04.02.12 - Shepheard’s brace wins it for United

Swan United opened their Football West Night Series campaign with a 2-0 victory over Forrestfield, in the late evening fixture at Hartfield Park on Saturday. (by Football West Reporter James Mooney)

A brace from United’s striker Thomas Shepheard was enough to win the game for John O’Reilly’s side, although both sides squandered chances in front of goal.

United opened the game well and almost scored in the opening minute, Trent Wood’s volley from 12-yards was well saved by Forrestfield keeper Luke Woodfin.

Their early pressure paid off and they were ahead on five minutes. An attempted clearance ended up at Shepheard's feet, and the big striker made no mistake from six-yards, firing into the bottom corner of the net.

Chances for Forrestfield in the first half were few and far between, with the best chance falling to Wade Farmer who fired into the side netting when well placed.

The home side started the second half on top but couldn’t turn their possession into the equaliser.  The best chance was a long-range effort from Jules Kersakoff, which went inches over Jordan Howell’s crossbar.

The local derby became a little bit physical with referee Robert Hill showing yellow cards to Forrestfield due Farmer and Kersakoff, and United midfielder Wood as both sides looked to get on top.

It wasn't until injury time that United wrapped up the points. Another failed attempt clearance from Forrestfield gave the ball straight to Shepherd, who made no mistake and finish off the game.

Swan United Coach John O'Reilly although happy with the victory stilled believed his team had not quite reached their full potential.
"I think we could have been a lot tidier today, there are a lot of things we have been practicing and you can see that they are starting to come together but it's going to take another week or two to fine tune," said O'Reilly.

Looking ahead to the season O'Reilly believes the 2012 season is going to be a greater challenge then last year.

"I'd love to say we will get promotion after coming so close last year... it's going to be one of the most competitive seasons that Football West is going to see in this division."

Football West Night Series Group E
Forrestfield United 0
Swan United 2 (Shepheard 5’, 90’)
Saturday 5th February 2012
Kick-off – 8.00pm
Venue – Hartfield Park
Crowd – 150
Referee – Robert Hill
Forrestfield United: GK Luke Woodfin, 2 Mitch Sapsworth, 6 Jonathon Cone, 17 Craig Anderson, 5 Josh Barnes, 7 Wade Farmer, 4 Rhys Loxley, 9 Jules Kersakoff, 8 Chris Holland, 12 Chris Perrott, 7 Andy Grithis.
Subs 3 Joe Ives, 15 Peter Lord, 14 Shannon Benniston, 13, Lewis McConnon
Yellow Cards – Farmer 70’, Kersakoff 80’

Swan United: GK 23, Connor Anderson (18, Jordan Howell 46’), 14 Terry Monastra, 4 Robert Monterosso, 5 Christopher Atkinson, 2 Chris Marshall (8 Ben Hassler 46’), 7 Rory Hollingum, 9 Trent Wood, 6 Adam Stillitano, 13 Mark Miraudo, 11 John Monterosso, 16 Tom Shepheard
Subs not used 10 Jayden Vespescu, 15 Stephan Bettella, 12 Justin Skowron
Yellow Cards – Wood 89’

02.02.12 - United ready for Night Series

Swan United kick off their 2012 Night Series campaign on Saturday night when they take on Forrestfield United at Hartfield Park in Game one (8pm)

United Coach John O’Reilly has been delighted with the pre-season to date and is looking forward to Saturday’s game. “We played a friendly against Floreat Athena last week and a lot of new players were given an opportunity to display their attributes. We were very competitive during the game with a few new faces standing out,” explained O’Reilly.

“But old faithful John Monty provided the goals to get the 2-2 draw. The lads are looking sharp early this year, Aaron Colli, Tommy Shepheard, Monty, to name a few, which is great because now we can spend more time on tactics and game play. All the new players are fighting it out to claim their spot in the first team, it will take a few weeks for the gelling transition to take place but we are at least half way there already.”

After last season’s division one night series victory, the Coach is looking forward to this year’s games. “It gives us a great opportunity to look at a few of the new faces and some of our own young and up and coming players. We are in a lot healthier position this year than we were last, which bodes well for the season ahead,” said O’Reilly.

Get down to Hartfield Park and cheers on The Swans!!!!!

02.02.12 - Under 16 Players required

United are seeking the services for an Under 16's Division 1 Goal Keeper who will be the back up Goal Keeper for our successful Under 18's Saturday State League team.  Opportunities for outfield players also exist with opportunity for Saturday competition during the season.  Please Contact George Strezos 0415 942 341   

02.02.12 - Swan United FC Registration Days for 2012 season

SWAN UNITED REGISTRATION DATES

 Sunday 5th February and Sunday 12th February

9.30 til 12 noon

Swan Italian Club

Francis Street

Midland WA 6056

Open to all players of all skill levels

TRIALS FOR THE 10S AND 11S FIRST TEAM WILL BE HELD AT MIDLAND OVAL

TUESDAY 21ST AND THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARY 5.30-6.30PM

Swan United are holding a Sausage Sizzle Fund Raiser at Bunning's Midland on Saturday 11th February 2012. We are trading from 9am til around 3pm, please come on down and support your club by purchasing a sausage and a can.  If you are able to spare any time to help us with this project please contact Jenny Hill on 0412 948 292

For further information on the above please contact Jenny Hill 0412 948 292 or Penny Borzecki 0413 017 555

REMEMBER TO ASK US ABOUT KIDSPORT – A SPORT FOR ALL PROGRAM

25.11.11 - United head to Hartfield Park for 2012 Night Series

Swan United kick off their 2012 season in the Football West Night Series, and last week they were drawn in Group E along with Premier League side Western Knights, fellow first division side Forrestfield United and second division side Fremantle United. The games will be played at Forrestfield’s home ground, Hartfield Park and it all kicks off for the black and whites when they meet Forrestfield on Saturday 4th February at 8pm.

In all 31 All Flags State League teams will take part in the bumper tournament, with MySolar Sunday Premier League winners Southern Spirit invited to take the place of the National Training Centre to make it a total of 32 entrants.
It will also be the first time that the new All Flags State League Division Two clubs will be seen in competitive action against their more-fancied rivals.
The new format effectively replaces having separate tournaments for different divisions and will see eight groups of four teams.
Football West General Manager of Competitions and Operations, Keith Wood, is looking forward to the revamped format which was decided upon in conjunction with feedback from the State League Standing Committee.
"We called for expression of interest for venues and are pleased to say that we have nine different hosts for the 2012 tournament," he said.
"In allocating clubs to groups, we tried to combine geographical convenience and strength of teams to make the groups as even as possible while trying to minimise travel.
"We believe these groups will create more ‘derby' atmospheres and hope the local community really gets behind next year's instalment.
"The eight group winners will then progress to the knockout stages where the Quarters, Semis and Final are pre-determined draws like the UEFA Champions League and FIFA World Cup."

Let the season begin

Swan United 2012 preparations commenced on Wednesday night, when pre-season training started at Altone Park.

United Coach John O'Reilly is looking forward to the new campaign after falling just short of promotion last season. "I was delighted with the player’s attitude and commitment last season and I’m looking forward to next season after a successful 2011. Achieving top four was the goal for the year, so to finish runners up exceeded expectations," said O'Reilly.

"We play attractive football and with a little more luck we could have taken out the title. We finished runners-up in the league, won the Night Series; John Monterosso won the golden boot as top goal scorer in the league, and had two players in the top 3 in the Gold Medal, which was pleasing. It all starts again on this week and the players are looking forward to the new season and hoping to go the next step."

The club are talking to a number of players about joining them next season, but O'Reilly is keeping them close to his chest. "I've spoken to a number of players regarding next season and I'm hopeful we can get it all sorted out sooner rather than later," said O'Reilly.

"The squad was strong last season but there are areas I want to strengthen and the players who I've spoken to will do that."

The club are also looking for a senior coach to join their coaching panel for next season. All enquires please phone Head Coach John O'Reilly on 0426252542

12.10.11 - SWAN UNITED FC JUNIOR TRIALS

COME AND JOIN OUR PROGRESSIVE CLUB IN THE SWAN VALLEY for DIVISION 1 COMPETITIONS

12'S - NOVEMBER 8, 10, 15, 17

13'S - NOVEMBER 8, 10, 15, 17

14'S - NOVEMBER 7, 9, 14, 16

15'S - NOVEMBER 7, 9, 14, 16

6.00 - 7.30PM

Please be there at 5.30pm on the first night for registration

Venue -
The Swan Italian Club
Frances St
Middle Swan

For further enquiries contact
Jenny Hill 0412 948 292
Penny Borzecki 0413 017 555

02.10.11 - Swan United 2011 Awards Night

The 2011 Swan United Awards night was held at the Swan Italian club on Saturday night and over 150 people were in attendance to celebrate a fantastic season from the black and whites. (Left - Club President Cos Coniglio, MC for the Night)

They won the Night Series and were runners up in the League, while striker John Monterosso won the Leagues Golden Boot.

United Coach John O’Reilly (left), although a little disappointed promotion back to the Premier League wasn’t achieved, he was delighted with the lad’s effort all season. “I was very pleased with the overall result of the season, and to be night series winners and then runners up in the league is a very good effort for our first season in the first division,” said O’Reilly.

“We had a new team playing together with a few additions from outside the club coming in. the team gelled very quickly along with the unity. i believe we played an attractive style of football the past season, with a variety of long and short, quick passing. We were an attacking team, with strength and grit throughout.

“As I have told the players, I hope to have everybody on board for the 2012 campaign, plus some additional talent to complement what we have built so far.”

The first team 2011 Fairest and Best was won by Trent Wood, with Aaron Colli as the runner-up, while the Players-Player of the year was won by skipper Rob Monterosso. The leading scorer was John Monterosso.

The reserve Fairest and Best was won by Mark Miraudo, with Scott Campbell as the runner-up, while Seb De Cotter won the leading scorers trophy.

The under 18’s Fairest and Best was won by Fraser Burt, with Josh Hardy as the runner-up, while Cameron Anderson won the leading scorers trophy.

In other awards on the night the hard work by Damian Scali was rewarded by being awarded the club man of the year and receiving ‘The Jimmy Jamerson Award’, while the ‘Carlo-Damian Scali Award’ for the best up and coming player of the season went to under 18's player Jordan Brown (above)

Swan United FC – Under 16’s and 18’s Trails for 2012

The 2011 season may have only just finished but the club are holding trials for the under 16’s and under 18s sides for next season.
They will be held at the clubs home ground of Francis Street on Tuesday 18th October and Thursday 20th October both days commencing at 6.30pm till 8.30pm.

Please attend by 6.15pm to register your details with the clubs hard working staff. Please wear black shorts, shirt and socks and bring your own water bottle.

For more information please contact coach George Strezos on 0415942341 or the registrar Penny Borzecki on 0413017555
Come on join the Black and Whites”

United striker takes out Golden Boot and local website player of the Year.

A four-goal final round haul has sealed United’s striker John Monterosso the prize as Division One’s Top Goal Scorer for season 2011. Monterosso, 25, finished the season with 21 goals to join R.Meier (1993), Peter Murphy (1995) and David Foster (2004) as the only Swan players to outcome their State League counterparts.

Michael Marten, who grabbed a last day hat-trick for Bunbury Forum Force came in second with 20 goals followed by Forrestfield United’s Anthony Lyons, who netted 19 times despite starting just eleven games. Sitting jointly in fourth spot with 14 goals each were Jon Brooks (Bunbury), Jamie Burns (Gosnells City/Forrestfield) and Nick Carroll (Shamrock Rovers).

The striker also took out the ‘www.footballwa.net’ 2011 Division One Player of the Year. Monterosso was among the leaders early in counting, fending off Morley Windmills midfielder Simon Wilson and Oliver McGee of Bunbury Forum Force to claim the award. The footballwa.net Player of the Year is voted for by the players, club representatives and supporters of the local game, and is the only award of its kind in West Australian football.

Monterosso, who guided Swan to second on their return to the second tier, ended the four-week polling period with 41 votes to take out the footballwa.net Division One Player of the Year. Bunbury Forum Force teammates Oliver McGee and Jon Brooks shared the runners-up spot with Simon Wilson (Morley Windmills) on 31 votes. Nick Carroll’s efforts in the final third during Shamrock Rovers inaugural State League campaign earned him 28 votes and third place.

Ashfield’s Ibnen Charming tallied up 27 votes to pip Aaron Colli of Swan by one. Locked together with 23 were three players – defender Mark Walsh (Morley) and midfielders Ian Stack (Shamrock) and Andy Harold (Forrestfield United). In seventh place with 22 votes was Dianella White Eagles goalkeeper Matt Battigelli, while Forrestfield striker Anthony Lyons and Adrian McBride (Gosnells City) locked together on 21 votes.

Monterosso becomes the ninth footballwa.net Division One Player of the Year. Last years’ award was taken out by Bayswater City striker Gustavo Marulanda with other previous winners being Ashley Rosindale (Balcatta), Paul Harvey (Canning City), Andy Brown (Mandurah City), David Rodgers (South West Phoenix), Adam Raines (Balcatta), Scott Bulloch (Wanneroo City) and Boima Karpeh (Bayswater).

24.09.11 - Jonty lifts United to runners-up spot

A stunning four-goal performance from John Monterosso was behind United’s 5-0 thrashing of Gosnells City at Francis Street, in the final game of the season. The strikers haul sealed the Division One Top Goal Scorer award for the striker and ensured Swan finished the season as runner-up to champions Bunbury Forum Force.

The game started predictably enough with Swan pushing for an early lead and Gosnells attacking chiefly on the counter. An opportunistic finish by John Monterosso broke the deadlock on 44 minutes, the striker netting after Gosnells’ goalkeeper Alan Dunlop spilled a Rob Monterosso free-kick.

Swan came out after the break determined to finish the job and on 57 minutes Brendan Knox doubled their lead by heading in from an Anthony McStea corner.

Goal number three arrived elven minutes later, Chris Atkinson’s through ball releasing John Monterosso who ran on to fire into the bottom corner.

United ended the game superbly and added two more. John Monterosso played a tidy one-two with Knox before again finishing low in the 83rd minute. Then good work by Trent Wood down the right saw him deliver an inviting cross soon after which John Monterosso headed back past the ‘keeper to end the season on a high for the Black and Whites and the striker.

17.09.11 - United held at Ashfield

Swan United remain in the hunt for a top two finish after coming from behind to draw 1-1 with Ashfield under lights at Ashfield Reserve on Saturday evening.

An early goal by Ian Griffiths highlighted the hosts’ first half dominance but after the break it was Swan that controlled with John Monterosso grabbing a deserved equaliser.

Ashfield hit the ground running and in just the 3rd minute veteran Griffiths guided a perfectly delivered Matthew Wardle corner into the net. The team in red continued to pile on the pressure and would have entered the break a few goals up if not for their inability to put away numerous chances and the brilliance of Daniel Agudelo.

Swan returned to the park for the second half intent on finding the back of the net, however, they were held in check by a well-organised defensive line that had Martin Sherwin and Matthew Wardle at its heart.

But they couldn’t hold out and John Monterosso levelled for John O’Reilly’s side midway through the half, his angled strike went in off the far post.

An action packed final twenty minutes ensued in which United dominated, but Ashfield’s 16-year old goalkeeper Matthew Weyell starred to earn his side a share of the points.

10.09.11 - United bounce back to thrash Canning

Canning City 0
Swan United 6 (Colli 39, Scali 45, 48, R. Monterosso 52, Narongphunt 58, OG 74)

Swan United bounced back from back-to-back defeats by thrashing Canning City 6-0 at the Burrendah Reserve on Saturday in round 20 of the All Flags First Division.

First half goals to Aaron Colli and Damian Scali gave the black and white the lead at the break, and second half goals to Scali, Robert Monterosso, Nattapong Narongphunt and own goal, rounded off the scoring.

There was a minute silence before kick-off, after the sad loss of Trent Wood’s grandfather, and United struggled to break down a stubborn Canning defence in the first half. Keeper Tom Barrett denyed them on several occasions, but they finally got the break through six minutes before half time.

Good approach work from Scali and Wood down the left ended with a ball into the box which caused panic in the Canning backline and the attempted clearance ricocheted off Colli into the net.

It was 2-0 in the final minute of the half, Narongphunt sent John Monterosso racing down the right, his inch perfect cross picked out Scali who finished clinically at the back post.   

The game was put out of the reach of the home side three minutes into the second half when United added a third. A quick throw in caught Canning napping and John Monterosso beat two defenders before sliding an inch perfect pass into the path of Scali who finished well from a tight angle.  

‎United were now in complete control and it was 4-0 on 52 minutes. Anthony McStea’s corner was only cleared to Robert Monterosso 20-yards out and the skipper’s powerful shot flashed past Barrett into the bottom corner of the net.

United added two more goals to give them a comprehensive victory. The first came on 58 minutes; McStea’s corner was headed back across goal by former Canning midfielder Solomon Onyoko, and Narongphunt headed home from close-range. The sixth again came from McStea’s corner, the ball deflecting off the unfortunate Canning defender for an own goal.

United assistant Coach Ben Kelly (left) was delighted with the performance. “It was a great result today, I'm not referring to the amount of goals we scored, but the style of football we applied during the game,” said Kelly.

“During the last two weeks the football hasn't been our best for the boys to put a good footballing performance was good to see. We had a few new faces in the team with Mark Miraudo stepping up and youngsters Cameron Anderson, Jordan brown doing well when they came on, well done guys.”

03.09.11 - Forrestfield end United’s promotion hopes

Swan United’s hopes of an immediate return to Premier League football, has been ended after a ten man United side lost 5-3 against near neighbours Forrestfield United at Francis Street.

It was a perfect start in the must win game for John O’Reilly’s side, when they took the lead after only two minutes. Mark Miraudo was brought down in the penalty area and referee John Taran pointed straight to the spot. John Monterosso stepped up and fired home into the top corner of the net to give the home side the lead.

It was nearly 2-0 moments later, Trent Wood sent John Monterosso clear, but the league’s top scorer was thwarted by a good save from Forrestfield keeper Luke Woodfin.

But against the run of play Forrestfield levelled on 10 minutes, former Swan striker John Hunter found space in the area to fire home.

It got worse for United on 25 minutes, when striker Thomas Shepheard was sent off for an elbow on the Forrestfield defender. It looked a little harsh but United were now in trouble, and the visitors made their numerical advantage count three minutes before the break, Matt Harold firing home.

The home side were reeling but Forrestfield hit them again sixty seconds later. Martin Barnes cross into the box was fired home by Jordan Hart to give Phil Butler’s side a 3-1 lead at the break.

United opened the second half brightly and John Monterosso’s shot was cleared off the line early, and they reduced the margin on 54 minutes, when second half substitute Damian Scali fired home after good work on the right by John Monterosso.

The United faithful were in full voice and two minutes later Wood’s shot was pushed around the post by Woodfin.

United continued to press and they were rewarded with the equaliser on 67 minutes. Scali picked the ball up in the middle of the park, beat his marker and from 30-yards lobbed Woodfin to bring the 10-man United level, much to the delight of the United supporters.

But that was as good as it got for the home side, and Forrestfield hit twice late on to claim victory. Anthony Lyons giving them the lead with 10 minutes remaining and with United chasing the game Forrestfield added a fifth three minutes later.

Swan United 3 (Monterosso 2, Scali 54, 67)

Forrestfield United 5 (Hunter 10, Harold 42, Hart 43, 83, Lyons 80)

Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 2 Neill Murphy, 7 Rory Mouttet, 4 Robert Monterosso, 12 Chris Marshall, 9 Trent Wood, 6 Aaron Colli, 10 Anthony McStea, 3 Mark Miraudo, 16 Thomas Shepheard, 11 John Monterosso - Subs – 17 Chris Atkinson, 13 Scott Campbell, 8 Nattapong Narongphunt, 14 Damian Scali, 5 Solomon Onyuka

Forrestfield United – GK Luke Woodfin, 3 Scott Witschge, 4 Martin Barnes, 9 Alan Nanini, 5 John Krawec, 6 Matt Harold, 7 Andrew Holland, 12 Julian Kesacoff, 13 John Hunter, 15 Anthony Lyons, 10 Jordan Hart - Subs – 16 Simon El-Chami, 8 Ben West, 2 Wade Farmer, 11 Chris Perrott, 20 Jake Luik

Referee - John Tarran  

02.09.11 - United host Forrestfield in local derby

Swan United will look to bounce back from last week’s disappointing 2-1 defeat at Dianella White Eagles, when they host Forrestfield United on Saturday in round 19 of the All Flags First Division at Francis Street. (3pm)

It’s a local derby against the side from Hartfield Park and Coach John O’Reilly (right) is hoping his side can rebound this week. “The lads will be looking to bounce back on Saturday, and I believe it will be a tough game. Forrestfield are having a good run at the moment, scoring at ease last week against Wanneroo, while we had a bad performance last week,” said O’Reilly.

“But knowing our boys they WILL bounce back today, training has been very good this week and the lads are eager to make amends and finish the year strong.”

Skipper Robert Monterosso agrees, and believes they can keep their promotion hopes alive with a win on Saturday. “Forrestfield is probably the toughest team we’ve got to play in the last four games,” said Monterosso.

“They have had some convincing wins of late so nothing but our best will do. Since we last met (a 6-2 win for Swan) we’ve strengthened our squad and improved our style of play so I’m confident we’ll come away with the points.”

Forrestfield head to Francis Street after a stunning 6-3 win against Wanneroo last week, with Anthony Lyons scoring twice, Matt Harold, Jordan Hart and Julian Kesacoff on target. Former Swan striker John Hunter returns on Saturday and will need to be watched closely, while at the back former Armadale defender Craig Anderson is vital. It should be a cracker get down and support the black and whites!!!

27.08.11 - United stunned by Eagles

Swan United’s hopes of backing straight back into the top flight have been dented by a shock 2-1 loss at Dianella White Eagles. Ozren Kotur and Simon Barber scored either side of the break to earn Dianella their first win in four months, and in the process end Swan’s eight-game unbeaten run.

A bright start by the visiting side was rewarded on 10 minutes when John Montorosso instinctively lashed into the net after pouncing on a loose ball inside the 18-yard box.

Tom Shepheard went close to doubling the black and whites lead but his header was cleared off the line by Jimmy Taneski. Slowly but surely Dianella worked themselves into the game and although Frank Madafferi, Jimmy Nelson and Dhamon Kalamaras got in good positions goalkeeper Daniel Agudelo remained untroubled.

That changed on 43 minutes when Rory Mouttet’s clumsy challenge on Kalamaras resulted in a free-kick which Kotur sent inside the upright with Agudelo rooted to his line.

Dianella continued to take the game up to Swan into the second half. Their reward came on 56 minutes when Barber coolly sent Agudelo the wrong way from the penalty spot after Nelson’s shot was handled by a defender.

Swan responded by increasing the tempo and when Kotur was dismissed for a second yellow card with ten minutes left it looked as though they’d salvage a point, however, the closest they’d come to equalising was a Damian Scali header that narrowly cleared the crossbar.

26.08.11 - Dianella White Eagles v Swan United – Preview

Swan United are on the road in round 18 of the All Flags First Division, when they travel to Dianella Reserve to take on Dianella White Eagles (3pm)

Swan has a full squad to choose from and Coach John O’Reilly has told his players not to take the game lightly. “Dianella impressed me during the Night series (where they beat United 4-3 in the group phase). We won't be underestimating their position in the league,” said O’Reilly.

“They have a number of players that are capable of causing trouble for any team, we are looking strong and confident we can come away with the three points.”

There have been a lot of changes at the White Eagles since we drew 0-0 at Francis Street in round three. Then Coach Mario Theodosiades has stepped aside and former United Coach Jamie Goodman is in charge, and he knows his young side will be up against it on Saturday.

“Swans are up and about and it will be a tough challenge for us. We are still searching for our first win in a while. We have played well at times but have not been able to play for a full 90 minutes and have been punished for that,” said Goodman.

“We have had not been able to put the same side on the park week to week due to injuries, flu’s, holidays. My team will have to come with a positive attitude for us to get anything this week.”

19.08.11 - Mouttet can’t mask his delight to be back

Swan United defender Rory Mouttet made a surprise return to the starting line-up last week after a horrendous injury he received against Ashfield in round 11.

He received facial injuries in a collision but returned last week with the aid of a protective mask, and he’s happy to be back and the injury is slowly repairing itself. “The injuries 70% healed now – luckily I lost 3.5 hours of memory so I don’t remember being in any pain. I don’t remember starting the game or anything for 3.5 hours after that,” explained Mouttet.

“I had surgery 6 weeks ago and don’t need anymore – my doctor gave me the all clear last week but I need to wear a protective face mask for the rest of the season as it takes 12 weeks after surgery to completely heal.”

The defender was nervous before last week’s return but got through the game well. “I was relieved most of all. It was scary going back out there and I know that if I took a big hit that it would be serious. It turns out I got a ball right in the sore spot of the face early and the mask I was wearing protected me really well,” said mouttet.

“That gave me the confidence to focus on the game. At the end it was great to get through 90 minutes and have a very important win. I hadn’t felt part of the team for weeks and I really missed sharing that with my mates.”

It was a vital win for United last week against Wanneroo City and Mouttet was happy to play his part. “It wasn’t a pretty game and Wanneroo pushed us hard in the last 20 minutes, and it seemed to go forever. John wasn’t really happy with the way we played – we gave possession away to cheaply and put ourselves under a lot of pressure at times,” explained Mouttet.

“But the positive thing is that we scrapped the win through nothing more than grit and determination. Everyone in our team did their bit and sometimes it’s that desperation that can make the difference against a very strong and in form opponent like Wanneroo.”

Next week United travel to Dianella White Eagles, coached by former United boss Jamie Goodman, and Mouttet knows they will be in for a hard game but is confident of getting the required result. “Dianella have had strong performances against us this year, and they have some very talented young players in their team. We need to be focused and come out with intensity and we can’t allow them to play their own game,” said Mouttet.

“By pressuring them in everything they do and closing them down quickly we will have more of a chance of playing the game on our terms. If we can get an early goal, we will settle and I feel that we will be very hard to beat from there. At the end of the day, If we win the league, we will have done so by winning 10 games in a row. This will be an effort that includes every player in our squad performing to the best of their ability.”

13.08.11 - United beat Roos to keep promotion chances alive

Swan United moved into second place on the All Flags First Division table, one point behind leaders Bunbury Forum Force, after a hard fought 1-0 win against Wanneroo City at Francis Street on Saturday.

In a game with few chances, Anthony McStea's goal on 25 minutes was enough for John O'Reilly's side to keep their promotion chances alive and continue a eight match unbeaten streak.

"It was a horrible win, but we'll take it. We played bad but won, which is a true sign of a team with winning determination  The work rate was there to make up for the lack of quality on the day" said O'Reilly.

It was a vital game for both sides and in it was a scrappy opening, with chances few and far between. The visitors was using the long ball which disrupted the Swans style of play, but with skipper Rob Monterosso and Rory Mouttet, in his first game back for two months, outstanding at the heart of the back four, United kept the Roos at bay.

The decisive goal came on 25 minutes, Rory Hollingum surging run down the left ended with a cross into the box, which was met by Aaron Colli. His shot was well saved by Roos keeper Clint Davies, but the rebound fell to McStea who fired home, much to the delight of the home faithful.

United went close to a second on 40 minutes, Colli found space in the midfield and his through ball sent Thomas Shepheard clear but Davies was out quick to save.

The Roos’ best chance of the first half came in first half injury time. A corner caused panic in the United penalty area and Josh Booysen’s shot was cleared off the line by Rob Monterosso.

With the supporters on the edges of their seats, the visitors went close to levelling on the hour mark. A corner from the right was met by Sahr Konomanyi, but his header was well saved by Daniel Agudelo.

McStea went close to another goal three minutes later. Tommy Shepheard’s ball sent John Monterosso clear down the right. His cross from the bye-line picked out the unmarked midfielder six-yards from goal, but a cruel bounce caused him to fire wide with the goal at his mercy.

Wanneroo pressed hard for the equaliser in the last 15 minutes, but United held out to earn three valuable points.

Coach John O'Reilly was happy with the win, and the performance of Rory Mouttet. "It was a great return to the side for Rory. The lad is hard as a coffin nail, he wore a protective mask to protect his facial injury, but he won every Ariel challenge and was inspirational for the rest of the side," explained O'Reilly 

Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 8 Adam Pygrum, 2 Rory Mouttet, 4 Rob Monterosso, 12 Chris Marshall, 7 Rory Hollingum, 6 Aaron Colli, 10 Anthony McStea, 9 Trent Wood, 16 Thomas Shepheard, 11 John Monterosso
Subs RGK Jordan Howell 17 Damian Scali, 15 Nattapong Narongphunt, 3 Chris Atkinson, 14 Solomon Onyuku

Wanneroo City – GK Clint Davies, 2 Tom Orme, 3 Nicholas Timmings, 4 Chris Pugh, 5 Craig Bowman, 6 Brad McDonald, 7 Ross Laing, 8 Dave Herety, 9 Sahr Konomanyi, 10 Guy McDonald, 11 Joshua Booysen
Subs – 12 Jordan Barnes, 13 Dean Timmings, 14 Joe Stocker, 20 Daniel Holgate

Referee – Stephen Seeds

12.08.11 - United's title hopes go on the line against Wanneroo

Swan United All Flags First Division title hopes go on the line on Saturday when they host third placed Wanneroo City at Francis Street (3pm)

United thrashed Rockingham City 5-0 on the road last week and coach John O'Reilly will be looking for something the same at home against the Roos. “It's another 'biggest game of the season' on Saturday. The Roos have been in great form over the last few weeks, beating league favourites Bunbury last week, and Gerry McEwan has them playing well,” said O’Reilly.

“But we’ve also been in a rich vein of form winning the past seven games, including a 3-1 win against Bunbury a week early, to dent their promotion hopes. So with both teams fighting for the title, both teams at full strength, it will definitely make for an interesting game.”

Damian Scali will be pushing for a role in the side after playing 90 minutes in the reserves last week, but with John Monterosso and Thomas Shepheard playing so well he might have to settle for a place on the bench. There was more good news on the injury front this week, with Rory Mouttet returning to training after sustaining a terrible injury against Ashfield in round 11. Welcome back Rory!!!!!!!!

The Roos are coming off a 2-1 home win against Bunbury Forum Force with David Herety and Ross Laing on target, while United will be looking to overturn the 2-1 loss they suffered on the road at Kingsway Reserve in round four.

Team captain Brian Cairney, Herety, Craig Bowman and Guy McDonald complement each other nicely in the attacking half while at the other end its season campaigner Glen Moore and goalkeeper Clint Davies that stand out.  “We have to treat every game from now on like a Cup Final if we are to win the league,” commented Wanneroo midfielder Guy McDonald.

“If we can win at Swan then we could possibly put them out of contention. It will be difficult though, Swan are a class outfit and have shown their character recently be getting themselves back in the mix to win the league.”

United’s five star show at Rockingham

Rockingham City 0 Swan United 5 (Onyuku 2, Monterosso 7, 20p, 48, Shepheard 62,)
Swan United continued their push towards promotion with a 5-0 win against Rockingham City in round 15 of the All Flags First Division at Lark Hill.

The league top goal scorer John Monterosso bagged a hat trick, with singles to Solomon Onyuku and Thomas Shepheard, as United moved within three points of league leaders Shamrock Rovers.

United where out of the blocks early, and with the home side starting in a defence line up, their plans were in tatters on five minutes when United hit the front.  Onyuku’s cross shot from out wide on the left deceived City keeper Craig Olejnik and the ball dropped into the back of the net off the back post.

Rockingham looked to hit back but lacked the final ball, and they were punished again on seven minutes. John Monterosso picked the ball up in the middle of the park and ran at the City defence before unleashing a powerful shot from 20-yards that gave Olejnik no chance.

United were now dominating and on 20 minutes they made it 3-0. Shepheard run into the box ended when he was brought down, and John Monterosso sent Olejnik the wrong way to increase United’s lead.

The home side came out strong in the second half but with them pushing men forward to try and get back into the game they were caught out again three minutes in. A great ball from Aaron Colli sent John Monterosso clear; he had Rory Hollingum in support, but the striker finished well to complete his hat-trick and making it 4-0.

The comprehensive victory was complete on 62 minutes, John Monterosso again raced clear but Olejnik denied the striker, but the rebound fell went to Shepheard, who chipped in from the edge of the box.

To Rockingham’s credit they continued to fight and Daniel Agudelo had to be at his best to deny Craig Tone, and moments later Tone’s headed against the bar, but it was United celebrating at the final whistle.

05.08.11 - Rockingham City v Swan United - Preview

Swan United are on the road in round 15 in the All Flags First Division, and face a tough test when they take on Rockingham City at Lark Hill on Saturday (3pm)

United coach John O'Reilly will be looking to continuing their good form, and believes last week win against Bunbury Forum Force was massive. "It was a great win last week and the boys showed they can match it with the best in this league. We know it’s going to be a tough game on Saturday as Rockingham are a very physical side and have a great home record, so we know we will have to be at our best, but I'm confident we can get the right result," said O'Reilly.

“The lads have trained really well this week especially the final half on Thursday were we lifted the intensity. We have a full squad to choose from, and it’s get to see Tommy and Jonty in good form. Another plus is that Damian Scali is back from injury to give us another option with is pleasing.”

Coach Steve Robinson joined Rockingham them from Premier League side Armadale last season, and has lured back to the club several players who walked out last year, and they have finally started edging up the table.
The biggest improvement has been defensively where keeper Craig Olenjik and Captain Jay Bonser have helped in stemming the flow of goals against, while Jeff Bright, Andrew Keary and Craig Tone will be crucial in the quest for goals

McStea leading United’s charge

The return of midfielder Anthony McStea, has given Swan United’s promotion charge a timely boost. The 30-year-old returned to Francis Street after a stint at Premier League side Bayswater City and he’s happy to be back. “It's great to be back at Swan. I still have some of my best mates here and that makes things easy when settling back in," said McStea.

Photo in Action against Ashfield - (Photo by Brett Kluzcnik)

The midfielder injured his knee while at Bayswater which hampered his football early in the season. Now the injury is clear he’s enjoying his football again, but said it was a tough decision to leave Bayswater midway through the season. “It was tough to leave Baysie as I enjoyed my time there with Mauro. I had commitments that weren't going to fit with where the club were going with their success so we agreed to part ways,” explained McStea.

“I hadn’t intended to play again this season but then my wife and I moved to Guildford and John and Cos at Swan assisted in getting something across the line that fit in with my other commitments which was great. I fractured my knee cap while at the Frank Drago Reserve, but thankfully it healed quickly and there hasn’t been any issue since then.”

It’s been a huge time off the field for McStea too, with his wife Alana giving birth to their first baby, and he’s enjoying fatherhood. “My daughter Evie is great and I'm sure as most fathers will tell you that fatherhood is the greatest thing in life. I want to spend all if my time with here these days,” said McStea.

The talent midfielder began his career at the Middlesbrough academy in the UK and then signed professional with them at 18. He then moved onto Wolverhampton Wanderers for a year, before moving to Belgian side Rosselare. He then moved back to the UK and played in the semi pro leagues for teams such as Durham City, Newcastle Blue Star and Spennymoor Town.

A 3-1 win against League Leaders Bunbury Form Force last week was a fantastic result for United and McStea believe the title will go down to the wire. “It was a great win for us on Saturday and I think it makes the rest of the season very interesting for all the teams up there. The game itself was difficult and the conditions didn't suit great football, but we battle hard and managed to get the three points,” said McStea.

He’s enjoying life at Francis Street and has a high regard for Coach John O’Reilly. “I’d known John for a little while socially before I signed so knew what to expect a little. I've been very impressed at how professional he is on the training ground and there is always a purpose to his sessions,” explained Mcstea.

This week United travel to Rockingham City, who have only lost once at home this season and McStea knows they will have to be at their best to take the points. “Rockingham has been picking up points this year and have already downed Bunbury. I expect a hard game but we are on a roll at present and playing with confidence so I expect us to go all out for three points,” said McStea.

30.07.11 - United Force home their advantage

Swan United produced a fantastic all-round performance to beat league leaders Bunbury Forum Force 3-1 in Saturday’s All Flags First Division clash at Francis Street.

Thomas Shepheard put the black and whites in the lead early, but Jon Brooks levelled in the 23rd minute. But two second goals in as many minutes from Aaron Colli and John Monterosso wrapped up the points and moved United to within four points of the leaders.

United Coach John O’Reilly made the two changes to the side that beat Fremantle Spirit last week with Adam Pygrum and Solomon Onyuku coming into the side for Scott Campbell who was away and Christopher Atkinson, who dropped to the bench.

At kick off United knew nothing more than three points would be good enough to keep them in the promotion race, but it was the visitors who began the better. But against the run of play it was United who hit the front. Trent Wood was found down the flank, his cross into the penalty area picked out Shepheard, who fired home with aplomb from five-yards.

The goal settled the nerves of the home side and they should have doubled their lead on 20 minutes. Anthony McStea’s perfectly weighted ball sent John Monterosso in on goal, but Ryan Montgomery stood tall to deny the striker.

Bunbury, who led the league by four points heading into the match, were back on level terms on 23 minutes. A long throw was only partially cleared by United, the ball falling to Brooks who fired home from 20-yards, giving the unsighted Daniel Agudelo no chance.

It was game on with both sides having the share of possession, the best chance fell to United just before the break. McStea was found in the penalty area, but his shot was well saved by the alert Montgomery.

Both sides had penalty claims turned down by referee Taz Paraskevas as the action continued, but it was level at the break.

After the break United looked to push home their home ground advantage, and on the hour Colli’s shot from 12-yards was saved by Montgomery.

But they had to wait till the 70th minute to take the lead. A cross from Rory Hollingum picked out the unmarked Colli, whose darting run had left the Bunbury defender in his wake, and he headed home past Montgomery.

The United faithful were on their feet again sixty seconds later, when United made it 3-1. Shepheard’s ball sent John Monterosso clear, and the league’s top scorer finished well past Montgomery.

If United thought that was it, the Force had other ideas and Agudelo saved superbly from Jon Brooks shot with ten minutes remaining, and moments later Ashley Young’s shot beat the United custodian but crashed off the crossbar.

United should have made it 4-1 John Monterosso picking out Shepheard at the back post, but the striker fired straight at Montgomery.  

To Bunbury’s credit they continued to press to the end but at the final whistle it was United players, coaches and supporters celebrating a great victory.

United Coach John O’Reilly was delighted with his side efforts. “It was a great game of football today despite the condition of the pitch. It was a game where two good teams went at it hammer and tongue, and in games like this the middle of the park is practically even. So it comes down to who finishes chances and we did that today which was awesome to see,” said O’Reilly.

“We matched them down in Bunbury but didn’t take our chances, today it was Bunbury who failed to convert. It was a great all-round performance from the side, but I’ve got to give special praise to Tommy Shepheard, who was superb at both ends of the pitch today, a man of the match performance.”   

Swan United 3 (Shepheard 6, Colli 70, Monterosso 71,)
Bunbury Forum Force 1(Brooks 23,); 
Swan United – GK Daniel AGUDELO, 7 Rory HOLLINGUM, 8 Adam PYGRUM, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 12 Chris MARSHALL, 9 Trent WOOD, 6 Aaron COLLI, 13 Anthony MCSTEA, 14 Solomon ONYUKA, 16 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 14 John MONTEROSSO
Subs – RGK Connor ANDERSON, 2 Niall MURPHY, 3 Christopher ATKINSON, 5 Jordan BROWN, 12 Mark MIRAUDO

Bunbury Forum Force – GK Ryan MONTGOMERY, 2 Ryan RISDEN, 4 Oliver MCGEE, 5 Jordan KEEGAN, 6 Jamie TANDY, 7 Rory BINNIE, 8 Ashley YOUNG, 10 Jayden PROSSOR, 11 Jon BROOKS, 13 Cory CULLEN, 16 Evan CHATE
Subs – 3 Jarras MORT, 9 Bryce YOUNG, 14 Kieran QUINN,

30.07.11 League Leaders head to Francis Street

All Flags First Division league leaders Bunbury Forum Force make the long trip to Francis Street on Saturday to take on Swan United in round 15 of the All Flags First Division (3pm)

There is a six point gap between the two sides and nothing more than three points will do for the black and whites, if they are to overhaul the Force, and Coach John O'Reilly is looking forward to the big game. "Bunbury arrive here top of the league, and will be feeling the pressure from the all the pursuing teams, us included,” said O’Reilly.

“This year they have opted for foreign talent over local, to give them the edge which was missing over the last several years, and looking at the ladder they have brought well. Our lads will put up a strong show on Saturday; hopefully their determination and team spirit will get the result we need, Best of luck to the Midland Boys!!!!!”

Bunbury have a good all-round team, with highly rated goalkeeper Ryan Montgomery, and in front of him an imposing line anchored by Jordan Rispon and Oliver McGee. Through the middle play Rory Binnie and Ashley Young with fellow newcomers Jon Brooks the target man in attack. They arrive at Francis Street fresh from a hard fought 2-1 win against Morley Wind-mills last week, with Rory Binnie and Corey Cullen on target,

Bunbury defender Oliver McGee, who missed last week’s win through injury, knows the importance of the game and is looking forward to the contest. “This weekend’s game is huge for both teams. If they win, they stay in the race for promotion but if we win it takes us closer. Our lads are ready for the game, no questions about that,” said McGee.

“All our players are fit and will be up for anything that happens on the day. We know Swan are a good side so hopefully it will prove to be a great game to watch.”

Get along and support the black and whites !!!!!!!!

Campbell enjoying being back at Swan

Swan United midfielder Scott Campbell is enjoying getting back into football, after giving the game away to finish his university studies. But a return to Francis Street to help the Black and Whites back to the Premier League has been enjoyable. “It has been great getting back down to Swan this year. After a few years out it was unsure if I would play again, but decided to give it one more go and couldn't be happier and I’ve got the passion for the game back,” explained Campbell.

“Some of my best mates are down at the club so have enjoyed getting to see them regularly again, and I’ve also made some very good new friends. And in John O’Reilly we have a very good coach who makes training very enjoyable and varied while at the same time still new aspects of the game from both an individual and team perspective.”

He added: “I don't want to pump John up too much as I don't want his head getting to big, but he is the best coach I have had. What stands out are his passion the game and his team. He is always looking for ways to not only improve the team but himself as a coach.

“He is very well organised and it shows in his training sessions. Always structured and flow really well with there always being specific aspects of the game that he wants us to work on. Training sessions are varied and enjoyable and you are actually learning things whiter they be small technical aspects or bigger attacking and defensive.”

O’Reilly is happy to have the midfielder at the club. “I first saw Scotty playing at the Vodafone five-a-side competition six years ago. I thought he had some pretty amazing foot skills, and it's been a pleasure to work with him this season," said O'Reilly.

"He's a thinker, and he understands football and how it should be played. He is a great trainer and a stylish player, and we often debate tactics, formations and styles at training which is great."

After three seasons away from the game Campbell wasn’t looking forward to the pre-season, but he’s slowly getting his fitness back. “Have to admit getting back into preseason was a big struggle and is still an ongoing battle. Let's just say that a few seasons away not doing anything lead to me becoming slighter rounder and definitely not as streamline as I once was. But bit by bit the weight is coming off and the fitness improving. Still a long way to go and something I'm still working on and will get there eventually,” said Campbell.

“I’ve finished my studies 2 years ago now and moved into private practice out in Maddington and Forest Lakes. I’m planning to head back to Uni in the future to further my studies. I try not to let to many people down at the club know, otherwise you end up all the players coming up asking for advice and treatment and the last thing you feel like doing after a long day when you get to training is more work -  Football players are an incredibly soft bunch.”

Campbell has represented WA at the National Futsal Championships for a number of years and that has kept him in the football loop. “The Futsal went well, and I’ve actually been involved for the last five years. We are gradually getting better and better to the point now we are usually one of the favourites heading into the tournament. This year we did quite well considering we were missing four of our better players,” explained Campbell.

“We breezed through the group phase finishing top and scoring a lot of goals. We managed to get to the semis and were less than 4 minutes from making the final but conceded 2 late goals including one with literally the last kick of the game and got knocked out. Personally I did quite well and got invited to an Australian training camp which ended up being a trial for a European tour (France and Switzerland) but I fell a little short and didn't make the squad. I think that pesky fitness got in the way again.”

The 30-year-old, who has played for Perth SC, Inglewood United, Swan IC and Bayswater City, has enjoyed his time at the clubs and has some good memories.  “All the clubs I played for were strong clubs and I enjoyed every minute. Unfortunately I’ve missed out on the major honours at them, but was a part of a  couple of reserve cups in my younger days, but winning the Night Series with United this season was made more special as it was achieved with a group of mates. An individual honour for me would have to be being selected for the State Team on a number of occasions,” said Campbell.

United continued there push to the top of the table with a 5-0 win at Fremantle on Saturday, a game they were expected to win easy. “Those sorts of games could have been a banana skin for us, but we ground out the win. Some very pleasing aspects including the goals we scored which came straight from what we had been working on at training. However it was far from perfect and if we want to achieve the goals we set ourselves at the start the season there are areas we will need to improve,” said Campbell.

That will be put to the test on Saturday when league leaders Bunbury Forum Force visit Francis Street, a game Campbell is really looking forward too. “It’s definitely a big game, and very much season defining. A win puts us within four points of the leaders and with many games to go we would put ourselves in the mix for the league title and promotion which has been our goal and motivation all season. But a loss puts us ten points adrift which would be a difficult total to overcome as Bunbury have been in such good form, and our destiny would no longer be in our control which is never a good place to be,” said Campbell.

“The first game was very competitive for the first 60-70 minutes before we conceded then went chasing and copped a second. Prior to their first goal we had a couple of really good chances that if converted may have led to a different outcome. Hopefully we can reverse the result come out on top and start a run towards the title.”

23.07.11 - United five star second half to beat the Spirit

Swan United continued their promotion push up the All Flags First Division table with a 5-0 win against Fremantle Spirit at Wauhop Park on Saturday.

A first half to forget saw United miss a host of chances, but an excellent second half display saw them score five, with a double to Thomas Shepheard, and singles to Anthony McStea, from the penalty spot, Solomon Onyuku and Chris Marshall.

The first chance of the game came on six minutes, Rory Hollingum cross picked out the unmarked Shepheard, but somehow the striker fired wide.

Fremantle where struggling to cope with United’s forward pressure and on 20 minutes John Monterosso, was found on the edge of the box, his shot was well saved by Fremantle keeper Chris Farmer.  United had the ball in the net just before half time, but Shepheard’s goal was disallowed for offside.

Coach John O’Reilly rung the changes at the break, bringing on Solomon Onyuku and Adam Pygrum and they made a perfect start, winning a penalty in the opening minutes when referee Ian Edwards saw a handball in the penalty area from a McStea shot. The midfielder made no mistake from the spot to give United the lead.

It was one-way traffic as United looked to press home their advantage and Onyuku fired wide and Pygrum shot was saved by Farmer, as they continued to dominate. They made it 2-0 on the hour, Trent Wood’s cross picking out Onyuku, who fired home from six-yards.

Fremantle looked to hit back and Fernandez’s shot crashed off the crossbar two minutes later, but United made it 3-0 on 65 minutes. Pygrum’s cross into the box saw Shepheard challenge keeper Farmer, and the big striker got there him and headed into the empty net.

It was soon four, Wood’s free kick on 70 minutes was headed back across goal by John Monterosso and Shepheard fired home at the back post.

Then six minutes later it was 5-0, McStea’s corner was headed powerfully home by Marshall, to complete a good second half and the three points moved United up to third on the table with top of the table Bunbury forum Force at home next week in a must win game.

Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 7 Rory Holligum, 4 Robert Monterosso, 3 Chris Atkinson, 12 Chris Marshall, 13 Scott Campbell, 6 Aaron Colli, 10 Anthony McStea, 9 Trent wood, 11 John Monterosso, 16 Thomas Shepheard
Subs– RGK Jordan Howell, 14 Solomon Onyuku, 17 Nattapong Narongphunt, 8 Adam Pygrum, 2 Niall Murphy

22.07.11 - United set sail for Fremantle

Swan United will be looking to keep the pressure on league leaders Bunbury Forum Force, when they take on Fremantle Spirit at Wauhop Park on Saturday (3pm)

United are one of Division One’s form sides with John Monterosso banging in the goals and his brother, Rob, marshalling the defence. Damian Scali (knee) is absent this weekend with defender Adam Pygrum needing to pass a late fitness test to make the match day squad.

Skipper Rob Monterosso (below) is aware of people saying United will win by a landslide but he knows different. “Every game from here on in is crucial in keeping Swan in the race for promotion and with a possible 27 points still available, our title hopes are nowhere near lost,” said Monterosso.

“Fremantle are no pushover and although we are tipped for a convincing win, they will not be taken lightly.  Our main concern will be to not become complacent and to stay disciplined for the full 90 mins and then to carry that momentum forward into next week’s clash with Bunbury.

United Coach John O’Reilly is also well aware of this and is expecting a tough game against a side who have struggled recently. “We’ve got to go there and be professional about our job this week. A clinical performance is required against a team that have been struggling to find form, but we don’t want any slip up’s and we’ve drilled it into the players this week,” said O’Reilly.

Darren Monaghan should come back into Fremantle's eleven after missing last week through injury, while teenager Chris Farmer is expected to retain the spot between the posts.

In other Division one games (thanks to www.footballwa.net) Morley Windmills may be without a specialist goalkeeper for their visit to Division One leaders Bunbury Forum Force (3.00pm). With regular stopper Steve Grant sidelined by long-term injury Morley have spent the week scouring the local scene for a replacement and, should one not be found, coach Salv Todaro may position an out-field player between the posts. Bunbury boss Nigel Wilcox has some selection headaches of a much different kind with defensive pair Jordan Rispin and Oliver McGee banging on the knocking on the door of a first team recall.

Anything less than maximum points for Shamrock Rovers at home to Rockingham City (3.00pm) could spell the end of their title hopes for 2011. The arrival from Ireland of John McElnce and Sean Tobin has increased competition for places as well as depth at Shamrock where Alan O’Mahoney, Barry Mulligan and Eamon Barnes are looking to force their way back into the eleven. Rockingham have won three of their last four games and the recruitment of former Perth Glory player Jeff Bright signals their intention for a strong finish to the season.

There'll be some Wanneroo City regulars missing for their home encounter with Gosnells City (3.00pm). Team captain Brian Cairney (flu) hasn't trained this week and in all likelihood will be absent along with Jay MacDonald (work), Tom Omre (foot) and Craig Bowman (hamstring). Gosnells have looked good in spells but need a full 90 minute performance if they're to take anything from the game. Striker Jamie Burns has a key role to play while the timing could not be better for veteran Alan Dunlop to keep his first clean sheet of the winter.

There’s good reason why Dianella White Eagles fancy their chances of upsetting home side Ashfield (3.00pm). Former United Coach Jamie Goodman is yet to taste victory with Dianella but with Jimmy Nelson, Sotiris Theodosiades, Sasa Cvijetic and Bojan Radinovic back in training that could be able to change. Ashfield boss Matt Carruthers has some tough decisions to make with Jason Feather, Mladen Kovacevic and Gareth Lloyd all vying for starting spots. The final game brings together Forrestfield United, who have Matt Harold and Martin Barnes suspended, against an as yet pointless Canning City under lights at Hartfield Park (7.00pm).

Monterosso leads from the front for United

Swan United is continuing their push for a return to the Premier League and striker John Monterosso is leading the way on the pitch, and is currently the league’s top goal scorer.

The 25-year-old, who nearly gave the game away a few years ago, is enjoying his second stint at Francis Street. “Things are going well down in the valley, the atmosphere and jest around the club is the best I’ve been a part of. We would have to be, no we are the closest, tight knit team in the league and that’s visible after and before every game and not only that but personally I’m having the best season yet,” said Monterosso.

“At the end of last season I was close to hanging up the boots and putting football aside, and if it weren’t for my brother Rob who managed to convince me to come down and give it another crack at Francis Street and I must say it’s been the best decision I could’ve made.”

The striker is first to admit he has been given some good service this season from new midfield signings Aaron Colli and Anthony McStea in particular, but he still has to put them in the net. “Well what can I say, it’s nice to be top scorer in the league, let’s keep it that way. But goals come easy when you have a great team around you and in all honesty I wouldn’t be top if it weren’t for Coach John O’Reilly and the lads. John has extensively worked on my finishing at training over and over...and over again and things are only going to get better,” explained Monterosso.

“Aaron’s work rate and with Maccas creativity and ball skills, it’s no wonder why goals come freely to us and the likes of Tommy Shepheard and the return of Damian Scali winning headers and those niggly balls has just made things so much easier.”

Monterosso was involved in a horrific incident last week when Morley Windmills keeper Steve Grant and defender Mark Walsh were hospitalised after collision with the striker, and he has been criticised in some circles regarding the incident, but he just wanted to get the ball and now wishes them a speedy recovery. “I’ve heard reports regarding the incident against Morley that I had maliciously pushed Walshy into the keeper, which caused the injury. But just to get it out there, this was certainly not the case! It was an unfortunate event and I do wish the two lads a speedy recovery,” explained Monterosso.

United hit back from 0-2 down last week to beat Morley 4-2 and keep their promotion hopes alive, but he heaped praise on Coach O’Reilly for the side’s good form. “We may not have played the prettiest football in the first hour of football, but in the end we got the job done and we played some fantastic football in the final third of the game, and McStea’s goal was superb. I think coming from 2-0 down and to fight back has given a new air of confidence amongst the lads which is well needed as the season drawers to the business end,” said Monterosso.

“One thing is to have talented players but another is to have a coach that can get that talent, attitude and inspiration to produce the best results and John does this which such ease.

“Every session is different and heavily game related and he expects the upmost from every player, things here at Francis Street have never been so organised and promising and this has everything to do with John. He’s a great Coach and even better bloke, an average player though,” joked Monterosso.

16.07.11 - United come from 2-0 down to beat Windmills

Swan United kept their promotion hopes alive with a come from behind 4-2 win against Morley Windmills at Francis Street. (Report by Anthony Dundo)

The visitors raced into a 2-0 goal lead after 52 minutes with goals from Ryan Frisina and Andy O’Neill, but they lost keeper Steve Grant and central defender Mark Walsh due to injury, and a double from John Monterosso and singles to Aaron Colli and Anthony McStea gave the black and whites all three points.

United Coach John O’Reilly had a number of injury concerns going into the game and he had to make three changes to the starting line up from the 1-1 draw at Shamrock last time out. In came keeper Daniel Agudelo in place of Luke Martino, whose loan spell at the club came to an end, while Rory Hollingum and Scott Campbell came in for the injured Adam Pygrum and Damian Scali.

It was the visitors who opened brightly and Agudelo was out bravely to save early, and ended with a sore head for his troubles. But it wasn’t long before Morley hit the front, and on eight minutes, Lucas Whitehouse’s ball over the top caught the United defenders flat footed and Frisina beat keeper Agudelo to the ball to direct it into the bottom right hand corner.

The United custodian had to be at his best again on 20 minutes to deny Whitehouse, as Morley continued to dictate terms.

The best chance of the half for the black and whites came five minutes before the break. A good run down the flank by John Monterosso, ended with a ball into the box but Thomas Shepheard fired wide from close-range.

United were looking for a solid start to the second half, but it didn’t go to plan and Morley added a second seven minutes in. An excellent through ball by Whitehouse sent former United midfielder O’Neill clear, and he beat Agudelo to the ball and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper for a well taken goal.

It was going to be difficult now for United but they were back in the game just after the hour mark. A ball into the box by Trent Wood sent John Monterosso in on goal, Morley keeper was out bravely to try and block and collided with the striker and defender Walsh, but the ball rebounded kindly for the striker, who fired home into an empty net.

Unfortunately for Morley keeper Steve Grant was injured in the incident, along with defender Mark Walsh, and he was replaced by reserve keeper Gary Mamote.

Then five minutes later the black and whites were level. McStea picked out Shepheard in the penalty area, and the big striker brought the ball down well and fed John Monterosso who fired powerfully home.

It was game on and Morley went close to re-taking the lead moments later, but second half substitute Adriano D’Adamo shot was well saved by Agudelo. Then moments later D’Adamo did beat the keeper but the alert Rory Hollingum cleared the ball off the line.

The game was still in the balance and Hollingum tested Mamote on 74 minutes, but the Morley keeper saved. But there was nothing the keeper could do on 83 minutes as United hit the front. A great run through midfield by McStea, ended with a superb ball to Colli, who finished clinically.

The points were wrapped up five minutes from time. Another good run from Shepheard took him clear, he fed McStea (left), who rode two challenges before firing home from 20-yards, for one of the goals of the season.

Morley went close to a third in stoppage-time, but Frisina shot was again cleared off the line by Hollingum.

United Coach John O’Reilly was delighted with the result, and the way his side battled back from 2-0 down.  “Morley came out well organized, and we tried to win control in the centre, but Morley dominated the flanks. We had to re-shuffle our formation but a little too late as Morley had taken the lead,” said O’Reilly.

“I felt we picked up our game before the break but all our chances were only half chances. The second half we came out stronger but only gave away a soft second goal. Unfortunately for Morley a clash between defender and keeper resulted in a gifted goal and both players were unable to continue, we wish them all the best in their recovery. Soon after we started to dominate, creating clearer cut chances and took them.”

Swan United 4 (J Monterosso 63, 68, Colli 83, McStea 85)
Morley Windmills 2 (Frisina 8, O'Neill 52)

Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 3 Chris Atkinson, 4 Robert Monterosso, 6 Aaron Colli, 7 Rory Hollingum, 9 Trent Wood, 10 Anthony McStea, 11 John Monterosso, 12 Chris Marshall, 13 Scott Campbell, 16 Thomas Shepheard
Subs – RGK Jordan Howell, 2 Adam Skowron, 5 Niall Murphy, 8 Nattapong Narongphunt, 17 Solomon Onyuka

Morley Windmills – GK Steve Grant, 2 Leo Harman, 3 Mark Walsh, 4 Ian McKean, 5 Kris Dennis, 6 Joey Woodin, 8 Andy O’Neill, 10 Ryan Frisina, 16 Mitch Castrilli, 20 Lucas Whitehouse
Subs – RGK Gary Mamote, 13 Adriano D’Adamo, 14 David Houston, 16 Fraser McGuire,   

15.07.11 - United host the Windmills in Round 13

Swan United are back in league action this weekend after the cup round last week, and they entertain Morley Windmills at Francis Street in week 13 of the All Flags First Division.

The Swans earned a hard fought point last time out at Shamrock Rovers, but assistant Coach Ben Kelly knows they will need to be at their best this weekend against a good Morley side. “Saturday’s game is going to require a lot of strength and character from the lads due to the wealth of experience and talented players this Morley squad have available to them,” said Kelly.

“With the likes of former United players Damien Todorovic and Andy O’Neill, who are two experienced players that can change a game at any time. Sal Todaro is always a hard coach to play against tactically, as he has previously won this league before with Balcatta & Bayswater and knows what it takes to win the big games.”

United beat Morley in the reserve fixture earlier in the season 3-0, and Kelly will be looking for the same from his chargers on Saturday. “We beat Morley on their home ground a few months back and on the day we were tactically better than them and well-disciplined, hopefully we can do the same on Saturday,” explained Kelly.

Mark Walsh, Leo Harman and Captain Ian McKean will be a steadying influence at the back for the visitors, while Steve Grant has been in good form between the sticks. The midfield drive comes from Simon Wilson, Joey Woodin and Andy O’Neill, who’ll provided plenty of finishing opportunities for Ryan Frisina and David Houston.

They are currently sitting in sixth spot in the All flags First Division, only four points behind the Black and Whites. They arrive here on a good run of form, including big wins against Canning City and Dianella White Eagles, while a late goal from Walsh saw them beat Gosnells city 2-1 in the last round.

09.07.11 - United Reserve beaten in shoot-out by ECU

Swan United Reserves were beaten 4-2 on penalties, in the semi-final of the State League Reserves Cup by Premier League  side ECU Joondalup, after the game ended 1-1 at full time at Dorrien Gardens Saturday morning.

Scott Bushby gave the Premier League side the lead on 35 minutes, but they lost Luke Smith with a straight red card midway through the second half, and United substitute Sebastian De Cotter fired home the equaliser five minutes from time. ECU keeper Brynn Hindley was the hero in the shoot-out saving two spot kick, to keep the current cup holders in line for back-to-back cup triumphs. 

It was an even opening with chances at both ends. First on two minute, Jordan Withey cut into the area from the left, his powerful shot flashed inches past the post. Then two minutes later United’s midfielder Adam Pygrum’s corner was headed straight at Hindley by Robert Shepheard.

Withey was causing problems down the left and on 22 minutes his ball into the penalty area seemed to hit the arm of United’s skipper Niall Murphy, but referee John Taran waved away their protests. Then three minutes later it was Withey again finding Bushby on the edge of the box, but his shot flew over the top.

The Premier League side were dominating and on 28 minutes Jarrad McNally found Max Pope, his snap shot was saved low by Jordan Howell, and moments later Bushby’s long-range shot whistled inches past the post.

ECU’s domination was rewarded with the lead on 35 minutes. A great run at the heart of the United’s defence by Jake Benson-Cooper, ended with a ball to Bushby on the edge of the box, his shot beat Howell to give David Tough’s side a well-deserved lead at the break.

The game took another twist four minutes into the second half when Smith’s poor tackle on United’s midfielder Robert Ftynogiannis ended with a straight red card for the defender, and Ftynogiannis limped off, replaced by De Cotter.

United looked to make their extra man count and they went close on 56 minutes. Scott Campbell’s through ball sent Nattapong Narongphunt in on goal, Hindley was out quick but his attempted clearance was blocked by the striker, putting him in on goal, but unfortunately the ball crossed the bye-line with the goal at his mercy.

ECU were now hitting on the counter attack and on 64 minutes Withey’s pace took him clear down the left, his cross picked out substitute Nick Maplestone in the penalty area, but his shot was straight at Howell who saved.

Midway through the second half United’s coach Mick Skowran moved defender Chris Atkinson up front and it had immediate impact, and United began to dominate.

First on 77 minutes Atkinson released Jordan Brown down the right, he picked out Campbell, whose lob from the edge of the box was well saved by the alert Hindley. Then moments later Atkinson’s shot from the edge of the box was well held by Hindley, as United looked for the equaliser.   

Then five minutes from time they were rewarded with the equaliser. A great run down the left by De Cotter, ended with him cutting inside Ryan Lowry and into the penalty area, finishing clinically past Hindley from six-yards.

Both sides pushed for the winner in normal time but it wasn’t to be, so it was down to the dreaded penalty shoot-out.

ECU keeper Hindley saved Pygrum and Narongphunt spot kick’s and despite Max Pope’s miss; Andy Brown won it for the Premier League side sending Howell the wrong way to give them a 4-2 win on penalties.

United Coach Mike Skowran, although disappointed, was proud of his players. “It was a very good performance against a top team from the Premier League, but unfortunately it came down to penalties and today wasn’t our day,” said Skowran.

ECU Coach David Tough was a relived man after the game. “I knew it was going to be hard game, in cup games the form book goes out the window. The send-off changed the game, I believe we would have gone on and won it in normal time, but penalties were good enough, with Brynn making two good saves in the shoot-out,” said Tough.    

In the earlier Under 18’s Semi-Final Bayswater City caused a huge upset beating joint league leaders ECU Joondalup 4-2 to reach the final.  Sebastian Melis was the hero for City scoring a hat-trick, with Zeljko Petrovic scoring the other. Alex Paddon and Daniel Dixon were on target for ECU.

State League Reserves Cup Semi-Final
Swan United 1 (De Cotter 85’)
ECU Joondalup 1 (Bushby 35’)
(ECU won 4-2 on Penalties)
Date – 9th July 2011
Venue – BGC Stadium – Dorrien Gardens
Kick Off – 10.45am
Referee – John Taran

Swan United – GK Jordan HOWELL, 2 Niall MURPHY, 3 Chris ATKINSON, 4 Jordan BROWN, 5 Nattapong NARONGPHUNT, 7 Robert FTYNOGIANNIS (9 Sebastian DE COTTER 54’), 8 Adam PYGRUM, 10 Scott CAMPBELL, 11 Cristian CATALANO, 12 Chris MARSHALL
Subs not used –
Yellow Cards -
ECU Joondalup – GK Brynn HINDLEY, 2 Luke SMITH, 3 Lee THOMSON, 4 Andy BROWN, 5 Ryan LOWRY, 6 Josh BROOKS, 7 Jake BENSON-COOPER (8 Shane PICKERING 78’), 9 Jarrad MCNALLY (12 Nick MAPLESTONE 60’), 10 Max POPE, 11 Jordan WITHEY, 14 Scott BUSHBY
Subs not used –, , 13 Jamal WEST, 15 Alex SALLERY, 16 Brendon NUNEZ
Yellow Cards – Brooks 22’, Bushby 33’, Benson-Cooper 65’
Red Cards – Smith 49’

08.07.11 - ECU Joondalup Reserves v Swan United reserves Semi-Final Preview

Swan United Reserves take on ECU Joondalup Reserves in Saturday’s Football West State League reserves Cup Semi-Final at Dorrien Gardens (10.45am)

United have a good tradition in cup competition’s and Coach Mike Skowron (left) is delighted his side have the opportunity to make the final. “It's always good to succeed in a competition and the cup is a good competition to get the best out of the players and the team. The players seem to be able to step up for the big games. Sometimes it's hard to get consistency in the reserves team as players are moving between the first team and under 18's but for the cup we can pick our strongest squad and that helps,” said Skowron.

United season has picked up in recent weeks, but it was a disastrous start. “Losing the first three league games put us on the back foot but we have been able to fight back and get a good number of wins on the board. A good characteristic of the team is that we have been able to finish games strongly and have been able to come from behind in a number of games to record wins. Our goal now is to get more points in the second half of the season than the first,” explained Skowron.

“It has been a great team effort and as such no-one really stands out. All the players have improved individually and this has helped the team to improve as a unit.”

Skowron knows Saturday’s game will be tough but he’s looking forward to the challenge. “The semi-final will be tough. ECU are equal top in the Premier Division, however,  Inglewood have played 2 games less than ECU and are only 5 points behind them so the teams are very even. We had a very good performance against Inglewood in the quarter final and therefore we are quietly confident that we can back that effort up. Our ability to finish games strongly is important in cup games so we will always be in with chance,” said Skowron.

ECU are the current cup holders and Coach David Tough believes going back to back would be great for his young side. “It would be a fantastic achievement to win the cup for the second season running but at this time we are focused on playing well and hopefully winning the game on Saturday. We would be delighted to make the final as the build up to last year’s game and the day itself was a great experience for everyone involved at the club,” said Tough.

The Coach has been delighted with his chargers this season and believes they have exceeded his expectations. “At the start of the season if you had told me we'd be joint top with five games to go and in the semi-final of the cup I'd have bitten your hand off. The development of the players individually and as a team has been huge and they deserve to be in the position they are in right now. We are on a 10 game undefeated run at the moment thanks to the boy’s hard working attitude for me, themselves and more importantly each other,” explained Tough.

It’s been a great team effort from his young side this season, and he believes they have stood up when needed this season. “I’m very proud of all my players’ achievements so far this season. After initially being at the club, Brynn Hindley, signed a professional contract with Dundee United for two seasons and returned at the start of this season showing massive development in all goal keeping areas. Mr Dependable, Josh Brooke, is my free kick specialist who never lets me down. Wherever I play him, he plays well, he simply wants to play and has a wand of a right foot. Luke Smith came back to the club after a spell in Spain and has recently broken into the first team squad. He is an excellent full hearted defender that any team would delighted to have him in their squad,” said Tough.

“Saturday will certainly be a tough game, as in any cup competition form and division go out the window. Since a last minute rule change allowing eligible players to have only played three games for first division clubs, Swan could possibly have up to five or six players starting who have had regular first team experience this season. This will be a great test for our young lads and I am sure they will rise to the occasion.

Squads for Saturday’s game
Swan United – GK Jordan Howell, Chris Atkinson, Niall Murphy, Chris Marshall, Steve Betella, Scott Campbell, Adam Pygrum, Rob Ftynogiannis, Jordan Brown, Nattapong Narongphunt, Christian Catalano, Seb DeCotter, Jayden Vespescu, Rob Shepheard, Lamin Kamara, RGK Conner Anderson

ECU Joondalup - GK Brynn Hindley, Luke Smith, Lee Thomson, Ryan Lowry, Andy Brown, Josh Brook, Jake Cooper-Benson, Shane Pickering, Jarrad McNally, Max Pope, Jordan Withey, Nick Maplestone, Jamal West, Sebastian Fransson, Alex Sallery, Brandon Nunez,    

02.07.11 - United let it slip at Rovers

Swan United came away with a share of the spoils after an entertaining 1-1 draw against second placed Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve on Saturday.

John Monterosso gave United the lead just before half time, but a second half equaliser from Ross Cosgrove gave both sides a point, but both lose ground on league leaders Bunbury Forum Force.

United Coach made just the one change to the side that beat Ashfield last week with Chris Marshall coming in at the back for the injured Rory Mouttet.

Shamrock started the game by applying some intense pressure on the United defence where Luke Martino’s reflexes ensured the game remained level when he tipped over Ross Corgrove’s shot on 20 minutes. The Perth SC on-loan keeper was at it again on 35 minutes, this time denying Nick Carroll’s header

United slowly found their rhythm and went close themselves three minutes later, Damian Scali shot saved low by John Parker. Then on 40 minutes, Adam Pygrum’s cross picked out John Monterosso, but the striker’s volley flashed wide of the target.

United’s pressure finally paid off three minutes from the break. Some decisive passes through midfield sent Scali down the right before cutting the ball back for John Monterosso to fire into the bottom corner from just inside the 18-yard box.

Scali could have increased the black and whites lead early in the second period but placed wide of the target. Shamrock responded, and levelled just after the hour, Cosgrove used his pace to get past Pygrum before angling his shot across Martino and inside the far post.

It was United who ended the game the better and on 70 minutes, Anthony McStea’s corner from the right was fumbled by Parker, but Scali’s headed went inches over the bar.

Swan had a legitimate penalty appeal dismissed by the referee after two defenders conspired to hold back Tommy Shepheard inside the area, while Scali was denied what would have been a winning goal when Parker made a great save to deny the United striker.

Shamrock Rovers – GK John PARKER, 3 David MURPHY, 4 Patrick O’CONNOR, 6 Steve O’MAHONY, 7 Ian STACK, 8 Gavin MOONEY, 9 Steve COWBROUGH, 10 Nick CARROLL, 11 Ross COSGROVE, 14 Alan CARROLL, 15 Sean BROOKS
Subs – RGK Justin SCARVACI, 2 Glenn BROOKS, 13 Daniel MCCURDY

Swan United – GK Luke MARTINO, 3 Chris ATKINSON, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 6 Aaron COLLI, 8 Adam PYGRUM, 9 Trent WOOD, 10 Anthony MCSTEA, 11 John MONTEROSSO, 12 Chris MARSHALL, 16 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 17 Damian SCALI
Subs – RGK Daniel AGUDELO, 2 Adam SKOWRAN, 7 Rory HOLLINGUM, 15 Scott CAMPBELL, 19 Nattapong NARONGPHUNT

01.07.11 - Rovers next for United

Swan United are on the road in round 12 of the All Flags Division One when they take on second placed Shamrock Rovers at Harold Rossiter Reserve on Saturday (3pm)

A solid 2-0 win against the in-form Ashfield last week pushed the black and whites closer to the top two and Saturday's game is vital for the promotion chances of both sides. “It's getting tight up the top end now and this week’s game against Shamrock will be as equally important for both teams to grab the three points,” said United assistant Coach Ben Kelly (left).

“Rovers are a very good side well drilled and can score goals, so we will have to be at our best to beat them, our boys are up for the game and we have been working hard in training working on a few aspects of our game that needs to be improved and we will take this to the next game, and the boys are keen on getting a result especially after they beat us at home a few weeks ago.”.

In team news Rory Mouttet will be unavailable for the next couple of months due to fractures in his cheekbone from last week’s match - the whole club would like to wish him a speedy recovery. “The squad has also been boosted with former United player Nick Olsson returning from Stirling Lions, and Adam Skowron who has come from playing college football in the USA,” said Kelly.

“While Daniel Agudelo returns to the squad, which will create more competition between the sticks, these great additions to the Swan United squad and increases are depth for the final 11 games of the season.”.

25.06.11 - Scali and Colli see United home

Second half goals from Damian Scali and Aaron Colli has seen Swan United beat Ashfield 2-0 in round 11 of the All Flags Premier League at Francis Street.

Veteran striker Scali made it two goals in two games since his return to the side from retirement, and Colli, who was superb in the middle of the park added a second to end Ashfield’s seven game unbeaten run and keep the black and whites in the promotion race. 

United welcomed back Anthony McStea to the club and he came into the side that beat Gosnells City 4-1 last week, and he was one of three changes made by United Coach John O’Reilly. Also coming back into the side was striker Thomas Shepheard from injury, and defender Chris Atkinson. Brendan Knox was missing due to work commitments, while Rory Hollingum and Scott Campbell dropped to the bench.

With Bunbury losing on Friday night, United knew they needed nothing more than three points from the game, but it was a disastrous start for the home side. Defender Rory Mouttet was chasing the ball back when he clashed with the Ashfield striker and United keeper Luke Martino leaving the veteran defender with serious facially injuries. He was taken from the field and an ambulance was called with Mouttet going in and out of consciousness, he was replaced by Marshall.

The incident took the shine off the game and there were few chances the best fell to Ashfield on the half hour. A long free kick from Ashfield keeper Bradley Eiffe caused problems in the United defence and Gareth Lloyd close-range shot was superbly blocked by Martino.

United’s best chance of the half came five minutes before the break. McStea’s cross picked out Colli, whose header from eight-yards flashed wide of the far post, and moments later Scali’s header was saved by Eiffe.

After the break it was the visitors who had the first chance, Brian Maybin heading wide, and Karl O’Reilly blazed over from the edge of the box.

The first goal was always going to be vital and it went the way of United on 54 minutes. A long goal kick from Martino bounced over the Ashfield back four, and keeper Eiffe hesitated and Scali nipped in and headed past the keeper, much to the delighted of the United faithful.

Then two minutes later they doubled their lead. Ashfield keeper Eiffe did well to save Shepheard’s shot the rebound falling to Colli, who fired home from close-range.

Ashfield looked to hit back immediately and on the hour Maybin fired wide when placed, and the visitors were then denied a penalty in the 70th minute for a handball by Rob Monterosso in the box, but the referee waved away Ashfield’s protests. There were chances at both ends late, the best falling to Rory Hollingum five minutes before full time, his powerful shot superbly saved by Eiffe at full stretch.

United Coach John O'Reilly was happy with the win and the three points against a good Ashfield side. "I was delighted with the boys today, we showed our versatility during the game as we switched formations and styles across the park to maximise opportunities in key attacking areas," said O'Reilly.

"It was a good debut from new boy Anthony McStea, a dominating performance in the middle of the park next to the ever reliable Aaron Colli, who made the game safe with the second goal. Very happy with the link up play between Damian Scali and Thomas Shepheard and John Monterosso in the second half.

"The only negative on the day was the injury picked up by Rory Mouttet, myself and the boys send our best wishes to him and his family and hope for a speedy recovery."

Swan United – GK Luke Martino, 8 Adam Pygrum, 15 Rory Mouttet, 4 Robert Monterosso, 3 Chris Atkinson, 11 John Monterosso, 10 Anthony McStea, 6 Aaron Colli, 9 Trent Wood, 16 Thomas Shepheard, 17 Damian Scali
Subs – RGK Daniel Agudelo, 12 Chris Marshall, 13 Scott Campbell, 14 Rory Hollingum, 2 Matthew DeBarro

Ashfield – GK Bradley Eiffe, 9 Robert Irving, 2 Mark Donnelly, 3 Mathew Wardle, 12 David Gordon, 7 Gareth Lloyd, 15 Ibnen Charming, 6 Brian Maybin, 11 Bradley Smith, 8 Alex Stamatiadas, 10 Karl O’Reilly
Subs – RGK Mathew Weyell, 13 Wayne Culverwood, 4 Martin Sherwin, 14 Craig Hollingsworth, 5 Darragh Joyce  

24.06.11 - Swan United v Ashfield - Preview

United are back at home on Saturday when they take on the in-form Ashfield in round 11 of the All Flags First Division at Francis street (3pm).

Fresh from Saturday’s 4-1 win at Gosnells City, the black and whites are looking forward to keeping the pressure on the sides above them, but Coach John O’Reilly knows Saturday will be a tough game.

“Ashfield will be a strong opponent for us on Saturday. They have had many years of hurt, finishing in the bottom two over the last three years,” said O’Reilly.

“They are in good form at the moment, after playing most of the bottom six; they will feel like it’s their turn for a run of success. They will try and kick a result out of us, but if we can avoid their studs and ignore their banter we have a strong chance of getting the result.”
United have brought in former Middlesbrough midfielder Anthony McStea to the side from Premier League Bayswater City and he comes straight into the side for Saturday’s game. “Anthony will be eager to get his second stint at Francis Street off to a flying start against Ashfield, it’s great to have him on board,” said O’Reilly.

“Old boy, but young at heart, Damian Scali has been very sharp in training, with in form Thomas Shepheard, both will be looking for a goal or two. The side is looking good at the moment no injuries, so it’s leaving me with a few tough decisions on my starting line-up.”

The struggles of last season, when Ashfield escaped relegation by the skin of their teeth, have been consigned to history. New coach Matt Carruthers has made sweeping changes to the squad and instilled a new sense of purpose for the coming winter which should see Ashfield slowly make their way up the table.

Pre-season experimentation has shown key roles await Brad Eiffe, Matt Wardle, Martin Sherwin and Ibnen Charming in a line-up where starting eleven competition will be red-hot. Added to the squad in recent months have been Alex Stamatiadas Karl O’Reilly and former Swan Mark Donnelly, and recent results has seen the side move up to fifth spot, so Saturday’s game should be a cracker 

Scali back with a bang

Swan United veteran striker Damian Scali came out of retirement last weekend to help the black and white to a 4-1 win at Gosnells City.

The talented goal scorer hung up the boots last season but when new Coach John O’Reilly contacted him he jumped at the chance to pull on the famous black and white shirt again. “John asked me to come down to see what how I felt,” said Scali.

“The squad seemed to be flying early with plenty of depth but for a number of reasons it has been dwindled down in recent weeks. I went training last week on John's request, and it seemed to go ok then with Tommy Shepheard getting injured it just sought of happened that I was in. So it was a combination of John asking because the team is struggling with injuries and me seeing that I might be able to help with my experience and would do anything to get us back into the premier league, even if it means playing. I pulled up well after the game, and to be honest I have not been fitter and in better shape for 5 years.”

The clubs top goal scorer starred in the win at Walter Padbury Reserve, scoring and setting up a couple more, but he’s happy to help out where he can. “Yes, getting a goal was good, even though it was handed to me on a plate by the keeper. I really hoping to just help the side with their structure and help John develop the team to be eventually get back to being competitive in the Premier league,” Scali explained.

“It was a good win for the club, especially after losing to Shamrock the week before, but it was not as convincing as the score line suggests. They gave us the first two goals then we were under pressure at 2-1, but I thought we took control of the second half.”
The black and whites entertain the inform Ashfield on Saturday and Scali is expecting a tough game. “We would probably need to win every game from here to win the league, so Saturday is important,” said Scali.

“I heard that they have signed some Inglewood players but I really haven’t been following the league very much at all this year so I am not up to date with their results. But i have been told Mark Donnelly plays at the back so that will be a challenge as he is always hard to play against.”

18.06.11 - United come from behind to beat Gosnells

Swan United put last week’s 0-2 home defeat against Shamrock Rovers behind them to beat Gosnells City 4-1 on a wet and cold day at Walter Padbury Reserve.

The home side took the early lead through striker Raveshlan Kuppasamy, but Damian Scali, who made a surprise return to the senior side levelled soon after. Just before half time on-loan keeper Luke Martino amazingly scored from a long clearance, and second half goals to Trent Wood and Aaron Colli gave United a comfortable victory.

United Coach sprung a surprise before kick-off giving former club skipper Scali a starting role, while Adam Pygrum also came back into the side. Thomas Shepheard was out injured and Chris Marshall dropped to the bench.

It was the home side that started the better and they were rewarded with the lead on 20 minutes. United failed to clear their lines and Kuppasamy fired home from an acute angle past Martino.

United coach was looking for a response from his chargers and he got it four minutes later with the equaliser. Rory Hollingum’s corner was dropped by Gosnells City keeper Alan Dunlop and Scali was in the right place to fire home from close-range.

The goal lifted United and they went close again on the half hour, Brendan Knox’s cross from the flank found Wood whose shot was cleared off the line by some desperate City defending.  

Both sides had chances to take the lead but it was United who edged ahead in amazing circumstances. On-loan keeper Martino sent a long clearance downfield and with Scali chasing and ready to pounce the ball bounced up over Dunlop and rolled into the net to give them a 2-1 lead.

Gosnells still had time to level before the break, when Scali gave away a free kick on the edge of the box. Adrian McBride’s set piece was cleared over the bar by the alert Rory Mouttet. The home side ended the half well forcing two late corners but United held on to take a 2-1 lead into the break.

City started the second half well and went close two minutes in. United gave the ball away in the middle of the park and Darren Francis was sent clear, but Martino stood tall to deny the striker with a good save.

United began to get back in the game with Aaron Colli and Adam Pygrum pulling the strings in midfield and on 52 minutes Pygrum’s pin point cross picked out Scali, the strikers header beat Dunlop but bounced away off the post.

It was end-to-end football and Gosnells went close at the other end five minutes later. McBride’s corner was met by Kuppasamy but Martino denied the striker his second of the match, tipping the ball over the bar at full stretch.
The game was still in the balance, but it was United that struck on 66 minutes to make it 3-1. Rory Hollingum’s ball in to the box was flicked on by Scali and Wood volleyed home at the back post, much to the delight of the travelling supporters.  

The points were made safe for United seven minutes later, and Scali was again involved.  A cross from the right by Wood was headed on by Scali in to the path of Colli who fired home from eight-yards.

A good win for United and assistant Coach Ben Kelly, who was in charge with head coach John O’Reilly ill with the flu, was delighted with the team performance. “It was a very good effort from the boys overall. We created a lot of opportunity to score and the result showed in the score line. In the first half hour  turnover rate was extremely high we struggled to keep possession when going forward which resulted in Gosnells playing counter attacking football testing our defence on numerous occasions, and  we were all ways on the back foot in the first 20minutes,” said Kelly.

“The second half was a very different and confident swan team with possession/passing of the ball a key focus. We stopped trying to force the ball forward and work to our strengths which created those opportunities to score our defence was strong we defended in numbers to limit Gosnells opportunity to score. Also it was a great goal from our keeper Luke Martino which lifted the boys going in to the 2nd half 2-1 up. With Tommy Shepherd out it was good to see  Damien Scali step into the team and did his job very effectively capping it off with a goal.”

Gosnells City 1 (Kuppasamy 20)
Swan Utd 4 (Scali 24, Martino 44, Wood 66, Colli 73)
@ Walter Padbury Reserve

Gosnells City – GK Alan Dunlop, 2 Aaron Coslani, 3 Ceiran Allen, 4 Adrian McBride, 5 Graham Tough, 6 Brent Mayhen, 7 Ian McGuire, 15 Andrew Pomfret, 9 Darren Francis, 10 James Burns, 11 Raveshlan Kuppasamy
Subs not used – RGK David Keenan, 12 William Downes, 13 Brendan Claxton, 14 Liam Cave
Swan United – GK Luke Martino, 2 John Monterosso, 3 Damian Scali, 4 Aaron Colli, 5 Trent Wood, 6 Adam Pygrum, 7 Scott Campbell, 8 Brendan Knox, 9 Rory Hollingum, 10 Robert Monterosso, 11 Rory Mouttet
Subs not used – RGK Jordan Howell, 12 Jordan Brown, 13 Nattapong Narongphunt, 14 Chris Atkinson, 15 Chris Marshall     

11.06.11 - Rovers end United’s unbeaten home record

Swan United’s unbeaten home record has gone, after a 0-2 loss against Shamrock Rovers in round nine of the All Flags First Division at Francis Street.

Goals from Nick Carroll and Ross Cosgrave, in each half were enough for second placed Rovers to leave with all three points.

United were forced into one change with keeper Daniel Agudelo overseas for three weeks, Perth SC youngster Luke Martino came in on a four week loan and went straight into the side.

With a clash of striped shirts referee Tim Fleskens asked United to wear their away kit, so they took the field in purple and they thought they had a perfect start when they scored on 16 minutes. Thomas Shepheard won possession and sent the ball into Aaron Colli who bundled the ball over the line and celebrated the goal. But the linesman had his flag up for handball from the United midfielder, a harsh decision to say the least.

It got worse for the Purple Hearts when Rovers hit the front on 28 minutes. Ian Stack’s cross field pass into the path of Nick Carroll, who had little trouble beating Martino.

United went close again five minutes before the break when Brendan Knox picked out Colli in the penalty area, but his shot on the turn whistled inches wide of the target.

The second half was only 12 minutes old when Rovers doubled their lead.  Carroll, John Kearney and Sean Brooks combined well to send clear Ross Gosgrave, who cut past the last defender before unleashing a fierce shot from 16-metres that beat Martino.

Carroll had a great chance to make it three-nil moments later but after getting around Martino his shot crashed into the upright. Swan pressed late to salvage the afternoon but would very few holes in a tight Shamrock defence, and at the final whistle it was a disappointing result, leaving United six points behind Shamrock and eight behind league leaders Bunbury.

Swan United 0
Shamrock Rovers 2 (Carroll 28’, Cosgrave 56’)
Date: Saturday 11th June
Venue: Francis Street
Kick Off: 3.00pm
Referee: Tim Fleskens
Swan United – GK Luke MARTINO, 7 Rory HOLLINGUM, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 15 Rory MOUTTET, 12 Chris MARSHALL (8 Adam PYGRUM 46’), 10 Brendan KNOX, 6 Aaron COLLI, 5 Scott CAMPBELL (3 Chris ATKINSON 46’), 9 Trent WOOD (13 Nattapong NARONGPHUNT 65’), 16 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 11 John MONTEROSSO
Subs not used – RGK Jordan HOWELL, 14 Matthew DEBARRO
Yellow Card – Colli 10’, Mouttet 65’, Narongphunt 90’
Shamrock Rovers – GK Eamonn BARNES, 4 Patrick O’CONNOR, 14 Simon KING, 5 Steve O’MAMONY, 3 David MURPHY, 6 John KEARNEY, 8 Gavin MOONEY, 11 Ross COSGRAVE (12 Catual QUINN 85’),  15 Sean BROOKS, 10 Nick CARROLL, 7 Nick STACK (9 Damien SMYTH 75’)
Subs not Used – RGK Justin SCARVACI, 13 Daniel MCCURDY
Yellow Cards – Kearney 75’

04.06.11 - United back on track with win at Windmills

Swan United consolidated their place among the All Flags First Division leaders after a solid 3-0 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve. A double from Thomas Shepheard and a late strike from former Windmills striker Nattapong Narongphunt gave United the points.

United coach John O’Reilly made two changes to the side that beat Fremantle Spirit last week with Rory Hollingum and Chris Marshall coming into the side to replace Chris Atkinson and Adam Pygrum, who dropped to the bench.

The black and whites were out of the blocks fast but could find no way past Morley goalkeeper Steve Grant, who made an important early save to deny Rob Monterosso on four minutes. Morley eventually found their feet and Ryan Frisina fired wide when well placed on 18 minutes, and both sides started to play some attractive football. The deadlock was finally broken by United in the 29th minute, an error by Brian McDonald let them in, and a good one-two between John Monterosso and Shepheard ended with a low shot across goal by Shepheard from six-yards which beat Grant.

Morley had an immediate chance to pull level sixty seconds later, but Frisina’s close-range shot was well saved by Daniel Agudelo, and they ended the half well and on 40 minutes David Houston’s cross was met by Frisina but his header was tipped over by Agudelo at full stretch.

In first half stoppage time United should have doubled their lead. Scott Campbell’s though ball sent Shepheard in on goal, but the striker fired wide from six-yards

The striker made up for his miss ten minutes into the second half when he scored his and United’s second. Again it was Campbell who was the supplier, his cross from the bye-line picked out Shepheard in the penalty area and the big striker headed home from close-range.

Morley’s day went from bad to worse when Adrian D’Adamo was issued his marching orders for swearing, and coach Salv Todaro was also banished after the referee incorrectly attributed comments from the crowd to the Morley coach.

Even so, the hosts continued to fight and Damian Houston put a shot narrowly wide of the target, but United wrapped up all three points three minutes from time.

Trent Wood found space down the flank and his inch perfect cross picked out second half substitute Nattapong Narongphunt who fired home to give United the win.

Morley Windmills 0
Swan United 3 (Shepheard 29’, 53’, Narongphunt 87’)
Date: Saturday 5 June
Venue: Wotton Reserve
Kick Off: 3.00pm
Referee: Ian Edwards

Morley Windmills – GK Steve GRANT, 2 Leo HARMAN, 3 Adriano D’ADAMO , 5 Ian MCKEAN, 7 Simon WILSON, 8 Brian MCDONALD, 9 Andy O’NEIL, 10 Ryan FRISINA, 12 Lee THOMAS, 13 Kris DENNIS, 14 David HOUSTON
Subs not used – RGK Gary MAMOTTE, 16 Ebe COWBROUGH, 15 Damien TODOROVIC, 20 Michael LAWSON
Yellow Cards – O’Neill
Red Cards – D’Adamo
Swan United – GK Daniel AGUDELO, 15 Rory MOUTTET, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 12 Chris MARSHALL, 7 Rory HOLLINGUM, 6 Aaron Colli, 14 Scott CAMPBELL (3 Chris ATKINSON 76’), 10 Brendan KNOX, 9 Trent WOOD, 16 Thomas SHEPHEARD (2 Matt DEBARRO 89’), 11 John MONTEROSSO (13 Nattapong NARONGPHUNT 78’)
Subs not Used – RGK Jordan HOWELL, 5 Adam PYGRUM
Yellow Cards - Nil

03.06.11 - Windmills next for United

Swan United are on the round this week when they take on Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve on Saturday (3pm)

A 4-0 win against Fremantle Spirit moved the black and whites above the Windmills into fourth place and coach John O'Reilly knows it will be a tough game but one he's looking forward too. "Morley are a very defensive side and they will be dropping ten players behind the ball every time they loss possession. We have been working on our short game for a while now and I believe we have the skill sets to pries open their mean defence," said O'Reilly.

"I have a full squad to choice from and most players are reaching a consistent level of good form." 

A gap is slowly opening up at the top of the table and anything less than a win from this game has the potential to de-rail either clubs season. “Morley are a good side all over the park with a never-say-die attitude,” said in-form Swan striker John Monterosso. “Having said that, we have started playing the brand of football that John O’Reilly has been trying to implement … it’s going to be a tight, exciting game of football to say the least.”

Salv Todaro has built a good side with former United midfielder Andy O’Neill and Leo Harman in the side, along with Joey Woodin, Lucas Whitehouse, Brain McDonald and keeper Steve Grant.

United first team squad help the club youngsters

Swan United senior squad and coaching staff held their first Senior – juniors – training night at Midland Oval on Wednesday evening and it was a roaring success. 

Over 80 junior players where involved on a wet and cold night but all will be back for the next one. Senior Coach John O’Reilly, who has been a major influence in the implementation of the junior development at the club, was delighted the way it went. “We’ve been planning this for a while and to see all the kids enjoying the session and being trained by a Swan United senior player was fantastic. All these players should be striving to play senior football at our club, and that’s what we want them to do. If we can help them along the road to this, it will benefit the club in the future,” said O’Reilly. 

The players enjoyed the session and thought it went well. “I Loved it, was brilliant,” said skipper Rob Monterosso. “It was great to meet some of the junior players; I probably enjoyed the experience more than they did.” Trent Wood said: “I took the 11's Green, and it was good to play with some footballers who are my height.”

Matt Debarro said – “Good fun experience, great to get to know the players , the club has a bright future with the up and coming juniors

Rory Hollingum said – “I coached the under15's, was good to coach better footballers than myself.”

Keeper’s Daniel Agudelo and Jordan Howell worked with the young keeper’s. “I enjoyed meeting the players and able to pass on some tips,’ said Agudelo. “ It was exhausting but fun,” added Howells

Some of the comments from the junior players -

12 Green  
Tyson Loh - Alright Good
Hirdesh Prasad - We should do it more often
Anthony Cinquina - Good because we learnt different things
Ryan Fazzalari - Enjoyed it but tiring
Parents - Great idea learning extra skills good having first team giving back to the club

14 South 2
Charlie Tuxworth - Amazing and fantastic to have the first team down

Goalies
Nathan Scandrett - Awesome really good even though it rained

13 South 2
Joe LInge - Enjoyed it
Deacon Hale - Good
Travis Hawswer - Good interesting to learn passing skills and learn more about the game
Brent (Coach) - seemed to run alright, players enjoyed it

15 Div 2
Group as whole thought the experience was amazing and enjoyable
Stephen - Good to have the first team come down and train with us . . felt more challenged and donig what they know
Keelan - Great experience having the first team down, appreciated them doing it
Charlie (Coach) - Good to have someone different, kids were enthusiastic very good would like to do it more if possible kids seemed more focussed

11's Green
Cameron - lots of strategies were good
Alex - It was fun and different
Tim (Coach) - the coaching was good and my players responded well to the boys

11's Purple
Daniel - good liked the training good to meet older players
Kobie - yeah good better than normal
Ky - Good
Steve (Coach) - kids enjoyed it look forward to the next session.

SUFC Committee would like to thank John O'Reilly for organising the evening and the Senior players for participating.  The Juniors responded well to the boys being there and passing on some of their knowledge. It was a great night for Swan United, both present and future.

Senior Coaches
John O'Reilly
Ben Kelly

Senior Players involved - , Rob Monterosso, Tom Shepheard, Rory Mouttet, John Monterosso, Matt Debarro, Rory Hollingum, Chris Atkinson, Chris Marshall, Michael Tronchin, Brendan Knox, Jordan Howell, Daniel Agudelo, Aaron Colli, Trent Wood

28.05.11 - United hit four to beat The Spirit

Swan United bounced back from last week’s defeat at Bunbury with a 4-0 win against Fremantle Spirit in week seven of the All Flags First Division at Francis Street on Saturday.

A double from John Monterosso and singles to Thomas Shepheard and Brendan Knox gave John O’Reilly’s side the points and moved the black and whites up to fourth on the table.

United made three changes to last weeks starting line up with striker Shepheard retuning from suspension, while Adam Pygrum and Scott Campbell came into the midfield. Rory Hollingum, Chris Marshall and Nattapong Narongphunt all dropped to the bench.

It was the visitors first to threaten on six minutes; Michael de Souza’s shot from the edge of the box was tipped over the bar by Daniel Agudelo.

United settled and went close themselves five minutes later, John Monterosso was sent clear by Aaron Colli and his shot was saved well by Lachlan McAlinson.

The home side began to get on top and on 25 minutes a cross picked out Shepheard who headed back across goal to Brendan Knox, but the midfielders shot was straight at McAlinson who saved.

United’s pressure finally paid off in the 35th minute when they took the lead. John Monterosso was sent clear down the right; he cut inside two Spirit defenders before firing home, much to the delight of the Swan faithful.

After the break United again began to dictate and two minutes in Pygrum’s free kick was met by Shepheard, but his header was saved by McAlinson.

But on 56 minutes United doubled their lead. A great run down the flank by Trent Wood took him clear of the Spirit defender and he cut the ball back from the bye-line to John Monterosso who fired home from close-range.

The points were made safe for the home side in the 72 minutes when they made it 3-0. Colli’s pinpoint cross was headed back by John Monterosso and Shepheard fired home from four-yards.

United put the icing on the cake in the 88th minute, with a fourth goal, Hollingum’s low hard cross found Knox at the back post, who fired home to make the final score 4-0 to United.

United Coach John O’Reilly was delighted with the performance. “From a coaches perspective all I can say is perfect.  All four goals came straight off the training ground, as we have been working on oppositions area scenarios for about six weeks now and all the hard work, blood, sweat and tears finally pays off ,” said a happy O’Reilly.

“First half Fremantle put up a strong resistance, but with a couple of tactical changes, Trent Wood and Aaron Colli coming into centre of midfield to give us more bite, made the difference in the second half. John Monterosso also had a superb game, getting into good positions, but most importantly looking to lay off and set up chances for others yet still managing to bag two goals for himself. Also Rory Hollingum came off the bench with great impact, causing trouble in the centre and setting up the fourth goal. All in all it was a sound performance with the right result.”

All Flags First Division – Week 7
Saturday 28th May 2011
Swan United 4 (Monterosso 35, 56, Shepheard 72, Knox 88)
Fremantle Spirit 0
Referee: Trent Fleskens
Francis Street
Kick-off: 3pm

Swan United – GK Daniel AGUDELO, 3 Christopher ATKINSON, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Scott CAMPBELL, 6 Aaron COLLI, 8 Adam PYGRUM, 9 Trent WOOD, 10 Brendan KNOX, 11 John MONTEROSSO, 15 Rory MOUTTET, 16 Thomas SHEPHEARD
Subs not used – RGK Jordan HOWELL 2 Michael DEBARRO, 7 Rory HOLLINGUM, 12 Chris MARSHALL, 17 Nattapong NARONGPHUNT

Fremantle Spirit – GK Lachlan MCALINSON, 2 Cameron HAYES, 3 Chris HOLLAND, 4 Luke DOYLE, 5 Angelo CANZURLO, 6 Darren MONAGHAN, 7 Robert COLALILLO, 8 Michael DE SOUZA, 9 Caleb AQUINO, 10 Jason POTTIER, 11 Jacob AQUINO
Subs not used – 16 Friday ZICO, 17 Rushian ARENDSE, 18 Gersian ROWLAND

27.05.11 - United look to find their winning Spirit

Swan United will hope to get back in the winner’s circle when they host Fremantle Spirit in week 7 of the All Flags First Division at Francis Street on Saturday (3pm)

A 2-0 defeat at Bunbury Forum Force last week left the black and whites in fifth spot on the table and assistant coach Ben Kelly say's the they were unlucky not to get something from the game and is looking forward to getting back on track against The Spirit on Saturday. “Saturday will be a difficult game but we hope to get the three points over a Fremantle side which has strung  points together out of there last two outings, so we will have to be at our best to win and keep in touch with the league leaders,” said Kelly.

“Last week’s game against Bunbury Forum Force was a very quick exciting game of football between two very goods sides. There were lots of chances created on goals for both teams throughout the match, at the end of 90 minutes Bunbury put their chances away. The effort from the lads was outstanding the football we played is exactly what we have been working on in the training pitch, creating opportunities in and around the box. Now we have to look at the opportunity we make for ourselves apply it into training and get the ball into the back of the old onion bag.”

In team news Tommy Shepheard returns to the squad after missing last week due to suspension, and coach John O’Reilly has a full squad to choose from.

Fremantle coach Allan Pottier will look to captain Angelo Canzurlo, Chris Holland, Michael De Souza and Roberto Colalillo for on-field guidance and hope the enthusiasm of Tyrone Fenwick and Cameron Hayes can get them over the line. They head to Francis Street with just one defeat from their last three games, and United will have to be at their best to take the points.

United beaten in Bunbury

Two second half goals from Neill Chappell helped Bunbury Forum Force maintain their place at the top of the All Flags First Division table, after a hard fought 2-0 win against Swan United at the Soccerdrome on Saturday afternoon.

United defender Rory Hollingum was disappointed in the result but not the performance. “It was a very even game, and both sides battled hard. They got the edge over us, and finished their chances and we didn't. That was the only difference between the two sides on the day,” said Hollingum.

United coach John O’Reilly made one change to the side that beat Rockingham City last week with Nattapong Narongphunt replacing Thomas Shepheard, who was suspended.

It was the visitors that began the better and dictated terms but with both defences on top it had both sets of supporters on their edge of their seats.

The first real chance of the game fell to United on the half hour. Narongphunt, who was making his starting debut for United, was sent clear by Aaron Colli his shot from the edge of the box was heading into the top corner of the net, but it was superbly tipped over the bar by Ryan Montgomery at full stretch.

Moments later John Monterosso made space down the flank, his cross into the box found Colli but his shot flashed wide of the target.

Bunbury, who were yet to lose at home this season, pressed late in the half and on 38 minutes Neil Chappell was sent clear on goal. He was one on one against United keeper Daniel Agudelo, the United custodian blocked his first shot well and recovered superbly to save Chappell’s follow up shot.

After the break United went close again on 51 minutes, John Monterosso nipped in after a mistake at the back but he was thwarted by Montgomery. Moments later Montgomery was beaten, when Trent Wood got on the end of Adam Pygrum through ball. His shot took a deflection and looped up over the stranded keeper but luckily for the Force it landed on top of the net.

The first goal was going to be vital in the game and it went the way of the home side on 63 minutes. Chappell received a through ball from Ashley Young who controlled it first time and fired home into the top left hand corner of the net giving Agudelo no chance.

The points were wrapped up for Nigel Wilcox’s side in the 83rd minute. Again it was Chappell who burst through the United back line after a great ball from  Michael Marten, and his shot from six-yards gave Agudelo no chance, much to the delight of the home supporters.

The win was soured late on when Jared Mort was given a second yellow card, but it was the home side celebrating at the end with a 2-0 victory. 

“I thought the first half could have gone either way with Swan probably being the better team. We had a chat at half time and we played our game, worked hard for each other and took the game to them and got our rewards in the second half,” said two goal hero Chappell.

“We’ve got a very good squad now with more depth and have got players playing in the correct positions.  It was well fought game, 3 big points.”

Bunbury Forum Force – GK Ryan Montgomery, 2 Ryan Risdon, 3 Jarrad Mort, 4 Oliver McGee, 5 Jordan Rispin, 6 Neil Chappell, 7 Rory Binnie, 8 Ashley Young, 9 Mike Marten, 10 Jayden Prosser, 11 Jon Brooks
Subs – RGK Liam Reeves, 12 Kieran Quinn, 13 Bryce Young, 14 Evan Chate, 15 Michael Farmer

Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 3 Chris Atkinson, 4 Robert Monterosso, 6 Aaron Colli, 7 Rory Holligum, 9 trent Wood, 10 Brendan Knox, 11 John Monterosso, 12 Chris Marshall, 15 Rory Mouttet, 17 Nattapong Narongphunt
Subs – RGK Jordan Howell, 2 Matt DeBarro, 8 Adam Pygrum, 13 Jake DeRe, 14 Scott Campbell
Referee – David Johnson

20.05.11 - United head to Bunbury with top spot in mind

All eyes will be on the Soccerdrome in Bunbury this weekend for the blockbuster All Flags First Division fixture, when Bunbury Forum Force hosts Swan United (3pm).

United beat Rockingham City with only ten men last time out to stay two points behind Bunbury, and Coach John O’Reilly was delighted with his side’s performance. “It was a fantastic win against Rockingham. The boys were determined to get themselves back in the title race after last week’s loss at Wanneroo, and they did.” said O’Reilly.

“We knew they would be tough so we met them head on with aggression and passion, whilst still trying to play our brand of football. We have been working really hard on creating opportunities in and around the box and we were delighted to see the move from training come off in the game with good effect.” 

Adam Pygrum returns to the squad for the trip to Bunbury along with Nattapong Narongphunt. Tommy Shepheard misses the game through suspension meaning the efforts of Aaron Colli and Daniel Agudelo will be vital if United are to be the first team to beat the force at home this season.

United Coach John O’Reilly is looking forward to the top of the table clash and say’s his chargers are well prepared. “Bunbury are a strong team, they have been in the top four for the last few seasons. In past years they have gone with home grown talent but his year they have opting for the Abromavich approach with what’s been reported  as nine overseas players and a few more to come. They should have caught the same flight and got a discount,” joked O’Reilly.

“But seriously, we go into the game as an underdog which is nice for a change as it puts the pressure on Bunbury to try and avoid an upset. Our boys are ready for the challenge and are looking forward to the fight - It should be a great game.”

Midfielder Rory Hollingum is also looking forward to the challenge against the league leaders and believes last week’s win will give them a huge boost heading down South. “Yes the lads put in a great effort last week, with some superb bits of football straight from the training ground. But as always teams like Rockingham, we were always going to have to fight hard, even more so with 10 men for most of the game. It was good to bounce back from a temporary lapse against Wanneroo,” said Hollingum.

“Bunbury again will no doubt be tough, but we intend to go there and bring back 3 points by taking the fight to them. The team is really starting to gel and fine tune our performances, and spirits are high going into this round in particular we can’t wait for it.”

It’s the second top of the table game in eight days for Bunbury, who claimed outright leadership of Division One by downing Wanneroo City last weekend. Rory Binnie will have a big say in the outcome, likewise Ryan Montgomery and Ashley Young. Defender Oliver McGee believes the Force is gelling nicely and is looking forward to taking on United after a good win last week. “I believe last week’s score was not a fair reflection on the game, we dominated the game, with Wanneroo only getting the one chance which they scored from. We played well but I believe we can get better,” said McGee.

“This weekend’s game will be a great game, the team are looking forward to it and we are confident on our home pitch. We know it will be tight game against Swan but we’re confident of getting the three points.”

14.05.11 - United bounce back to beat Rockingham (by Anthony Dundo)

Swan United bounced back from last week’s 2-1 defeat at Wanneroo City by beating Rockingham City 3-1 in week five of the All Flags State First Division game at Francis Street.

First half goals from Thomas Shepheard and John Monterosso gave United a two goal lead at the break, but they were reduced to ten men when Shepheard was given a second yellow card in the 19th minute.

Jamie Kidd brought City back in the game 11 minutes into the second half, but a second from John Monterosso gave United the three points and condemned Rockingham to their first defeat of the season.

It was a great opening for the home side and they were ahead on four minutes. Trent Wood sent John Monterosso clear, but his shot was saved well by Craig Olejnik, the rebound fell to Shepheard who fired home.

Then two minutes later United made it 2-0 in bazaar circumstances. City keeper Olejnik clearance hit the back of Shepheard, and the ball fell to John Monterosso, who chipped the keeper from the edge of the box.

United striker Shepheard was then given two yellow cards in two minutes, and was sent off by referee Kevin Taylor, but United still took the game to City. On 23 minutes Rory Hollingum raced down the right, and crossed to Trent Wood whose volley whistled inches past the post.

Rockingham began the second half the better and their pressure paid off on 56 minutes, a cross to the back post by David Clark was headed home by Kidd, and it was game on.

Swan were defending deep as the visitors kept possession well making the most of their man advantage, and on the hour Andrew Keary’s shot from the edge of the box was well saved by Daniel Agudelo.

Then moments later Daniel Macklin’s good run and cross was only inches away from Kidd in the penalty area as City continued to dictate terms. But against the run of play it was United who made it 3-1. A quick break down the left by Wood sent him clear, and his ball into the area found John Monterosso who fired past Olejnik.

Two minutes later it was nearly 4-1, Aaron Colli won the ball in the middle of the park and played Brendan Knox in down the right, his ball into the penalty area found John Monterosso who was on a hat-trick, but the striker fired wide.

Rockingham continued to press and on they went close on 88 minutes. Clark crossed from the left and Darren Lawyer header crashed off the crossbar, but it was the Swans who ran out 3-1 winners.

All Flags First Division – Week five
Swan United 3 (Shepheard 4, Monterosso 6, 67)
Rockingham City 1 (Kidd 56)
Saturday 14th May 2011
@Francis Street
Referee – Kevin Taylor
Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 3 Chris Atkinson, 4 Robert Monterosso, 6 Aaron Colli, 9 Trent Wood, 10 John Monterosso, 12 Chris Marshall, 13 Brendan Knox, 14 Rory Hollingum, 15 Rory Mouttet, 16 Thomas Shepheard
Subs – RGK Jordan Howells, 2 Matthew DeBarro, 5 Scott Campbell, 13 Nattapong Narongphunt, 18 Jake DaRe

Rockingham City – GK Craig Olejnik, 2 Oscar Thompson, 3 Steven Drew, 4 Craig Kelly, 5 Jason Bonser, 6 Adam McLeod, 7 Andrew Keary, 8 David Clark, 9 Craig Tone, 10 Jamie Kidd, 11 Daniel Macklin
Subs – GK Phil Herschell, 12 Darren Lawler, 13 Roy Hissey, 14 Tommy Downes, 15 Richard Lacey
Referee – Kevin Taylor

13.05.11 - Swan United v Rockingham City Preview

Swan United will be looking to bounce back from last week’s first defeat of the season at Wanneroo City, when they host the unbeaten Rockingham City in week five of The All Flags State First Division at Francis Street on Saturday (3pm)

United coach John O’Reilly believes missed chances cost them at Wanneroo last week and will be looking ofr an improvement on Saturday. “It’s a big game for us today; the last few results have not gone our way, despite relatively sound performances, but that’s football,” he said.

“We have rallied together this week and are very much determined to get our battle for promotion back up and running. It will not be easy and City has had a very good start to their 2011 campaign, and is currently undefeated, which will make for a great game on Saturday.”

United midfielder Trent Wood (left) believes last week loss may be a kick in the back side they need. “Losing to Wanneroo last week was a bad result for us after going 1-0 up, after beating them twice in the night series I believe the team may have been a little complacent after half time, which resulted in giving them two quick goals after the break, but to Wanneroo's credit they stacked the defence and held us off,” said Wood

“Saturday’s game against Rockingham is going to be a tough game and I think this year they will take a lot of points from teams throughout the season, but after no win in the last two weeks I believe we are determined to get back on track, which should see us win.”

O’Reilly has a few injury concerns heading into the game, but does have defender Rory Mouttet (right), who returns from suspension.

Things are ticking along quite nicely as Rockingham City prepares to put behind them a tumultuous twelve months. Coach Steve Robinson joined them from Premier League side Armadale last season, and has lured back to the club several players who walked out last year, and early indications are they’ll finally start edging up the table.

The biggest improvement has been defensively where Craig Olenjik is partnered with Captain Jay Bonser and James Hesketh to help stem the flow of goals against, while Stuart Carlisle, Andrew Keary and Adam McLeod will be crucial in the quest for goals.

City arrive unbeaten in the league, after two draws and two 3-1 wins at Canning City and at home to Dianella White Eagles last week - with Jamie Kidd scoring twice with Darren Lawler adding a third, and Coach Robinson is looking forward to the big game. “It’s extremely important we get some kind of positive result against Swan as it will keep us in touch with the top teams in the league,” Robinson said.

“Swan can be a difficult ground to go and get points but we are prepared and will try extremely hard to get something out of it. Hopefully we’ll have some of our injured players back to full fitness, which would strengthen our squad.”

United let it slip at Wanneroo (Report by Football West Reporter Jordan McArdle)

Wanneroo City 2 (Dave Herety 47', Brian Cairney 55')
Swan United 1 (Aaron Colli 40')
@ Kingsway Sporting Complex

Wanneroo City came from behind to produce a sensational 2-1 win over promotion favourites Swan United at Kingsway.
Swan opened up the scoring through Aaron Colli to take a 1-0 lead at half-time, this was the first goal Wanneroo had conceded all season.

It wasn't long after the break when Wanneroo hit the lead after goals to David Herety and Brian Cairney early in the second half.

The City defence held together well to hold the in-form strikers John Monterosso and Tommy Shepheard goalless.

Wanneroo now leapfrog Swan at the top of the league on 10 points, with United now dropping to fifth spot on seven points. Unfortunately no report was available from either club on the day!

30.04.11 - Eagles fly home with a point

The anticipated top of the table clash at Francis Street, between Swan United and Dianella White Eagles ended in a scoreless draw. United dominated early but the visitors held firm with keeper Matt Battigelli and the back four in great form.

United coach John O’Reilly made just the one change to the side that thrashed Forrestfield united last week with Adam Pygrum coming into the side and John Mansaray dropping to the bench.

The first chance fell to the home side on 20 minutes, Adam Pygrum found Thomas Shepheard down the left and he slipped the ball into John Monterosso, but the Eagles’ custodian was out bravely to save at his feet. Moments later Rory Hollinghum crossed to the back post and Shepheard headed wide.

Battagelli was beaten just before the break, Brendan Knox’s powerful shot was cleared off the line by the alert Aaron Mayo, but it was 0-0 at the break.

Dianella, who were without inspirational midfielder Andreas Theodosiades also lost Sotiris Theodosiades in the first half, held firm in the second half. John Monterosso was sent clear in the 55th minute but blazed wide, and on 70 minutes the Swan striker saw his shot cleared off the line by Ognjen Kojur.

After soaking up all the pressure the Eagles went close to earning all three points on 80 minutes, Jimmy Nelson volley beat Daniel Agudelo but crashed off the crossbar, and Byron Allen was unable to fire home the rebound from close-range.

United were reduced to ten men in the 90th minute, when referee John Taran showed Rory Mouttet a second yellow card and the defender was sent off.

It was a great point for the visitors considering the number of players they had missing and for United midfielder Adam Pygrum believes it was two points lost. “We had enough chances on the day to win it.but didn’t convert,” said Pygrum.

“You could see they were happy with a point with the huge cheer after the final whistle, but it’s not all bad news. We created numerous chances and their keeper was fantastic today, but we could have lost it late on, but the woodwork came to our rescue.”

29.04.11 - United host The Eagles in top of the table clash

Swan United host Dianella White Eagles on Saturday in a top of the table clash in round three of the First Division at Francis Street (3pm)

Both sides go into the game undefeated and Coach John O’Reilly is looking forward to a close encounter. “It’s one v two this weekend, and I’m looking forward to a great game,” said O’Reilly.

“The season is still only young but how exciting has it been so far, points have been dropped by teams around us already, a couple of unexpected results and here we are three games in with first and second, the only two teams with two consecutive wins, fighting to keep their unbeaten record and top the ladder.

“The lads have been working hard this week in training and with most players back in the squad from injuries, all players fighting for their spots in the starting line-up.”

United were beaten by the Eagles in the night series competition 3-4, but they hope to reverse that score line on Saturday. They have a full squad to choose from, with John Monterosso and Aaron Colli both coming of two goals each in the 6-2 demolition of Forrestfield United last week.

The visitors will be without influential midfielder Andreas Theodosiades, who pulled a hamstring in Tuesday 2-1 defeat against Shamrock Rovers in the Solo Cup 2nd round, but with Sotiris Theodosiades and Byron Allen in fine form and talented keeper and skipper Matt Battigelli they will be the biggest test so far for United. It should be a great game get along and support the black and whites

23.04.11 - United thrash Forrestfield to go top of the league

Swan United continued their unbeaten start to the Football West First Division with a stunning 6-2 win against Forrestfield United at Hartfield Park on Saturday.

Doubles from John Monterosso and Aaron Colli and singles to Trent Wood and Thomas Shepheard made it a great day for John O’Reilly’s side and the Coach was delighted with the performance. “We are very happy with the result today. Forrestfield are tipped as a top four team so to get three points over what may be a close rival later in the season is a good early victory for us,” said O’Reilly.

“We played very good football for long periods in the game which was pleasing. It was a strong performance from new crowd favourite Aaron Colli, bagging his first two goals for the club. Also Tommy Shepheard is starting to find form with a great goal from an awkward rebound but also involved in setting up Trent Wood’s first goal of the season.

“The boys are taking each week as it comes and training has taken on a new sense of intensity with the players starting to understand each other’s movements and strengths.”

Forrestfield came out strongly in the opening minutes with a couple of half chances falling their way, but Daniel Agudelo was alert to save.

United hit back and on 20 minutes Wood’s cross was headed goal wards by John Mansaray, but Forrestfield keeper Stuart Delgado saved well.

It was the black and whites who were now in control and on 24 minutes they took the lead.  A great ball down the right sent Wood clear. The midfielder looked up and cut the ball back to Aaron Colli, waiting on edge of the box, and the former Inglewood United player fired home past a stranded Delgado.

Colli went close again moments later; his shot from 12-yards was straight at the keeper who saved. But in the 28th minute it was 2-0; a corner from new signing Chris Atkinson found John Monterosso, whose shot from 16-yards went through several players and beat the unsighted keeper at his near post.

United continued to dominate and five minutes before half time they made it 3-0. Rory Mouttet found Colli, who turned his marker and played a quick ball out to Shepheard. The striker played a superb through ball to Wood, who cut inside the defender, before clinically finishing past Delgado.

The home side starting the second half the better and hit the bar in the opening minutes, and they reduced the margin three minutes in when Lewis Costley scored, but United soon hit back.

On 62 minutes Wood received the ball on the left, and cut inside the box, but his powerful was tipped over the bar by Delgado. But on 64 minutes United re-gained their three goal lead. A shot from Shepheard crashed off the crossbar, and John Monterosso was quickest to react, firing home from close-range.

Forrestfield hit back when they were awarded a penalty in the 75th minute, Jamie Burns firing home to make it 4-2.

But United made it 5-2 in the 83rd minute. John Monterosso shot crashed off the crossbar and Shepheard was on hand to fire home, and it was 6-2 in stoppage-time, Colli firing home to send United to the top of the table.

Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 2 John Mansaray, 3 Chris Atkinson, 4 Robert Monterosso, 6 Aaron Colli, 7 Rory Hollingum, 9 Trent Wood, 10 Brendan Knox, 11 John Monterosso, 15 Rory Mouttet, 16 Thomas Shepheard
Subs – RGK Jake Bunget, 5 Jake DaRe, 8 Adam Pygrum, 12 Matt DeBarro, 17 Mark Donnelly

Forrestfield United – GK Stuart Delgado, 2 Alan Harold, 4 John Krawec, 6 Mathew Harold, 7 Andy Harold, 8 Jamie Burns, 9 Lewis Costley, 11 John Hunter, 13 Warren Grieve, 14 Scott Paterson, 15 Anthony Lyons
Subs – RGK John Nanini, 3 Graham Herd, 5 Jacob Fleischmann, 10 Jordan Hart, 12 Simon El Chami

22.04.11 - United travel to Forrestfield in week two

Swan United travel to Hartfield Park to take on Forrestfield United in week two of the Football West First Division on Saturday (3pm)

A 4-0 win in the opening game was a good effort by the squad, but Saturday’s game is a huge test with Forrestfield being tipped to be one of the top four teams in the league. “The lads will be looking to back up there win from last week in this local derby for us,” said United Coach John O’Reilly.

“We have a full squad to choose and with Forrestfield considered to be a top four side, these are the games that players want to be involved in and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”

In team news Brendan Knox re-signed for the club this week and goes straight into the squad, while Craig Tooley has left, signing for Premier League side Sorrento in the week. Chris Marshall starred in the reserves last week and will pushing for a starting spot, but in better news Rory Hollingum, Aaron Colli and Adam Pygrum have all recovered from injury.

Forrestfield also hit four last week in a 4-2 win against Ashfield, and coach John Hunter is looking forward to the game. “Yes we are looking forward to seeing how we have progressed as a team by measuring ourselves against Swan. They are one of the favourites to win the league this year after winning the Night Series already,” said Hunter.

“It will be a good test for us, and we will have to be at our best to match them, but I know for sure we will have a go.” In team news for United, Anthony Lyons is pushing for a starting role, where Scott Paterson, Stuart Delgarno, Lewis Costley and former United striker John Hunter have been in good touch.

United open season with big win

Swan United 4 ( (Shepherd 44, 82, Monterosso 68, Tooley 88) Canning City 0

Swan United marked their return to the second tier by lashing four goals without reply past an inexperienced Canning City outfit at the Swan Italian Club.

The teams looked like entering the break as they started when Tom Shepheard put Swan in front. John Monterosso (right - photo by Mark Scandrett) doubled their lead midway through the second half but it wasn’t until the closing stages that the margin blew out.

Shepheard tucking away his second before summer recruit, Craig Tooley completed the victory.

Swan United – GK Daniel Agudelo, 2 Jake DaRe, 3 Rory Mouttet, 4 Robert Monterosso, 5 Chris Atkinson, 6 Rory Hollingum, 6 Aaron Colli, 7 John Mansaray, 9 John Monterosso, 10 Thomas Shepheard, 11 Trent Wood
Subs – RGK Connor Anderson, 13 Craig Tooley, 14 Christian Catalano, 15 Chris Marshall
Canning City – GK James Partridge, 2 Mark Walkey, 3 Dave Evans, 4 Ben Witschge, 5 Blake Radwin, 6 Mark Trevisoil, 7 Kyle Critchett, 8 Steve Murgia, 9 Sam Ainscough, 10 Greg Newcombe, 11 Diego Garcia
Subs – Adam Parmeter, Dane Navarro, Yorrick Goodwin, Ryan Tucker, Tom Barratt  

Agudelo ready for big season ahead

United keeper Daniel Agudelo has had to wait a long time to get the number one spot at Francis Street, but he’s now in that position and is looking forward in helping United get back in the Premier League.  

The 23-year-old was in sparkling from in the night series and he was delighted for the club to win the final against Wanneroo City. ‘It was definitely good for the club and a great moral boost for the lads. We worked hard during pre-season and it’s great to be rewarded. Nice to see the amount of support we had at all the games during the competition, from committee members, players and our loyal supporters,” said Agudelo

“This competition is great opportunity to try a few players and combinations to fine tune what the coaches want, we also get a glimpse of next seasons opposition. It was good to see the depth we have in the squad, I believe we used almost the entire squad during the night series, fielding a different team every week, and still managed to be highly competitive.”

It was a good first up win on Saturday against Canning City, and the keeper was pleased with a clean sheet. “It was a great way to kick-start the season, especially at home, and a clean sheet was good also! Canning came out strong in first 10 minutes as expected, but after a slow start we eventually found our groove, and late in the half rewarded with a goal.

“The second half was a much better performance we took control and always looked dangerous, our pressure was rewarded with another three goals. All in all it was a good dominant display by the boys. We just have to make sure we get a strong start and try finish games off a lot earlier, as other sides may not be as forgiving if we don’t take our chances early,” explained Agudelo.

It’s a new squad at the club this season, and a new senior Coach in John O’Reilly and Agudelo believes they are gelling well together. “The boys just keep improving and understanding each other more with each training session and game, credit to John (O'Reilly). He has made a huge impact at the club and its culture both on the and off the park. His drive, enthusiasm, and passion is infectious, the lads are responding well, everyone shares the same belief and excitement for this season,” said Agudelo.

“Everyone has settled in very well, it’s like a big family. Lots of different personalities, but everyone is very respectful and best thing of all everyone has a great sense of humour, it feels like we have known each other for years. All the boys have been great, I’ve defiantly been impressed with Colli's immediate impact to our squad. Adam Pygrum and John Monterosso have been very consistent, but in fairness all the boys have really stepped up.”  

The former Australian Schoolboys keeper has had a number of injuries, but his fingers are crossed his body can hold up now he has the number one jersey at the club. “It seems like every time we chat there's a new one, a slight niggle on the shoulder, apart from that body feels good hopefully I can last the season in the same condition if not better,” said Agudelo.

It must have been frustrating for the Agudelo to be in the shadow of long-time keeper Cory Hugo at the club, but Agudelo believes Cory has had the biggest influence in his football career. “I wouldn’t say frustrating; I always knew my chances of taking his spot were far and few between. Not many people would disagree, he is a quality keeper! The key was to see him as a teacher, and all I had to do was listen, learn and ask questions, and ultimately wait for my turn,’ explained Agudelo.

“In fact Cory has probably had the biggest impact in my goal keeping, as he has been basically my mentor for the last 10 years. His encouragement and knowledge has really helped me learn and understand the game a lot more.’

15.04.11 - Let the League season begin!!!

After the euphoria of winning the First Division Night Series, United are into League action this weekend, when they host Canning City at Francis Street on Saturday (3pm)

The confidence of the squad is sky high, but Coach John O’Reilly (left) knows if the players aren’t switched on they will be in trouble. “It’s important to get the season off with a victory, especially at home, but we can’t take Canning lightly, and I’ve told the players this all this week,” said O’Reilly.

“This week has been a recovery for the players as they have managed to play 11 competitive games during the pre-season, which I believe is not an ideal circumstance but it has been a challenge to which we have risen too.

“But here it is, the moment we have been waiting for, the start of the season. We are a strong team and other clubs know this, so each week will be a cup final for them. We have been working hard on our style, our strategies and focusing in on where we need to be disciplined and it’s these principles that we wish to bring to the field that will give us the winning edge this year.

Former Canning City players Adam Pygrum, Solomon Onyuka and Rory Mouttet face their former club on Saturday, while new signings Craig Tooley, Jason Feather, Chris Atkinson and Aaron Colli are in line to make their home debuts, but defenders Mark Donnelly and Jake DaRe are struggling with injuries.

Canning had a disappointing night Series but new Coach Mark Wood has assembled a strong side, with former United striker’s Diego Garcia and Matt Ullbright in the side, while Emyln Whetnall, Greg Newcomb and Mark Trevisiol hold the key for City.

United pair delighted with cup win

Swan United’s 3-1 win in the First Division night Series Final last week has given everybody at the club a boost, and new signing Adam Pygrum and defender Rory Mouttet both played there parts in a great team performance, and both thought they were worthy winners. “I thought we fully deserved to win the Night Series final, the opening 25minutes was very tight and Wanneroo had some good chances but Daniel Agudelo was in great form, like he has been in every game,” said Pygrum. (right)

“But after the re-start it was one way traffic and to score as early as we did gave us great belief to go on and win the game. It was pleasing to win, as we were written off and given no chance so to win as comfortably as we did was very satisfying for all the boys and coaching staff.”

The midfielder believes the group phase loss to Dianella White Eagles was the kick in the pants they needed. “I know it’s an old phrase but it really did do us good losing to Dianella in the group stages of the competition. It changed our mentality before each game after that, we were almost on the verge of complacency and it gave us the kick up the backside we needed to realise you have to approach every game with same hunger regardless of the opposition. The belief now amongst the squad is very high and we all can’t wait for Saturday’s game against Canning City at Francis Street.

Mouttet, who is coming back from a serious groin injury, thought every player on the night gave 100% and agrees with Pygrum they deserved the win. “We absorbed the pressure and started to assert our own game late in the first half, and we knew we just had to be patient and play good football and we were rewarded early on in the second half and didn’t look back from there. It was a squad performance, something that John has stressed all through pre-season, I was very proud to be a part of it,’ said Mouttet. (left)

The real football starts on Saturday when both players face their former club Canning City in the first league game of the season, and they both can’t wait. “The cups been won and now forgotten, the league is all we’re thinking about starting with City this weekend,’ said Pygrum.

“I enjoyed my time at Canning and made some great friends while I was there, although most have moved on now, but it was never a dull moment with Tom Kilkelly and Billy Russell around! But come Saturday all I’ll be thinking about is three points for the Black & Whites and that will be the perfect start to what we all hope is a successful season.”

Mouttet knows United will have to be on their toes on Saturday, as Canning will want to show the rest of the league they are no easy beats. “This is going to be a tough game for us, as they are young fit and have nothing to lose. They also have some experience players who can hurt you. It’s very important that we respect them and go out with the same intensity as we did in the final every week. Intensity and attitude is everything to us, we have the squad to go up no question about it. The challenge for us is to be consistent in our approach to every game and training session,” said Mouttet.

09.04.11 - United beat Wanneroo City 3-1 to win Night Series Final

United beat Wanneroo to win First Division Night Series Final
Swan United has won the First division Night Series final after a 3-1 win against Wanneroo City 3-1 at Wotton Reserve on Saturday evening.

Second half goals from John Monterosso, Craig Tooley and an own goal from keeper Michael Carroll gave United a 3-0 lead, and although Wanneroo striker Brian Cairney scored from the spot with seven minutes remaining, United held on to win their first ever Night Series Trophy. 

United skipper Robert Monterosso was proud of his players after the victory. “Wanneroo came out strong at the start and we soaked up a lot of pressure, and they had a few good opportunities. We settled in the second half and it was great to get the early goal,” said the skipper.

“I thought we dominated the second half and it’s a great feeling to win a cup final and we’re going to celebrate tonight.”

United Coach John O’Reilly made two changes to the side that beat Morley Windmills on penalties last week with Michael Tronchin replacing the injured Jake DaRe, while Thomas Shepheard came in for Craig Tooley, who dropped to the bench.

It was Wanneroo who began the stronger and on three minutes a good run and shot by Joshua Booysen flashed just wide of the post.

Then seven minutes later Roos skipper Cairney played a great ball out to Sahar Konomanyi. The pacey midfielder skipped past Trent Wood, but his shot was well saved by Daniel Agudelo.

It was worrying times for the black and whites as Wanneroo continued to dictate terms, and on 18 minutes Guy McDonald’s free kick from the left found Cairney, his shot from eight-yards was saved low by Agudelo. Moments later, from another Guy McDonald free kick, Craig Bowman headed straight at Agudelo from six-yards.

After weathering the early storm, United went close themselves on 25 minutes. Rory Hollingum long throw was flicked on by Shepheard, and Aaron Colli’s shot was pushed onto the post by Wanneroo keeper Carroll. The rebound fell to Wood on the left, his cross picked out the unmarked John Mansaray who blazed over from six-yards.

It was now United who were on top and on 34 minutes Adam Pygrum’s corner from the right was headed goal wards by Shepheard, but Wanneroo midfielder Brad McDonald cleared the ball off the line.

Moments later United had the best chance to take the lead. A great through ball from Shepheard sent John Monterosso in on goal, but keeper Carroll narrowed the angle and blocked well.

The Roos custodian came to his sides rescue again on 40 minutes. It was Shepheard again, who was the provider, his great ball sent Wood clear but Carroll stood tall to deny him.

As the half ended Wanneroo had one late chance, Guy McDonald’s volley from 18-yards was saved low by Agudelo.

It was a great start to the second half by United and two minutes in they took the lead. A long throw from Pygrum fell fortuitously to John Monterosso, but the striker made no mistake from eight-yards, much to the delight of the United faithful.

The goal settled United down and they began to take control of the game, Hollingum’s long-range shot on 52 minutes went just over the top. Then moments later Pygrum’s shot from the edge of the box drifted just wide of the post.

United had the ball in the net again on 55 minutes, but referee John Taran blew up for a push by Shepheard just before the striker fired home Robert Monterosso’s free kick.

The game was still in the balance and The Roos pressed forward looking for the equaliser, and moments later Guy McDonald’s corner was met by Joe Stocker, but he headed straight at Agudelo who saved.

Then on the hour Wanneroo had their best opportunity to level.  Guy McDonald played a great through ball to Cairney who was one-on-one with Agudelo. The United custodian saved well and recovered superbly to save Booysen’s follow up shot.
United Coach O’Reilly made a change on 65 minutes with Tooley replacing Shepheard, and the striker had an immediate impact, making it 2-0 two minutes later. Robert Monterosso played the ball out to Tooley on the right. He outpaced Stocker and finished clinically past Carroll from 12-yards.

Wanneroo coach Gerry McEwan made changes and they went close to reducing the lead on 80 minutes, Booysen’s powerful shot was saved low by Agudelo at the far post.

But the game was wrapped up in the in the 83rd minute when United added a third. There looked little danger when Pygrum crossed from the right, but Roos keeper Carroll misjudged the ball and pushed it into his own net, despite Craig Bowman’s attempt to clear it off the line.

Wanneroo were rewarded a penalty sixty seconds later when Hollingum brought down Jay McDonald, and Cairney sent Agudelo the wrong way to make it 3-1, but it was United who ran out winners and the players and supporters celebrated a great victory.

United Coach John O’Reilly was delighted with the performance. “The guys were really determined tonight, as they have been all week at training. They were really focused and that’s what we are looking for, for the rest of the season,” said O’Reilly.

“It was a perfect  start to the second half with the early goal, and we dominated and got the rewards. It’s great for the club tonight, the committee, the players, the supporters and everyone involved at the football club, but this is just the start we have the league to concentrate on now – starting next week at home to Canning City.”

2011 State League Division One Night Series Final
Swan United 3 (John Monterosso 47', Craig Tooley 67', OG 83')
Wanneroo City 1 (Brian Cairney pen 85')
@ Wotton Reserve, Saturday 9th April, 6.30pm

Swan United: GK Daniel Agudello, 12 Michael Tronchin, 15 Rory Mouttet, 4 Rob Monterosso, 7 Rory Hollingum, 5 Aaron Colli, 8 Adam Pygrum, 10 John Monterosso, 19 Thomas Shepheard (11 Craig Tooley 64'), 16 John Mansaray (17 Scott Campbell 90+3'), 3 Trent Wood
Substitutes not used: RGK Jordan Howell, 13 Matt Debarro, 2 Niall Murphy
Yellow cards: Nil
Red cards: Nil
Wanneroo City: GK Michael Carroll, 2 Joe Stocker, 3 Chris Pugh (12 Nicholas Timmings 60'), 4 Dave Ashworth (15 Jay McDonald 72'), 15 Craig Bowman, 6 Brad McDonald, 7 Joshua Booysen, 8 Sahar Konomanyi (14 Dave Herety 54'), 9 Brian Cairney (c), 10 Guy McDonald, 11 Dean Timmings
Substitutes not used: RGK Daniel Holgate 13 Glen Moore,
Yellow cards: Dave Ashworth 52'
Red cards: Nil
Referee – John Taran

08.04.11 - United v Wanneroo City - First Division Night Series Final Preview

The 2011 First Division Night Series  comes to a conclusion this Saturday evening  when United takes on Wanneroo City in the Final at Wotton Reserve (6.30pm)

Both sides had hard fought semi-final wins last week and will both head into the game full of confidence, and United Coach John O’Reilly, who is in his first season in charge of the Francis Street club, hopes his chargers can continue their good form and win the clubs first night series title. “Saturday’s game will be a cracker, Wanneroo will be desperate to avenge the loss from the group stages, but we will be eager to pick up some silverware after a disappointing 2010 season,” said O’Reilly.

“The lads have been training hard and the atmosphere has an air of silent confidence. We have a full strength squad for the game and the players are fighting it out to be in the starting line-up. One thing is for sure we will put on our strongest show for the supporters who have followed us through the bad times as we strive to bring back the good times - hope to see you all there.”

Skipper Robert Monterosso (left) was delighted with last week’s nervous penalty shootout win against Morley. “It was tense right up till the final whistle. In my opinion penalties are a nerve racking and horrible way to determine the winner, but a win is a win and I can't describe the amount of relief I felt when the deciding spot kick had been taken,” said Monterosso.

“The final will be a tight affair, and t's hard to say how the game will go, finals football always seems to be that touch more unpredictable with all the hype that comes with it.  Wanneroo are a good side and quite damaging on the break and definitely won't be underestimated, but I think we have the right balance at the moment and with the building momentum of a solid pre-season and night series, are in good stead for maybe the first piece of silverware for Swan in a number of years.”

Wanneroo City assistant coach Glen Moore knows it will be a tight affair. “Saturdays final is going to be a huge game for both teams, given the fact that each team wants to progress into the season full of confidence having given a good account of themselves throughout the night-series,” said Moore.

“We were beaten in the final three years ago on penalties and knocked out at the semi-final stage last year, therefore the boys have got the extra spring in their step to go one better this year and grab our first trophy under Gerry McEwan.

“John will have his boys fired up, having played Swan a couple of weeks back we know we are in for a tough game, Swan thoroughly deserved their victory and were hungry all over the park, however I feel the way we are playing at the minute whilst maintaining our effort and determination we are more than a match for anybody. All at Wanneroo is looking forward to the game and it should be a great showpiece for Division One.”

Roos skipper Brian Cairney is looking forward to the game and believes last week’s win against Shamrock will give them plenty of confidence. “It was a great win for us last week, and it was a great game to be involved in both teams wanted it so bad. It was a credit to the lads we never gave up, even after being down twice we kept creating chances and pushing forward and eventually getting the winner, it’s also a credit to the manager for making some clever changes at halftime,” said Cairney.

“We played Swan in the last group game knowing that we had already made the semis and a few key players were rested. But they have been impressive topping the group, so as always well go into the game as underdogs which suits us nicely. It will be very close contest, and it’s our second final in three years and Swan will be wanting to show that there the team to beat this year. But it’s a final and whoever wants it most will win.”

Colli joins United from Inglewood

Midfielder Aaron Colli has joined Swan United for season 2011, from Premier League side Inglewood United.

The 24-year-old has settled in well at Francis Street and made his debut in the 3-1 penalty shootout win against Morley Windmills last weekend. “I’ve been made really welcome by everyone at the club and I’m looking forward to the season ahead. It’s been made a little easy as I know a few players at the club,” said Colli.

The tough midfielder has spent a number of years in the premier League with Inglewood, his highlight was playing in their reserves side in 2006, when Inglewood finished on top of the league and won the cup final at Members Equity Stadium, and enjoyed his time at the 6PR Stadium. “I enjoyed my time at the club, but I needed a new challenge and when John (O’Reilly) rang me and told me his plans at the club,  I jumped at the chance,  and I’m looking forward to the new season ahead,” explained Colli.

He was delighted to help his new side into the First Division Night Series Final last week on his debut. “Yes it was a good win last week, and it was good to be out there and doing my part for the team. I would have liked to had it sealed within the 90 minutes but luckily for us Aggas (Daniel Agudelo) produced some great saves during the penalty shoot out to get us over the line,” said Colli.

United Coach John O’Reilly is delighted to have the midfielder at Francis Street. “Aaron has been and will become a very good signing for us. He brings to the team a different dynamic of hard tackling, good vision and creative play. He trains hard and that alone raises the bar for everyone involved. He has fitted in straight away with the rest of the lads and will be a great asset to the club,” said O’Reilly.

Colli is looking forward to the final against Wanneroo City on Saturday but knows it will be a tight encounter. “No doubt Saturday will be a tough battle, it’s a final.  We know Wanneroo are a tough opponent but we're up for the challenge. We have a strong squad this year and a good coach in John O'Reilly who I think will get the best out of us this season, starting Saturday with a cup final win,” said Colli.

02.04.11 - United hold their nerve in shoot-out to reach Night series final

Swan United reached the final of the First Division night series after a tense penalty shoot-out win against Morley Windmills in the Semi-final at Wotton reserve on Saturday evening.It was 0-0 at full time and in the penalty shoot-out Adam Pygrum, John Monterosso and Trent Wood converted, but it was Daniel Agudelo who became the hero, saving two of the first three penalties giving United a 3-1 win on penalties. (Photos by Jeff Hatton)

United Coach made three changes to the side that beat Wanneroo city last week, with skipper Robert Monterosso (right) and keeper Daniel Agudelo returning, while new signing Aaron Colli made his debut. Jordan Howell and Michael Tronchin dropped to the bench, while Niall Murphy was omitted.

It was even opening and the first opportunity fell to the hosts on 18 minutes, midfielder Philip Watson firing wide.

United hit back and went close themselves on 20 minutes. Pygrum corner found Wood, who cut the ball back to Rory Hollingum on the edge of the 18 yard box, but his shot drift wide of the post.

Moments later Jake DaRe picked out Colli on the right, he cut inside the penalty area but his shot flew wide of the target.

It was the best period of the game for the black and whites and after good approach work from Pygrum and Colli, the former Inglewood United midfielder crossed to John Monterosso who headed wide at the back post.

Then on 25 minutes Morley went close to breaking the deadlock, Andy O’Neil’s free kick from 18-yards was wide of the target.

United continued to take the game to Morley and on the half hour Rory Mouttet found Hollingum in the middle of the park. He played a one-two with John Mansaray, but his long-range shot drifted just wide of the target.

With half time approaching both sides had chances. First on 36 minutes Robert Monterosso played the ball out to the over lapping Wood (left). He cut inside the penalty area but his shot from 12-yards went inches past the post. Moments later Luke O’Neill got in behind United’s back line but his shot was saved by Agudelo.

It was United who was ending the half the better and on 42 minutes Pygrum sent a great through ball into John Monterosso, and his first time was well saved by Steve Grant. Then in first half stoppage-time John Monterosso fed Wood, whose first time ball sent Tooley clear, but his shot went over the top.

United suffered a blow early in the second half when influential midfielder Rory Hollingum collapsed on the pitch with dehydration and was taken to hospital by Ambulance.

Morley had began the second half the better and went close on the hour. Former United striker Alex Cocking found space in the area, his shot beat Agudelo but crashed off the post and Mouttet cleared the rebound.

Both sides went close as the game opened up and five minutes later Robert Monterosso’s through ball picked out Tooley, he fed Pygrum whose shot from the edge of the box flew over the top. Then Moments later Morley had a great opportunity to take the lead, Robert Monterosso poor clearance fell to Cocking, but the striker blazed wide when well placed.

It looked like one goal was going to win it, and on 79 minutes United supporters thought they had it.  Pygrum’s pin-point cross found the unmarked Colli, his looping header looked goal bound but Grant was alert to tip the ball over at full stretch.

Then it was Morley’s turn to go close, Nick Davies finding room in the box from a corner, but his header went the wrong side of the post.

With the clock ticking down United had one last chance to win it in normal time. Second Half substitute Matt DeBarro was found down the left, he played in Wood, whose cross picked out John Monterosso. The striker tuned his marker and his powerful shot was well saved by Grant.

So it was down to penalties, up first for Morley was Leo Harman, and Agudelo guessed correctly to save. It was a perfect start for the black and whites, and Pygrum rammed home the advantage by converting United’s first penalty. Next up for Morley was Ian McKean, who scored, and John Monterosso also converted to keep United in front.

The third penalty for Morley was taken by Ebe Cowbrough, again Agudelo guessed right to save. Trent Wood converted his spot kick leaving United 3-1 up.

Then up stepped Lee Thomas, he had to score to keep Morley in the contest, but his penalty crashed off the crossbar, which set off the Swan United celebrations, the black and whites winning 3-1 on penalties.

Keeper Daniel Agudelo was delighted to reach the final. “It was a pretty evenly matched game, with very few clear cut chances created by both teams. I thought we played the ball quite well in the middle, I’m real proud of the boys work rate and discipline,” said Agudelo.

“We had a bit of luck on our side with the ball crashing into post, but their keeper made some good saves late in the game to keep them in it.

“It’s not the best way to finish a game, but I think majority of people who were there would agree we could have played for another hour and still no result. Penalties were probably the only way to separate us, I’m just glad to be on the winning side at the end of the day.”

United Coach John O’Reilly was delighted with his sides battling performance. “We know the game was going to be tough, there has never been an easy semi-final. But the lad’s mentality has been improving from week to week. They are starting to show that hunger to succeed and that’s a credit to their efforts and determination,” said O’Reilly.

“I think over the full 90 minutes we had the majority of the play, and we kept possession very well for long passages of play, and I think we had the most chances. When the game went to penalties I knew we would win, I could feel the belief in the team, and Aggers, who had had a very strong game for us, made two fantastic penalty saves for us.”

Swan United – Daniel Agudelo, 2 Jake DaRe, 3 Rory Mouttet, 4 Robert Monterosso, 5 Rory Hollingum, 6 Aaron Colli, 7 Adam Pygrum, 8 John Mansaray, 9 Trent Wood, 10 Craig Tooley, 11 John Monterosso
Subs– RGK Jordan Howell, 12 Nick Lowe, 13 Michael Tronchin, 14 Matt DeBarro, 15 Scott Campbell

Morley Windmills – GK Steve Grant, 2 Leo Harman, 3 Ebe Cowbrough, 4 Lee Thomas, 5 Nick Davies, 6 Frazer McGuire, 7 Ian McKean, 8 Philip Watson, 9 Andy O’Neill, 10 Luke O’Neill, 11 Alex Cocking
Subs – 12 Brain McDonald, 13 Jimmy Taneski, 14 Mitch Castrilli, 15 Jason Trpevski

01.04.11 - United ready for Semi-final showdown

Swan United head into Saturday afternoon’s First Division Night Series clash against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve (5pm), full of confidence after a great win last week against Wanneroo City. United coach John O’Reilly has been happy with his new look side’s progression through the tournament, and hopes they can continue their good form. "We’ve played well in most games in the night series but we haven’t put in a 90 minute performance, and Saturday would be the ideal time,” said O’Reilly.

“Morley will be tough, and we know Salv is a good coach and has brought good players to the club. I think it will be a close game and only a goal will separate the winners, let’s hope it’s us.”  

United defender Rory Mouttet (left) is looking forward to the game and feels last week’s win will hold them in good stead against The Windmills. “Last week was a great win for us. We were all disappointed after the loss to Dianella. We lacked intensity during that game and on the Tuesday afterwards as well. So John pulled us all together and we discussed what we wanted out of this year and all gave our thoughts on what we needed to do to achieve those goals.

“We got a lot out of it and we took that direction into the weekend. Our intensity and attitude were excellent from the minute we got into the change room. We got the early goals because of that. Wanneroo being the good side they are came back at us but everyone fought for each other and we answered all of their challenges as a team,” explained Mouttet.

The defender, who is coming back after a serious groin injury, believes Saturday’s game will be a huge test. “It’s always good to win silverware and you don’t play in that many semi-finals in your life so it’s a huge game and test for us. To win the night series will under line our intentions to the rest of the league. We have a quality squad and we are hungry and we intend to show that in every game from now on,” said Mouttet.

Windmills coach Salv Todaro has been happy with the pre-season tournament and he's looking forward to the big game. "The club is looking forward to its first semi-final appearance in the 1st Division night series. The playing group have been training very hard and this is just reward for all their efforts and commitment. They played nearly 40 minutes with only 10 players and showed excellent character to come from a goal down to win last Friday night," said Todaro.

"Swan has looked extremely strong during the night series and has put together a very formidable squad, with Adam Pygrum, John Monterosso and Rory Hollinghum looking extremely dangerous. It should be a very exciting game."

19.03.11 - United take on Dianella White Eagles in Night Series on Sunday

Swan United are in action again this weekend, when they take on Dianella White Eagles in the First division night series at Wotton Reserve on Sunday (5pm)

United Coach John O’Reilly is hoping they can continue their unbeaten start to the competition. “It’s another big game for us on Sunday. Dianella haven’t started the competition that well but are a good side. They beat Gosnells City last week and had a great 6-0 win at Canning in the cup, so we will need to be on our game,” O’Reilly said.

“We’ve worked on a few things at training this week and go in to the game full of confidence, but we need to be at our best to continue our 100% record in the competition.”

In team news Trent Wood (left) returns from suspension, while Chris Marshall, Niall Murphy and Craig Tooley will all return from injury.

11.03.11 - United look to continue unbeaten start in Night Series against Ashfield

Swan United will take a giant step towards the semi-final of the First Division Night Series if they win against Ashfield at Wotton Reserve on Friday evening (8.30pm)

United impressed in the cup defeat against Western Knights on Monday, but Coach John O’Reilly believes Friday’s game is just as important as they gear up to the new first division season on April 16th. “We will be going into this game high in confidence but hopefully no signs of complacency. We had a great game against the Knights in the cup, but lost. This week I hope we can put in the same effort and performance and come out the other side with a win,” O’Reilly said.

“I’m looking forward to this fixture. I was player coach for Ashfield reserves only two seasons ago, so it’s always a great challenge playing against an old team - it has that extra spice about it. But Ashfield will be no walk in the park, they will be tough tackling and they are known for there never say die attitude. Results have not gone their way over the past few years but they have always managed to cause some upsets.”

O’Reilly has a full squad to choose from and has added a new defender to the squad this week. “In team news Trent Wood will be missing, after he was sent off in the cup defeat, but Jake Da Re is back after a two week injury, he played against the Knights and has no signs of the injury hindering his play,” O’Reilly explained.

“Rory Mouttet, will be making his return this week after spending the closed season recovering from an injury. He’s looked sharp at training and can’t wait to pull the black and white jersey on again.”

Against the Knights Michael Tronchin (left) was outstanding and he believes they performed well against a strong Knights side, and with a bit of luck could have won it. “It was a really good performance by the boys on Monday. It was a bit disappointing going down to 10 men, it made the task a whole lot harder but we fought till the end, which was a good show of character. I think the extra legs they had in the final minutes, was what got them over the line. I think that sort of performance shows that the team and club are heading up in the right direction,” Tronchin said.

“This week is not going to be an easy task, a few boys will no doubt be a little sore still so we will have to be right on our game again against Ashfield. But if we put in a performance like Monday we will be on our way to getting the three points. Doing well in this night series is something we are working towards so a win will go a long way towards a spot in the semi-final.”

Mouttet happy to be back

Rory Mouttet will make his comeback for the black and whites tonight in the Night Series clash against Ashfield, after a long injury lay off.

The 32-year-old is looking forward to pulling on the black and white shirt again and hopes for an injury free season. “The groin is going well, almost 100% now, but it will be a big test tonight against Ashfield in my first 90 minutes back,” Mouttet said.

“I had a 7cm tear which has kept me out for over 20 weeks. But after a lot of frustration and rehabilitation exercises I feel like I’m ready to go.”

It’s been a frustrating time for the defender but he now wants to help United back to the Premier League. “I’ve worked hard to get back but it was frustrating. I felt like I was playing good football last year and was devastated that I couldn’t play the last nine games. I always intended to play again this year, and If I manage to stay injury free I feel I can play a big role in getting United back to the Premier League next year,” Mouttet explained.

After relegation the club lost a number of players from the squad, but Mouttet has been impressed the way new Coach John O’Reilly has moulding the new squad together. “The squad is looking very strong, I believe John has brought in some decent players and more importantly a professional and businesslike culture to the team. The focus is on accountability, discipline and good football, I expect us to push hard for promotion this year,” Mouttet said.

A win tonight against Ashfield will almost book a semi-final spot but Mouttet knows it will be a tough game. “It’s a big game tonight, as it’s always good to win silverware – but more importantly every game is a big game for us at the moment. It’s more important for us to establish winning as a habit and build for the league season, and that’s what counts,” Mouttet said.

United Reserves into Solo Cup 2nd Round

Swan United reserves side have made it into the 2nd round of the Solo Cup after a 1-0 win against Premier League side Western Knights on Monday.

Phil Lowe’s side won the match mid-way through the second half when Seb DeCotter was brought down in the penalty area and Mark McAllister fired home the spot kick. Lowe was delighted with the performance but believes there is some room for improvement. “Yes it was a good win; I thought we played very well against a strong Western Knights team. Defensively we were solid for the full 90 minutes and in spells we controlled the game, and I feel we were worthy winners,” Lowe said.

“There are still lots of room for improvement in the middle and final thirds, but with key players still on the injury list and unavailable for selection it’s looking good for a strong and competitive squad for the season to come.”

04.03.11 - United host Western Knights in Solo Cup First round on Monday

Swan United are in cup action on labour day Monday, when they entertain Premier League side Western Knights in the first round of The Solo Cup at Francis Street (3pm)

With United only two games into the first division Night series competition it will be a great test to see where John O’Reilly’s side are at, and the coach is looking forward to the game. “It’s a great chance for us this weekend. The Knights are a good side and last year these two clubs had two very closely contested matches, let’s hope Monday will bring the same excitement. We go into the game with two good wins under our belt in the night series, and we hope to surprise them,” O’Reilly said.

“We have added a few new faces to the squad and it does strengthen our squad significantly. New strikers Jake Stewart and Craig Tooley while John Monterosso returns.  Great speed, fast feet and good strength describes all three.

“In midfield Scotty Campbell, who has also returned to the club, and Adam Pygrum come to the side with first and premier league experience under their belts, along with speedy winger Solomon Onyuku. We are all looking forward to the new season, but on Monday we hope to give a good showing in front of our great supporters and let’s hope it a United victory,” O’Reilly added.

United midfielder Adam Pygrum is looking forward to Monday’s game and believes the side is gelling together well. “So far so good in the Night Series. I thought we played very well against Gosnells last Saturday, especially in the first 30 minutes of the game, still not taking enough chances but were working on that as a team in training each week,” Pygrum said.

“When everything does click into place I think someone could be on the wrong end of it very soon. John wants us to play in a certain way and last week was probably the closet we've come to playing the way he wants.”

The midfielder knows the game against the Knights is a good oppotunity to see where the side is at. "Every player wants to test themselves against the best teams in the state and that’s exactly what we’re up against on Monday. I think we've come a long way as a team since the Premier League Night Series and will be better prepared this time around. It’s not going to be easy but we will get chances and if we can take them early on we might just cause an upset,” Pygrum said.

Knight Coach Carl Medica is very much looking forward to the game on Monday. “It’s been a while since I was last there, 2004 in fact, and it wasn't a happy hunting ground for us back in those days, but looking forward to the challenge this weekend,” Medica said.

“We will hopefully have a full squad to choose from and carry on our form from last weekend’s game against Sorrento, as there were a lot of positives that came out of the 2-0 win on the road.”

Medica knows cup games are unpredictable but believes his side have the fire power to win. “We're probably expected to win the game, but I'm sure that the Swan players will want to prove a point to their coach and supporters, and the league in fact, that they probably belong in the Premier League, so we will have to be at our best to get over the line,” Medica said.

“From what I've seen, Swan have a mixture of youth and experience, which all looks good for the future. We just need to get off to a good start and take our chances, because as we know, these one off cup games can come down to just that.

“We have plenty of fire power that Swan will have to deal with, with the likes of Simon Versaico, Stuart Montgomery, Branimir Mikulic and Callum Roberts, but at the end of the day, whoever wants it more will come out on top. Hopefully, that will be us.”
In the earlier games on Monday - George Strezos and the under 18s kick off at 10.30am, while Phil Lowe and our Reserves kick off at 12.45pm.

United Youngster recovering after car accident

Swan United youngster Daniel De Gasperis is lucky to be alive after a car crash last week saw the 17-year-old seriously injured.

The club have been shocked by the news of Daniel’s accident and they wished him the best. “Daniel has been a player at Swan United and before that for Swan IC for many years, coming through the junior ranks to become a valued senior player.  Unfortunately in the last couple of weeks he was involved in a serious car accident.  Details are a bit sketchy but the police have indicated to Daniel that he is very lucky to be alive. Among the injuries he has sustained are a broken ankle, knee, ribs and some liver damage,” a Club Official said.

“As a popular member of the Swan Senior Squad, what has happened to Daniel has really shaken the entire playing group.  The senior boys decided themselves to organize the hat around and expanded it to the Cup Game when we take on the Western Knights on Monday 7th March.

“Gassy's absence has certainly had a huge impact on the 18's player group. He is a big personality and makes time to talk and have a laugh. He is a great leader in the group especially to the rookies and they certainly look to him as a leader both on and off the field.

“The Committee, Coaches and players at Swan United wish Daniel a very speedy recovery and want to see his face back around the Club soon.”

Talking on his Facebook page Daniel thanked everyone for their wishes. “Huge thank you to everyone who posted on my wall, sent me text messages, and a special thanks to all who have come two see me. Its thanks to you guys I've been able to keep my chin up. I’m going to be alright, don't feel sorry for me, thank whoever was looking over me that helped me survive an accident that police said was one in a million!.”

All the best Daniel!!!!!!

25.02.11 - United take on Gosnells in Night Series on Saturday

Swan United continue their 2011 Night series campaign this weekend when they take on Gosnells City at Wotton reserve on Saturday (7pm) 

United coach John O'Reilly still has injury doubts going into the game but does welcome back a couple of experienced players, and a couple of new signings, but he knows it will be a tough game for his side. “Gosnells are a tough playing team and will prove to be no push overs. We will enter this game with our own game plan but will not be underestimating our opposition,” O’Reilly said.

“We still have several players out due to injury, a few more picked up last Sunday against Fremantle unfortunately, but we have good depth to still be able to put out a competitive team. Scotty Campbell will be back, after trialing for the Australian Futsal Squad, which will add a bit of composure to the centre of midfield and Trent Wood is also back from suspension.”

He is also delighted to have signed Joe Bignal, and a couple of new players for the night series. “We have signed Joe, who has played in New South Wales, but he will not be risked as he is carrying an injury at the moment,” O’Reilly said.

“We’ve also signed two exciting players for the night series. Left sided player Soloman has joined from Canning City. He is really quick and a good passer of the ball and we’ve also signed striker Jake Stewart from Kingsway Olympic. Jake will make his debut this weekend and he is strong and will give a target up front.”  

Gosnells drew 1-1 in the opening game against Wanneroo City, with new signing Ravi Kuppusamy on target

Pygrum ready for challenge at Swan

Swan United new midfielder Adam Pygrum has settled in well at Francis Street, and he is looking forward to the new season ahead. "Things are going well, I've really enjoyed pre-season and the boys have made me feel very welcome from the very first session," Pygrum said.

"The Premier League Night Series was good to be a part of and even though the results didn't go our way I thought there were a lot of positives to take away from it. We were in the game in each match up until half-time, even out passing teams at times, but the gap in fitness was massive and that cost us in the end. But there's plenty of time to put that right." 

He has been impressed with United’s squad during the pre-season and believes they will be competitive in 2011. "The squad looks very strong and we have a lot of depth which is rare in division one. I've been impressed with the standard of the squad and it's been very competitive in training with everyone wanting to catch the eye. We have a good blend of experience and youth which I think is vital for any team wanting to win titles. The 23's have won every game so far in pre-season so that keeps all the first team boys on their toes, “Pygrum explained.

The 30-year-old played in league last season and he knows how hard it is to get out of. "I played last season for Canning City and know just how hard this league is. It’s only a small season with 22 games so every point is vital and with only one team going up it’s so important to get off to a good start. It was a two horse race last season between Bunbury and Bayswater but looking at the teams this year I think it could be any from a group of five, including us," Pygrum said.

The black and whites opened their first division night series campaign with a 3-2 win against Fremantle Spirit last week and Pygrum was happy with the performance. "Great to start with a win and I thought for the first 70 minutes we looked good and solid all over the park, but then we took the foot of the gas and were hanging on for the last 15-20 minutes," Pygrum explained.

"If we want to go on and win this competition we have to put teams to bed and play at 100% for the whole game. No disrespect to Fremantle but against another side, say Bunbury, I think we would of payed the ultimate price on Sunday. Obviously it was great for me personally to score but the way we finished the game took the shine of that slightly. I thought Michael Tronchin was outstanding at right-back and showed how versatile he is for the team, but at the end of the day a wins a win and we sit at the top of the group going into the Gosnells game Saturday."

The Gosnells game will be a huge test for United and Pygrum knows they will need to on their game against a good City side. "Saturday will be very tough. I played in both games for Canning against them last season and both were battles. They like to play a quite physical game but can also knock the ball about too, I think they finished 5th and don't let many goals in so we will have to take our chances in front of goal. With the other two games in the group ending in draws a win will go a long way for us qualifying for the next round," Pygrum said.

The midfielder moved to Australia in 2009 after a successful career in the UK, and he is now enjoying his football and is hoping to help United back to the Premier League "My football path started to get off the ground when I was 12 being selected for Blackpool Schoolboys. I was then selected to represent my county Lancashire Boys and had the privilege of playing alongside Leon Osman (Everton) for 3 years in the middle of midfield.

"Through this Blackpool F.C approached me at 13 years old and offered me a contract with their academy. I played for Blackpool for four years and was then released at 17. I left and spent two weeks on trial at Stockport County, but never really did myself any justice with the Blackpool rejection still fresh in my mind, “Pygrum explained.

"I fell out of love with playing after that and didn't play at a serious level again until I was 24, playing in short stints with AFC Blackpool, Squires Gate and Blackpool Rovers...all semi-pro teams in the Blackpool Area.

"It wasn't till I moved to Perth in 2009 that really got my appetite for the game back. I signed for ECU Joondalup and in pre-season/night series got off to a great start scoring eight goals in as many games (one of them against Swan in the night series!) and was really enjoying my time there, but as the season went on I found myself becoming more and more of a squad player getting 15/20 minutes here and there an realised at 28 I needed to be getting more game time.

“In 2010 I joined Canning City for exactly that reason and had a great season there playing in all but one game. We finished the season in 6th place but our results in the 2nd half of the season were a lot better than the 1st and looked a good outfit by the end of the year. Now I'm with the Black & Whites, aiming to play Premier League football again in 2012."   

Pygrum is enjoying working with new United Coach John O’Reilly and he believes there is a great atmosphere around the club. “Johns a great manager to play for, his enthusiasm in training can't help but rub off on you. All the sessions are done at match pace and there's always a purpose to each exercise and drill. His attention to detail is very impressive and it’s these things that will help us get where we need to be as a team, and with a bit of luck and a lot of hard work from us that will hopefully end in promotion,” Pygrum said.

O’Reilly believes Pygrum will be influential this season for his young side.  “Despite his young looks he is one of our more experienced players and he brings a good calming effect to our squad, in training and in games,” O’Reilly said.

“He has impressed during pre-season training, travelling a long distance, with no transportation, but showing strong commitment to the team and what they are striving to achieve this year. He is strong in the middle of the park and is a strong tackler and has great footwork, I believe he will be a key squad member this season.”

18.02.11 - United begin Night Series against Fremantle Sprit on Sunday

Swan United 2011 campaign begins in earnest on Sunday evening when they take on Fremantle Spirit in the first round of the First Division nights series at Wotton Reserve, the home of Morley Windmills (5pm)

United Coach John O’Reilly can’t wait for the games to begin. “We are all looking forward to Sunday’s opening game in the Night Series,” O’Reilly said.

“The lads have been training hard and the team spirit is very strong, and we have prepared well for the competition and we hope to give it a shake.”

The club have a number of player’s trialing at the club and O’Reilly believes they will have a strong squad for the season ahead. “We have had some new players down at the club trialing, and I’m looking forward to see them in action,” O’Reilly explained.

“Young striker, Craig Tooley, scored on his debut against Cockburn reserves last week, and his work rate and effort is very exciting to watch. Joe Bignal has just arrived here from NSW where he played State league. He is a strong player with a good touch and pace, he will be a great asset to the club.” 

Things are going well off the pitch for United and at last week’s Busy Bee at the club the players worked hard to get Francis Street cleaned up. “We had 25 players down at the club on Saturday morning helping with the renovation of the club, the revolution marches on,” O’Reilly said.

“We will have a new strip for the start of the season, home shirt black white and gold, away strip royal purple and white. It looks good and with our major sponsors Q Legal and ANZ on them, everyone at the club is looking forward to 2001.”

United host Western Knights in Solo Cup First Round

Swan United has been drawn against Premier League side Western Knights in the State League Cup at Francis Street on Monday 7th March. (3pm)

The draw for the newly named Solo Cup, took place at Football West headquarters on Monday morning with General Manager, Competitions & Operations, Keith Wood and State League Administrator Angela Murphy.

The cup round falls in between the rounds of the Night Series competition and Coach John O’Reilly is looking forward to the game “It’s a tough draw for us, but we will give it our best shot,” O’Reilly said.

“It falls in between the Night Series for us, four days before the third round game against Gosnells City. We will have a few games under our belt and the Knights will have played on the Saturday against the NTC, so it could be an advantage for us.”

There are three All Flags State Premier League clashes with Balcatta v Bayswater City, Inglewood United v Cockburn City and Mandurah City v ECU Joondalup.

Full Draw - Rockingham City v Queens Park – Lark Hill, Murdoch University v Wanneroo City - Len Shearer Reserve,  Stirling Lions v Spearwood Dalmatinac – Macedonia Park, Forrestfield United v Sorrento – Hartfield Park, Canning City SC  v Dianella White Eagles - Burrendah Reserve, Swan United v Western Knights – Francis Street, UWA-Nedlands v Bunbury Forum Force - UWA Sports Park, Shamrock Rovers v Belmont Villa – Harold  Rossiter Reserve,       Balcatta SC v Bayswater City – Grindleford Reserve, Gosnells City v Morley-Windmills - Walter Padbury Reserve, Olympic Kingsway v Fremantle Spirit -  Kingsway Reserve, Inglewood United v Cockburn City -6PR Stadium,  Floreat Athena v Ashfield - E&D Litis Stadium,  Fremantle Croatia v Perth SC - Beeliar Oval, Armadale v Joondalup United - Alfred Skeet Reserve, Mandurah City v ECU Joondalup – Hyundai Stadium
Match’s to be played Labour Day Monday 7th March – 3pm kick off

11.02.11 - United 23’s beat Cockburn in pre-season friendly

Swan United under 23’s was in action last weekend and they came away from Cockburn City with a good 3-0 victory. On target for the side were Mark McAllister with a brace and Craig Tooley.  It was good all-round performance with keeper Jordan Howell’s not having a great deal to do. His only save came in the first half superbly saving a long-range shot.

oach Phil Lowe was delighted with his side’s performance. “We played really well, against quite a strong Cockburn side. I know a few of their players are out because of the night series but we have got a few very good players to come into the side too,” Lowe said.

“We outplayed them all over the park and could of scored a few more goals but the clean sheet is a major plus, at this stage I’m trying to create a good work ethic and a good team ethic and the players are responding well to the learning curve and it's looking good for the season ahead but they are well aware that success only comes with hard work and commitment..”

In Saturday other game the under 18’s went down 0-6 to Cockburn

Club Notices link on News Page

To catch up with all the Swan United club notices for 2011 - Click on the link on the top of the Club news page.

DO NOT FORGET BUSY BEE AT THE FRANCIS STREET THIS WEEKEND!!!!!!

Any info please contact :-

Jenny Hill 0412 948 292
Sonia Tuxworth 0419 931 732
Penny Borzecki 0413 017 555

31.01.10 - O’Reilly optimistic for season ahead despite Premier Night Series results

Swan United Coach John O’Reilly is optimistic about the 2011 first division season ahead, despite the club finishing bottom of the table in the Premier League Night Series Group B.

United had chances early in all their game, put failed to find the target, but the Coach believes his players have learned from it. “The night series has been a really good learning curve for us. I'll work with the players now to improve on all the positives and minimise the negatives,” he said.

“We have three weeks to fine tune before we get in to the first division night series and the potential is definitely there.”
The defeat against ECU Joondalup was disappointing but O’Reilly believes they were in every game in the group phase up till half time, but then silly mistakes led to their down fall. “The way in which we played the first half against ECU it was gutting to walk into the dressing room at half time 2-0 down,” he explained.

“We created chances, we kept possession so well and produced fluid passing, but the killer instinct was missing in front of goal. But I’m confident if we keep creating the chances, we will become a good side and the more they play the team will gel together for the start of the season.”

Swan United FC 2011 Season Registration Days

The Swan United FC 2011 Season Registration Days are on again, starting this weekend. (Seniors, Juniors and Vets)

Details
Current and New Players welcome. (New Players to bring a Birth Certificate.)

Venue:Swan Italian Club
Francis Street
Middle Swan

Date - Sunday 6th February & Sunday 13th February

Time - 9am til 12 noon

For details contact
Jenny Hill 0412 948 292
Sonia Tuxworth 0419 931 732
Penny Borzecki 0413 017 555

28.01.11 - United hope to end Night Series with a bang

Swan United end their Bam Creative Premier League Night Series campaign tonight, when they take on ECU Joondalup at Macedonia Park (6.30pm)

John O’Reilly will again look at the squad ahead of the first division night series and he’s looking forward to the game. “We’re really looking forward to our final game against a good ECU side,” he said.

“It’s been a real eye opener for the team and has highlighted areas we need to work on which has been invaluable for me. Joondalup will be a strong opponent but like the last two games, but what is important to me is the performance and the progression we are making.”

ECU are coming off a good 3-1 win against Bayswater City last week, with John Higgins, John Thornley and Oliver McGee on target. Coach Syd Amphlett knows it will be a tough game but he believes he has the quality to make the quarter finals. “It’s always a tough game against Swan and we expect it to be no different tomorrow,” Amphlett said.

“We still view Swan as a Premier league team and quite a few players have shown loyalty which I think is great. I watched last week’s game and thought they were unlucky not to score 1 or 2 more than they did.

“However we continue to train well and the attitude of our players has been fantastic so far, so as I’ve said we will not under estimate them and will be putting out the strongest side possible tomorrow night.”

Fully fit Tronchin rearing to go

It’s been a frustrating two years for talented Swan United midfielder Michael Tronchin, with injuries hampering his game time for the black and whites. But that has all changed now, and the 19-year-old is rearing to go in 2011. ‘Yes I’ve definitely struggled a bit with some injuries, and it seems something I can’t go a season without,” Tronchin explained”

“I think my playing style can contribute at times, so that’s something I can work on with the coaching staff in the pre-season. My body is feeling good at the moment, I managed it well in the off season, and lost a few of those niggling injuries so I’m now working my way back to full fitness.

“I missed a couple of training sessions due to an overseas holiday, but on return I’ve hit the track hard and everyone seems to be eager and ready for the challenge of next season.”

The midfielder started playing the game as a five-year-old, and he had a good coach then. “Yes I had former Perth SC Coach Graham Normanton as a coach back then, so he put me on the right track,” Tronchin said.

“I played most my juniors at Inglewood United, then I had a stint at Floreat Athena for a season, then moved to Swan. I’ve had a good seven years at Francis Street, and I hope the 8th is even better.”

Tronchin, left in action against Balcatta last season - Photo by Tom Gordon - was a star in the 23’s side last season, that were runners-up in the league, and he believes new Coach John O’Reilly can take the club back to the Premier League this season. “I’m really looking forward to working with John again. The under 23’s did really well last season, and you have got to give a lot of credit to him for that,” Tronchin said.

“He’s got a great understanding of the game, your always learning something new from him. You can always have a laugh and joke with him off the field, and on the field he has the respect of the 11 players.”

United new senior Coach John O’Reilly is looking for a good season from the midfielder. “Mike had a very good season last year, but injuries dogged him throughout. He has worked on his injury management through closed season and should be ready to be a key performer this year,” O’Reilly said.

There has been a large turnover of players at the club, but Tronchin believes the squad is looking like it will be very competitive in 2011. “It’s a bit disappointing that a number of players have left the club, but that just gives someone else the chance to step up and prove themselves, including myself. The squad is looking good, there are a few new faces down which is always good, and the coaching staff have their work cut out to select the squad,” Tronchin said 

“We’re under no illusions that this year is going to be tough, I’ve never been in this situation before with a club so I can’t wait for the test ahead. I think with the right balance of experience and youth and determination I think we can challenge for the promotion spot.”

21.01.11 - United face the Lions in Round two of the Night Series

Swan United will take on Stirling Lions in game two of the Bam Creative Night Series on Sunday evening (7pm). The Lions are Coached by former United coach Paul Lincoln, and with the Lions having a number of former Francis Street players in their line-up, John O’Reilly’s side is looking forward to the game.

“We’re really looking forward to Sunday game and training has been upbeat this week and the players are keen to get one over their former boss,” O’Reilly said.

“It was a good work out last week against Bayswater, in our first real hit out of the season. But when you’re in the Premier League night series, you want to play against the contenders, not the pretenders, and Stirling are certainly one of the contenders for the 2011 season."

O’Reilly will again tinker with the side ahead of the season and new signings Scott Paterson, Mark Donnelly and Scott Campbell will come into contention but the coach believes it’s steady as you go. “It’s still early in the pre-season, and we are using these games to get the right formation and side to be ready for the first league game of the season. We will continue to be strong and physical, hard work and determination, the same as we did to frustrate Bayswater during our opening game,” O’Reilly explained.

“We will work on our possession and passing game once we have got our work rate and fighting mentality right. Mauro’s tactics with Bayswater, last week were easily predicted, basic tactics, with very good players to execute, but this week, I believe Paul Lincoln will have his team well prepared, with a tough strategy and a very offensive style. Coming into the game as underdogs helps take the fear factor away, but it would be great to cause an upset, even more so if it was against the best team in our group with several of our old players in it.”

The Lions drew 1-1 with ECU Joondalup last week, with new striker Phil O’Callaghan on target. The Lions will have former United keeper Cory Hugo (right), midfielders Paul Dugdale and Roberto Lujan in their squad, and Coach Lincoln is expecting another tough game against his former club. “We expect another tough game following on from last week against ECU. I have made several changes to the squad with some being forced upon, but the players are well aware that we need to win to have any chance of progressing,” Lincoln said.

United’s second Coaches Day

After the first successful Coaches day, the club has announced a second one will be held at Francis Street on Saturday 26th February at 8.30am.

United senior Coach John O’Reilly believes it’s a great initiative and the junior coaches enjoyed the first session. “I was delighted with the turn out for the first course and all the coaches found it to be very informative, and that was the purpose,” O’Reilly said.

“We are looking at bringing talented players through the junior ranks here to play in the senior side. With the right coaching we believe that will happen and it will be the better for the clubs future.”

The session will go for approximately three hours; a reminder to all coaches - please bring your manuals and a whistle. Morning tea and refreshments will be provided

Please contact John O'Reilly 0426 252 542 for further information.

14.01.11 - Let the Season begin - United v Bayswater City tonight

Swan United’s 2001 season begins in earnest tonight when they take on Premier League side Bayswater City at Macedonia Park (6.30pm) New United Coach John O’Reilly is looking forward to the game and believes his side will be competitive. “I’m really looking forward to playing competitive football again, and we have an eager squad who have already started training and are chopping at the bit to be given a chance to see how the new look team play together,” O’Reilly said.

“The Group we are in will be tough but I don’t think there are any easy groups in the premier night series, and we will be using the games to have a look at new players and also to work on some partnership pairing within the units of the team structure.”

The United squad has a few new faces this season and O’Reilly believes they will cause problems in the Night Series. “The players within the team are proving to have a strong spirit, so early, that the expectation this season to do well is very high,” O’Reilly said.
“We hope to see a big turn out from United supporters for the night series games......let’s make some noise.”

United Squad for Bayswater City game – GK Daniel Agudelo, GK Justin Scavatchi, Chris Marshall, Niall Murphy, Rob Monterosso (C), Jake De Ra, Matt Debarro, Michael Tronchin, Trent Wood, Scott Campbell, Adam Pygrum, Simon Centenni, Robbie Ftynogiannis, Damian Scali, Steve Betella, Nattapong Narongphunt, Timmy Raddon, Thomas Shepheard, John Monterosso, Diego Garcia, Scott Paterson, Rory Hollingum, Mark Donnelly, Matt Wood

Wood ready for new season

Swan United defender Trent Wood is working hard in pre-season training and can’t wait for the new season to begin. The 22-year-old knows it will be a tough challenge, but the squad is looking strong ahead of the Night Series competition in January.  “The pre-season is going great, we have a completely different squad this year and everyone is looking forward to the night series and the season in 2011. We are also working on a brand new home and away strip and renovating the dugouts and changing rooms,” Wood said.

“Unfortunately we lost a number of our first team players from last season, but this has allowed a number of new faces to come into the squad, and it also gives an opportunity for last season’s reserves to step up, which I believe they are more then capable of.”

John O’Reilly has taken up the reins as senior coach this season, and Wood is looking forward to working with him. “Looking at John's involvement with the club last year as reserves coach; he has shown the club he is of top quality by taking the reserves to runners up in the league in only his first year with the club. I believe he is a coach that will make vital decisions when needed and get the club to where we need to be,” Wood said.

United new senior Coach O’Reilly’s is looking for Wood to lead the young Swan side on and off the park. “I'm looking forward to working with Trent this year. I really admire his work rate and he has some great skills to match, I believe this season will be one to remember for the young midfielder,” O’Reilly said.

The first division is a tough league to get out of, but Wood believes the club heads into the new season full of confidence of regaining their Premier League status. “Having played in division one before I am well aware of the competition and the standard of the league,” Wood explained.

“Our squad hasn't been finalized just yet, as we are still looking at new faces that are trying out. Going by the turn out we have had for the pre-season we are looking very strong and will only get better in the coming months, and I’m confident we will go well next season.”

Wood has played football since he was five and all his junior days were at Forrestfield United. He made his first team debut for the Hartfield Park club as an 18-year-old, before moving to Francis Street three years ago. “I’ve really enjoyed my time at the club and they made me feel welcome when I made the move and I hope I’ve paid back their faith in me. It’s a big season for the club and me next season, and I’m really looking forward to the game against my former club Forry next season.”

The defender was part of the Fox 8 ‘Football Superstars” show two years ago and he really enjoyed the experience and believes it helped his football. “To this day I still think about the show and all the experience it had to offer, like training under Ernie Merrick and the Melbourne Victory coaching staff, whilst also training with the first team squad on a number of occasions. I still speak with a couple of the Melbourne lads every now and then to see what there up to,” Wood explained.

01.01.11 - Monterosso to lead the Swans in 2011

Swan United defender Robert Monterosso will be leading from the front in 2011, after being appointed the clubs skipper, and the 27-year-old is looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“I am delighted to be given the Captaincy for the upcoming season and I'm looking forward to leading the boys into what will hopefully be a very successful season for the black and whites,” Monterosso said.

“Things are going well in pre-season, a few of the boys have been doing their own bit of extra training so the general fitness of the group is good, which means we are on the front foot for the Night Series.”

John O’Reilly has taken up the reins as senior coach at Francis Street and Monterosso is looking forward to working with him. “I am looking forward to working with John; he has a very professional approach to all aspects of the club, both on and off the park,” Monterosso explained.

“He has a true desire to see the game develop and it’s clearly evident in the changes that have already occurred around the club and those that are also still to come.”

The new coach believes the experienced defender is a great choice to lead the club back to the Premier League. “Rob was one of the first I spoke to regarding next season and I’m delighted to have him at the club and to have him as our club captain,” O’Reilly said.

“Rob has been at the club now for several years, putting in a strong performance last year. His attitude and strong leadership qualities will have a big influence on the team this year.”

Monterosso believes the club can bounce back to regain their Premier League status next season, despite losing a number of players from last season. “We did expect to lose a few players and that’s just part of the game, but John has made a point of not dwelling on the negative aspects of what has happened, and rather the positive view which at the moment is proving to be a great bit of motivation as all the boys are really buzzing for the coming season,” Monterosso said.

“The squad is looking quite solid, we managed to retain a core of players from last year’s squad and from the past few training sessions, it looks like we may have just the right compliment of additions to the team to make us the team to beat in the first division in 2011.”

The defender, who began his junior football in the Swan Valley with Swan Districts, before moving to Perth Italia as a teenager. He was then selected in the Future Glory side in 2002, before moving to Stirling Lions, and spent two years at Macedonia Park before heading to Francis Street. 

Expectations are high at Francis Street, but the First Division is a tough league to get out of, but Monterosso is confident the Swans will be very competitive. “Ultimately the main goal is to achieve top spot and be straight back into the premier league, and with the players that have stayed and the new recruits that have come down, I'd say we are in good stead to attain it. With the style of football John is looking to play and the level of talent we have, we are definitely going to be hard to beat,” he said.

26.12.10 - United drawn in Group A in First Division Night Series

Swan United has been drawn in Group A of the First Division Night Series in early February. Also in the group are Ashfield, Dianella White Eagles, Gosnells City, Fremantle Spirit, and Wanneroo.

It will give Coach John O’Reilly an opportunity to get his side up and running for the League season. “I'm looking forward to the first div night series. We will be able to give plenty of match time to a large number of our squad and it will be a great learning curve to prepare us for the style of play in the first division<” O’Reilly said.
“I really believe we can navigate our way out of the group stage and then in the knock out rounds it comes down to the best team on the night. Morley Windmills will be a good venue for the series, good pitch, good facilities.”

The coach is looking forward to one game in the pre-season competition, a game against his former club. “Ashfield, my old club, will be a big game for me, as I still have many good friends down there,” O’Reilly explained.

Fixtures (All games at Wotton Reserve
Game 1 - Fremantle Spirit v United – Sunday 20th Feb – 5pm
Game 2 – United v Gosnells City – Saturday 26th Feb – 7pm
Game 3 – Ashfield v United – Friday 11th Mar – 8.30pm
Game 4 – United v Dianella White Eagles – Sunday 20th Mar – 5pm
Game 5 – United v Wanneroo City – Saturday 26th Mar – 7pm

06.12.10 - Swans drawn in Group A for Premier League Night Series

Swan United begins their 2011 season when they take on Bayswater City in the group stage of the Premier League Bam Creative Night Series on January 14th at Macedonia Park. United are one of only four first division sides in the competition alongside Wanneroo City, Forrestfield United and Bunbury Forum Force

United coach John O’Reilly is looking forward to the games as he sets out in his first season as head coach of the Black and White. “I am really looking forward to playing competitive football again,” O’Reilly said.

“We have an eager squad who have already started training and are chopping at the bit to be given a chance to see how the new look team play together. The Group we are in will be tough but I don’t think there are any easy groups in the premier night series.”

O’Reilly will use the games to look at potential new players to get ready for the League season. “We will be using the games to have a look at new players and also to work on some partnership pairing within the units of the team structure.
The players within the team are proving to have a strong spirit, so early, that the expectation this season to do well is very high. We hope to see a big turn out from swan supporters for the night series games......Make some noise,” O’Reilly explained.

Bam Creative have re-signed as the tournament’s naming rights sponsor for the second successive year, much to the delight of Football West Chief Executive Peter Hugg.

“Football West is pleased to see Bam Creative continue their support of the Night Series competition in 2011,” he said.
“The Bam Creative Night Series format has been altered to include Division One clubs to give their Premier League rivals a huge pre-season test and it is great to see some different venues be granted hosting status.

“Mandurah’s Hyundai Stadium and Sorrento’s Percy Doyle Reserve will host major matches for the first time and we hope that as other clubs upgrade their facilities, we will also be able to take these types of matches to their venues.”
Bam Creative Director Miles Burke is thrilled to be teaming up with Football West yet again.
“We’re very pleased to be involved yet again with the Bam Creative Night Series,” he said.

“The game of football is all about teamwork, passion and striving to be the best.

“As Perth’s most awarded web company, which is owned by the employees that work there, we understand those three principles, and apply them to what we do every day.

“Football West do a fantastic job of promoting the world game here in Western Australia, and we’re proud of our involvement in their programs, such as the Bam Creative Night Series.”

The Quarter Finals of the Night Series will be held at Floreat Athena’s E&D Litis Stadium, while Inglewood’s 6PR Stadium will also have the same honour as well as hosting the two Semi Finals.

Defending champions Perth SC will host the deciding Final at BGC Stadium - Dorrien Gardens on Saturday 19 February.

Swan United Night Series Fixtures
Friday 14th Jan – Bayswater City v Swan United – 6.30pm – Macedonia Park
Sunday 23rd Jan – Swan United v Stirling Lions – 7pm – Macedonia Park
Saturday 29th Jan – ECU Joondalup v Swan United - 5.30pm – Macedonia Park

03.12.10 - Swan United FC – Coaches Day

Swan United’s 2011 season is well into its preparation stages and on Saturday (4th December) the club held a coaches day at Francis Street.

New senior Coach John O’Reilly took charge of the day and he was keen to get the message out to the clubs junior coaches. “We have worked hard during the close-season and we’ve decided to hold the day to give the old and new coaches in our junior set-up a view the club would like to head in the future,” O’Reilly said.
“We have a number of great coaches at our club and we’ve decided this season to get them together and have a day when we can give them a few tips on how to improve their coaching skills.”

O'Reilly added: "The coaching for coaches day was the first step towards future development within the club. we believe that if we can improve our coaching skills then we can improve our players.

"The day was carefully put together by the swan coaching staff, Gerry crowley (junior liason officer), Phil Lowe ( new reserve team coach) and myself. This first session was an overview on coaching technique, looking at how a coach conducts his session.
Thank you to all coaches that attended, the young players who came down and did all the hard work for us and also the committee for opening up the club, put on refreshments for us all day and for giving us the generous amounts of support, and with the success of this first session it has set us up to follow up during the season with further coarses.

20.11.10 - Swan United under 16's and 18's trials for 2011

Swan United Football Club will be having trials for their Under 18’s State League and Under 16’s.
Quality 15’s welcome to trial….
Venue: Altone Park Beechboro access off Danube Avenue (Western Car park)
Time: 6.00pm -7.30pm
Dates: Tuesday 7th December/ Thursday 9th December/ Tuesday 14th December
Usual Shin guards/ boots/ water etc……. Please be punctual….
Contact John O’Reilly 0426 252542 or Damien Scali 0411 120710 or Jake Bungert 0431 567853

13.11.10 Swan United Junior Registration Dates for 2011 Season

Swan United are pleased to announce the following dates for Registration for the 2011 season and invite all former and new players to come down and Register

Sunday 5th December 2010
Sunday 16th January 2011 
Sunday 6th February 2011

9am til 12 noon at 
Swan Italian Club
Francis Street
Midland

Cheque / Cash / EFTPOS payments are accepted

Swan United also requires the services of a Coach for our Under 12 Blue team
Please contact the club on 0412 948 292 for further information.

28.10.10 - Under 18’s Players Required for State League 

Trials will be held 
Monday 1st November and 
Wednesday 3rd November 

Quality U16 players capable of playing are welcome to attend. 

Trials commence at 6pm to approx 7.30pm 
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to register 
Midland Oval, Morrison Road, Midland 
Please be there at 5.30pm to register your interest 

Don’t forget WATER and SUNSCREEN 
For further information 

Sonia 0419 931 732 
Jenny 0412 948 292

01.10.10 - O’Reilly ready for new challenge at Francis Street

Swan United has appointed John O’Reilly as senior coach for 2011. The 32-year-old takes over from Jamie Goodman, and he can’t wait for the season to begin. “I’m really looking forward to the challenge of next season, it won’t be an easy task, but with the right mentality amongst the players, and the guidance of a dedicated coaching team, we will strive to get the best results in the first division,” O’Reilly said.

With United being relegated to the first division a number of the first team players will probably move on and O’Reilly will look to strengthen the squad. “Of course players will leave; some players would have left even if we had stayed up. It’s always disappointing to see players move on, but it also opens up a lot of opportunities for the loyal players that have committed to working towards getting the club back where it wants to be,” O’Reilly said.

“New players will come in, but they need to fit a certain mould. I want players with strong work ethics, determination and an expectancy to fight for their rewards. I am currently in talks with several players, one of which is an ex A-league player. I believe Swan will attract a lot of attention once the dust from last season has settled and player’s start to take the decision of where they want to be next season more seriously.”

O’Reilly led the United 23’s to runners-up spot in the league last season, which was a great achievement. “The boys really stepped up to the challenge at the start of the campaign. I would have thought mid table finish, but once the training got into full flow, I could see the boys were responding well to the sessions and the mentality of the team grew stronger. Once we got some wins on the board the confidence really started to show, and the style of play I wanted became in bedded in each of the players. We became a strong attacking team that kept possession well and were tough to beat at the back, all in all a good combination,” O’Reilly explained.

The new Coach believes a number of his 23’s can stand up and play in the first team next season. “There is no reason for any of my reserve team players not to be able to step up, as long as they are willing to apply themselves in training, work harder and be accepting that they need to work their way into the team and the play with consistency to retain their spot,” O’Reilly said.
“The game against NTC on the last day of the season highlighted this. The opposition were possibly a better team technically, but our team were able to follow a game plan that frustrated and prevented the opposition from playing, and that is what we have been good at all year. This attribute will be essential going into the new season.”

O’Reilly’s playing days was in between the sticks and he went on to represent his County in the UK. “As a player, my success stories came from playing Goalkeeper. I was number one for Kent County for a number of years, which would be the equivalent to state representative level. I was lucky enough to represent against some of Europe’s best young sides, but the pinnacle being a tough game against a South Africa International XI,” O’Reilly explained.

“At club level I played semi pro at Gillingham FC and Faversham Town. Then I moved to Ireland, where I played for a Leinster League team Called CIE Ranch FC, highlight being winners of the Leinster Cup during my second season with the club.”
“But my fondest memories lay with a local club in the UK, Fulston Zebras FC, there I played for 10 years, captaining for seven. Every time I go back to England I arrange a reunion game with the past players, the scores get higher each year but the tempo is getting considerably lower.”

O’Reilly’s Coaching also began in Ireland. “My coaching career started young as I took some serious injuries to the ankles. I studied and passed my UEFA B badges in Ireland, over 5 years, under the guidance of the FAI (Football Association of Ireland). I worked for an established club called Castle Knock Celtic for four years. During that time I worked with a junior team, winning local league honours on two occasions and cup glory in my last year. I also worked with the senior set up, as a Goalkeeper coach,” O’Reilly said.

Since arriving in Perth O’Reilly has worked with Morley Windmills amateurs for two seasons and another two years at Ashfield Division one state team, before joining Swan last season. He is also part of the junior development at the Middle Swan club, and has worked closely with the junior coaches to improve the clubs playing stocks. “I’m pushing to put a programme in place for the junior teams. I believe every coach needs a manual to assist them in the development of our young players. But also to set up a forum to allow coaches to give feedback on their season, seek solutions to various situations they may be encountering in the role and general assistance,” O’Reilly said.

“We want our coaches to feel like they are contributing to the junior player’s development and not just "helping out". The volunteers are very important to the running of the club.”

McNally takes out Swans fairest and best

It’s been a disappointing end to the season for Swan United, with the club being relegated from the APB Premier League, but at Friday night’s club presentation night there was some good news for talented central defender David McNally, who walked away with the clubs fairest and best award, ahead of Irish midfielder Darragh Kinnevey.

“It’s a great honour to win the award, as I thought my start to the season was a bit shaky, especially in the night series. I was struggling with my fitness and was finding it hard to find get into form. This probably showed in the night series with our defence conceding a number of goals,” McNally said.

“I think I was lucky that when the league started I was finally reaching match fitness and started to find some form. I have been lucky with injuries this year and managed to play every game which helped me to stay fit and allowed me to keep working on my game. Most of all, I really enjoyed my football this year because of the good bunch of blokes I was playing alongside, which had a positive impact on my game.”

McNally, who re-joined the black and whites after a short stint at Sorrento, was devastated with the clubs relegation, especially with them only needing to win the last game to survive. “It was a tough season, from start to finish, for everyone involved in the club. I don't think it was ever going to be Swan's year with the amount of bad luck that came our way. In the end, if we had scored one more goal we would have stayed up, but that’s football,” McNally explained.

“I think the main reasons for us getting relegated were the amount of draws we had as well as our poor form at home. If we had managed to win one or two of those draws, and improve on our home form I think we would have been pushing for a finals spot. Relegation is a hard pill to swallow but I'm confident that the club will bounce back and be playing premier league football in no time.”

The big defender is being courted by a number of Premier League club for next season, but at the moment he is enjoying a few weeks rest. “I haven't made a definite decision about what I'm going to do next year. I love Swan but I really want to keep challenging myself and working on my game, and I believe the only way I can do this is to continue playing in the premier league,” McNally said.

“On the other hand, it would also be a challenge to help Swan gain promotion next year. There is still a while till next season so I'm not going to rush into a decision straight away. I'll just have to see what happens.”

With relegation comes the inevitable coach change, but McNally believes former Coach Jamie Goodman was good for the club. “I think Jamie did a great job as coach but it just wasn't Swan's year. Copper was fully committed to the team and club and I believe did all he could to try and help us avoid relegation,” McNally said.

“The boys would always work hard for Cop and never gave less than 100%.  It’s easy to blame the coach when a team is playing poorly but I honestly believe with the amount of bad luck we had this year, no coach could have saved us from relegation. It will be sad to see Copper leave the club and I wish him all the best.”  

Goodman was delighted for the big defender who he rates as the best young defender in the state. “Dave has had an excellent year, and has formed a formidable partnership with Rob Monterosso. Dave has had some big jobs on some very good strikers and most of the year has come out on top. He is player that goes quietly about his business and makes very few mistakes. I have enjoyed watching him play and he has added a bit more aggression to his game this year. He is in my opinion the best young defender in the state,” Goodman said.

Full List of Winners
First team Fairest and Best - David McNally, Runner–up Darragh Kinnevey, Top Goal Scorer Liam Boland
Under 23’s Fairest and Best Michael Tronchin, Runner-up Christian Lopez, Top Goal Scorer Christian Lopez
Under 18’s Fairest and Best Daniel DeGaspers, Runner-up Brandon Scandrett, Top Goal Scorer Hassain Abdi

Club notices

Swan United Junior Trial dates
Monday October 25th –      11s, 12s, 13s
Tuesday October 26th -       14s, 15s, 16s
Wednesday October 27th - 11s, 12s, 13s
Thursday October 28th -      14s, 15s, 16s
Monday November 1st -      14s, 15s, 16s
Tuesday November 2nd -    11s, 12s, 13s
Wednesday November 3rd - 14s, 15s, 16s
Thursday November 4th -    11s, 12s, 13s
State League Under 18’s
Tuesday October 26th and Thursday October 28th

All trials commence at 6pm to approx. 7.30pm
Please be there at 5.30pm to register your interest
Don’t forget WATER and sunscreen
For further information
Damian Scali 0411 120710
Sonia Tuxworth 0419 931732
Jenny Hill 0412 948 292

State League Coaches Wanted 

Swan United Soccer Club are seeking expressions of interest for several Coaching positions within their State League teams for Football West State League Division One 2011 season 

Please forward resumes to: 
John O'Reilly 
Swan United FC
PO BOX 1488
MIDLAND WA 6096

Applications close on Friday 8th October, 2010.
With interviews commencing on the 11th October to the 15th October.

12.09.10 - United youngsters push Champions all the way

Swan United under 13’s Division One side fought all the way before going down 6-3 to League Champions Mandurah City in the top four Semi-finals on Sunday.

The youngsters fought all game, and came from behind three times before a late surge from Mandurah City won them the game. Coach Chris Comley should be proud of his side and the worthy winner of the man of the match was keeper Daniel D’Angelo who was outstanding. Well done team!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Swan United 23’s a point away from runners-up spot

Swan United under 23’s will need a point when they take on the Football West NTC squad on Wednesday evening at Ashfield Reserve, to finish runners up in the league. It’s been a great season for Coach John O’Reilly and he’s enjoyed his first season at Francis Street. “On a personnel level I was very pleased, as it was the first year I had worked with a Premier League club, so the step up in the standard of the players was great to work with,” O’Reilly said.
“As far as the team themselves, well they surpassed all expectations I had for them from the start of the year. Our goals were achieved and the players really stepped up to the challenges that were put before them.”

A spot behind League Champions Perth SC is a great reward for Coach and players, and a 5-1 thrashing of Perth at Francis Street, showed the league they were a good side, but some indifferent form mid-way through the season probably cost them the title. “At reserves level there are a lot of variables that you can’t control, such as players moving up to first team, injuries suspensions, so the player group you work with varies during the year,” O’Reilly explained.

“We had it tough for a few weeks, during the season and we dropped points that we shouldn’t have, but we had a strong core group of players that also picked up points when were not at our best. We had a very strong line up the day we beat Perth 5 -1, and with a steady line up for the whole season, you never now we could have taken out the title, but that reserve football."

Relegation of the first team is a huge disappointment for everyone involved, but O’Reilly believes if the club can hold on to most of their players, a quick return is on the cards. “Of course, relegation will always be disappointing, but it is how the club respond that will be the important issue. Going down can create a movement in players but it can also open a lot of opportunities to other players, within and from outside the club. Yes the situation is negative, but what is done is done and now we have got to move on in a positive manner for the sake of the clubs future,” O’Reilly said.

“There will be plenty of opportunities for reserves to play first team, so too with a few of the 18's being able to step up. But also, I believe there are several first team players that will stay and be the nucleus of a strong challenging team next season.”

The former Ashfield reserve Coach, O’Reilly, has been really proud of his team this season and believes they have come on leaps and bounds this season. “All my players have impressed me this year, for different reasons. It would not be fair to point out one more than another as all players have had their part in our success this year,” O’Reilly explained.

“The defence has been solid, with us having one of the best defensive records in the league this year. The midfield has been strong, with a great work rate and hard tackling has been a key, and going forward we have had 24 different players get on the scoresheet this year which is a fantastic achievement.”

The 32-year old has enjoyed his first season at the club and would like to continue next season. “I hope to be at the club next season, along with the majority of the team currently here, coaching and getting the best out of the lads for the challenges ahead.”