

The Swans season have picked up form over the past three weeks with two victories and a draw. Competition for places has also hotted up and this week the club signed Australian Joey’s striker Million Butshiire from Perth SC.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln is delighted to have signed the talent 17-year-old striker. “I have yet to see Mil play in a game situation, but from all accounts the kid is a special talent and to represent your country says it all. He will provide another avenue in attack and I’m hoping once he settles in to the squad he will score plenty of goals,” Lincoln said.

Butshiire goes into the Swans squad for Saturday's Football West Premier League clash at the Western Knights.

14.05.09 - Swans host Champions in round six

Swan United will hope to continue their form from last weeks 3-0 win at Mandurah City when they host Sorrento in round six at Francis Street (3pm)

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was delighted with last weeks win. “Last weekend’s win away to Mandurah was unexpected by the local football community, with some predicting it to be an easy high scoring win to Mandurah. It was a terrific effort from the players and to come away without conceding was reward for how well we defended,” Lincoln said.

He added: “Last week the return of John Mansaray and David McNally to the starting eleven added some much needed strength to the team. Both players have been missed and it was great to see them play well. Shane Webb also made his first start for the season and played well which should give him confidence going forward. Add to that the return of Cory Hugo has added experience and class. He organizes from the back which enables the team to keep its shape, his inclusion is another reason for our past two results, while Brendon Knox has also been in excellent form, whilst Brendon Craig continues to impress.”

This week last season’s Champions head to Francis Street and Lincoln is expecting a tough game. “Sorrento are a good team who haven’t started the season as well as I thought and with their loss last week we can expect them to be fired up to make amends. If we play with the same intensity and energy we did last week I’m confident we can take all the three points,” Lincoln explained.

In team news United will be bolstered by the return of playmaker David Perich from the USA and experienced defender Ross Holtom, who until recently was with English non-League club Southam United.

The Gulls were beaten 4-2 at Canning City last week and will be looking to bounce back. Steve Neville side has been plagued by injury and this week they have do go without Reece Vittiglia, Stuart Montgomery and Daryl Platten along with State defender Danny Cain, who is suspended.

Craig impresses at Francis Street

When former Inglewood United striker Brendan Craig (Below in action against Armadale at Francis Street - Photo by Brett Klucznik) joined Swan United he was hoping to bang a few goals away for the club who had just been beaten 6-0 by Cockburn City in the opening game of the season.

How wrong he was and Swans coach Paul Lincoln saw something in the 19-year-old and played him at left back and he hasn’t looked back with strong performances this season, and he was a stand out last week as the Swans won their first game of the season at Mandurah. “I’m enjoying my time here and the coach has told me if I play well I’ll be getting first team football which I wasn’t at Inglewood,” Craig said.

The youngster made a tough decision to leave Inglewood, a club he had been with all through his junior days, but believes he’s made the right decision. “I left the club with a heavy heart, but I wasn’t getting a game in the first team for some reason, they obviously didn’t like the way I played, but that’s all in the past. I’m a Swans player now and I’ll be doing my best for the black and whites,” Craig explained.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln has been impressed with the youngster. "Brendon has been terrific since his arrival, he has fitted perfectly into left back. Being left footed it provides the team with the balance needed. He is strong on the ball and has pace. He defends well and has the ability to get forward. He is good also at taking players on and he can throw the ball a fair way," Lincoln said.

Since joining the Francis Street club Craig has seen the side gradually build with a mix of youth and experience and he knew a win was just around the corner. “I knew we were improving each week and Paul had tinkered around with the side to get the right mix. We’ve also had a few injuries which doesn’t help, but the squad is looking stronger and the inclusion of defender Ross Holtom and the return of David Perich will improve it more,” Craig added.

He joined the club as a striker but he is enjoying the new role at the back. “I prefer to play as a striker but I’m prepared to play were Paul wants me to play. I’ve played in many positions in football so I’m enjoying the role at the moment and I’m enjoying playing first team football,” Craig added.

While at the Clipsal Stadium Craig won two reserves league titles and his Coach Kevin Brophy was sad to see him leave the club. “Brendan is a good kid, has all the basic requirements to be a force in the state league. In the past he has not put it all together consistently enough, however, there has been a change in him this pre-season as he seems to be determined to succeed. Problem was at Inglewood he had a couple of fellows ahead of him and his opportunity to step up was not going to be immediate, so when the chance with Swan came along he took it with both hands. He has good pace and strength and will worry defenders, I wish him all the best,” Brophy said.

10.05.09 - Swans leave Mandurah with the points

It was an historic day for the new Swan United on Saturday with all three teams notching their first league victories of the season.

A superb team performance from Paul Lincoln’s side saw them beat second placed Mandurah City 3-0 in Saturday’s Football West Premier League clash at the Hyundai Stadium. An own goal from Mandurah defender Ryan Townsend gave the Swans the lead on 17 minutes, and 11 minutes later Steven Guest (right) headed home a Brendan Craig free kick. A late strike from Thomas Shepheard made it 3-0, and Coach Paul Lincoln was delighted with his side’s performance. ““I’m really pleased for the boys today. We’ve been working on a few things at training and they paid dividends today.

“We had a game plan and the boy’s stuck to it which was very pleasing. Mandurah are a quality side and to score three goals here and not concede is a terrific effort from the players,” Lincoln said.

For Mandurah City assistant coach Billy Russell it was a disappointing performance from his side. “That’s probably the poorest we’ve played for a long time, but you’ve got to give credit to Swan. They were very well organised and deserved their victory.

“I thought Phil O’Callaghan worked his socks off up front without reward and Hayden Doyle was good. We’ve got to re-group now for next week and put this performance behind us,” Russell said.

It was a good all-round team performance with Aaron Cole, David McNally solid at the centre of defence while Brendan Craig continues to impress. The youngster injured a shoulder in the first half but played the whole game and was superb. Shane Webb impressed down the flanks while Brendan Knox, Costas Socratous and John Mansaray ran the midfield. Man of the Match John Mansaray (left) was delighted with the victory. “It’s a great win for the club, everyone worked hard and we deserved the points. It’s nice to get back, I’ve missed training for a few weeks with injury but I feel fine now and I hope we can continue with our improvement and climb the table,” said the Sierra Leone born midfielder. ( Full report later)

In other games Domenic Ciullo’s under 23’s won 4-3 against Mandurah. Mandurah were reduced to 10 men in the first minute, when keeper Michael Green handled the ball outside his box. Marco Taglieretti scored from the resulting free kick. Chris Marshall added a second and they were ahead 2-0 at the break. Mandurah hit back early in the second half, but second half substitute Matt Xerri made it 3-1with fifteen minutes remaining.

Mandurah continued to press and scored two quick goals to make it 3-3 with five minutes to go. With time running out Xerri scored his second with a quality goal to give the Swans a 4-3 win. Ciullo was happy with the result. “It was a hard fought win and we showed a great deal of character to come back and win the game late. We’ve been working on playing the full 90 minutes and it paid dividends today,” Ciullo said.

Gary Mateljan and Tony Oakes’ under 18’s won 2-1 to kick start their season. A great long-range goal from Andrew Catalano gave the Swans a 1-0 lead at the break, but Mandurah hit back to level with fifteen minutes remaining. The young side showed great character to bounce back immediately with Dara McNally scoring with great shot from the edge of the box.

Keeper Ben Musca made some vital saves in the match and McNally and young under 16’s player Josh Auguste hit the bar late in the game. Coach Mateljan was happy with the win. “First half we dominated and we had a lot of chances. But coming in at half time 1-0 was probably not enough, we should have been three up so we put pressure on ourselves in the second half. They got the equaliser in the second half and we started to play again and got the winner and could have add a few more, so I’m very pleased with the win,” Mateljan said.

08.05.09 - Swans head to mandurah in round five

The Swans go in search of their first league victory of the season on Saturday with a tough game at the Hyundai Stadium against Mandurah City (3pm)

United head south, after securing their first point of the season in a 2-2 draw with Armadale at Francis Street last week. Veteran striker Damian Scali scored twice, both from the penalty spot, and they were leading 2-1, but a late strike from Armadale striker Kevin Bissett denied them victory. Swans Coach Paul Lincoln is looking forward to the clash. “All games are big for us and Mandurah are no exception. They have started the season well having taken nine points from a possible 12.

“Stuart has added a number of quality players to his squad and he has a very good team who will expect three points at home. We are looking forward to the challenge and will focus on what we need to do and hopefully get our first win of the season,” Lincoln said.

In teams news Costas Socratous trained well and is available after injury while David McNally goes straight into the squad after his return from Sorrento. Steven Guest is in doubt after he was carried off against Armadale last week.

Stuart Currie’s side are coming off a 2-0 home win last week against Canning City, with Phil O’Callaghan and Christian Paw on target. It was their first hoe win of the season and Currie hopes to continue that on Saturday. “I was very happy with the three points against Canning City, we battled hard but we always felt we were on top and once we got the first goal we looked very comfortable,” Currie said.

On Saturday’s game against bottom of the table Swan United, Currie believes it will be a tough game. “Swan are a good young side and it is always hard to beat teams that are having a hard time, we expect a very tough game and if we get the three points then we will be happy,” Currie added.

In teams news Currie has a number of players with niggling injuries and are doubtful for the game and will have late fitness tests.

McNally heads home to the Swans

Last season 20-year-old David McNally burst onto the WA football scene and was a stand out at the back at Swan IC. He formed a great partnership with Swans skipper Aaron Cole, but he made the tough decision to leave his local club and head to green pastures, at Percy Doyle Reserve and signed for Sorrento. 

The move hasn’t gone to plan for the 21-year-old, who hasn’t appeared for the senior side this season, and the big defender has decided to head back to Francis Street and has re-sign for the black and Whites for the rest of the season. “It’s not gone as I would have hoped at Sorrento, but it’s been a good learning experience so far. Sorrento is a very professional club with a lot of experienced players and coaches and it has been good to learn a lot from these people. But I realised that if I want to reach my goal of playing for the Glory youth I need to play first team football.

“I stuck it out for as long as I could at Sorrento but in the end I couldn't afford to travel all that way and play reserves. I think first team football is what I need to be playing in order to develop my game, plus Swan is a great club with a great bunch of guys, committee and coaches. I’m Looking forward to wearing the black and white jersey again in the coming weeks,” McNally said.

McNally has been an ever present in the Gulls reserve side this season, and he made the transition from 23’s to league side last season at Francis Street and he hopes he can do it again on his return. “It was a big step from the 23's to first team. It’s a lot more physical and quicker but it one I believe I can achieve again. As a first team player you have to be switched on and focused for the whole game, and I was fortunate last year to play alongside Aaron Cole, which helped me with the step up from reserves to league, and if selected I’m looking forward to restabilising our partnership” he said.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln is delighted to have McNally back at Francis Street. “The return of David McNally is not only a plus for this week but for his duration at the club. I was extremely disappointed when he decided to move as he had such a terrific season last year finishing runner up to Aaron Cole. David is a fantastic player and adds depth and brings quality to the squad,” Lincoln said.

The defender still has no regrets about his decision to move to Percy Doyle reserve, but he is happy to be back at the Swans. “I’ve no regrets at all. I learnt a lot while I was at Sorrento, it’s a great club and is very professional, but its just a shame the first team squad had so many quality centre backs. It’s tough getting into the in the backline, with the likes of Steve McDonald, Shaun Kilkelly, Danny Cain, Michael Ord and Darrel Platten to compete with. I spoke to the club on Tuesday and told them of my decision and they wished me all the best when I left and were very professional. It will be good to come up against them in two weeks time in the league,” McNally added.

The ambitious defender aspires to play for the Glory, and knows he has to put the hard work in. “Hopefully I can work hard at the Swans and get noticed by the Glory, but I will just have to wait and see. I’ll be working hard at training and doing my best to get a spot in the side, and once I’m there keeping it,” he explained.

There is another McNally coming through the ranks at Swan United with David’s younger brother Dara performing well, and he was rewarded for his good form with a place on the first team bench against Canning City, David is delighted with his progress. “I believe if Dara works hard and concentrates on his football that he could cement a spot at the back in the under 23's and then eventually push for a first team spot. He is only 18 so he still has lot to learn about the game but I'm sure he will in time,” McNally said.

28.04.09 - Swan supporter banned for two years

Following an incident at Francis Street on April 11 th in the game between Swan United and Canning City a Swan supporter has been banned from the ground for two years, for his part in the ugly incident.

After a Football West inquiry last week, the club were fined $25, as some of the ground officials weren’t wearing their official’s jackets. They were also fined $350, plus $500 bond for the incident involving the supporter.

Swan United President Cos Coniglio said: “It was an unsavoury incident and one our club wants to stamp out immediately. We have fantastic support at our home games and with our merger with the Swan Districts Juniors we want to encourage the youngsters to come down and watch the senior team with their families, and we hope this incident doesn't stop this.”

“The club has made great strides in the community in the Swan area and we want this to continue, we hope this incident doesn’t undo all the hard work we’ve put in,” added Coniglio.

27.04.09 - SUFC Junior Season Launch

To help promote the success of the merge between Swan IC & Swan Districts Junior Association every parent / guardian, player, supporter, committee member & sponsors are invited to our Launch Day and be in a massive group photo on the day.

Where: Francis Street, Midland -Off Lloyd Street - (Home of Swan United Seniors)

When: This Saturday May 2 nd

If you’re wearing a Swan United FC shirt / polo top you get in for FREE!

Otherwise use your special entry pass!! Come and be in the massive group photo !

On the day we have -

11am - SUFC under 18's kick off - get down and cheer them on!

12.30pm - Group photo shoot - every parent / guardian, player, supporter, committee member & sponsor is invited to be in a massive group photo

1pm - SUFC Reserves kick off, cheer them on!!

2pm - Junior Coaches & Committee meeting

3pm - The Big Game - Swan United vs. Armadale - Watch the senior side play in the Football West Premier League

Food Beer Soft Drink will available at the Canteen........

You support is appreciated!

From the Junior Committee

10.04.09 - New boy’s head to Francis Street in Round Two

Premier League new boy’s Canning City are the visitors to Francis Street for Saturday’s round two game, the first at home for 2009 for the new Swans. (3pm)

City head to Francis Street after a 1-5 home defeat against Perth SC last week, but will be looking to open their Premier League account. The Swans will be looking to bounce back from last weeks horror show at Cockburn, and head Coach Paul Lincoln hopes that performance is out of his sides system come Saturday afternoon. “ The past two weeks we have conceded 10 goals which is not a good sign and shows we have some weaknesses. We did create opportunities in both games though and if they had been taken it may have had an impact on the outcome,” Lincoln said.

On Saturday’s game Lincoln hopes they can start their season with a good home performance, but they will have to do it without skipper Aaron Cole (left) who was sent off at Cockburn.. “We expect a hard game on Saturday, and I know that Canning are a good team. I have reminded the players this week the importance of winning our home games and making Francis Street difficult for visiting teams, so we hope to start off Saturday,” Lincoln added..

Canning have Perth Glory Youth custodian Devon Spence in goal a defence featuring loyal servants Garth Lecky and Duncan Hind along with new signings Jon Mathers and Admir Mehic. The centre of midfield is patrolled by Paul Oliver and former Swan, Rory Mouttet, while playing out wide are Simon Versaico and First Division Player of the Year Daniel Trevisiol, both of whom will cause headache for opposition players with their trickery and pace. The goal scoring responsibilities fall largely on Bolivian flier Roberto Lujan and the imported duo of Chaz Partridge and Floyd Duffy.

The reserves will look to bounce back from a 0-3 defeat at Cockburn and new Coach Dominic Ciullo is looking forward to his first home game in charge. “ Last week’s loss to Cockburn City was a wake up call to the boys, and we didn’t play well at all. We had a few shining lights in the game with Ben Lees showing great form.

“I know the players we’re disappointed last week and will be up for the game this week, and we hope to bounce back and get the three points; we just need to play our style of football. Canning will be a tough as its there first year in the top league. They we be very strong and well drilled. We’ve trained well this week and we hope to start our home games with a victory,” Ciullo said.

The Under 18’s also lost at Cockburn and Coach Gary Mateljan said: “I thought on Saturday at Cockburn we were clearly beaten by a better side. We had four to six players that have come from juniors, and they really found out what top level 18’s football is all about.

We hope we’ve learnt our lesson and we put in a good showing for our home supporters. We have gone back to basics on the training track and tried to get back to two to three touch football and a lot of running off the ball. Hopefully this will allow us to use and create space for us around the park as we did against Floreat the week before,” Mateljan said.

Admission prices are $8 adults, $5 concessions and under 15’s are admitted free. So get along and support the Swans !!!!! Also don't forget to pick up your new match day programme for $1 at the gate!!!!!

03.04.09 - A new era for Swan starts at Cockburn

Swan United plays their first game in the Football West Premier League when they travel to Dalmatinac Park to take on Cockburn City on Saturday (3pm)

Both sides were defeated last week in cup games, United going down 1-4 to Floreat while Cockburn lost 2-0 at ECU Joondalup.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln is looking forward to the game and is hoping his side can produce a winning start to their league season. “I’m expecting a tough game down at Cockburn, they have some influential players and we will need to play very well to take all three points.

“I’m pleased that we had a hard game last week and some positives came from it. I’m confident we can get something from this game and it’s important that we get the season off to a good start,” Lincoln said.

In team news new signing Brendan Craig will go into the squad after his transfer from Inglewood United, while Thomas Shepheard (left) and Bryan McDonald are nearing full fitness. Matthew Xerri is unavailable due to suspension.

Cockburn have recruited some talented young players and will be tough opposition. Johnny Mirco holds the key to their side, while Aaron and Jason dos Santos will need to be closed down. The Swans only won once on their travels last season and they will hope to get off to the right start on Saturday with the three points.

Admission prices at Dalmatinac Park are $8 adults, $5 concessions and under 15’s are admitted free. So get along and support the Swans !!!!!

Ciullo happy with first up victory

New Swan United Under 23’s Coach Domenic Ciullo was happy with his sides first up cup victory at Floreat Athena. A 7-3 victory was secured with goals from Connor Mahadey, Karl Breen, Matthew Xerri 2, Trent Wood 2, and Simon Williams, giving Ciullo a good start to his coaching career at the club.

“I think the side started very slow and that’s a bit of a worry. We were two nil down after 10 minutes, which was disappointing. Connor got us back into it with a nice goal and from then the boys work really hard to get a great result in the end.

“The good thing was we kept our shape for the whole 90 minutes and that is what will win you games. All in all pretty happy, this week we will work on the thing we need to improve on for Cockburn City,” Ciullo said.

One thing Ciullo was happy with was the team spirit shown by his players and he hopes it continues for the rest of the season. “I don’t think there was anyone to single out from the game, we had good team players doing good thing at the right time in the match. I was very happy with the first team players that came down and play for us, they played there part very well as they should,” he added.

Saturday’s game against Cockburn City is a big test but one Ciullo is looking forward too. “The exciting thing about coaching the 23 is you don’t know what’s coming up next, it’s week to week. Have no idea what Cockburn are like, the only thing I can do is get our team right for the game and do what we do WELL.

“It’s always a hard game down there and if we can shut them down from playing I think we will come away with the points,’ Ciullo added.

Goalkeeping clinics for Swan youngsters

If you are a budding goalkeeper and would like to improve your game then come along to the Professional Goalkeeping Session with Football West and National Training Centre Coach David Whalley.

He will holding five sessions at Midland Oval, Morrison Road and details are as follows :-

Start Time: 5.45pm - 6.45pm Thursday 30th April

Ages – 11 years and up.

Cost: $15 per session for next five Thursday sessions (30/04, 07/05, 14/05, 21/05 & 28/05)

Contact Nick Edwards on 0415 810 699 for further details

Learn from the best and improve your goalkeeping skills - See you there !!!!!!!

A season of frustration for Agudelo

It’s been a disappointing season for young Swan United keeper Daniel Agudelo. The Australian Schoolboys keeper has had to sit on the sidelines through injury which has been frustrating for the 21-year-old.

The injuries have been a nightmare of injuries for the united shot-stopper and he totally agrees. “As you said 'Nightmare' it’s very hard mentally and physically knowing you are capable of doing things but unable to produce cause you're limited.

“I was mainly struggling with a re aggravated back injury that kept me out of 2005 season, then adding to the injury list a knee reconstruction after playing against Armadale,” Agudelo said.

There is good news on the horizon for Agudelo although it will take some time and he will be out for most of 2009. “Unfortunately it's a very long rest for me. Basically all I can do is keep working hard on rehab to strengthen and stabilise my knee and leg,” Agudelo added.

It’s been disappointing for Agudelo this season, as he would have been first choice with Cory Hugo out injured. “Disappointing is an understatement, it would have been great to be playing first team, but right now ill be happy to just be playing. I try not to think about what I could of been doing, just what I need to do to get back, one step at a time,” Agudelo explained.

He may not be playing for the Swans but the young keeper is still putting something back at he Swan Valley club, and it’s a busy time as Swan United goalkeeping coach. “Yes I just can’t stay away from football. I want to be involved some how, and we have some talented keepers at the club. All I can hope for is that I can have positive impact on their development,” he added.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln said: “ Daniel Agudelo will more than likely return in  August – At one point last year Daniel wanted to take a break and the only positive from this injury is that he has had time to reassess his career. I’m looking forward to seeing him in action again and I hope he can make a strong comeback.”

What’s the future for Agudelo? “Well so far rehab is going well, the doctor believes if all keeps going well I should be back to training in four months. As for the pitch Ill probably wait till next year, although Lincs would like to hear I will be retiring my striker days,” joked Agudelo

26.03.09 - Swans head to Floreat for Cup first round

It’s a big day on Saturday, with the new Swan United taking the field in their first competitive match of the season, when they take on Floreat Athena in the first round of the Soccer Pools Cup at the E&D Litis Stadium (3pm)

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln hopes to improve from his night series campaign, when they only picked up one point. “Floreat are in good shape and have recruited well over the break. We know that they would have been disappointed with the game last Saturday night against Perth SC and will be looking to respond. They are expected to win this week, but we will try and make it hard for them. We’ve trained well this week and the lads look up for the game,” Lincoln said. The Swans will be without new striker Matthew Xerri and midfielder John Mansaray (left)through suspension and Paul Baczynski with injury.

For Floreat Coach Michael Roki he knows games against the Swans are always difficult and Saturday will be no exception. “You can never take anything for granted against Swan and we expect the visitors to be pumped and revitalized after the two weeks they’ve had to prepare for this match.

It’s important from our perspective that we bounce back from last week and don’t exit the Cup competition prematurely due to any form of complacency,” Roki said. In team news Ante Kovacevic could be in the mix this week which will be a plus for the team confidence, James Sammut is available after his transfer from Inglewood United, but Dean Apelgren is suspended.

Get along and support the Swans, admission price is $8 adults and $5 concessions. Under 15’s are admitted free!!!

Swans youngsters off to Sydney in ‘Football Superstars’ show

Swan United young midfielder Trent Wood will be jetting off to Melbourne in April to take part in the Fox 8 reality TV show ‘Football Superstars’ after topping the Perth leg of the show. For 19-year-old Wood it’s been a great experience and he is looking forward to the trip. “At the start of the day I was feeling a bit nervous, especially going into the first module, but after I did it and set the record for the day I felt a lot calmer.

“The cameras didn't really help the situation, when you’re trying to concentrate, but that just made an extra challenge for the day. The top 10 of Perth will now board a flight to Melbourne on the 24th of April, where we will spend the week end with the other states top 10. That will be difficult, but I’m looking forward to the challenge, and it’s then down to the top 50 from all the five states, competing for the top 15 spots. We will undertake all kinds of tests and fitness, and also be playing state vs. state over there, which will be tough, “Wood Said.

The teenager hopes to perform well in Melbourne, but knows it will be difficult. “Being the number one in W.A. doesn't make me feel any different from anyone else. At the end of the day I have to put my mind to it and do the best I can. I hope I can prove myself to Ernie Merrick by showing him how fit I am and how skilful I am on the football pitch,” Wood added.

Last year’s series proved a smash hit on FOX 8, with viewers tuning in to see Perth’s Adam Hett taking all before him in securing a contract with A-League side Sydney FC.

Melbourne Victory will provide the path to superstardom in series two, with two times Hyundai A League winning coach Ernie Merrick to put the contestants through their paces in search of that x factor that might prove the difference between victory and defeat in season 2009/10.

“There are so many talented young footballers out there, this is a wonderful opportunity for one of them to stand up and hopefully realize a dream.

‘The ability to perform under pressure and in front of an audience can quite often prove the difference between a good player and a brilliant one. With the camera’s rolling 24/7 this will give me a good indication on who has the presence and state of mind to perform on the biggest stage of all.” explained Merrick.

A meeting with former school mate Hett, before Sunday’s event was great for Wood and the 2008 ‘Football Superstars’ winner gave the teenager some hints. “It was good to catch up with Adam on Sunday, in fact I’ve been seeing him on a regular basis throughout the year, as we went to the same high school and played juniors together. He gave me some advice and a few pointers on the different modules, it made me feel a little bit more confident,” Wood said.

The former Forrestfield United youngster, who made his league debut in the state Premier League for the black and whites last season away at Mandurah City, is hoping to continue in 2009. “We haven't got off to the best start this season, but we are starting to gel as a team. Unfortunately we haven't been able to keep the same eleven each week in the night series due to injuries and work commitments, but I think with all the players back we will prove ourselves in the league. Coach Paul Lincoln has done well so far this year, and will continue to do so when the league starts,” Wood explained.

The Swans season starts this weekend with a Soccer Pools Cup tie at Floreat Athena and Wood hopes to start the season off with a positive performance. “It's a huge game this week against Floreat as they are a very strong side. I think we can cause an upset if we can run out the full 90 minutes and play our full strength squad. We struggled at the back last weekend against Wanneroo, but with Aaron Cole back things will be a lot more solid in the defence line,” explained Wood.

Ando confident of Swans revival - (Courtesy of www.footballwa.net)

Veteran Dom Ando is banking on a Cup win this weekend to kick-start his club's season. Swan United did it tough in pre-season, failing to win in five Night Series outings as coach Paul Lincoln experimented with players and various formations. But as the season proper draws nearer and the intensity in training steps up, Ando is predicting a strong year for his club. "With all players fit and available, we have the capability of being in the top half of the league," he stated.

The pre-season was used by Swan as a way of trying out various options in a competitive game setting. "I don't think you should read too much in our Night Series," said Ando, on the eve of his fourth season at Swan. "The results didn't go our way but Lincs tried different things in each game and rotated a few players around, trying out the younger players. Overall, we had a tough group and there were some positives which came out of it for us."

Swan have several new faces on board for 2009, amongst them former Green Gully (Victoria) striker Matthew Xerri, Stephen Guest, Ben Lees, Costa Socratous and goalkeeper Chris Ramsey. Ando has been pleased with his how new team mates have settled in at the club. "We're a friendly bunch at Swan and welcome any player who wishes to play for the club," he said. "Each of the new players has their own strengths and weakness', it's now a case of finding the right balance for the team."

But that task was made all the more difficult with David McNally and Alex Cocking leaving in search of greener pastures hot on the heels of Justin Hugo's retirement. "They are all big losses but we've got players who can step up and do the job," said Ando. "We've got some good depth this year and the Night Series game with Perth, which we lost 1-0, is a good example of that. We had quite a young side out that night and were a bit unlucky not to win the game."

Overall, Ando is encouraged by the quality of the new season Swan squad which he feels is capable of propelling the club into the top half of the table. "We haven't really discussed team goals yet but improving on last season would be a good start," said the nuggetty defensive midfielder. "It'll be a tough season for ever club, there's not a lot between teams and it's going to be close ... and hopefully we are one of those who are in the mix at the end of the year."

Swan's next assignment is on Saturday when they visit Floreat Athena in the opening round of the 2009 Soccer Pools Cup. "It's going to be a tough game for both teams and, as any other game, we'll all be focused on doing our job on the day," said Ando. "It's always good to have as many fans as possible supporting the team and hopefully we can send them home happy this weekend by knocking out one of the Cup favourites."

07.03.09 - United beat Windmills in pre-season friendly

Swan United continued their build up for the 2009 Football West Premier League season with a 4-2 victory against first division side Morley Windmills today at Wotton Reserve.

The Swans were 3-0 up after 20 minutes, Matt Xerri continuing his scoring with a stunning shot from long-range and skipper Aaron Cole and Damian Scali adding the others, the fourth goal came from Trent Wood. On target for Morley were Mitch Castrilli and Dion.

One sour note for United was the injury to Scali, who limped off after 75 minutes. Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was happy with the performance but knows the side must improve. “We’ve still got a long way to go but there were a number of positives today. Matt Xerri scored a stunning goal which will give him confidence for the season, and Costa Socratous was good in his first start for the club.

" Aaron Cole scored a great goal and was a rock at the back, we now need to lift the tempo in training and get ready for the cup game against Floreat Athena in a fortnight,” said Lincoln.

06.03.09 - Xerri settling in well at United

A big move for Swan United striker Matthew Xerri this season, the 23-year-old moved to the west from Victorian State league side Green Gully. He’s settled in well in the Swan Valley and is looking forward to the season ahead. “I’m loving my time at the club to date the playing group are great and it feels like home already,” said Xerri.

He opened his account for the Swans in their 2-2 draw against Western knights last week and hopes there is more goals to come. “It’s always nice to score early for a new club and it gives me confidence heading into the league. It’s always hard when you join a new club, but I’ve been getting a number of chances but haven’t had the luck. The goal I scored was from the penalty spot but moments earlier I thought I’d broken my duck but the Knights keeper made a good save to his right to deny me,” said Xerri.

Xerri, who played in the Victorian State League with Green Gully for five years, believes the standard of the league is quite similar. “The leagues are about the same but the intensity in Melbourne is higher I believe. You seem to have more time on the ball here, in Melbourne you’re closed down quicker, but on the whole the league is very competitive,” said Xerri.

The hard work starts in round one and Xerri believes the Swans will only improve, and the striker can’t wait for the season to start and he hopes to repay the faith Swans Coach Paul Lincoln has shown in him. “We’re working hard at training and once the injured players return we will have a good squad. Linc’s has been great and he shows great quality, and I believe he has what it takes to Coach back in Melbourne. His training sessions are excellent with plenty of work intensity, and with him being an ex-striker I hope to learn more from him this season,” added Xerri.

Lincoln is happy to have captured Xerri’s services and hopes he can find the net on a regular basis for the black and whites. “Matt has moved across from Melbourne and is still settling in, his performance in the night series was mixed.

“Matt is keen to improve his game and he has the right attitude for this. I expect with more games and him understanding his role in the team he will provide another attacking avenue,” said Lincoln.

06.02.09- Swans meet the Gulls in Night series round two

After last weeks 1-4 defeat against Stirling Lions, United face league champions Sorrento in the second round of the McInerney Ford Night Series at the E&D Litis Stadium on Saturday evening (6.30pm)

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was happy with the performance last week, their first of the season but hopes to see and improvement this week. “The scoreline wasn’t an issue to me we just ran out of legs in the last 15 minutes. It was our first real hit out for the season and I’m confident we will get better,” said Lincoln.

On Saturday’s game against Sorrento Lincoln is looking forward to the challenge. “We expect a physical game and are looking for an improved performance from last week. It’s also another opportunity for me to look at other player’s in the squad,” added Lincoln.

In team news David Paone is out with a leg injury, and John Mansaray is still troubled by injury, and Lincoln has rested youngsters Chris Marshall and Simon Williams. In to the squad comes Robert Monterosso, new import Bryan McDonald and youngster Jake Da Re.

McDonald is over from Scotland on holidays with Swans winger Andy O’Neill and Lincoln hopes he can give him some bite in the middle of the park. “He’s looked good in training and he will give us a strong presence in midfield. He played in Scotland in the SJFA East Region South Division for Harthill Royals. He’s working on his fitness at the moment but we’ll see how he goes on Saturday night,” added Lincoln.

The Gulls won 2-0 in their opening game of the series against ECU Joondalup, with goals from Ciaran Hughes and Todd Harnwell. Steve Neville has assembled a strong squad which includes former Francis Street favourite David McNally. He missed out last week but could get the nod against his old side.

Admission prices are $8 adults, $6 concessions and under 15’s are free. Get along and support the Swans.

Squad for the game:

Sorrento - 1 Neil Young, 2 Danny Cain, 3 Stuart Banks, 4 Shaun Kilkelly, 5 Michael Ord, 6 Daryl Platten, 7 James Morgan, 8 Brodie Martin, 9 Todd Harnwell, 10 Stuart Montgomery, 11 Lewis Flatt, 12 Ciaran Hughes, 13 Steven McDonald, 14 Daniel Darras, 15 Jake Harman, 16 Leo Harman, 17 David McNally, 18 Glen Thomas, 22 Steve Porter, 23 Dejan Gurovski, 28 Cameron Yorke, 29 Nicholas Trajkoski, 30 Garin Collins

Swan United - GK Chris Ramsay, GK Alex Sutton, Ben Lees, Paul Baczynski, David Paone, Chris Marshall, Trent Wood, Andy O'Neill, Danyal Bennett, Matthew Xerri, Tom Shepheard, Aaron Cole, Dom Ando, Damien Scali, Marco Taglieretti, James Di Giulio, Bryan McDonald, Brendon Knox, Christian Lopez, Jake Da Re, Geoff Mason, Robert Monterosso, Steven Guest.

30.01.09 - United face the Lions in night Series opener

A piece of history will be made on Sunday when Swan United plays their first official game, when they take on Stirling Lions in Round one of the Football West McInerney Ford Night Series.

After Tuesday’s first hit out of the season against Ashfield the Swans hope to continue with their build up to the 2009 Football West Premier League season.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln is not taking the night series games that serious and will use them to look at squad players, but anyone who knows Paul will know he will expect his players to battle hard. “It’s a good game to get first up, they are a decent side and it will show me were we are at.

“It will be our first serious hit out, as on Tuesday I had a look some other players. We’re not going out to win the night series as we’ve not really had the balls out yet but I will be looking for players to show me what they’ve got,” said Lincoln.

“I’m looking forward to the new season and we’re hoping to add a number of players to the squad, who we are in negotiations with at present,” added Lincoln.

It’s been a big season for the club and after a great deal of give and take between the two merged clubs, the football can now begin.

In to the squad from last season comes Chris Ramsey, Stephen Guest, Ben lees, James Di Giulio and Christian Lopez, we wish them all the best for the game and the season ahead.

The game is played on Sunday Evening 1 st February at the BGC Stadium - Dorrien Gardens with a 8.30pm kick off. Admission prices are $8 adults, $5 concessions.

Get along and support the new Swans!!!!!!

Swan United squad - GK Chris Ramsay, RGK Alex Sutton, Ben Lees, Paul Baczynski, David Paone, Chris Marshall, Trent Wood, Andy O'Neill, Daniel Bennett, Simon Williams, Tom Shepheard, Aaron Cole, Dom Ando, Damien Scali, Marco Taglieretti, James Di Giulio, Steven Guest, John Mansaray, Brendon Knox, Christian Lopez, Jake Da Re, Geoff Mason, Connor Mahady, Shane Webb

Lopez shines on his league debut for Swans

It may have only been a pre-season friendly on Tuesday evening between Swan United and Ashfield at Midland Oval, but teenager striker Christian Lopez put his stamp on the game scoring both goals in the 2-0 victory.

In his first start for the black and whites Lopez showed a great deal of maturity, scoring two well taken goals and the Guildford Grammar student has fitting in well in at the club he first played for as a junior. “Initially I played for Swan IC in the under 12's and played for three seasons thereafter. In year ten, football at Guildford became heavily time consuming and along with study prevented me from continuing club with Swan.

“Although I missed club soccer I was heavily devoted to my school for our PSA fixtures. Although not getting as many games per season as I would have at Swan I learned a great deal about captaincy and encouraging a team in my final year under the guidance of Paul Wozney, but it's great to finally get back to Swan,” said Lopez.

He’s been itching to get back into the game in the Premier League and has fitted in well at the club in the pre-season. “It has been great to get back to playing club soccer after three years of school soccer. Besides the merge the club has come along way since I last played for them, back in 2003.

“The quality of the playing group has improved across the board and it is safe to say Swan United can only look forward. The staff and playing group as a whole are all willing to give advice and are all determined on getting Swan United back to the quality of the Cup Final winning days. I am looking forward to working closely with my team mates; reserves coach Dom and Head Coach Paul Lincoln.

His brace against Ashfield was pleasing for the 17-year old and he was delighted to get on the scoreboard. “Scoring early on in the game against Ashfield gave me lots of confidence in my ability to gel with some of the quality players that the first team possesses. After been given an opportunity to play with a first team I was focused on learning my new positional role as a striker.

“For me Tuesday night's game was more about adapting to a holding forward role while getting to know how each player on the team works. Perfect passes from midfielders Brendan Knox and Dave Paone gave me confidence to hold up the ball and play it to midfielders like Trent Wood who had a great game. Overall I was delighted to wear the Swan United top and hopefully during the year I get a few more chances,” explained Lopez.

Swans Coach Lincoln was delighted on the way Lopez marked his debut for the club. “He showed a great deal in the game which was pleasing, he has the right attitude and I believe he has a bright future. He’s only 17 but he’s willing to listen and wants to learn which is fantastic. He’s strong on the ball and can score goals, and hopefully he can force his way into the first team this season,” said Lincoln

The Swans pre-season camp gave the youngster a look at how the club runs and he’s very impressed with the coaching staff and hopes to learn from Lincoln, who was a striker at a number of clubs in the Premier League. “The club camp at Bickley gave me an insight into the quality of our head coach Paul Lincoln in terms of a player and a motivator. It started when Paul offered three videos of quality strikers in action to the group on Friday night. The first was Eric Cantona, followed by Maradona and then the third starred him scoring against Aaron Cole's Perth SC in the final.

“I realised that Paul was a very good striker and as head coach I could benefit from his knowledge of the game and in particular my position. I hope to learn as much as I can about playing as a striker in the state premier league and Linc’s is proving to be very beneficial to my progress,’ said Lopez.

It’s going to be a busy time for the teenager who begins his University course soon but he hopes to be pushing for first team selection this season. The youngster has many goals in life and on the pitch he would like to score many goals too. “My ambition is to play with Swan United until the end of my degree in five years time. Hopefully in this time I gain experience and progress as a footballer, and I hope to improve enough to play well for the first team and see where it goes from there,” said Lopez.

“I finished year 12 study at Guildford last year and am a few weeks away from beginning a five year bachelor of Architecture at UWA. The course is a lot of work but fairly flexible to allow for work and my soccer commitments. I’m still learning the basics of a target man, and I hope to perform constantly with the reserve team, learn my new role and push for first team selection at every opportunity. We possess a strong squad and I feel Swan United reserves and first team can go far this season,” added the teenager.

16.01.09 - Lincoln hopes for big season

The Swan United Football Club enters the 2009 with a new identity, and senior Coach Paul Lincoln is hoping for a more consistent season in the Football West Premier League for the Swans.

“We were good at home last season with good performances especially against Perth SC in round three when we ran out 4-0 winners. We had the right mix, and we were splashed over the Sunday Times after the game but unfortunately injuries, suspensions and work commitments left us short towards the end of the season, which was unfortunate.

“This was frustrating but on the other hand it gave me the opportunity to blood some of the younger players at the club which will be good for 2009. I’m prepared to do it if I believe they can handle the pressure and their good enough, and luckily for the club a number came through with flying colours.

“I don’t like to pick individuals but Young Trent Wood showed he can play in the Premier League; also Michael Tronchin gave me good minutes, while Chris Marshall played the final eight games of the season and worked hard for the team,” said Lincoln.

The club has added Domenic Ciullo to the coaching roster for the new season and Lincoln is delighted to have the former Balcatta SC reserve team Coach on board. “Domenic will take control of the under 23’s next season and he brings a great deal of enthusiasm to the club. Mick Da Re will become my assistant for the first team while Gary Mateljan and Tony Oakes will continue with the under 18’s,” said Lincoln.

United have lost a number of players in the of-season but Lincoln is hoping to add two or three new faces before the Night Series. “We’ve lost David McNally to Sorrento, while Alex Cocking has joined first division Balcatta SC. It’s a shame to lose David who gave us so much and with Alex I’m surprised with his decision to move to the first division, I haven’t been officially told by Alex that he is going to Balcatta although I know he is training with them. I’m not one who will stand in the in the way of any player who wants to leave our football club.

“We’re looking at a number of players and we’ve spoken to a few and will hope to announce their names soon. It’s a difficult time, but also an exciting time for our football club but we have been honest with the players we’ve spoken too and we’re very hopeful they will sign and give our first team squad more depth which is important,” said Lincoln.

The Swans are into pre-season training and this weekend is the annual pre-season camp at the Bickley Outdoor Recreation camp and Lincoln, who has delayed training while away with his family over the Christmas break, is delighted to welcome a few old faces back to Francis Street. “We had a meeting before Christmas and we told the boys what we expected and most of them have been true to their words. We were delighted to hear that David Perich will be return early in the season from the US while John Mansaray has returned from his work commitments to bolster the midfield.

“While also get Tommy Shepheard and Paul Baczynski back this season and that’s like gaining two new player as neither didn’t play much last season. Were hoping to sign former Floreat Athena defensive midfielder Stephen Guest this week after he impressed at training and we’ve had a number of new faces down at training which is good,” explained Lincoln.

The night series games will give Lincoln a chance to try out a number of players who were pushing for first team selection last season, but he knows a strong squad is needed for next season. “We’re not taking the tournament to serious, while use it as practise matches, but everyone who knows me knows I want to win every game I play. I’ll be looking for a steady improvement from every game and I’ll give the kids a go and hopeful we can unearth a few players,” said Lincoln.

Off the pitch the Swans have been busy with the new training and warm up pitch behind the clubrooms, and Lincoln is looking forward to the new clubs facilities. “We’ve been crying out for a good training pitch at the club and the committee have worked hard to get it place for this season. The new committee have brought in new ideas and we hope to grow and become one of the leading clubs in WA. I know it will take time but all the signs are good,” said Lincoln.

10.01.09 - Football in the Swan United

Football in WA is growing rapidly and with the A-League coverage bringing in new faces each season, the code in the Swan region has been given a timely boost with the merger between Swan IC and Swan Districts Juniors to form Swan United Football Club.

The clubs have been in discussions for a number of years but the proposed merger had fallen through, but after intense negotiations between Presidents Cosimo Coniglio (Swan IC) and Peter Johns (Swan District) and their committee’s has seen the new club form.

For Johns it’s a decision that will benefit both clubs. “Any change that you make of this magnitude is a big one that takes a lot of consideration and deliberation. We see it as being in the long term benefit for the club, the sport and the players in our area.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for the players, giving them a set path from the age of four all the way through to the senior teams,” said Johns.

His Swan IC counterpart Coniglio echoed Johns’ thoughts. “It’s a huge decision for our club, but saying that we’ve been trying to merge for the last seven years, it’s for the benefit of the kids in the Swan area and they now have the pathway to senior football which is tremendous. It gives the opportunity to the local boys to play Premier League football instead of travelling a long distance to do so,” said Coniglio.

Senior Coach Paul Lincoln (above) hopes the future of the club is in safe hands and he has been delighted with the lads trialling from Swan Districts in the under 18’s side. “I’ve been at the trials and I’ve been pleasantly surprised with the players. The new club will have depth in the 18’s and players who miss out will be eligible for the under 16’s and can play in that age group and continue their improvement.

“We found some real gems last season in the 18’s and 23’s and I’m all for playing players in the senior side, what ever age they are, if they are good enough and I’ll continue on with that this season. If we can get the youth development right the young kids coming through the ranks now can aim for a first team spot and if they work hard and listen to the advice given to them we will have a good future at the club,” said Lincoln.

Swans skipper last season and former Perth Glory player, Aaron Cole believes the new club is good for everyone concerned. “The new name change is great for the club and the whole Swan/Midland area. It brings the two clubs together which will show the strength of future junior players becoming senior players and creating an identity which has been lacking,” said Cole.

For the Swan United junior secretary Deb Hounsham, she can see the benefits both on and off the pitch with here two sons, 15-year-old Sam and 8-year old Ky relishing the opportunity to play for the senior side. “Sam has been with Swan districts junior soccer association for nearly 11 years, all he wants to do is play pro soccer, his future was looking a little bleak, and he was wondering what club he was going to go to.

“Those who are involved in football know that between the ages of 14 and 16 smaller clubs start losing those players to the bigger clubs, particularly those who want to continue down the professional path. With the merger that has happened between our clubs, the kids now have somewhere professional to go and don’t have to look elsewhere, and can continue to develop at a higher level with the exceptional training that they are about to get, which is fantastic,” said Hounsham.

Swan Districts have 260 players in their club, and the new clubs Coaching Co-ordinator Nick Edwards is relishing the opportunity of developing the talented juniors. “This is one of the most exciting events to happen with football in our region for many years and l encourage other clubs around Perth to do the same! With dwindling volunteer resources and the constant strain on people, money and grounds such rationalisation is definitely a worthy project and we see this as a great opportunity for young players who aspire to achieve this level of competition in WA.

“At Swan United FC we know we can’t offer players top teams at a junior level for 2009, however over the next few years we hope to turn that around with some talented players coming through. What we can offer is qualified coaching, a well organised committee with a family friendly atmosphere and opportunities for young players to mix with WA State Premier players,” said Edwards.