23.05.09 - United edged out by Knights

Western Knights 2 Swan United 1

Western Knights good form continued with a 2-1 win against Swan United at Nash Field on Saturday afternoon, in round seven of the Football West Premier League.

First half goals from Okwy Diamondstar and Mario Marcinko gave the Knights a two goal lead at the break, and although Damian Scali pulled one back for the visitors late, the Knights held on to the points, to keep the pressure on the top two on the table.

The home side were unchanged from the side that beat Canning City 4-2 last week, while the Swans made one change to the side that beat Sorrento, with Paul Dugdale replacing Costas Socratous, to make his league debut.

It was a windy day at Nash Field at kick off, and the home side had it at their backs in the first half, but it was the visitors who opened brightly. Midfielder David Perich (left) won possession in the middle of the park on two minutes, and his searching ball found new import Paul Dugdale at the back post, but he delayed his shot and the chance was lost.

Then Dugdale turned provider on 10 minutes, his free kick found skipper Aaron Cole whose volley was saved at full stretch by Frazer Siddall.

The Knights settled and began to take control of the game, and after a good run and pass from David Micevski on 16 minutes, he found Cormac Dawson on the left. He beat Robert Monterosso and his cross flashed across the box, but no Knights player could get a boot to the ball.

They had better luck on 26 minutes when they took the lead. Swans defender David McNally handled the ball on the edge of the box, David Micevski’s free kick went straight through the wall, and although Cory Hugo produced a stunning save, Diamondstar was quickest to react to fire home the rebound from close-range.

Buoyed by the goal the Knights went in search of a second and David Micevski found his brother Daniel on the right on the half hour, his powerful shot was pushed away by Hugo. It was one-way- traffic and it was no surprise when the Knights added to their lead on 35 minutes.

Perich brought down Anthony Campbell on the edge of the box, in an identical position to the opening goal. David Micevski’s free kick was straight into the wall, but it deflected straight to Marcinko, and with the Swans looking for an offside flag that never came, the striker fired home past Hugo from close-range, which would have impressed the watching Perth Glory youth coach Gareth Naven

It could have been three on the stroke of half time, David Micevski’s in-swinging corner was dropped by Hugo, but the alert Brendan Craig cleared off the line.

The visitors needed a lift after the break and in the first minutes they went close to reducing the deficit. Dugdale’s pinpoint cross from the left found Brendan Knox, whose header beat Siddall but crashed of the bar, and Perich’s follow up shot, went wide.

Knights pressed forward and Dawson’s long ball found Marcinko on the hour, but Hugo was out quick to save at the striker’s feet. The home side thought they had their third on 65 minutes, Dawson crossed from the left and found Daniel Micevski at the back post, and the midfielder fired home. But the Knights celebrations were cut short, with assistant referee David Currie’s flag raised for offside.

Moments later the Swans had a strong penalty appeal turned down by referee Kevin Taylor, when a cross from the left, looked to have hit the hand of Knights defender Stuart Ferguson.

There were chances at both ends as the game opened up. First on 72 minutes, Knox’s in-swinging corner was tipped over by Siddall, and two minutes later Perich was caught in possession by Sebastian Trim, and his long-range shot went inches past the post.

The Knights were looking comfortable with David Annall and Ferguson outstanding at the back, and they went close on 85 minutes. Second half substitute David Pepper’s shot was well saved by Hugo, and moments later Daniel Micevski’s shot from 10-yards flashed just wide.

Then on 90 minutes the Swans had a lifeline, Monterosso’s cross from the right found Scali (right) who angled a header into the bottom corner of the net to set up a frenetic finale.

It was a nervous end for the Knights as the Swans pressed, and in stoppage-time it was Monterosso again, whose cross caused problems in the Knights defence and Siddall had to punch clear. The home fans and Coach Paul Price were asking for the final whistle, but in the fouth minute of stoppage-time the Swans were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box. Dugdale’s chip into the box was cleared by Annall and that was that, the Knights held on for the three points.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was disappointed with the way his side conceded both goals from free kicks. “Both of the goals were disappointing from our perspective. One went through the wall and we didn’t learn from that and we didn’t clear our lines for the second.

“I thought we played well in the second half and deserved a point at least. It’s always difficult to come down here and pick up a win as the club have found out over the years,” Lincoln said.

Western Knights - GK Frazer SIDDAL, 2 Barry DEVLIN, 3 Stuart FERGUSON, 4 Okwy DIAMONDSTAR (13 David PEPPER 71’), 5 David ANNALL, 6 Cormac DAWSON, 7 Daniel MICEVSKI, 9 Mario MARCINKO (14 Duaane HEPBURN 81’), 10 David MICEVSKI, 11 Anthony CAMPBELL, 12 Sebastian TRIM - Subs not used - RGK Jacob CHUDY, 15Karl O’REILY, 16 Michael DE SOUZA

Swan United - GK Cory HUGO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Brendan KNOX, 7 John MANSARAY (3 Dom ANDO 87’), 8 David PERICH, 9 Shane WEBB (10 Thomas SHEPHEARD 55’), 13 David MCNALLY, 14 Brendan CRAIG, 16 Paul DUGDALE, 19 Aaron COLE, 20 Damian SCALI - Subs not used - RGK Chris RAMSAY, 2 Jake DA RE, 6 Costas SOCRATOUS

Referee - Kevin Taylor - Assistants - David Costelo and Tas Pareskoues - Attendance - 150 (Approx)

17.05.09 - Swans leave it late to beat Sorrento (reporter Michael Knox)

Swan United 2 (Knox 41', Scali 94' Sorrento 1 (Kilkelly 55')

Swans veteran striker Damian Scali scored a 94 th minutes winner as United beat last season’s Champions, Sorrento, 2-1 in round six of the Football West Premier League on Saturday afternoon.

Paul Lincoln’s side were coming off an impressive 3-0 away win last week at Mandurah and were buoyed by the return of midfielder David Perich, who has been playing in college soccer in America. Stephen Guest was the unfortunate player to make way, the former Floreat Athena defensive midfielder has put in some good performances this season and was on target last week at Mandurah, but it shows Swans are gaining good depth in their squad.

Sorrento had a surprise 2-4 loss at Canning City last week, and made two changes to their starting line up. In came experienced defender Danny Cain and Daniel Darras, for Reece Vittiglia and Cameron Yorke. Before kick off there was a minute silence for the sad passing of Sorrento defender Shaun Kilkenny’s grandmother.

Sorrento set out with big Steve McDonald and Todd Harnwell up front, and they started the game well, and created some decent chances. First Todd Harnwell, then Glen Thomas saw Cory Hugo save long-range efforts, while Michael Ord was unlucky to see a header fly just over the bar.

Both midfields were struggled to take control, but Sorrento went close on 10 minutes, when Brendan Craig fouled just outside the box, but Stuart Bank’s free kick was straight into the wall.

The 15th minute mark saw Swans come to life. First Brendan Knox had his shot from the edge of the box blocked and then a Brendan Craig cross narrowly evaded the unmarked Scali in the box.

In the 20th minute, the home side had their best chance, when Robert Monterosso played a one two with Scali and his shot from 20-yards just sailed wide.

Sorrento began to dominate and put the Swans defence under great pressure which resulted in five corners in quick succession, but the Swans defended well with former Sorrento defender David McNally and Aaron Cole outstanding

Then just on half time Swans got their passing game going, and they hit the front. Cory Hugo played the ball out to McNally, who found the livewire Perich out on the flank. The midfielder combined with Scali to send Monterosso overlapping, his cut back from the bye-line found the oncoming Knox (left) who fired past Neil Young to give the Swans the lead at the break.

Sorrento were nearly back on level terms within minutes of the restart, Banks’ corner nearly found Ord unmarked at the back post, but the cross was just too high for the Sorrento midfielder to reach.

Six minutes later, another Banks corner led to the equaliser for the visitors. This time, centre back Kilkelly rose highest to power a header past Hugo.

Sorrento could, and perhaps should have been ahead just two minutes later when Harnwell's lofted pass put Daniel Darras through on goal. Unfortunately, the midfielder made a mess of his first touch and this allowed Hugo to save at his feet.

The game started to open up and become an end-to-end affair with both sides pushing for a winner. Harnwell forced a sharp one-handed save from Hugo after he latched onto a good ball from Lewis Flatt. At the other end of the pitch, a superb through ball from John Mansaray sent Perich clear, but he wasted a good one-on-one chance when his delicate chip flew straight in the hands of a grateful Young.

United finished the game the stronger of the two sides and late in the game Stephen Guest replaced a tiring Perich, and he was soon involved in the action. His snap shot was superbly saved by Young, but from the resulting corner there was nothing the Sorrento keeper could do as United scored the winner. Knox’s in-swinging corner evaded Young and Scali (right) rose at the far post to seal a famous victory.

SWAN UNITED: GK Cory HUGO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Brendan KNOX, 6 Costas SOCRATOUS (10 Thomas SHEPHEARD 56'), 7 John MANSARAY, 8 David PERICH (11 Stephen GUEST 90+2'), 9 Shane WEBB, 12 Brendan CRAIG, 13 David MCNALLY, 19 Aaron COLE, 20 Damian SCALI - SUBS NOT USED: RGK Chris RAMSEY, 3 Dom ANDO, 7 Niall HUGHES

SORRENTO: GK Neil YOUNG, 3.Stuart BANKS, 4 Shaun KILKELLY, 5 Michael ORD, 9 Todd HARNWELL, 11 Lewis FLATT, 12 Paul CUNNINGHAM, 13 Steve MCDONALD, 14 Daniel DARRAS (25 Joe STOKER 67'), 18 Glen THOMAS, 28 Cameron YORKE - SUBS NOT USED: RGK Michael LAWSON, 19 Sam DOYLE, 23 Dejan GUROVSKI, 24 Ross LAING

Referee - Jeremy Oliphant

09.05.09 - Swans turn the form guide on its head

Mandurah City 0 Swan United 3

Swan United recorded their first win in the 2009 Football West Premier League with a 3-0 victory against Mandurah City at the Hyundai Stadium. The visitors were propping up the league before kick off with Mandurah sitting in second spot, but an own goal from former Perth Glory defender Ryan Townsend and Steven Guest’s header in the first half and a late strike from Thomas Shepheard gave them a stunning victory.

Man of the Match John Mansaray was delighted with the victory. “It’s a great win for the club, everyone worked hard and we deserved the points. It’s nice to get back, I’ve missed training for a few weeks with injury but I feel fine now and I hope we can continue with our improvement and climb the table,” he said.

Mandurah coach Stuart Currie made two changes to the side that beat Canning City last time out, Chris Currie replaced the injured Jason Godfrey and Darren Broxton came in for Stephen Payne. Swans coach Paul Lincoln made four changes to the side that drew 2-2 with Armadale last week. In came new signing David McNally, John Mansaray, Shane Webb and Costas Socratous. They replaced Trent Wood, David Paone, while Dom Ando and Thomas Shepheard were dropped to the bench.

It was great day for football in front of a good crowd and it was the visitors who opened brightly and on four minutes Brendan Knox’s corner from the left was headed back across goal by Damian Scali and Socratous fired wide from eight-yards.

Mandurah settled and had two good chances. First on 12 minutes a long ball from Jason Bonser sent Craig Young clear, but Cory Hugo was out quickly and bravely smothered his shot. Moments later a long throw from Bonser was flicked on by Townsend, which caused panic in the Swans defence but McNally cleared the danger.

Then on 17 minutes the Swans opened the scoring. Again it was Knox’s well flighted corner from the left that caused problems in the Mandurah penalty area and the unfortunate Townsend headed into his own net, giving Phil Straker no chance. The goal lifted the visitors and with Mansaray and Socratous dominating the midfield they took the game to the hosts and began to dominate.

Brendan Craig’s free kick found Guest on 26 minutes, his header was well saved by Straker and the Swans forced three successive corners. Their pressure paid off and it was 2-0 on 28 minutes, Knox’s pinpoint cross from the left was met by Guest who headed home, despite Chris Currie’s valiant attempt to clear it off the line.

The crowd at the Hyundai Stadium were stunned and the home side needed a lift before the break, and Perth Glory youth midfielder Hayden Doyle almost delivered on 35 minutes. His cross from the right was headed goalwards by Andy Brown but Hugo was alert and punched clear.

It could have been worse for the home side, Chris Currie’s poor clearance fell straight to Scali who fired wide from long-range and Straker saved well from Knox’s shot from the edge of the box.

Mandurah had the opportunity to reduce the margin late in the half, Doyle’s corner was headed just wide by Bonser at the back post, but it was 2-0 to the Swans at the break.

With Coach Stuart Currie’s half time talk still ringing in their ears, Mandurah opened the second half the better. Michael Currie’s corner on 50 minutes was met by his brother Chris but his header went inches over the bar.

Moments later a great through ball from Doyle sent Phil O’Callaghan clear but a superb covering tackle from Mansaray cleared the danger. The Swans backline were under extreme pressure and O’Callaghan tried his luck again on 55 minutes, but his shot was off target.

Then the home side had a strong penalty appeal turned down by referee Stephen Gregory when O’Callaghan fell in the box from a Mansaray challenge. It got worse for Mandurah when on 59 minutes their inspirational skipper Brown was given a second yellow card and was sent off.

Swans youngster Shane Webb was causing Mandurah problems down the right, his cross on 69 minutes found Scali, whose shot was saved by Straker.

Hugo then came to the Swans rescue, he punched clear a Doyle corner on 74 minutes and Bonser’s follow up header was caught under the bar by the Swans custodian. O’Callaghan was working tirelessly for the home side and after a great run and cross; it was only inches away from Christian Paschkewitz in the penalty area.

The Swans made it 3-0 and wrapped up all three points on 86 minutes. Again it was great work on the right by Webb; he crossed to Shepheard who fired home past Straker from close-range.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln was delighted with his side’s performance. “I’m really pleased for the boys today. We’ve been working on a few things at training and they paid dividends today.

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

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

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

Teams

Mandurah City: GK Phil STRAKER, 2 Ryan TOWNSEND, 5 Jason BONSER, 6 Darren BROXTON, 8 Andrew BROWN, 10 Phil O'CALLAGHAN, 11 Chris WYLIE (13 Tom MALTON 60’), 14 Craig YOUNG (9 Christian PASCHKEWITZ 54'), 19 Hayden DOYLE, 28 Chris CURRIE, 99 Michael CURRIE (18 Rafael INSURRALDE 72’) - SUBS NOT USED: RGK Mitchell HENDERSON-MILLER, 12 Jake LORETO

Yellow cards- Michael Currie 34’, Brown 53’, Brown 59’, Bonser 75’ - Red card - Brown (two yellows)

Swan United - GK Cory HUGO, 2 David MCNALLY, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Brendan KNOX, 6 Costas SOCRATOUS (10 James BONGIOVANNI 64’), 7 John MANSARAY, 8 Aaron COLE, 9 Shane WEBB, 11 Stephen GUEST (12Thomas SHEPHEARD 56’), 14 Brendan CRAIG, 15 Damian SCALI (13 Dom ANDO 73’) - Subs not used - RGK Chris RAMSEY, 16 Andy ALVAREZ

Yellow cards - Craig 32’, Mansaray 53’

Att: 250 (Approx)

Referee - Stephen Gregory - Assistants - Ton Klaver and P. Chapman

02.05.09 - Swans conceded a late goal to share the spoils with Armadale (Click here to see match highlights)

A goal in the 91 st minute by Armadale striker Kevin Bissett earnt Brad Hassell’s side a 2-2 draw against Swan United in Saturday’s Football West clash at Francis Street.

The home side were leading 2-1 with two penalties from striker Damian Scali, while Dom Ando had scored an own goal for Armadale, before Ben Kelly’s superb ball sent Bissett clear to equalise. “The lads worked really hard today, and the result could have gone either way. I had to battle all day but I managed to find the equaliser late and we’re happy to get a point out off it today,” Bissett said.

The home side made two changes to their starting 11 that lost to Perth SC in round three, keeper Cory Hugo (left) returned from long term injury to replace Chris Ramsey, while Trent Wood replaced the injured Costas Socratous in midfield.

The Reds made four changes to the side that drew at Canning City, former Perth Glory midfielder Gary Faria returned from injury to replace Andy Pomfret, Bissett came in for the suspended Mo Atak, Peter Lord replaced the injured Nao Oshi, and Peter Taylor replaced Shannon Dally, who dropped to the bench.

It was a vital game for both sides, and the game began very slowly, with both sides not giving an inch. The first opportunity came on six minutes; Scali found Stephen Guest on the left, his dangerous cross was cleared well by Reds skipper Andrew Bowyer.

Both sides were struggling to create any meaningful chances with both defences on top, but on 15 minutes the Reds had their first opportunity. Marlon Ramirez’s ball sent Taylor clear, but Hugo was out quick to clear the danger.

The Swans custodian then went from villain to hero 60 seconds later. His poor clearance went straight to Ramirez 20-yards from goal, his shot was heading for the top corner before Hugo produced a stunning save to deny him and Ando cleared the rebound.

It was the visitors who were pressing and Faria curled a free kick from the edge of the box, which flashed inches over the bar

United, who had a number of their junior teams in attendance to launch their new Harvey Fresh league season on Sunday, were struggling to make inroads, but they did have something to cheer on 25 minutes. Hugo’s clearance was flicked on by Scali and Brendan Knox’s first time shot was just wide, with Reds keeper Cyril Sharrock scrambling to cover the shot.

It wasn’t a game for the purists but both sides were battling for every ball, and on 32 minutes it was the home side that broke the deadlock. Ando’s free kick from the right found Thomas Shepheard in the penalty area, he fell after a push from Bowyer and referee Troy Miller pointed straight to the penalty spot. Scali (right) stepped up and sent Sharrock the wrong way to give Swans the lead.

The goal lifted the Swans and they went close to a second four minutes later. Brendan Craig combined with Knox to find Scali 20-yards from goal; his low shot went wide of the post.

As the half ended it was Armadale who began to get on top, Faria’s ball on 42 minutes sent Taylor clear but Hugo was out quick to save. Then in first half stoppage-time, Taylor was again sent clear and as the Reds youngster prepared to shot Craig produced a great saving tackle to deny him.

Armadale made a change at the break with Shannon Dally replacing Taylor, and the New Zealand defender was soon in the action as they equalised on 49 minutes. His cross from the right caused panic in the Swans defence and the unfortunate Ando headed into his own goal to level.

The tempo of the game had lifted, and the Swans went close on 55 minutes. Cole’s free kick deflected off the wall and fell to Wood, his first time shot was well blocked by James Hesketh.

It was the visitors that began to get on top and striker Bissett had three chances in as many minutes. First on 58 minutes a quick break from Perth Glory Youth defender Ryan Pearson caught the Swans napping, he found the striker who fired inches past the post.

Moments later it was Ramirez who broke through the middle of the park, and his inch perfect through ball sent Bissett clear, but Hugo was out quickly to save at the striker’s feet.

The best chance for the Reds fell on the hour, Gary Bunting’s cross from the right found the unmarked Bissett at the back post but he headed wide.

With the game up for grabs both sides went close, Faria’s cross again found Bissett who headed wide for the Reds, while at the other end a good run and shot from Guest curled inches past the post for the Swans.

Moments later Guest was in again but a strong tackle from Bowyer cleared the danger, the Swans midfielder was left injured and was replaced by John Mansaray.

It looked like a 1-1 draw was on the cards but on 80 minutes the Swans were awarded another penalty when Knox’s run was halted by Hesketh, and referee Miller had no hesitation in pointing to the spot and booking Hesketh for the challenge. It looked a harsh decision, but it was the Reds defenders second yellow and he was sent off, and Scali dispatched the spot kick to give the Swans the lead.

Although down to ten men it was the Reds who pressed and they rewarded in the 91 st minute, Kelly’s long ball sent Bissett clear and he held off Cole and fired low past Hugo, much to the delight of the Reds travelling supporters.

The action didn’t end there, five minutes into injury time Scali’s run and pass found Knox four-yards from goal, and his shot was superbly blocked by Liam Harvey, and from the resulting corner Cole headed over.

There was still time for the Reds to win it, and they had a strong penalty claim turned down by Miller after Swans substitute Conor Mahady was caught in possession and Bissett fell under his challenge. The referee was well placed and turned down their protests, and the game ended 2-2.

Reds Coach Brad Hassell was disappointed not to have taken all three points. “Yes we’re disappointed not to have won today. Our season hasn’t started to gel yet, which is probably more disappointing. We’ve a number of players still underdone and once we get them all fit we will start to get the results our football warrants,” Hassel said.

For Swans Coach Paul Lincoln it’s another disappointing result. “We can’t take a trick at the moment. I’ve just told the boy’s with five minutes to go and your leading with an extra man you hold on to the ball in their half. We didn’t and they levelled, it was a little inexperienced form from one of our younger players, which he will learn from,” Lincoln said.

Teams - Swan United - GK Cory HUGO, 2 Trent WOOD, 3 Dom ANDO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO (8 Conor MAHADY 89), 5 Brendan KNOX, 7 David PAONE (9 Shane WEBB 61), 10 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 11 Stephen GUEST (6 John MANSARAY 78), 14 Brendan CRAIG, 19 Aaron COLE, 21 Damian SCALI - Subs not used - RGK Chris RAMSEY, 12 Andy ALVAREZ

Yellow Cards - Monterosso 20,

Armadale - GK Cyril SHARROCK, 4 Ryan PEARSON, 6 Marlon RAMIREZ, 8 Peter LORD (14 Ben KELLY 82), 11 Gary FARIA, 12 James HESKETH, 13 Liam HARVEY, 15 Andrew BOWYER, 17 Gary BUNTING (9 Jason GOODWIN 69), 18 Kevin BISSETT, 19 Peter TAYLOR (2 Shannon DALLY 46) - Subs not used - RGK Alex PREECE

Yellow Cards - Hesketh 54, 80 - Red Card - Hesketh 80

Att: 250 (Approx)

Referee - Troy Miller - Assistants - Ton Klaver and Josh Manella

18.04.09 - Howarth hat-trick gives Perth the points

A hat trick from midfielder Todd Howarth saw Perth SC beat Swan United 4-1 at Francis Street, in Saturday’s Football West Premier League clash.

Another good crowd was on hand at Francis Street and it was an even start to proceedings. The first chance falling to the home side on four minutes, Brendan Knox bursting through from a Costas Socratous pass but Simon Madaschi was out quick to save at his feet.

Perth settled and went close four minutes later, David Onoforo was sent clear by Antonio Naglieri but David Paone was alert and his well timed tackle cleared the danger.

The visitors were having plenty of possession but lacked the final ball in the final third of the pitch, but on 15 minutes they had a great chance to take the lead. Again it was Naglieri who was the provider, he found the overlapping Phil Arnold on the right, whose shot from eight-yards flashed inches over the bar.

Swans defence were working overtime as Perth continued to dominate, Onoforo fired wide on 18 minutes and moments later Todd Howarth’s long-range shot was deflected wide by Aaron Cole.

Despite being on the back foot the home side hit on a counter attack on 21 minutes, Damian Scali’s shot on the turn flashed wide and two minutes later the Swans striker had a better chance. Brendan Craig’s pace took him clear of Marco Pelosi on the right, he cut inside and picked out the unmarked Scali at the back post, but he delayed his shot and the chance was lost.

That miss came back to haunt the Swans as 60 seconds later Perth were ahead. Howarth’s corner from the left was only cleared by the Swans to the edge of the box and Pelosi low shot deflected off Robert Monterosso and went into the far corner of the net with Chris Ramsey well beaten.

Perth continued to threaten, Greg Sharland curled a long-range shot just wide, and on the half hour Naglieri found Arnold whose 20-yard shot went wide.

The home side were still in the game and on 32 minutes went close to equalising. John Monterosso’s pace took him clear on the right and he found Knox on the edge of the box, the midfielders shot was well saved by Madaschi.

It was the Swans best period of the match and five minutes later they got their reward. It was Craig again down the right; the 19-year-old beat Pelosi and crossed to Socratous whose first time shot beat Madaschi but hit the base of the post, but Scali (left) was on hand to score from close-range.

They say you’re always vulnerable when you’ve scored and that was the case as Perth hit back 60 seconds later. Naglieri’s corner from the left was headed home at the near post by Howarth, to give Perth the lead at the break.

Again Perth began the second half well and Howarth found Arnold, whose shot flashed just wide, but the Swans went close on 51 minutes. Stephen Guest’s corner from the left found the unmarked Cole at the back post, his header beat Madaschi but Pelosi cleared the ball off the line.

The game was still in the balance, but Perth began to turn the screw and after a great run by Sharland down the right on 58 minutes his goalbound shot was deflected wide by Dom Ando, and from the resulting corner Onoforo’s headed was saved by Ramsey.

Their pressure finally paid off on 69 minutes, Arnold picked out Howarth at the back post, and he fired home giving Ramsey no chance.

Perth continued to pass the ball around and press forward, they had a penalty claim turned down by referee Michael Tolme, who had an excellent game, when Onoforo fell under a Cole tackle on 74 minutes and moments later Ramsey was out quick to save at Onoforo’s feet.

It wasn’t all one way as the Swans, with Craig outstanding on the right, went close five minutes later. The youngster won possession in a 50/50 tackle with Trent Kay, and crossed from the bye line but John Monterosso’s volley was just wide of the target.

As the game entered the last ten minutes Perth upped the tempo, Arnold’s shot on 82 minutes was saved low by Ramsey and Cole was alert to clear the rebound. Then on 90 minutes Onoforo shot was blocked by Ramsey and when the ball fell again to the Perth striker Ramsey recovered to save his follow up.

There was still time for Perth to add a fourth in stoppage-time. Cole brought down Arnold in the box and referee Tolme pointed to the spot. The regular Perth penalty taker Sharland passed the ball to Howarth who dually converted to complete his hat trick and make it 4-1 at full time.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln said: “It’s the same old story isn’t it? We played well today but couldn’t put the ball in the net. I thought the midfield played well, but at times when we needed to get the ball out wide, we went through the corridor and turned the ball over which was disappointing.

“If Aaron Cole’s header had gone in after 50 minutes, it would have been 2-2 and it could have been a different result but we’re not getting the breaks at the moment,” Lincoln added.

Swan United - GK Chris RAMSEY, 3 Dom ANDO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Brendan KNOX, 6 Costas SOCRATOUS 7 David PAONE (9 Shane WEBB 76’), 10 John MONTEROSSO (16 John MANSARAY 78’), 11 Stephen GUEST, 14 Brendan CRAIG, 19 Aaron COLE, 21 Damian SCALI - Subs not used - RGK Alex SUTTON, 17 Trent WOOD, 9 Ben LEES

Yellow Cards - Ando 45’,Cole 66’

Perth SC - GK Simon MADASCHI, 2 Trent KAY, 3 Gianfranco CIRCATI, 5 Michael BLACK (18 Dom de FELICE 70’), 6 Todd HOWARTH, 7 Matthew DANSKIN, 9 David ONOFORO (17 Genaveo HUMAN 88’), 10 Greg SHARLAND, 11 Phil ARNOLD, 15 Antonio NAGLIERI, 16 Marco PELOSI - Subs not used - RGK Luke MARTINO, 13 Nicolas TATASCIORE, 14 Gary GREENHILL,

Yellow Cards - Macura 70, M.Mirco 81’

Attendance - 200 (approx)

Referee Michael Tolmie - Assistants - David Costello and Leon Markich

11.04.09 - Finishing let’s the Swans down

Canning City came away from Francis Street with a 2-1 victory, their first ever in the top flight, against Swan United in a hard fought clash in round two of the Football West Premier League on Saturday.

Canning hit the front early through Simon Versaico, before Damian Scali equalised for the Swan from the penalty spot before half time. Floy Duffy’s goal after 70 minutes won the game for City.

The home side made two changes to their starting line Jake De Re was replaced by Brendan Craig while Matt Xerri replaced the suspended Aaron Cole. Canning also made two changes Admir Mehic and Charles Partridge replacing Duaane Hepburn and Luke Doyle, who dropped to the bench.

In front of a healthy crowd it was the visitors who opened the brighter and were ahead on three minutes. A great through ball from Paul Oliver sent Versaico clear and his first time shot flew into the top corner, giving Chris Ramsey in the Swans goal no chance.

It could have been 2-0 two minutes later, former Swans defender Rory Mouttet sent Daniel Trevisiol clear but his shot was blocked by Robert Monterosso.

The home side settled and after good work on the left by Stephen Guest on 10 minutes, his cross into the box was only inches away from the unmarked Thomas Shepheard at the back post, and long-range shot’s from Dom Ando and David Paone saw the Swans begin to lift

Canning continued to dominate the game and after a good run and pass from Roberto Lujan five minutes later, Charles Partridge fired wide from close-range. Then on the half hour the Swans backline didn’t clear their lines and Michael Roger’s shot flew inches over the crossbar.

With half time looming the Swans were back in the game when Guest’s cross in to the box hit the arm of Mouttet and referee Dave Scragg had no hesitation to point to the spot. Swans skipper Scali (left) stepped up and sent Devon Spence the wrong way to level the scores on 40 minutes.

The Swans ended the half on top and Scali’s through ball found Xerri down the left moments later. His shot from the angle whistled past the far post, although two Swans players were waiting in the box unmarked.

It was Xerri again on 44 minutes; a great cross from Costas Socratous found the unmarked striker, who blazed well wide. Then in first half stoppage-time Xerri was the provider, cutting in from the left and finding Shepheard, whose shot was well blocked by Duncan Hind.

After the break Canning thought they had re-taken the lead on 57 minutes, Luke Duffy flicked on to Daniel Trevisiol at the back post, and he fired past Ramsey, but the referee’s assistant had his flag raised for offside.

The visiting supporters didn’t have long to wait as Canning hit the front again on 70 minutes. Second half substitute Duaane Hepburn’s header was cleared off the line by Ando, but it only rebounded to Duffy, whose header beat Ramsey, bounced off the near post, hit the far post and as Ramsey scrambled to recover the ball the referee’s assistant Michal Jasinski flagged the ball had crossed the line.

It was getting warm on the pitch and on 83 minutes it warmed up off the pitch too. Ando’s cross from the right was met by Scali at the back post. His header was superbly saved by Spence, although it looked like the ball had crossed the line but the referee waved away the Swans players protests and when the ball went out on the right things got out of hand.

After the drama it was the Swans who dominated. Ando found Trent Wood on the edge of the box, his goalbound shot was deflected wide, and from the resulting corner Shane Webb headed inches over.

On 87 minutes Canning were reduced to ten men when Trevisiol was given a second yellow card, and the home side continued to press. It was Webb again on 89 minutes firing wide and Paone’s long-range shot was wide.

Canning almost put the game out of the reach of the home side on 92 minutes, Mouttet’s long ball sent Hepburn clear, and his low shot was well saved by Ramsey.

It was all hands on deck for Canning as the Swans pressed for the equaliser, and from Ando’s cross from the right on 94 minutes, Shepheard flicked on and Knox should have scored but delayed his shot and the chance was lost.

The crowd were on the edge of their seats and with the Canning supporters whistling for full time, but in the 97th minute the Swans had their final chance. Ando’s corner from the right was met by Swans skipper Scali, but his header went inches past the post, and referee Scragg brought the end of proceedings with Canning running out 2-1 winners.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was left to rue another disappointing result. “We gave a soft goal away early and that hurt us. We got back into the game and created enough chances to win it. I don’t think we deserved to lose, a point would have been a fair result but at the end of the day we didn’t,” Lincoln said.

Swan United - GK Chris RAMSEY, 3 Dom ANDO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Brendan KNOX, 6 Costas SOCRATOUS (9 Shane WEBB 59’), 7 David PAONE, 12 Thomas SHEPHEARD, 11 Stephen GUEST, 14 Brendan CRAIG, 13 Matthew XERRI (3 Trent WOOD 63’), 21 Damian SCALI - Subs not used - RGK Alex SUTTON, 15 Matthew CATALANO,16 Dara McNally

Yellow Cards - Craig 66’,

Canning City - GK Devon SPENCE, 4 Paul VAN DONGEN, 5 Duncan HIND, 7 Daniel TREVISIOL, 9 Simon VERSAICO, 10 Paul OLIVER (8 Kyle MITSOPOULOS 68’), 11 Craig PARTRIDGE (16 Floy DUFFY 55’), 13 Admir MEHIC, 14 Rory MOUTTET, 15 Roberto LUJAN, 18 Michael ROGER (17 Duaane HEPBURN 65’) - Subs not used - RGK Liam MCCLOSKEY, 2 Luke DOYLE

Yellow Cards - Oliver 15’, Lujan 36’, Partridge 45’ - Red Cards- Trevisiol 87’

Att - 300 (approx)

Referee - Dave Scragg - Assistants - Joe Fusari and Michal Jasinski

05.04.09 - A bad day at the office for United in League opener

A second half blitz from Cockburn City saw them overrun Swan United 6-0 at Dalmatinac Park on Saturday, in round one of the Football West Premier League. Mirko Jelico’s side scored five goals in 36 minutes to blow away the Swans and take them to the top of the table.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln made one change from last week’s starting line up with Thomas Shepheard returning in place of Shane Webb, who dropped to the bench.

It was a beautiful day for football and the home side made a perfect start and were ahead on five minutes. A cross from the right from Renato Jelen found Adam Surjan eight-yards out, his first shot was blocked and as the Swans defence appealed for handball, Surjan picked his spot and fired home off the far post.

With the early goal the Cockerels pressed forward looking for more, Paul Natale headed just over from a Johnny Mirco corner on 12 minutes, and two minutes later, league debutant Cameron Edwards, played in Aaron dos Santos, but Aaron Cole was alert to clear the danger with a well timed tackle.

Swans began to get into the game and should have levelled on 19 minutes, a ball over top of the Cockburn defence from Dom Ando found the unmarked Shepheard, but with only the keeper to beat he wasted his header and the chance was lost.

The visitors were gradually getting on top and Stephen Guest cut inside from the left on 24 minutes and pulled the ball back to Damian Scali, who blazed over from 10-yards.

Cockburn still looked dangerous on the break and Devon Gibson’s ball sent dos Santos clear three minutes later, but Chris Ramsey (left) was out bravely to save at his feet.

It was the Swans best period of the game and it was Guest again who was involved in most of their foray’s forward. On the half hour Guest beat the offside trap and closed in on goal, his low shot was well saved by Dejan Aleksic, and the keeper recovered to save the rebound under pressure from Shepheard.

As the half ended it was the home side that had the best chances, Jelen again broke down the right and sent dos Santos clear, but the striker blazed well over, and moments later dos Santos’ shot from the edge of the box was well saved by Ramsey.

An early goal in the second half was what the visitors needed and they almost had it. Brendan Knox’s free kick on 50 minutes found the unmarked Scali who headed inches wide from five-yards.

That miss came back to haunt the Swans and sixty seconds later it was 2-0 to the home side. A great run by Edwards caught the Swans napping and looking for the offside. The flag never came and he crossed to Jelen who fired home at the back post. It should have been three moments later, Edwards precise through ball sent Johnny Mirco clear but the usually reliable striker fired wide.

Cockburn supporters didn’t have long to wait for the third goal, and it came on 57 minutes. A great move started by Michael Mirco in the middle of the park, found his brother Johnny on the left. His inch perfect ball sent Edwards clear and the Australian youth international finished clinically past Ramsey.

To the visitors credit they continued to press and Guest (right) volleyed wide on the hour, Cole’s header was blocked on the line and Knox’s free kick was saved low by Aleksic. But their lack of finishing was punished on 73 minutes when Cockburn made it 4-0. It was poor defending from Swans that allowed Johnny Mirco to waltz through and fire low past Ramsey from eight-yards.

Swans new signing Brendan Craig then tested Aleksic on 76 minutes, who saved low. Then 60 seconds later the former Perth Glory Youth keeper then made a terrific double save to deny the Swans. First he tipped over a James Bongiovanni long-range shot, and from he resulting corner he superbly saved a David Paone curling shot from the edge of the box.

It went from bad to worse for the Swans when skipper Cole was red carded by referee Ton Klaver on 79 minutes, and the home side made the extra man count. First Ramsey saved superbly to deny dos Santos on 81 minutes, but there was nothing he could do three minutes later when Johnny Mirco crossed to dos Santos who fired home powerfully at the back post to make it 5-0.

The scoring was completed on 87 minutes; a good run from Natale down the left, his pass found second half substitute Jamie de Abreu who finished low past Ramsey.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln was left to lament on his side’s worst performance for a long time. “I was very disappointed with our second half performance. Defensively we were poor, but we should have scored a couple in the first half and then it’s a different game,” Lincoln said.

Cockburn City - GK Dejan ALEKSIC, 14 Adam SURJAN, 5 Devon GIBSON, 27 Paul NATALE, 20 Dusan MACURA, 6 Anthony PERIERA, 17 Michael MIRCO, 15 Cameron EDWARDS, 11 Johnny MIRCO, 10 Renato JELEN, 7 Aaron DOS SANTOS - Subs not used - RGK Jason O’BRYNE, 2 Ryan EDWARDS, 4 Ryan PRETORIOUS, 9 Josh FINDLATER, 12 Jamie DE ABREU - Yellow Cards - Macura 70, M.Mirco 81’

Swan United - GK Chris RAMSEY, 3 Dom ANDO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Brendan KNOX, 6 Costas SOCRATOUS (Brendan CRAIG 58’), 7 David PAONE, 12 Thomas SHEPHEARD (13 James BONGIOVANNI 58’), 11 Stephen GUEST, 15 Jake DA RE, 19 Aaron COLE, 21 Damian SCALI - Subs not used - RGK Alex SUTTON, 9 Shane WEBB - Yellow Cards - Guest 26’, De Ra 28’, Scali 45’, Socratous 47’, Paone 80’ - Red Card - Cole 79’

Referee - Ton Klaver - Assistants - Mark Williams and Steve Knight

28.03.09 - Foster's brace sends United out of the cup

A brace from Floreat Athena striker David Foster saw Michael Roki’s side come from behind to beat Swan United 4-1 in Saturday’s Soccer Pools Cup tie at the E&D Litis Stadium.

The visitors had taken the lead with a stunning strike from midfielder David Paone, but Branimir Mikulic equalised and further goals from David Foster 2 and an own goal from Costas Socratous in the final eight minutes gave Floreat the victory.

Floreat made two changes to the side that were beaten 1-0 by Perth SC in the Night Series final with keeper Vas Vujacic replacing Simon Madaschi, while Ante Kovacevic replaced the suspended Dean Apelgren. The Swans had two former Floreat players in their starting eleven, Socratous and Stephen Guest while youngster’s Jake Da Re and Shane Webb came into the starting eleven.

It was an even opening in front of a small crowd and early chances were few and far between but it was the visitors who had the first opportunity on 13 minutes. A mistake from Floreat defender Simon Elton-Bott let Guest in down the left; his dangerous cross was cleared behind. From the resulting corner Damian Scali’s (left) shot beat Vas Vujacic, but Kovacevic cleared the ball off the line.

The big defender had Floreat’s first opportunity on 22 minutes, but his long-range free kick was straight at Chris Ramsey, who saved easily.

With the game opening up both sides went close, first Scali’s speculative snap shot from 25-yards on 32 minutes, had Vas Vujacic scrambling across his goal, but it drifted inches past the post.

Then two minutes later Kovacevic’s ball found Mikulic in the box, he turned Aaron Cole and his fierce shot crashed off the crossbar and was cleared by Dom Ando.

Vas Vujacic then came to Floreat’s rescue on 36 minutes; Socratous found Webb down the right and the youngsters cross found Scali, whose first time shot was well saved by the Floreat custodian.

It was the home side that ended the half the better, first after a goal mouth scramble on 40 minutes; Foster’s shot from eight-yards was saved low by Ramsey. The former Swans striker was the provider just before half time, playing a one-two with Kovacevic, but as the defender stormed into the box Robert Monterosso’s superbly timed tackle cleared the danger.

It was a perfect start to the second half for the Swans and they were ahead one minute in. Monterosso’s long throw was cleared to Paone 25-yards out. The midfielder brought the ball under control and drilled a superb shot past Vas Vujacic and into the top corner of the net.

Floreat were struggling to break down a stubborn Swans side, which were breaking on the counter-attack. A quick throw from keeper Ramsey found Scali, who sent Webb clear down the right. The youngster’s through ball found Brendan Knox who was clear, but his shot from the edge of the box was well over the top.

The home side hit back, but they needed a little bit of luck to level on 58 minutes. A cross from the left by Jarred Smith, caused problems and Ramsey came for the ball but seemed to lose it in the sun and the ball bounced up and Mikulic made no mistake with a close-range header.

It was just what Floreat needed and they began to dominate, former Swans midfielder Miki Vujacic’s long-range free kick was saved low by Ramsey. The Swans were defending desperately and John Migas’ shot from the edge of the box was deflected wide by Cole on 68 minutes, and moments later the Floreat captain skipped past three Swans but Cole again was across to clear the danger.

Against the run of play the Swans almost regained the lead. A mistake from keeper Vas Vujacic on 74 minutes, his clearance went straight to Scali 25-yards out. With the keeper stranded on the edge of his box, the veteran striker, with the goal at his mercy, lobbed the ball well wide of the target.

Floreat continued to dominate and after good work on the right by Miki Vujacic, his cross was only inches away from Brad Scott in the box. The Swans then blocked shots from Jason Barerra, Foster and Mikulic as the pressure began to mount on the overworked Swans defence.

That pressure finally paid for Floreat and they were ahead on 82 minutes. Miki Vujacic’s curling free kick on the right was headed into his own net by the unfortunate Costas Socratous.

It was 3-1 two minutes later, a long clearance from Migas sent Foster clear, and the striker held of Da Re and finished clinically past Ramsey.

The icing was put on the cake in stoppage-time, Miki Vujacic’s cross found Foster who fired low past Ramsey from eight-yards to make it 4-1.

Floreat Coach Michael Roki was happy with the win. “Look all credit to Paul Lincoln and Swan in the first half they came out and stifled us big time. We couldn’t find a way through, and they had a couple of good chances too and we were a little fortunate they didn’t convert them, but thankfully it all changed after half time,” Roki said.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln said: “I was proud of the boys today, we came here with a game plan and they stuck to it well. We scored a great goal and we were cruising, but an error from the keeper has handed them a lifeline and they went on to punish us”.

Floreat Athena - GK Vas VUJACIC, 2 Simon ELTON-BOTT, 5 Jarred SMITH, 9 Daniel NEIDERBERGER, 10 Jason BARERRA, 12 Branimir MIKULIC, 13 John MIGAS (20 T. RODRIGUES 84), 15 Paul VATISTAS (6 Miki VUJACIC 46), 17 Ante KOVACEVIC, 18 Brad SCOTT, 19 David FOSTER - Subs not used - GK D. MARJANOVIC, 14 Soul CONTERA,

Yellow Cards - Scott 56,

Swan United - GK Chris RAMSEY, 3 Dom ANDO, 4 Robert MONTEROSSO, 5 Brendan KNOX, 6 Costas SOCRATOUS, 7 David PAONE (13 James BONGIOVANNI 84), 9 Shane WEBB, 11 Stephen GUEST, 15 Jake DA RE, 19 Aaron COLE, 21 Damian SCALI (10 Trent WOOD 87) - Subs not used - RGK Alex SUTTON, 2 Danyal BENNETT

Yellow Cards - Socratous 34, Paone 62, Monterosso 80

Referee - Michael Nugus - Assistants - Jim Healy and Tim Mihevic

28.02.09 - Cole gives Swans a point

A goal two minutes into second half stoppage-time from Swan United skipper Aaron Cole earned Paul Lincoln’s side a 2-2 draw against Western Knights in Friday’s early McInerney Ford night series clash at Dorrien Gardens.

The Knights, who had already qualified for the semi finals, selected a young side as Coach Paul Price looked at their fringe player and it looked like they had made it five straight victories in the tournament with goals from Adam Francis and Michael de Souza. In between the Knights goals Matthew Xerri converted a penalty, for his first goal for the black and whites, but Cole fired home the late equaliser to give the Swans their first point of the night series.

It was an even opening with neither side creating any clear cut chances, but the first fell to United on 10 minutes. A short corner from Andy O’Neill on the right was played back to him by Brendan Knox and the wingers shot, from the angle of the penalty area, was pushed over by Robert Pedri. Then from the resulting corner Cole headed wide.

The young Knights side awoke from their slumber with Captain Luka Jukic at the heart of most of their forward moves. On 13 minutes he was found on the right by de Souza, and his dangerous cross was headed wide by Mario Marcinko from six-yards.

Both sides had chances as the game opened up, first on 21 minutes Dom Ando’s (left) long-range free kick sailed just over the bar for United, while for the Knights, Jukic’s superb ball, seven minutes later, sent de Souza clear down the right, his cross shot was caught under his bar by United keeper Chris Ramsey.

United were having their best period of the game and on 33 minutes Shane Webb and Xerri combined on the right to find Damian Scali, his speculative long-range shot almost caught out Pedri, but the keeper recovered to save.

On 35 minutes and against the run of play the Knights went in front. A Jukic free kick wasn’t cleared by the Swans, and the ball fell to Adam Francis who fired home from the edge of the box, giving Ramsey no chance in the Swans goal.

The game began to get physical after the break and referee David Costelo had to show a number of yellow cards as the tackles flew in. The Swans, with Stephen Guest prominent, upped the tempo and the former Floreat Athena defender found Xerri on 55 minutes. The striker cut inside and his stinging shot from 18-yards was well saved by second half substitute keeper Frazer Siddall in the Knights goal.

Then two minutes later United were given a lifeline when Scali’s shot hit the arm of Nathan Grego in the penalty box and referee Costelo had no hesitation at pointing to the spot. Xerri sent Siddall the wrong way to level the scores.

The goal seemed to lift United and they went close again on 69 minutes, good work by young defender Webb on the right, his cross finding Guest at the back post who headed wide.

As United searched for the winner it was the Knights who hit on a counter attack and regained the lead on 73 minutes. David Price, who had come on minutes earlier, began the move, and although Ramsey made a great save to deny Lukic’s first shot, de Souza was on hand to bury the rebound from five-yards.

It was end-to-end as both sides pushed forward, Price again set up Marcinko who held off United Danyal Bennett, but could only fire wide from six-yards.

With time running out United pressed and on 85 minutes Ando’s free kick was flicked on by Cole and Trent Wood fired inches past the post. Moments later a long ball from Bennett sent John Monterosso clear; the striker outpaced the last defender but fired well over from the edge of the box.

It was a frantic end to the game with United, pushing men forward, and in the first minute of stoppage-time, Wood crossed to John Mansaray whose volley was saved by Siddall.

With time running out United had one more chance to grab an equaliser, Wood found Scali on the right his cross found Cole in the penalty area and the skipper made no mistake firing home from six-yards.

Swan United - GK Chris Ramsey, 2 Shane Webb, 4 Dom Ando, 6 Danyal Bennett, 7 Brendan Knox, 8 Stephen Guest, 9 Andy O’Neill (3 Trent Wood 62), 10 John Mansaray, 13 Matthew Xerri (5 John Monterosso 79), 19 Aaron Cole, 21 Damian Scali - Subs not used - RGK Alex Sutton, 12 Ben Lees, 16 Simon Williams,

Yellow Cards - Xerri 44, Mansaray 50, Wood 65

Western Knights - GK Robert Pedri (RGK Frazer Siddall 46), 2 Nathan Grego (12 David Price 64), 3 Daniel Francis, 4 Marco Warmt-Murray, 5 D. Pepper, 6 Luka Jukic, 7 Adam Francis, 8 George Tchami, 9 Mario Macinko, 10 Michael de Souza, 11 Sebastian Trim (14 D Cooke 84) - Subs not used - 13 Alen Galic, 15 M. Figueira

Yellow Cards - Jukic 50, Adam Francis 62

Referee - David Costelo - Assistants - Mathew Cheeseman and Dave Beacham

23.02.09 - United pay the penalty in night series defeat(by Tom Della Vedova)

ECU Joondalup have knocked over Swan United 2-0 in the Group A’s battle of the cellar dwellers at Dorrien Gardens this evening. The outcome was determined via the penalty spot with Joondalup converting their first half opportunity while Swan squandered theirs.

Joondalup, who went into the game minus star pair Tommy Amphlett and Ian McMurray, started the better with Kenny Weston testing Chris Ramsay from long-range, and Scott Bushby’s goal bound effort was pushed wide by the Swan custodian soon after. The resulting corner played in by Jon Higgins came off Brian McDonald’s head and struck Andy O’Neill on the arm, leading referee Michael Nugus to point straight to the spot from where Adam Pigrum blasted straight down the line to give Joondalup the lead.

Swans’ chances of getting back into the game were dealt a blow when influential midfielder Tom Shepheard (left) limped off with a leg injury after 20 minutes. It was to be the northerners who came closest to scoring close to the end of the half when Higgins raced on to Bushby’s flick and burst past Aaron Cole but his right-foot effort flew harmlessly over the bar.

Paul Lincoln’s decision to switch Brendan Knox from defence to midfield for the second half had the desired effect as Swan began to battle their way back into the contest. O’Neill’s cross provided John Mansaray a good chance but the midfielder headed just over the crossbar.

The black and white were presented a perfect chance to equalise after 75 minutes when generously awarded a penalty after Higgins was adjudged to have committed a foul on Matthew Xerri, however, substitute Damien Scali was only able to smash his spot kick against the frame of the goal.

Swan became increasingly desperate to notch what would have been only their second goal of the tournament but Scali was unable to hit the target from further chances. Mansaray came close to finding the elusive goal but his 87th minute effort lacked the angle required to beat goalkeeper Dafyd Jones.

Joondalup made sure of the win with a breakaway goal on the stroke of full-time, Martyn Ashworth setting up fellow substitute Craig Cheesman for a tap in as the tired Swan defence failed to track back. Weston and Scott Bushby were impressive in the centre of the pitch for Joondalup, while the endeavours of Cole, Knox and Mansaray were highlights for Swan.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln said: “The team was flat tonight and that may have been due to the week before, but it was a extremely disappointing first half. I made changes in the second half and we played a lot better, although we lack that killer punch in attack.”

“Damien Scali played his first 40 minutes of the season in the second half and was very good, Shane Webb started at right back and was impressive,” added Lincoln.

17.02.09 - Swans lose it late (By Tim Lefort)

Perth SC struggled to a 1-0 victory over Swan United at Dorrien Gardens to make it two wins on the trot, Craig Simpson's late header proving the difference against gallant opposition.

After dominating the first half, Graham Normanton's side lost their way in the second period and it looked like the visitors would hang on for their first point of the competition until Simpson powered home a corner with five minutes remaining.

After hammering ECU Joondalup in their last outing, Perth came out full of confidence and almost went ahead after just two minutes had elapsed.

Todd Howarth's superb through-ball sent Phil Arnold bearing down on goal. His effort was blocked but the ball dropped nicely for Robert Giorgi who forced Swans keeper Chris Ramsay (left) into a brilliant save.

Ramsay was in action again moments later, getting down smartly to hold onto Oliver Swords' dangerous low ball across the face of goal.

Breen had the visitors' first shot after a neat interchange with John Mansaray but his 25-yard effort didn't trouble Jason Saldaris in the Perth goal.

The hosts hit straight back and Simpson headed powerfully but straight at Ramsay from Greg Sharland's deep cross.

David Onoforo was only inches from meeting a low centre, then Simpson again couldn't get the direction right with a header.

It was one-way traffic and Onoforo twice went close in as many minutes. First he saw his long-range effort tipped behind by Ramsay, then, from the ensuing set-piece, he hooked a loose ball inches over the bar.

Andy O'Neill served notice to Perth that they were still a threat when he caught Simpson in possession but he wasted the opportunity, blazing his shot off target.

At the other end, Howarth volleyed just wide, before the visitors had their best chance of the opening 45 minutes.

Ross Monterosso's well-weighted ball down the line found Mansaray and from his teasing cross, Breen's volley on the stretch was only inches over the top.

With half-time beckoning, Arnold went even closer for the home side. Sharland did well to find his team-mate with a cutback but Arnold could only watch in frustration as his low effort from the edge of the box struck the inside of the upright and rolled across the face of goal.

Only a superb point-black block from Saldaris prevented Matthew Xerri from levelling immediately after the interval.

As the intensity increased, Jake Da Re was cautioned for a late challenge on Onoforo and from the resultant free-kick the Perth striker glanced narrowly over.

Xerri's chip was just too high, then Trent Wood badly miscued from six yards after a determined run and cross from Mansaray.

The visitors were enjoying a good spell but Xerri wasted a decent opening, blasting over from the edge of the box.

However, Swan had a let-off on the hour mark when an unmarked Sharland glanced a header wide from a corner.

Both sides made a change with 13 minutes remaining, Perth sending on Genaveo Human for Trent Kay, while Paul Lincoln sent on Ben Lees in place of the hardworking Simon Williams.

Perth had a lucky escape after 75 minutes when Saldaris didn't deal properly with Breen's cross but Xerri steered the loose ball just wide.

Then came the moment that settled the contest, Giorgi was brought down on the left edge of the box and when Sharland delivered a pinpoint ball to the far post, Simpson was on hand to power a header past Ramsay from close-range.

In a frantic late flurry, Aaron Cole headed straight at Saldaris, and Wood brought a fantastic save from the Perth keeper with an effort from 30 yards.

But the visitors couldn't find an equaliser and to add insult to injury, Da Re was shown a second yellow card in injury-time for another late challenge.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln said; “It was terrific team effort tonight, we defended well and created several chances to get something from the game.

Perth SC: J Saldaris, T Kay (G Human), G Circati, C Simpson, T Howarth, R Giorgi, M Black, G Sharland, P Arnold, O Swords, D Onoforo Subs not used: L Martins (rgk), N Rawes, S Wilson, J Brooks

Yellow cards: R Giorgi - Red cards: None

Swan United: C Ramsay, R Monterosso, A Cole, J Da Re, D Ando, S Williams (B Lees), A O'Neill, M Xerri, K Breen, J Mansaray, T Wood Subs not used: A Sutton (rgk), C Mahady, M Wood

Yellow cards: J Mansaray, R Monterosso - Red cards: J Da Re

Referee: Mathew Cheeseman

08.02.09 - Sorrento too strong for Swans

Swan United suffered their second loss in the McInerney Ford Night Series, going down 0-3 to last season’s Football West Premier League Champions Sorrento at the E&D Litis Stadium on Saturday evening.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln made two changes to the starting line up with new Scottish import Bryan McDonald and Brendan Knox coming into the side. Chris Marshall was rested and Christian Lopez dropped to the bench. Stuart Banks failed a fitness test for the Gulls, defender Shaun Kilkelly replaced him after serving his suspension, while former Swan David McNally was again on the bench.

Both sides were guilty of giving the ball early, but it was the Gulls who were first to press. Todd Harnwell flick in the box on seven minutes seemed to hit Paul Baczynski’s arm, but referee Paul Anderson wave away the players protests.

In their first attack on nine minutes the black and whites went close to the lead. A free kick from the right from Andy O’Neill (left) was perfected weighted into the penalty area and found Thomas Shepheard at the back post, but his volley flashed over the crossbar.

It was a quick tempo game with the Gulls next to threaten. A long clearance by defender Danny Cain on 13 minutes sent former Hamersley Rovers Irish striker Ciaran Hughes towards goal. He cut inside Baczynski and squared to Harnwell on the edge of the box, but his low shot failed to trouble Swans keeper Chris Ramsey.

Sorrento were having their best spell of the game and five minutes later Hughes and Leo Harman combined in the box, but Hughes was thwarted by the alert Ramsay.

On 21 minutes the Gulls went close again, this time the Swans failed to clear a corner and Harnwell’s snap shot went inches past the post.

Shepheard was impressing for the Swans, but he was crudely tackled by Sorrento defender Cain on 27 minutes, right in front of the Coaches dugouts. Referee Anderson was in quick to give the defender a yellow card and defuse the situation.

The Swans switched off for a moment after the challenge and Gulls made them pay a minute later, taking the lead. Glen Thomas superb ball sent Harnwell clear down the right channel, the striker crossed to Harman, and the former Stirling Lions midfielder fired low past Ramsey from six-yards.

It was almost 2-0 on 40 minutes, and it was that man Harman again. Thomas’ free kick wasn’t cleared and it fell to the midfielder. His first shot came back off the cross bar, and his follow up shot was cleared from the line by Trent Wood.

United pressed late and were almost rewarded with the equaliser, first Ben Lees long-range effort whistled over the bar and in stoppage time Matthew Xerri shot from the edge of the box was also off target.

At the break United were forced into a change with big defender Baczynski injuring a groin and he was replaced by Jake Da Re.

It was vital the Swans made a good start to the second half but unfortunately they conceded a second goal three minutes in. Steve Porter’s free kick from the right was flicked on at the near post by Harnwell and Harman was there to head home at the back post.

It was a bitter blow for the Swans, but they continued to press, and after a good run by Dom Ando on 50 minutes, which took him past two Gulls defenders, his shot was straight at Neil Young who saved well.

Then 60 seconds later they went even closer, Brendon Knox’s(right) shot from eight-yards cannoned off the post and to safety, to the relieve of Young.

As the game entered the final stages the Swans began to tire, and they were almost punished again on 62 minutes, Harman almost securing his hat-trick. His delicate lob over a stranded Ramsey hit the crossbar and way to safety.

Ramsey, playing against his former club, had to be alert on 76 minutes to deny Porter’s curling free kick, the Swans custodian saving well at the foot of the far post, but from the resulting corner Sorrento added a third. Thomas’ short corner found Porter who crossed to second half substitute Garin Collins who headed home from close-range.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln believes the side are steadily improving. “Sorrento is a very good side and it showed tonight. We battled hard, and it was unfortunate Bazza got injured and we had to take him off as a precaution.

“It was an attacking game and we had chances, and on another day we could have put a couple away, but it’s still early. I thought Bryan did well in his first game for the club, he’s still unfit and will improve, but he showed me tonight he could be a great pick up for the club this season,” said Lincoln.

In the next round United travel to Dorrien Gardens on Saturday night (14 th February) to take on Perth SC kick off 7.30pm, while Sorrento take on Stirling Lions on Friday, 13th February at the E&D Litis Stadium, Britannia, kick off is at 6.30pm.

Teams - Sorrento (4-3-3): GK N Young, D Platten, S McDonald, D Cain, Shaun Kilkelly, G Thomas, S Porter (J Morgan 73), B Martin, L Harman (27 G Collins 62), T Harnwell, C Hughes (L Flatt 69). Subs not used: RGK M Lawson, D McNally. Cautions: D Cain 27.

Swan United (4-4-2): GK C Ramsey, T Wood (M Taglieretti 81), P Bazcynski (J Da Re 46), A Cole, D Ando, B McDonald, B Knox, A O’Neill, T Shepheard, M Xerri, B Lees. Subs not used: RGK A Sutton, R Monterosso, C Lopez. Cautions: Nil.

Referee: Paul Anderson

01.02.09 - Swans go down in Night series opener

Swan United’s opening game in the McInerney Ford Series ended in a 1-4 defeat at the hands of Stirling Lions at Dorrien Gardens on Sunday evening.

In their first serious hit out of the season the Swans matched the Macedonian Park side for an hour but were unable to maintain their pressure and two late goals gave the Lions a comfortable victory.

It as the Swans who had the first opportunity of the night, skipper Aaron Cole’s header from an Andy O’Neill corner was straight at the Lions new custodian Dino Pacella.

The Lions then began to take control of the game and on 22 minutes a long-range shot from Scottish midfielder Alan Muir was well saved by Chris Ramsey, but the pressure finally told 10 minutes later when the Lions hit the front.

Matt Italiano was the architect of the goal, his great run down the left ended when he cut inside, Ben Lees and crossed to Jordan Rhodes, who finished clinically past Ramsey.

Despite going behind the Swans defended stoutly and almost equalised just before half time. A cross from young defender Ben Lees caused panic in the Lions defence and in the goalmouth scramble Thomas Shepheard’s shot was blocked on the line by Danny Stoitis.

The Swans needed a good start to the second half but a defensive mix up was pounced upon by Keith Clevenger, who lobbed the stranded Ramsey from outside the penalty area to put Stirling into a 2-0 lead.

With the game slipping away the Swan continued to battle away, with David Paone and Shepheard working hard in midfield, while new signing Matthew Xerri was good up front. Their enterprise was rewarded when they reduced the margin on the hour, a cross from the left by Xerri was superbly chested down by Shepheard (left), and in his first game for almost ten months, slid the ball past Pacella and off the far post from a tight angle.

Both sides pressed as the game opened up, ? and ? had chances for the Lions while Lopez fired wide when well placed for the Swans. Moments later United had a penalty claim turned down by referee Joe Fusari when Xerri had his shirt pulled blatently in the penalty area.

The Lions then capitalized on the tiring Swans in the 70 th minute to extend their lead. A great run and cross from the left by the impressive Rhodes found Lions new defender Stoitis who headed past Ramsey to give the Lions a 3-1 lead.

With the Swans chasing the game late the Lions added a fourth in the 88th minute when 15- year- old Tom Kennedy fired low past Ramsey from 10-yards.

Swans coach Paul Lincoln was happy with the effort the side put into the game. “The reflection on the scoreboard wasn’t a reflection of how we played; we created enough chances to get something from the game. Mistakes contributed to our loss and we did run out of legs toward the end, which I expected,” said Lincoln.

“Its early days in the season but there were some positives tonight for me. I thought in midfield David Paone and Thomas Shepheard were good, Aaron Cole and Paul Bazcynski played well at the back, while Matthew Xerri showed us he could be a great pick up this season,” added Lincoln.

Swan United - GK Chris Ramsay, Ben Lees, Paul Baczynski, Aaron Cole, Chris Marshall, Trent Wood (Simon Williams), David Paone, Thomas Shepheard, Andy O’Neill (Marco Taglieretti), Christian Lopez (Brendan Knox), Matthew Xerri - Subs not used - RGK Alex Sutton, Dom Ando

Lions squad - GK Dino Pacella, Michael Pugliese, Darko Ilomanoski, Daniel Stoitis, Tom Senior, Jordan Rhodes, Alan Muir, Matthew Italiano, Jason Mirco, Rory Feely, Keith Clevenger, Jake Geddes, Thomas Kennedy, Chris Harlond, Damien Houston.

Referee - Joe Fusari

United home in Friendly

Swan United began their pre-season with a 2-0 victory against First Division side Ashfield at Midland Oval on Tuesday evening. Two first half goals from new recruit Christian Lopez was enough for Paul Lincoln’s side to win the game.

In the starting line up Chris Ramsey returned to the club in goal, with youngster Ben Lees making his club debut while Thomas Shepheard, who missed all of last season due to injury, returned up front.

It was a great start for the black and whites and they were ahead on two minutes. Trent Wood and Lees combined down the right to send Lopez clear, the youngster cut inside the box and fired low past Matt Darling.

It was almost 2-0 on 15 minutes, Andy O’Neill’s mazy run ended in a low shot which Darling saved. Ashfield, who had new strikers John Greenwood and Sal Marrapodi in their starting line up went close on 21 minutes. Mike McGrath found Marrapodi wide on the right, his dangerous cross was cleared by the alert Lees.

The Swans doubled their lead three minutes later. Wood fed Lopez down the right, and the striker kept his nerve and held off the last defender before firing home from 10-yards.

Both sides had chances before the break, Marrapodi fired wide from the edge of the box and Greenwood’s free kick from 20-yards was tipped over the bar by Ramsay, for Ashfield. While for the Swans Lopez fired wide and Shepheard’s header from six-yards went wide.

Swans Coach Paul Lincoln made wholesale changes at the break, but it was Ashfield who went close on 46 minutes, Greenwood’s volley well saved by Ramsey.

Moments later Damien Scali played a perfect through ball into Shepheard; his shot was well saved by Darling. It was Scali again on the hour his pass sent O’Neill clear down the left, his cross was headed wide by Stephen Guest, who was also making his club debut.

The Swans were almost caught out by a long clearance from Darling on 65 minutes, Greenwood looked suspiciously offside but the flag never came, his shot from the edge of the box was superbly saved by Alex Sutton at full stretch.

A 2-0 win in a good work out for the Black and Whites and Coach Paul Lincoln was happy. “It was a good hit out for the boy’s, our first of the season. We’ve not kicked the balls this season we’re working on fitness, but overall tonight I was pleased, although there is a lot of work to do before the start of the season,” said Lincoln.

The coach was pleased with the two new faces in the starting line up and the return from injury of Thomas Shepheard. “Both the new lads did well tonight and they’re fitting in well. Ben is really fit and did a good job down the right tonight, while Christian showed great energy and scored two nice goals. It’s great to have Thomas back in the side, he will give a little bit of quality in the final third this season,” added Lincoln.

Teams - Swan United - GK Chris Ramsey (Alex Sutton 60), Ben Lees (Dom Ando 55), Paul Baczynski (Jake Da Re 58), Aaron Cole (Shane Webb (60), Chris Marshall (Stephen Guest 45), Trent Wood (Danyal Bennett (60), David Paone, Brendan Knox (Damian Scali 55), Christian Lopez (Geoff Mason 45), Thomas Shepheard, Andy O’Neill

Ashfield - GK Matt Darling, Ibnen Charming, Simon Barber, Gareth Williams, Sal Marrapodi, Jake Watson, Martin Kelly, Mike McGrath, Aaron Moschopolus, Mick Carolan, Jason van Roy, Ben Harris, John Greenwood