By Louise Taffa

The afternoon is clear as Kath Temple chats to Capital Football at Waramanga Oval. There are no goal posts, no players, no trophies out here, but when Temple begins to talk, it’s like her words are brought to life by the passion for the Beautiful Game. 

When Kath Temple won Capital Football’s Junior Coach of the Year Award in 2006, little did she know the ripple effect would propel her further into the football family.

“This is something I cherish for many reasons. Since receiving this award, I have tried to give back to the football family through coaching and administrating the sport (as I was Junior Chair of Weston Creek Soccer Club for 3 years and Kanga Cup Coordinator for 2 years prior to that).” Temple commented.

After spending a great deal of time as a teacher and years working in School age childcare, it meant Temple’s skills and experience were put to good use in football. Temple’s coaching philosophy was clear, “I decided that it was important to ‘give back’ by coaching juniors,” she said.  

Today, Kath Temple has coached twelve teams overall - three at Blue Light Soccer Club and nine at Weston Creek Soccer Club/Weston Molonglo FC. “Of these teams, only two teams were girls the rest were boys’ teams and the age range is from Under-10s to Under-16s. I’m grateful and haven’t looked back!” Temple said.

In 2016, Temple will be embarking on a new coaching journey with the Under-18 boy’s age group at Weston Molonglo FC.  Although winning the Junior Coach of The Year Award, Temple affirms that she didn’t win it because of the League title, rather her coaching philosophy. 

“We had a successful year and while the ladder doesn’t reflect this in the overall competition results, success is measured in many different ways,” she said. “Last season I coached the Weston-Molonglo FC U16 Division 1 boys/open squad and it was one of the most challenging but rewarding seasons I’ve had to date. I have tried to keep my coaching qualifications up to date so that I can give my players the best coaching experience I can and to develop them as whole footballers.”

When Temple’s son began playing for Weston Creek Soccer Club in kindergarten, she mentioned she was “quite content to be a parent on the sideline” however it was her 8-year-old son who asked her why she wasn’t his coach.

Kath Temple is a classic example of a parent who has the skills and experience to become a junior coach. “I was brought up with a strong sense of community and volunteering so it was a perfect match. My son stopped playing a few years ago but again, it was him who encouraged me to continue coaching and is still supportive.”

For Temple it’s about the players and celebrating achievements together with strong values of camaraderie, commitment and overall the sense of belonging to a community that is the football family. 

“I absolutely love this sport, as a player but more so as a coach. What I am able to give my players in terms of coaching is more than football skills, it’s role modelling and sharing my passion for the sport. My intention is to keep coaching and to keep the passion alive!”

Narrabundah SL4 is looking for a full time goal keeper to play with the squad. The team plays at the 1pm time slot on Saturday afternoons and trains on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6.30pm - 8pm. The home ground is located at Narrabundah oval situated Captain Cook Crescent and Sturt Avenue.

Narrabundah is a small boutique club which is big on camaraderie with a friendly atmosphere. The club has a number of men’s and women’s state leagues teams participating in the Capital Football competition.   

If you are interested or know of anyone please contact Joe Keary via email joe.keary@defence.gov.au or mobile 0432 239 426

ANU Football Club is seeking keepers for high divisions of Mens State League. Come and join the reigning State League champions!

Contact Tom Sharp at president@anufc.org.au. 

By Chris Webb

This year’s Capital League promises to be one of the highest quality ever in the new look eight team competition building on the success of last season when the finals series was full of excitement and surprise, with champions Monaro Panthers crashing out of the finals in straight sets, with a 3-1 loss to ANU FC followed by a 6-0 loss to White Eagles. Those two teams went on to meet in the decider, and it took penalties to separate them, with ANU FC vanquishing the disappointment of their 2-0 loss in the 2014 final to Weston-Molonglo FC, to lift the premier’s trophy. 

The league has a slightly new look this season with only eight teams. Champions Monaro Panthers are no more, with majority of their side returning to their former club and cross-town rivals, Queanbeyan City. The bottom placed side from the 2015 season, ADFA Vikings FC have dropped down to State League Division 1 with the champions of that league, Weston-Molonglo FC, making their return to Capital League. Last season the top four – Monaro Panthers, ANU FC, Tuggeranong United and White Eagles – were a clear step ahead of the rest from the very get go. This year Queanbeyan will be one of the clear favourites for the title, while ANU FC, Tuggeranong and White Eagles are once again pre-season favourites for finals football.  

ANU 
2015 finish: 2nd / Premiers
ANU FC have been crowned both Champions and Premiers in the last two seasons and this year, Branko Milenovic’s men will be hoping to go one better and claim the double. Last year they were clearly the most dangerous team going forward massing an impressive 48 goals, and this year they have only added to their attacking arsenal. While they still maintain last year’s super striking trio of golden boot winner Olaide Yinka-Kehinde, Jon Scott and Chase Deans (Golden Boot in 2013), they welcome back the league’s 2014 Golden Boot winner Danny Krajacic from the Gungahlin United PS4 NPL side. This will see Jon Scott drop into his stronger playmaking role in midfield where he will be joined by the returning Sam Carters, highly regarded as the league’s top player in 2014. The club have also acquired a number of other talented midfielders including a trio involved in PS4 NPL last year: Max Mottl from Canberra FC, Matt Rice from Tuggeranong United and Alex Ollmann from Gungahlin United. The majority of last season’s defence remains, however the loss of fullback Denny Noor is filled by the recruitment of impressive young fullback James Gazy from Tigers FC’s PS4 NPL squad and former Canberra City NPL player Euan Peterkin.  The loss of outstanding keeper Adam Robbens will be the hardest felt, however the hulking Sicilian, Nunzio Franco, seems like a more than adequate replacement. While pre-season matches are exactly that, the team has been in scintillating form; with a 3-1 victory over PS4 NPL first team Tuggeranong Unite , 9-1 and 8-2 demolitions of Capital League sides Weston-Molonglo FC and Tuggeranong United respectively and a nail bitting 5-4 loss to current PS4  NPL premiers Canberra Olympic the standouts. This team oozes quality and raw pace across the board and, on paper at least, is one of the strongest teams ever to feature in Canberra’s second tier and one of two clear favourites to claim the silverware on offer this term. Look out for them in the early rounds of the Westfield FFA Cup as they look to take a few top-flight scalps. 

Tuggeranong United FC
2015 finish: 3rd 
Tuggeranong United remarkably went from 10th in 2014 to 3rd in 2015, and incoming coach Nigel Tranter will be looking to further push for a top two finish this season. He has managed to keep the majority of last season’s impressive squad, and then further strengthened in some key areas. Tuggeranong possess a very talented attacking trio of their own with Andrew Sellers, Ciaran Rayment and Carl Hynes all possessing that valuable combination of pace, strength and skill. Just like ANU FC they have added to their attack, with no less than club legend Sean Murphy who is making the drop down from National Premier League, to the club's all age reserve side. Murphy is likely to slot into the number 10 role – #Murphadona – and will be joined in midfield by another club legend Tim Ireson, who captains the side. The experienced pair will be assisted in the engine room by the talented Mark Di Bitonto, Adam Brookes and Hamish Law. The defence is also full of youthful talent including Will Liston, Arden Law and Ashley Blount with the undoubted leader the imperial Harry Pettit, also stepping down from PS4 NPL duties. The team had a sluggish start to pre-season predominantly due to player unavailability, however a recent 3-0 hammering of Capital League standard bearers White Eagles will definitely give the players belief they can go all the way.

White Eagles FC
2015 finish: 4th / GF runner’s up.
White Eagles had a disappointing 4th place finish least term, however a resurgent finals campaign saw them agonisingly losing the decider on penalties. The mighty Eagles will be desperate to restore their former position as the unquestioned top side in Canberra outside of PS4 NPL, and with player/coach Eric Bonnett at the helm they have a seasoned campaigner. The team has had a number of departures, notably goal scoring midfielder Rory Devlin who has moved interstate while quality utility Bensah Afiabo returns to premier league football with Woden-Weston FC. Striker Pepe Varga makes the journey the other way, joining from WWFC NPL, and brings with him a goal scorers quality that the Eagles somewhat lacked in 2015. He will be partnered by classy Irish front man Eoin Devaney, who finished last season strongly including a hat-trick in the penultimate fixture. Former ACT junior Zac Smedley joins his bother Domenic adding similar qualities of strength and technique, while youngster Jasper O’Kearney looks like one for the future. The team’s old guard remains, Bonnett will marshal the midfield will Milan Santrac adds the creative flair. The ageless Thai Tran returns to the club from a successful last hurrah in Premier League with Tigers FC adding invaluable experience and a goal scoring presence from midfield, highlighted by a hat-trick in pre-season. Matt Grecl commands the defence, while Andrew Sellas will once again create havoc on the flanks. How the Eagle’s replacement for departing keeper Nick Owen performs, could well define the level of success the team enjoys this season.  While pre-season results haven’t been fantastic, the club is a traditional late starter in pre-season and puts little emphasis on friendly results. While this squad has a pedigree that few would dare bet against and a home fortress in Woden Park (aka The Eyrie) this league is filled with quality, and the mighty Eagles will have to be at their best to keep the chasers at bay. 

Narrabundah Bulls FC
2015 finish: 5th
Predicted by many last season to finish with the wooden spoon, Narrabundah’s aging squad surprised a number of pundits despite a lengthy injury list  by finishing just outside the finals and showing they are still a quality football side. The loss of dangerous winger Daniel Di-Salvatore to the temptation of the PS4 NPL at Woden-Weston will be hard felt, however the stalwarts of the team remain. Jovan Naumoski continues his position between the sticks with Captain Jose ‘Chewy’ Exposito once again marshalling the defence, while Gavin Van Zyl, Duncan Harrington and Adrian Russell run the midfield. Liam Boyle and the evergreen Kenny McDonald lead the frontline and classy Englishman and utility, Lewis Grimes provides quality where ever Coach Jonno Zalunardo needs. The Bulls have kept together majority of last season’s side while new recruit, fullback Justin Ngudu looks an exciting pick up and Maxime Baux adds another quality option in attack. This team has plenty of experience, with half of the current squad being members of the 2013 grand-final winning side, showing they know how to win. Pre-season results haven’t been overly encouraging with a 2-0 loss to newly promoted Weston-Molonglo FC and a 1-1 draw with State League 1 side UC Pumas not ideal. Read too much into these pre-season results to your peril though, as a similar squad finished just outside the top four last term this team knows they are in for a genuine shot of breaking into the finals positions. 

Queanbeyan City FC
2015 finish: 6th
While Queanbeyan was undoubtedly disappointed with last season’s placing, the return of their prodigal son, Vlatko Tomeski, to retake the helm means this will be a completely different side. After Tomeski left the club as coach three seasons ago, a year later so did most of his players, however his return has seen almost all of them following him back – most of whom are reining Capital League champions when playing for Monaro. Last year’s Queanbeyan side had some star power of their own with the likes of former youth Cosmos star’s Ned Aleksic and Danny Byrne, as well as Goran Milutinovic, Daniel Crkovski, Nik Noveski and Nick Levenat, who all remain. The amalgamation of these two strong squads sees the formation of Capital League’s version of a super squad, which will no doubt have flow on effects to their reserve side. The returning champions include the likes of Vele Dukovski, Zack Knight, Matt Ryan, Dragan Stegnjaic and Nathan Walker, who collectively add steel and an unrivalled goal scoring threat from midfield. Despite all this, the biggest coup however is the return of Tomeski’s younger brother Dean, from professional football in Macedonia, who is likely to take up an attacking position on the wing. Queanbeyan’s pre-season matches started all the way back in January with the Maso Cup in Wollongong, and similarly to ANU FC, Queanbeyan have been absolutely outstanding in pre-season, including defeating Tuggeranong PS4 NPL on two separate occasions, drawing with Woden-Weston PS4 NPL, a narrow loss to the star studded Tigers FC, as well as victory over Illawarra Premier league side Cringila Lions FC. Another team clearly of National Premier League standard, along with ANU FC are clear favourites and will also be looking to make waves in the cup. 

Canberra Olympic 
2015 finish: 7th
Canberra Olympic's all age reserves found Capital League a little tougher than expected in their first season last year, however a strengthened squad that now knows what to expect has their sights on collecting silverware. On top of the ability to call on their trophy winning first grade squad for reinforcements, this team has a talented base. Steven McLaughlin brings great ability between the posts, former ACT Rocket’s star Joel Valtonen brings class to the backline while former Canberra City PS4 NPL defender Jeremy Hegarty adds further experience. The midfield trio of former first graders; Chris Nikitas, John Stone and David McCarron bring a fantastic balance of strength and technique and will look to dominate opposing midfields. The Sgouris brothers; Nassis and Foti bring a blend of technique and fighting spirit that is equally valuable to the backline and the midfield. The combination of Richard Santiago, Nick and Dimitri Mihailakis and Matt Atkins is an experienced and simply potent frontline that is sure to bag a lot of goals. The team has premier league experience all over the park and have had some strong preseason displays. They competed well with classy NSW NPL20’s side Manly United (only losing the game late on to superior fitness) and recently drew 2-2 with White Eagles. The club had high expectations last term but fell well short. This year they know what to expect in Capital League and, having added genuine class to an already strong squad, anything but finals football will be completely unacceptable for this talented and experienced unit. 

O'Connor Knights 
2015 finish: 8th
O'Connor Knights had a disappointing season in 2015 only finishing higher than the departing ADFA team. They had the leakiest defence in the league conceding 43 goals in just 16 matches, something they will need to turn around if they are to find success this season. Finding the back of the net wasn’t easy either and the departure of their long time go-to front man Nato White is a huge loss that only compounds the issue. While goals were hard to come by last term, new head coach Michael Spaleta knows he has one of Canberra’s most potent strikers over the past decade at his disposal…himself. The former Canberra FC and ACT Rockets star still has the class to find the back of the net, but the player/coach role is a tough one and he will need adequate support. The central midfield looks strong with goal scoring midfielder George Benc and former ACT junior rep Hector Cerda-Cid  joined by another former rep player in Tal Evans from Gungahlin United PS4 NPL, and in pre-season they have been dominant over more fancied opponents. The addition of the versatile Robbie Strachan amazingly provides cover in the front line and between the goals, and may just end up being the team’s most valuable asset. While many may expect this team to again finish towards the foot of the table, this team will have a finals spot clearly in their sights, and pre-season results indicate high expectations are justified. Despite three losses, a 1-0 loss to high fliers Queanbeyan, and a 2-1 and 3-1 loss to PS4 NPL sides Tuggeranong United and Monaro FC, show this team is definitely in touching distance of NPL quality teams. 

Weston-Molonglo FC
2015 finish: Champions (State League Division 1)
Weston-Molonglo FC make the step up to Capital League after winning State League 1. After running away to a virtually unassailable lead after winning the opening twelve straight matches, the team stubbled over the finish-line to just take the title, before crashing out of the finals in straight sets. The step up from division 1 to the eight team Capital League is a big one, but a challenge the team is looking forward to. It will be made all the more difficult with the loss of a number of key players including long term captain Ben Greig to the club’s NPL arm, as well as Nick Kramer, Janis Tebecis and top goal scorer Tom Pagett. In their place Samale Mohamed returns to the club from Monaro Panthers, while rugged defender Dylan Alexandrow-Ridley also returns. Ben Coates brings some composure to the backline, while the combination of Peter Spiller and new comer Paul Quinn creates a competitive midfield. In Danny Babic, Russell Allen and Josh Pender the squad possesses a real threat in front of goal. The team is sweating on the fitness of midfielder Adam Johnston, one of the stars of the 2014 Grand Final, after suffering a potential season ending injury in pre-season. How the squad will handle the step up is unknown – pre-season results have been somewhat erratic, however the most recent results have been encouraging such as a narrow 3-1 loss to their Woden-Weston FC NPL side, and a 2-0 victory over Narrabundah. While these results are in stark contradiction to their 9-1 hammering by ANU FC, they show the side has been on an improving curve. With only two of the 2014 premiership winning team remaining, a repeat performance may be a bridge too far, however this team will be looking to do much more than just make up the numbers and will likely spring a surprise or two.

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 1
Saturday 2nd April 2016

White Eagles 4 (Pepe Varga (2), Milan Santrac, Bruno Colucciello) Tuggeranong United 1 (Ciaran Rayment)
(Woden Park)

By Jordan Selems

White Eagles turned around a 4-0 pre-season loss into a comfortable 4-1 victory against Tuggeranong United at Woden Park o the first day of the Capital Football Season. The visiting team, Tuggeranong United came out strong, with the best of the early ball and possession but White Eagles slowly worked their way back into the match before an errant back-pass from the Tuggeranong defence handed the Eagles a free kick. Milan Santrac needed no second invitation and slotted the ball nicely under the wall to put the home team into the lead.  Eagles then dominated possession and were rewarded after some nice build up play, when Bruno Colucciello found sufficient space to hit home the second for the red and blue. It wasn’t long until Tuggeranong pulled one back as striker Ciaran Rayment broke clear to coolly finish in the one-on-one with the Eagles ‘keeper to make it 2-1 heading into the half time break. The second half started just as the first half finished with the Eagles sitting in the driver’s seat. Not long into the second half they increased their lead when Pepe Varga scored a great goal, putting his team 3-1 ahead. As the second half continued, Tuggeranong had some good chances on the counter-attack but couldn’t put the finishing touches on their good play. As Tuggeranong pushed forward to try and get a result from the match, a mistake at the back led to Varga finding himself one on one with the keeper. A neat finish by the forward saw the score stretch out 4-1 to complete a perfect start for the perennial title favourites.

Queanbeyan City 5 (Nik Noveski (3), Dragan Stegnjaic, Daniel Crkovski) O’Connor Knights 1 (Robert Griffiths)
(Riverside Stadium)

By Chris Stennett

Queanbeyan City kicked off their Capital League season with a comprehensive 5-1 victory over O’Connor Knights at Riverside Stadium on Saturday afternoon. A hat-trick from midfielder Nik Noveski highlighted a strong Queanbeyan performance and a winning start for returning Coach Vlatko Tomeski. “I started coaching Queanbeyan in 2010, I was coaching them for four years, and then I had a two year break, and now I’m back again,” said Tomeski
Despite a strong start, Queanbeyan failed to capitalise on early chances and fell behind midway through the first half. A weak defensive clearance came straight back into Robert Griffiths, and after a fortunate touch to control the ball he coolly slotted past Dimoski in Queanbeyan’s goal. Queanbeyan continued to create chances and were finally rewarded when pacey forward Daniel Crkovski breezed past the O’Connor defence and finished with ease, making it 1-1 at the break. “Basically at half time I said we need to go back to basics. We’ve got players in this team that can change the game quite easily,” said Tomeski. Queanbeyan came out ready for the second half, scoring twice in the first few minutes to kill-off any O’Connor resistance. Queanbeyan then sent a message to all other teams, adding two more goals to complete the 5-1 drubbing, although the linesman’s flag and Keleva in the O’Connor goal prevented more damage. “The club’s happy, the players are very happy, as coach I’m very happy,” said Tomeski. “For a team to go down 1-0 … to come back and score five just shows the composure and fight we’ve got in this team.”

Canberra Olympic 1 (Richard Santiago (pen)) ANU FC 1 (Olaide Yinka-Kehinde)
(Kaleen Enclosed)

Pre-season competition favourites ANU FC were held to a 1-1 draw in their opening match of the season as Canberra Olympic more than held their own against the League Champions at Kaleen Enclosed. ANU FC scored through their equaliser from ace striker Olaide Yinka-Kehinde but the divisions Golden Boot winner in 2015 wasted a number of other presentable chances for the students. Richard Santiago had earlier struck for Olympic  from the penalty spot after being brought down himself as the hosts earned a valuable opening day point.

Narrabundah 1 (Shane Haiduk) Weston-Molonglo FC 1 (Danny Babic (pen))
(Narrabundah Oval)

A late penalty, struck by striker Danny Babic, earned Weston-Molonglo FC a point from an opening day 1-1 draw with Narrabundah at Narrabundah Oval. Babic converted from the spot with around ten minutes to play to cancel out the Bulls opener. Shane Haiduk netted the first of the season for the Bulls as his shot took a deflection to wrong foot the Weston-Molonglo FC goalkeeper. After Weston levelled, the hosts had a couple of late chances to claim all three points but couldn’t find the killer touch in front of goal. 

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
3 Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City)
2 Pepe VARGA (White Eagles)
1 Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Shane HAIDUK (Narrabundah), Robert GRIFFITHS (O’Connor Knights), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Dragan STEGNJAIC (Queanbeyan City), Ciaran RAYMENT (Tuggeranong United), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Milan SANTRAC (White Eagles)

By Chris Stennett

With competition for places so fierce, head coach of Queanbeyan City FC, Vlatko Tomeski will be hoping it gives his team a competitive edge in this season’s Capital League. And after a convincing 5-1 victory over O’Connor in the first match of the season on Saturday, it’s certainly proving that Tomeski is the right man for the job. Tomeski is a proven coach with a strong relationship with football, most of it developed with Queanbeyan City from a young age.

“I’ve got 40 players that are keen to play to play for the club. Eight players had to miss out today, I can only put 16 on each team (Capital League and reserves),” Tomeski said. “I grew up here as a junior, played here when I was 14 all the way to 17, went overseas (to Macedonia) for two years and played there. Played in the first division for two years, came back, sustained an injury in 2010 and went into coaching. I was coaching them (Queanbeyan City FC) for four years, and after four years I had a two year break. And now I’m back again.”

Queanbeyan City turns 50 this year and is one of the oldest clubs around the Canberra area. The club was founded in 1966 by Done Dimov, he and a few other local Macedonian’s set up the club out of their own pockets. Since then Queanbeyan have held onto this example and today everyone is a volunteer who loves the game and the club. While the Macedonian heritage is important for Tomeski, it certainly won’t dictate who he picks at any stage. “It doesn’t matter where the player’s from, where they’ve played, what background, what nationality they are. It’s all based on merit and that’s what I stick by.” 

Igor Illievski, the current Vice-President, has been around the club for 14 years. He is unpaid in his role but still does all he can for the club. “As the Vice-President, I help the club with anything they need. Running canteens, attending meetings, making sure the coaching staff have everything they need for the coming season,” Illievski said.

A strong part of Queanbeyan City is the community feel and camaraderie among the players, fans and staff, mostly due to the clubs Macedonia heritage. “It has a big influence at the club, they (Macedonian board members) want to stick to their heritage… that heritage will always come through at a club, it’s not something that likes to be forgotten,” Illievski commented. “Vlatko brings discipline, which is probably one thing that the club’s lacked for a while … he knows where the club’s been, he knows the clubs history and he knows where the club should be back again.”

The return of Tomeski has seen the return of some familiar players to Riverside Stadium. The likes of Vele Dukovski, Zack Knight, Matt Ryan, Dragan Stegnjaic and Nathan Walker all return to make a squad capable of a strong cup run and a title winning side, as their pre-season form suggests.

“During our pre-season we played two games against Tuggeranong, Premier League. We beat them twice. We played against Woden Premier League, we drew. Bit unlucky second half, it could’ve been our result,” Tomeski revealed. “We will be part of the FFA Cup and that’ll be where the test will be for our players. We just can’t wait to play FFA Cup.”

A disappointing 2015 has been forgotten as Vlatko Tomeski returns as head coach, and with him an influx of players. Hopes are high this year as they push for the title and a chance to be in the National Premier League in the coming years.

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 2
Saturday 9th April 2016

By Chris Webb

ANU FC v Narrabundah
The students are at their home for the first time this year and will be looking to put their disappointing start, albeit a draw, behind them. With pace to burn, ANU have the potential to run riot on the lightening paced synthetic surface, and this weekend Narrabundah stand in their way. Narrabundah will have disappointments of their own, after having the better of their opening match, only to concede a late equaliser. Both teams are coming off 1-1 draws, and will be looking to notch up a first victory. Incumbent Golden Boot Olaide Yinka-Kehinde is already off the mark, and will be looking to add to his tally – his biggest rival might yet come from fellow man in the blue and white stripes.  

Weston-Molonglo FC v Queanbeyan City
Weston-Molonglo snatched a draw in their return to Capital League, but their assignment just got a bit harder with the visit of Queanbeyan City. Queanbeyan have an embarrassment of attacking weapons at their disposal, yet it was industrious midfielder ‘Little Niky’ Noveski who bagged himself an unlikely opening round hat-trick. Queanbeyan will be confident in racking-up another handful of goals as they attempt to impose themselves as early season title favourites. It’s a baptism of fire for the Magpies, as their Capital League credentials will well and truly be put on show. Any kind of return from the match from Weston will put the rest of the league on notice, a tough task is an understatement, but when Daniel Blanco gets into the box oppositions beware.

O’Connor Knights v Tuggeranong United
The Knights will be licking their wounds after their encounter with a rampant Queanbeyan City. It was a game of two halves, as O’Connor took an early lead and went in the half on level terms. The second half however was one to forget as they shipped four goals, and can count themselves lucky it wasn’t more. Their opponents from Tuggeranong did not fare much better as they were put to the sword by the mighty White Eagles. They conceded four goals of their own and will be looking to get their season back on track with three points. Two teams who are looking to make amends for Round One, this one promises to be full of fireworks.  

White Eagles v Canberra Olympic
White Eagles showed just how much pre-season results mean with a dominant opening display against fellow title contenders Tuggeranong United. Pepe Varga showed he needed no time to hit the ground running in his new shirt, while Bruno Colucciello got the upper hand over his former team, adding his name to the score card. Canberra Olympic have staked themselves an early claim for a finals spot, holding reigning premiers ANU to a round one draw. The team’s defensive discipline and transition on the counter showed them to be a well drilled unit, who will cause any team trouble. White Eagles’ defender Marc O’Neill flirted with idea of playing with the Olympians in preseason before returning to the Southside adding a little extra spice to this already intriguing clash.  

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
3 Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City)
2 Pepe VARGA (White Eagles)
1 Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Shane HAIDUK (Narrabundah), Robert GRIFFITHS (O’Connor Knights), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Dragan STEGNJAIC (Queanbeyan City), Ciaran RAYMENT (Tuggeranong United), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Milan SANTRAC (White Eagles)

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 2
Saturday 9th April 2016

ANU FC 4 (Olaide Yinka-Kehinde (2), Danny Krajacic (2)) Narrabundah 1 (Kenny MacDonald (pen))

By Jordan Selems

Both ANU FC and Narrabundah FC were coming off first round draws and are looking for their first win of the 2016 season. ANU FC, being the red-hot favorites for not only this game but for the title as well, had a point to prove. And prove that point they did with a comfortable 4-1 at home.
 
The early exchanges of the match were back and forth with no side taking any dominance until Olaide Yinka-Kehinde received a through-ball, for a one on one with the keeper, which was slotted calmly with a chip into the far corner. The game again went back and forth with ANU squandering several opportunities. Just before half time Alex Ollman whipped in a beautiful corner, which was met by the head of Yinka-Kehinde and ended up in the back of the net for his second goal of the day.
 
The second half played out very much like the first with ANU controlling the game and Narrabundah trying to break on the counter. Halfway through Chase Deans was too quick for the 2 or 3 Narrabundah defenders down the side line and hit a wicked ball across the face of the goal, which was met at the near post by the ANU striker Danny Krajacic for his first goal of the game.
 
Within five minutes both Deans and Krajacic linked up again to produce the fourth goal of the match. Deans continued to beat a defender or two and slotted a neat ball through to Krajacic, who finished well under pressure to get his second goal of the afternoon. Narrabundah pushed hard to try and get back into the match and were rewarded late in the game with a penalty. Kenny MacDonald finished the penalty giving Narrabundah a consolation goal to finish the game with a 4-1 loss.

Weston-Molonglo FC 1 (Danny Babic) Queanbeyan City 7 (Nathan Walker (4), Daniel Crkovski (2), Danny Byrne)
Queanbeyan City’s outstanding start to the season continued as they romped to a 7-1 win over Weston-Molonglo FC on Saturday afternoon. City, quickly installed as one of the competition favourites, never really looked in any danger of not recording their second win of the season as striker Nathan Walker made hay scoring four times. Daniel Crkovski, who got off the mark last weekend, added a brace to the tally whilst Danny Byrne completed a comfortable day’s work. Danny Babic bagged his second of the season for Weston-Molonglo but it was scant consolation. 

O’Connor Knights 4 (Hassan Kamara (2), Dene McHugh, Daniel Jadric) Tuggeranong United 0
O’Connor Knights banished any thoughts of last weekend’s opening round loss to Queanbeyan City by tearing apart the highly regarded Tuggeranong United outfit to the tune of 4-0. The Knights were in imperious form for most of the match and in two-goal Hassan Kamara, had a real threat in front of goal. Dene McHugh and Daniel Jadric also added to the Knights tally as they controlled nearly every aspect of the match to claim their first win of the season. 

White Eagles 2 (Thai Tran, Steven McLaughlin (og)) Canberra Olympic 0
A goal in each half proved enough for White Eagles to earn their second win of the season as they defeated Canberra Olympic 2-0 at Woden Park. In a pretty even first half the Eagles scored at the opportune time when Thai Tran opened the scoring in the shadows of half-time. They sealed the points in a bizarre manner when Olympic goalkeeper Steven McLaughlin made a hash of a routine clearance scoring an unfortunate own goal. The win keeps Eagles in second place, one of only two teams to win both their opening matches, and hot on the heels of Queanbeyan City. 

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
4 Nathan WALKER (Queanbeyan City)
3 Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City)
2 Danny KRAJACIC (ANU FC), Hassan KAMARA (O’Connor Knights), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Pepe VARGA (White Eagles)
1 Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Shane HAIDUK, Kenny MACDONALD (Narrabundah), Robert GRIFFITHS, Daniel JADRIC, Dene MCHUGH (O’Connor Knights), Danny BYRNE, Dragan STEGNJAIC (Queanbeyan City), Ciaran RAYMENT (Tuggeranong United), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Milan SANTRAC, Thai TRAN (White Eagles), Own GOALS

Tuggeranong United FC are looking for a goalkeeper to joining their Capital League squad for the 2016 season.

Any interested parties should contact Head Coach Nigel Tranter on 0448 986 437.

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 3
Saturday 16th April 2016

By Chris Webb

Queanbeyan City v ANU FC
(Riverside Stadium)

The students make the trip inter-state in the Capital League block-buster between the two pre-season favourites. Queanbeyan have been in simply scintillating form, amassing an amazing 12 goals in just two matches, Nathan Walker bagged himself an impressive four goal haul to take the early lead in the Golden Boot race, and is closely followed by team mates Daniel Crkovski and Nik Noveski both on three goals. Joining them on three goals is ANU FC hit-man Olaide Yinka-Kehinde who is looking to retain his goal scoring crown but first and foremost looking to lead his team to victory. ANU FC suffered some round one jitters, but a solid 4-1 win in round two has them seemingly on track. Chase Deans was at his tormenting best causing havoc and handing out assists as if they were hors-d'oeuvres. The midfield battle between two of the leagues powerhouses:  ANU’s Sam Carters and Queanbeyan’s Zac Knight would be worth the admission alone.

O’Connor Knights v White Eagles
(Kaleen Enclosed)
The O’Connor Knights host eternal rivals White Eagles on the back of a 4-0 thumping of title hopefuls Tuggeranong United. The disappointment of their Round One crushing at Queanbeyan City has well and truly been erased thanks to a double from new striker, the powerful Hassan Kamara, joining the club from Gungahlin PS4 NPL.  White Eagles meanwhile have had a perfect start, with a similar score-line over Tuggeranong United followed by a solid 2-0 victory over Canberra Olympic. They will be hoping to make it three from three, know they have a good chance at gaining the lead outright as the lads from Queanbeyan have a difficult game in front of them. To say there is a lot of history between these two is an understatement, anything could happen in this one, but one thing is for sure the neutral will be entertained. 

Tuggeranong United v Weston-Molonglo FC
(Kambah 3)
Kambah plays host to two teams that are nursing their wounds and both desperate to bounce back. Both teams have conceded eight goals in the opening two matches, and amazingly the talented Tuggeranong side, third place getters last time around, sit alone at the foot of the table with zero points. With attacking weapons such as Ciaran Rayment and Carl Hynes it won’t be long until this team kicks into gear and good luck to the opposition on the day they do. The new kids on the block, Weston-Molonglo FC, will be hoping it’s not this week. They shipped a massive seven goals to a rampant Queanbeyan and too are desperate to stop the haemorrhage. With a true fighting spirit and the potential return of some senior players Weston-Molonglo FC will to out pick up some points in this one and keep pace with the chasing pack.  

Wednesday 20th April 2016
Narrabundah v Canberra Olympic
(AIS)
Narrabundah and Canberra Olympic round off this week’s clashes, with a mid-week match, under lights at the pristine AIS fields on Wednesday evening. Narrabundah have had a slow start to the season with just the solitary point to show for their toils, and are now looking to kick it up a gear. While Olympic also have just the one point as well, that came from an impressive draw with ANU FC, the same team which put four past the Bulls the following week. Olympic conceded two reasonably unfortunate goals to a red hot White Eagles side, however it could have been more if not for the form of impressive centre back Joel Valtonen. The confidence he gives to the rest of the team knowing that he is marshalling the defence is invaluable. On form, Olympic will be confident in taking the points but the experienced Narrabundah squad are sure to have other ideas. 

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
4 Nathan WALKER (Queanbeyan City)
3 Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City)
2 Danny KRAJACIC (ANU FC), Hassan KAMARA (O’Connor Knights), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Pepe VARGA (White Eagles)
1 Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Shane HAIDUK, Kenny MACDONALD (Narrabundah), Robert GRIFFITHS, Daniel JADRIC, Dene MCHUGH (O’Connor Knights), Danny BYRNE, Dragan STEGNJAIC (Queanbeyan City), Ciaran RAYMENT (Tuggeranong United), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Milan SANTRAC, Thai TRAN (White Eagles), Own GOALS

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 3
Saturday 16th April 2016

Queanbeyan City 1 (Mark Walker) ANU FC 2 (Danny Krajacic, Jonathan Scott)
(Riverside Stadium)

By Chris Stennett

Ten-man ANU FC survived a Queanbeyan City barrage to win a controversial clash 2-1 at Riverside Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Despite the overcast weather a good crowd witnessed a quality match as both sides looked to lay down title credentials early on in the campaign. After early possession and chances Queanbeyan took a deserved lead early on when Mark Walker powered in from a corner.  

The match swung in ANU’s favour just before half-time when a controversial decision allowed them to equalise. Olaide Yinka-Kehinde ran on to a high ball from defence, Queanbeyan’s goalkeeper, Anthony Dimoski came over the top of him, collecting the ball before dropping it under the contact. The ball fell to Danny Krajacic who had the easy task of scoring.  Dimoski remonstrated with the referee over his decision not to call a foul with Queanbeyan coach Vlatko Tomeski also remonstrating well after the referee blew half-time. Queanbeyan assistant coach, Aleksansdar Celeski said, “We all expected the ref to blow the foul and we even stopped, expecting the ref to blow.” ANU coach Branko Milenovic said, “Our player contested it fairly and squarely … and the ball luckily fell to one of our players.”

After a slow start to the second half Queanbeyan’s Daniel Crkovski won a penalty after some good hold up play in the box. Crkovski stepped up and struck his shot well, but watched as Nunzio Franco made a great save to his right. With half an hour to play the match turned heavily in Queanbeyan’s favour after a rash challenge from ANU’s Luke Udvardi earned him a second yellow and an early shower. Queanbeyan created chances, with the woodwork and an outstretched leg of Franco denying them a second goal. “We still had the opportunities to wrap up the game. The one-on-one, the penalty. Their keeper was man of the match,” said Celeski.

ANU weathered the barrage and took the lead with under 15 minutes to go when the ball fell to Jonathan Scott to volley home the winner. Queanbeyan pushed for an equaliser, but two point blank saves from man of the match Franco denied them a share of the points.
“I’m absolutely delighted with the result, I think even if we had drawn I would have been happy,” said an elated Milenovic. “The game was one with the heart, really the boys dug deep and gave 100 per cent.”

O’Connor Knights 2 (Brandon Hawker, Robert Hrstic) White Eagles 3 (Thai Tran (2), Eoin Devaney)
(Kaleen Enclosed)

White Eagles moved two points clear at the top of the Capital League after claiming their third win of the season in a remarkable five goal thriller at Kaleen Enclosed. The result, coupled with ANU FC’s victor over Queanbeyan City at the Riverside Stadium means that the Eagles remain the only team to have won all three matches this season. They were made to fight particularly hard for the points in this one as O’Connor, always fired up by the prospect of an old school derby, took the match to their visitors and through goals from Robert Hristic and Brandon Hawker were in with a shout of taking something tangible from the match having led 1-0 and 2-1. However, the Eagles are a class act and possess plenty of scoring potential and with Thai Tran scoring twice, taking his tally for the season to three, they fought back. Eagles won the match with five minutes to play as Eoin Devaney netted the match-deciding goal.

Tuggeranong United 1 (Sean Murphy (pen)) Weston-Molonglo FC 3 (Josh Pender, Pete Spiller, Andy Woods)
(Kambah 3)

By Chris Webb

Weston-Molonglo eased to a 3-1 win over Tuggeranong United at Kambah on the weekend to leave their opponents stranded at the foot of the table. Tuggeranong and Weston-Molonglo came into this match with one point and 16 goals conceded between them, both desperate to turn a corner. The visitors started the better of the two, controlling possession and creating a number of half chances in the first half hour. It was the elder statesman Sean Murphy and Tim Ireson who dictated play in the middle of the park, although they were unable to really trouble Simon Barber in the Weston-Molonglo goal. Weston slowly got themselves into the game, with Josh Pender causing United concern down the right wing. With the half coming to a close an innocuous ball into the Weston box saw their centre half Ben Coates, under absolutely no pressure, rather harshly adjudged to handle in the box. Murphy dispatched the penalty with expert technique, and while a tough penalty call, it was a lead Tuggeranong deserved for their earlier dominance. Weston’s response was however quite stunning as they hit back straight off the kick off. Neat link play between Danny Babic and Samale Mohamed, saw a miss-hit Mohamed shot float perfectly for Pender to guide a header past the onrushing Parrett in the Tuggeranong goal, cancelling Tuggeranong’s lead in under a minute.  

The game was quite an even affair in the second stanza but Weston went in front in spectauclar fashion. A lofted ball from out wide was met by captain Pete Spiller who unleashed a first time volley from all of 35 yards which rocketed into the far corner for what would be a sure contender for goal of the season. A shell-shocked Tuggeranong pushed for an equaliser, and while Weston’s defence held firm, gaps opened up on the counter and a ball over the top of the Tuggeranong defence should have been easily been dealt with by Parrett. The 'keeper however misjudged the bounce allowing substitute Andy Woods to walk the ball into an empty net and give Weston a 3-1 lead.  

The game took a turn only minutes later when a wrestling match between Ireson and Dylan Alexandrow-Ridley resulted in Babic seeing red for dissent. Tuggeranong were unable to capitalise on the extra man though looking sluggish for fifteen minutes before putting Weston under an absolute barragein the dying stages, with the ball twice being cleared of the Weston goal line. In the end it was too little too late for Tuggeranong, who are yet to take a point this season, while Weston move to four points and fourth spot on the ladder. 

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
4 Nathan WALKER (Queanbeyan City)
3 Danny KRAJACIC, Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City), Thai TRAN (White Eagles)
2 Hassan KAMARA (O’Connor Knights), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Pepe VARGA (White Eagles), Own GOALS
1 Jonathan SCOTT, Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Shane HAIDUK, Kenny MACDONALD (Narrabundah), Robert GRIFFITHS, Brandon HAWKER, Robert HRSTIC, Daniel JADRIC, Dene MCHUGH (O’Connor Knights), Danny BYRNE, Dragan STEGNJAIC, Mark WALKER (Queanbeyan City), Sean MURPHY, Ciaran RAYMENT (Tuggeranong United), Josh PENDER, Pete SPILLER, Any WOODS (Weston-Molonglo FC), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Eoin DEVANEY, Milan SANTRAC (White Eagles)

The draw for the opening round of the Westfield FFA Cup Qualifiers took place at the Capital Football offices last week. 

All Capital League teams went into the draw. The randomly drawn CL team to be involved in Round 3 fixtures was O’CONNOR KNIGHTS.

So ANU FC, WHITE EAGLES, NARRABUNDAH FC, QUEANBEYAN FC and WESTON MOLONGLO FC go straight into the Round 4 draw on the 4th May at Westfield Woden.

The remaining State League teams and O’Connor then were randomly drawn. Match ups are as follows

LANYON UNITED v O’CONNOR KNIGHTS – to be played at Hawker Football Centre on Thursday 28th April at 7.00pm

GOULBURN STAGS v CANBERRA CITY – to be confirmed for Goulburn Workers Arena on Thursday 28th April kickoff 7.30pm

BRINDABELLA BLUES v GOULBURN STRIKERS – to be played Hawker Football Centre on Tuesday 26th April at 7.30 pm.

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 4
Saturday 23rd April 2016

By Chris Webb

Saturday 23rd April 2016
ANU FC v Tuggeranong United
(ANU Willows, 15:00)

ANU FC play host to a struggling Tuggeranong United on the back of their inspiring victory over title rivals Queanbeyan City. By their own account ANU FC were fortunate to take all three points in that match, but it’s the sign of a championship winning team, taking points even when undeserved. ANU FC will be sweating on the fitness of talismanic striker Olaide Yinka-Kehinde who limped off at the end of their gruelling battle. The students however have more than enough attacking weapons to cover the possible loss of their star forward, and look to attack with pace as they return to the synthetic surface at ANU Willows. Tuggeranong will surely be scratching their head trying to figure out how they are still without a point. In their past three games they have dictated the play in large portions, yet are unable to reflect their dominance on the scoresheet – quite a troubling problem. This Tuggeranong side enjoyed some fine results against ANU FC last term, and a win here would well and truly put the boys in green back on track. 

Canberra Olympic v Queanbeyan City
(Kaleen Enclosed, 15:00)

Queanbeyan City travel to the lush Kaleen Enclosed surface to face home side Canberra Olympic. Queanbeyan’s rampant start the season was stopped in its tracks by a defiant ANU FC side last week, in a gruelling battle at the riverside between the leagues two premier sides. Anything less than three points will be simply unacceptable to gaffer Vlatko Tomeski, but they have anything but an easy game in front of them. Olympic, whom are yet to taste victory, are backing up after a tough midweek encounter with Narrabundah which saw two of the Olympians see red, and conceding an agonising stoppage time goal which resulted in a 2-2 draw. The loss of two key players through suspension, most notably their defensive general Joel Valtonen, plus some tired legs is definitely not what the blue and whites need against a fired up Queanbeyan. Olympic have quality across the park and shouldn’t be written off, and with a midweek double Jeremy Hegarty will be looking to get his name back on the scorecard. 

Narrabundah v White Eagles
(Narrabundah 2-1, 15:00)

The Bulls welcome league leaders White Eagles to the Narrabundah Oval. While still winless, Narrabundah have only tasted defeat once to a strong ANU FC, and will be growing with confidence after every match. Backing up after a midweek game is always tough, and made that bit tougher when it’s against the league leaders. Osazuwa Akioya was the midweek hero, snatching a draw from the jaws of defeat at the death, against the nine men of Olympic. White Eagles have maintained their perfect start to the season, opening up a two point gap over ANU at the summit. The revitalisation of elder statesman Thai Tran is nothing short of remarkable. Over fifteen years ago Tran was contesting Premier League Grand Finals, but in recent years he has been adding experience to the White Eagles reserve sides. A stint in the PS4 NPL with Tigers FC last season has seemingly breathed new life into some aging legs and White Eagles are now the benefactors. While knocking on the door of ‘40’, Tran has taken his pre-season goal scoring form into the season proper finding the back of the net three times in three matches. Eagles will be confident in maintaining their 100% record in this one and possibly widening the gap at the top. 

Weston-Molonglo FC v O’Connor Knights
(Waramanga, 15:00)

The O’Connor Knights make the trip to the unpredictable Waramanga playing fields for an interesting match-up with Weston-Molonglo FC. Weston are coming off the back of a morale boosting win over Tuggeranong United, fighting back from being a goal down to take the points, propelling them from second last to a spot in the top four. The Knights however are still reeling from losing to bitter rivals White Eagles in the dying minutes of Matchday 3, after twice taking the lead. After only three rounds this season both these sides have had decent wins over Tuggeranong United and both have suffered heavy defeats to Queanbeyan City, however O’Connor have come out of both games with a slightly better goal differences then Weston-Molonglo FC, giving them the slight favourite tag for this one. While inform striker Hassan Kamara will look to be the match winner, this one may well be decided by inform goal keepers: Weston’s Simon Barber and the Knights’ Robbie Strachan. 

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
4 Nathan WALKER (Queanbeyan City)
3 Danny KRAJACIC, Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City), Thai TRAN (White Eagles)
2 Jeremy HEGARTY (Canberra Olympic), Hassan KAMARA (O’Connor Knights), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Pepe VARGA (White Eagles), Own GOALS
1 Jonathan SCOTT, Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Osazuwa AKIOYA, Liam BOYLE, Shane HAIDUK, Kenny MACDONALD (Narrabundah), Robert GRIFFITHS, Brandon HAWKER, Robert HRSTIC, Daniel JADRIC, Dene MCHUGH (O’Connor Knights), Danny BYRNE, Dragan STEGNJAIC, Mark WALKER (Queanbeyan City), Sean MURPHY, Ciaran RAYMENT (Tuggeranong United), Josh PENDER, Pete SPILLER, Any WOODS (Weston-Molonglo FC), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Eoin DEVANEY, Milan SANTRAC (White Eagles)

History will be made on Thursday 28th April as the City of Goulburn prepares to host its first ever Westfield FFA Cup match as the Canberra Qualifying process begins in earnest. The Goulburn Stags will welcome Canberra City to the Goulburn Workers Arena hoping that their young side can create some cup magic.

“After watching last year’s Westfield FFA Cup competition the team are looking forward to be involved in the national tournament and creating a bit of local football history as we get to host the City’s first game,” Club Secretary Craig Norris said. “Being a part of the Westfield FFA Cup has been a goal of the club and the players are proud to hopeful start a tradition of regularly competing and maybe the odd giant killing performance.”

The Stags compete in the Capital Football State League Division 1 competition with a relatively young team comprising mostly of players under the age of 25. This season is their second within the auspices of the Capital Football Federation having been crowned Highlands Premier League Champions in 2014.

Whilst the team may not have enjoyed the best of starts to their State League season, a clash with fellow State League 1 outfit Canberra City will give them some hopes of progressing through to the 4th Round draw and a potential tie against one of the traditional heavyweights of ACT football.

“Giving the youth of our club a pathway through to the Westfield FFA Cup is important in small communities,” Norris said. “To be a part of a national competition shows them that it doesn’t matter where you live you can be apart something special. The club is honoured to be involved. As a game it’s amazing to be in a competition that involves the whole footballing nation, the chance, no matter how small, to take on the best in the country is unique to our game.”

The dreams of Cup glory, and getting their hands on the prestigious Federation Cup trophy for winning the Canberra section of the Westfield FFA Cup Qualifiers, may be somewhat distant at present but at least one of the Stags players has graced the Final. Josh Phelps was part of the Goulburn Strikers team that led Canberra FC 2-0 in the 2010 Final before succumbing to the perennial powerhouse from the Capital City.An unfortunate hamstring injury may preclude him taking part in this match but his experience of the big occasion could be crucial for his team-mates. 

There are a number of exciting talents in the Stage line-up with Norris singling out forward Aaron Swanson for special praise hoping he can fire the Stags into the Fourth Round. “Keep an eye out for centre forward Aaron Swanson,” Norris advised. “Injured all last season he is finding the form that led the team two seasons ago. In defence watch out for James Saul. His coolness on the ball and ability to create time is something to see.”

WESTFIELD FFA CUP QUALIFIERS – ROUND 3
FIXTURES
Tuesday 26th April 2016
Brindabella Blues v Goulburn Strikers 
(Hawker Football Centre, 19:30)

Thursday 28th April 2016
Lanyon United v O’Connor Knights
(Hawker Football Centre, 19:00)

Goulburn Stags v Canberra City
(Goulburn Workers Arena, 19:30)

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 4

Wednesday 20th April 2016
Narrabundah 2 (Liam Boyle, Osazuwa Akioya) Canberra Olympic 2 (Jeremy Hegarty (2))
(AIS Grass)

A goal deep into stoppage time from Osazuwa Akioya rescued a point for Narrabundah as they ended their midweek Capital League clash with Canberra Olympic all square at 2-2. It was rough on Olympic who had been reduced to nine men by this stage and having turned around a 0-1 deficit to lead 2-1 when already down to ten. Liam Boyle gave Narrabundah the lead in what was an exciting match as the Bulls, who were under severe pressure at the time, struck with a lightning fast counter-attack. That set the tone for the match which featured a number of robust challenges and at least three decent shouts for a penalty at either end. Olympic levelled through Jeremy Hegarty, after the team was reduced in numbers after the sending off of Joel Valtonen, and the same player then put Olympic in front in the second half capitalising on a quickly taken free-kick to break away and net. Olympic were down to nine shortly afterwards when John Karapanagos received a second yellow card, before the Bulls grabbed their late, late equaliser to claim a share of the points. 

Saturday 23rd April 2016
ANU FC 2 (Jonathan Scott, Sam Carters) Tuggeranong United 1 (Kris Robertson)
(ANU Willows)

A disputed winner in the final minute of the match from Sam Carters gave ANU FC a narrow 2-1 win over Tuggeranong United at ANU Willows. The Students were pressing hard to claim the goal and in stoppage time a cross found Carters in the centre of the area and he finished, much to the dismay of the Tuggeranong players who felt that the midfield maestro was offside when he collected the pass. Earlier, after an even and goal-less first half, Tuggeranong took the lead with twenty minutes to play. Ciaran Rayment raced down the right flank and cut the ball back for Kris Robertson to finish coolly. ANU FC though are made of stern stuff and equalised when Jonathan Scott curled a free-kick over the wall and into the bottom corner from the left-hand side of the penalty area for a wonderful goal. That set the scene for the dramatic denouement and Carters match-winning effort. 

Canberra Olympic 2 (Dave McCarron, Daniel Fouad) Queanbeyan City 2 (Mark Walker, Mat Ryan)
(Kaleen Enclosed)

By Jordan Selems

With Canberra Olympic coming off back to back loses and Queanbeyan City also coming off a narrow loss to ANU FC last week, this game was always going to be hotly contested. The game kicked off with both teams playing solid football. Queanbeyan had most of the early chances, including a free kick, which was just put wide. Olympic decided to put the foot down and against the run of play finished a great passing movement with an even better overhead bicycle kick by Dave McCarron, which made its way straight past the keeper and into the back of the net. Olympic lead 1-0. As the half went on the dominance was with Olympic, but Queanbeyan kept fighting and went into the break as the more dominant side. This dominance carried over into the second half as M. Walker scored the equalizer very early on. 1-1. The second half was played evenly with both sides having a number of opportunities to take the lead, until the Queanbeyan captain, Mat Ryan, finished off a corner to give Queanbeyan the lead for the first time in the game. Olympic fought back hard eventually earning their reward when substitute Daniel Faoud scored a screamer, controlling the ball nicely on the edge of the box to slot it into the corner to equalise the game. 

Narrabundah 0 White Eagles 2 (Eoin Devaney (2))
(Narrabundah 2-1)

White Eagles remained undefeated at the summit of the Capital League after their 2-0 win over Narrabundah at Narrabundah Oval on Saturday afternoon. A brace of goals from Eoin Devaney proved the difference in the end after the Bulls had frustrated the visitors for large parts of an entertaining match. After chances had been wasted at both ends in the first half Devaney finally found a way through with twenty minutes to play as he finished calmly when well-placed. And the Eagles quality was confirmed with eight minutes remaining aa Devaney scored his third goal of the season to make it four wins from four for the championship favourites and a two-point lead at the top of the ladder. 

Weston-Molonglo FC 2 (Kian Prammer, Harrison Wright) O’Connor Knights 1 (Brett Forward)
(Waramanga)

By Chris Stennett

New boys Weston-Molonglo FC notched their second win of the season with a scrappy 2-1 over O’Connor Knights at Waramanga on Saturday afternoon through goals from Harrison Wright and Brett Forward.  Both teams missed key players through injury and absence as Weston started strongly and went ahead early through Kian Prammer, who calmly slotted home after Ante Jurkovic parried a cross straight to his feet. Sloppy defending from O’Connor could’ve seen them fall further behind, but Weston failed to profit and allowed O’Connor to work their way into the game. O’Connor almost equalised before the break with J Noja sending a free-kick just wide and Hassan Kamara directing his free-header straight at the keeper. O’Connor continued to push for an equaliser in the second half but failed to find the cutting edge up front to cut open Weston. Weston looked likely on the counter but their second goal was pure luck as Wright’s cross looped over the keeper and in. O’Connor’s Brett Forward threatened multiple times throughout the second half for O’Connor and won his side a penalty in additional time, which he took and placed into the top corner. It proved merely a consolation goal as Weston held out to record their second win for the season.

Weston coach Chris Webb was delighted with the result, but knows there’s work to be done. “We started fantastically well, we had the majority of possession for the first 20 minutes and we probably could’ve scored about four goals. But we pushed really hard at the start and we tired early and that’s when O’Connor got on top of us, later on in the game.” He was also full of praise for young Harrison Wright, scorer of their second, in his first game of senior football. Wright is part of a team that’s been training with Weston for a month. “He (Wright) is probably the standout of their team, and they’re actually littered with some really good talent, we have seen a lot of potential, especially in Harrison.” Opposing Coach Michael Spaleta couldn’t take to many positives out of a match that lacked quality and a cutting edge from his side. “We didn’t play very well today. Maybe we need to look into changing formation and bringing some players up.”

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
4 Nathan WALKER (Queanbeyan City)
3 Danny KRAJACIC, Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Hassan KAMARA (O’Connor Knights), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City), Eoin DEVANEY, Thai TRAN (White Eagles)
2 Jonathan SCOTT (ANU FC), Jeremy HEGARTY (Canberra Olympic), Mark WALKER (Queanbeyan City), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Pepe VARGA (White Eagles), Own GOALS
1 Sam CARTERS (ANU FC), Daniel FOUAD, Dave MCCARRON, Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Osazuwa AKIOYA, Liam BOYLE, Shane HAIDUK, Kenny MACDONALD (Narrabundah), Brett FORWARD, Robert GRIFFITHS, Brandon HAWKER, Daniel JADRIC, Dene MCHUGH (O’Connor Knights), Danny BYRNE, Mat RYAN, Dragan STEGNJAIC (Queanbeyan City), Sean MURPHY, Ciaran RAYMENT, Kris ROBERTSON (Tuggeranong United), Josh PENDER, Kian PRAMMER, Pete SPILLER, Any WOODS, Harrison WRIGHT (Weston-Molonglo FC), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Milan SANTRAC (White Eagles)

The Westfield FFA Cup Qualifiers Canberra section gets underway this evening with the first of three matches to be played in Round 3 this week as Brindabella Blues and Goulburn Strikers, both of State League 1, meet at Hawker Football Centre. And while neither side has played each other yet this season, all indications are there should be little to choose between the sides with the Blues sitting fourth and the Strikers seventh in their competition. 

“We are seven points from four matches so far, but it’s only early on,” Brindabella Blues Head Coach Jason Warren-Smith commented. “It’s a fairly similar team to last year with just a few new faces from the side that won the State League 3 Grand Final. Damien Corey in the middle of the park has started the season well as has his brother Brennan at centre back. Stephen Clarke is also in ominous form at the moment, so watch for him.”

The Blues and Strikers are no strangers to the competition having eagerly entered the Qualifying process in 2015. In a quirk of fate this pairing was also the inaugural Round 3 fixture in 2015 with the Blues edging a tight match 2-1. James Fry had given the Strikers a sixth minute lead but an own goal four minutes into the second half and a Vince Russo winner seven minutes from time sent Brindabella into Round 4, where they were beaten 6-0 by PlayStation® 4 National Premier League giants Canberra Olympic ,who went onto record Grand Final glory in September. 

“Playing the Westfield FFA Cup last year was the highlight of the season for us,” Warren-Smith said, “We’re an ambitious club and love testing ourselves against the best. So playing on a good field with quality opposition is a very attractive scenario. We are realistic about the competition. We’d love to at least equal our last year’s efforts where we won through to the fourth round.”

As with all other State League clubs who have entered into the Qualifying rounds it’s the prospect of earning a big tie with a PS4 NPL side and the chance to shine on the national stage that’s the drawcard to playing on a cold midweek night in Canberra. 

“The Westfield FFA Cup gives all clubs, big and small, the chance to play on the big stage,” Warrens-Smith confirmed. “It’s fantastic for us as it gives our players and our members the opportunity to support us in a truly national competition.”

You can follow coverage of the match on our Facebook page, Capital Football – Official from 7:30pm this evening.

WESTFIELD FFA CUP QUALIFIERS
ROUND 3
Tuesday 26th April
Brindabella Blues (SL1) v Goulburn Strikers (SL1)
(Hawker Football Centre, 19:30)

The first opportunity for a potential upset in the 2016 Westfield FFA Cup Qualifiers: Canberra comes on Thursday evening when State League 1 side Lanyon United meet Capital League O’Connor Knights at Hawker Football Centre. The high-flying Lanyon, currently second on their ladder and with three wins to their name this season, will be out to pinch a cup scalp with the Knights standing in their way.

“We are entering the Westfield FFA Cup as we feel that our current crop of young, talented players can really test some of the more established teams and clubs within the ACT region and beyond,” Club Media Officer Nigel Rixon commented. “The team is composed of our Lanyon State League Division 1 team, most of whom have been playing together for the last four years. Under new coach Marcus McKillop, they are currently three wins and one loss this season, and are looking to build on a strong start to the year with a strong Westfield FFA Cup showing this coming Thursday.”

Lanyon took part in the Qualifiers last season and put up a spirited display in their 0-5 Round 4 defeat to PlayStation 4® National Premier Leagues side Monaro Panthers after receiving a bye to that stage of the competition and, according to Rixon, the club are very focused on the match ahead.

“Our current goal is to focus on our upcoming match against the O'Connor Knights this Thursday and come away with a win, progressing to the next round of the Cup,” he said. “The goal for the tournament is to be competitive for the matches we play in and show that on any given day, anything can happen. The Cup is important as it delivers an opportunity for smaller clubs to ‘show their wares’ in a tournament setting, allowing the club to nurture talent and grow through the experience.”

Chandar Shekhar Nair is the team’s current top scorer with four goals this season with James Downie, a Lanyon stalwart on two. But the whole squad has plenty to offer and should put up a challenging fight for the Knights who have blown hot and cold so far in the Capital League, winning just one of four matches played to date. “To be honest the whole squad is electric, and on their day all worth a mention,” Rixon commented. “Keep your eyes peeled for team talisman, Centre-Half (and Captain) Frank Calabria, the ever rampant Nicholas Grant and new kid on the block Liam Carey.”

Westfield FFA Cup action at Hawker Football Centre commences at 7pm with the winners in the pot alongside the PS4 NPL teams for the draw on Wednesday 4th May at Westfield Woden. 

WESTFIELD FFA CUP QUALIFIERS
ROUND 3
Thursday 28th April
Lanyon United (SL1) v O’Connor Knights (CL)
(Hawker Football Centre, 19:00)

WESTFIELD FFA CUP QUALIFIERS
ROUND 3

Tuesday 26th April
Brindabella Blues (SL1) 6 (Stephen Clarke 6’, 33’, Sam Marchant 16’, 19’, 60’, John Colley 50’) Goulburn Strikers (SL1)
(Hawker Football Centre, 19:30)

By Nick Amies

Brindabella Blues eased into the next round of Westfield FFA Cup qualifying with a 6-0 win over Goulburn Strikers at Hawker Football Centre on Tuesday night. Things looked ominous for Goulburn in the opening exchanges, nearly conceding an own goal after just three minutes as Sam Marchant’s cross deflected into the post by Goulburn defender Joshua Fenwick. Brindabella did not have to wait long for a breakthrough though, as just moments later Stephen Clarke on a ball in behind the defence, rounded the goalkeeper and finished into the empty net. The Strikers looked for an immediate response as James Fry took a shot from distance, but instead of drawing his side level the midfielder’s effort merely stung the palms of goalkeeper Ryan Webeck.

The Blues doubled their lead in the 16th minute thanks to a quick transition as a well-weighted through ball put Sam Marchant in behind the defence. The striker made no mistake, finishing emphatically into the top left corner from just inside the penalty area. Three minutes later Marchant had his second of the match. Stephen Clark disposed his defender on halfway made a blistering run down the left flank, sending a pinpoint cross in to find Marchant in the area for a cool finish and a three-goal lead. Despite the significant deficit Goulburn were still pushing for a breakthrough and nearly pulled one back in the 31st minute. Sam Taylor sent an effort goalwards from outside the box and although Ryan Webeck was beaten in goal, the ball struck the upright and ended up in the goalkeeper’s grasp.

Brindabella were able to notch up a fourth before half time after some good work down the right flank from Adrian Russo and Lachlan Ainsworth saw the ball sent to Marchant in the middle. The striker beat one and sent a shot towards goal and although goalkeeper Justin Daly made the save, Stephen Clark was on hand to put away the loose ball for his second goal of the match. Ben Hartin was unlucky not to find the net for Goulburn before the break, striking the underside of the crossbar with a well-taken free-kick. The ball was bundled over the line in the ensuing scramble, but the goal was correctly ruled out for offside.

The Blues made the perfect start to the second half with their fifth goal of the match. Sam Marchant laid the ball off to John Colley who had made a forward run from midfield and his deflected shot snuck past Justin Daly. Marchant was able to complete his hat-trick in style just before the hour mark, controlling the ball on the edge of the box before blasting it into the net past the despairing goalkeeper. Goulburn had shown better signs in the second stanza, with half time substitute Eric Noheli in particular producing some promising forays into opposition territory. However, the Brindabella defence remained focused in the closing stages to deny their opponents a consolation goal, securing a clean sheet to accompany a potent attacking display.

Brindabella Blues: 1. Ryan WEBECK, 2. Benjamin HILDER, 3. Adrian DENNIS, 5. Adrian RUSSO, 8. Damien COREY, 9. Sam MARCHANT, 11. John COLLEY, 13. Brennan COREY, 14. Stephen CLARKE, 15. Lachlan AINSWORTH, 17. Christopher FISHER
Substitutes used: 7. James KEECH, 10. Frank RUSSO, 18. Alejandro DICKINSON,
Goulburn Strikers: 1. Justin DALY, 3. Sam TAYLOR, 4. James DINSMORE, 5. Marc BROWN, 6. Luke HARTIN, 8. Benjamin HARTIN, 9. Adam MILLS, 13. James MCMASTER, 17. Guy LEWIN, 19. Musare GASIRIMU, 21. Joshua FENWICK
Substitutes used: 2. James FRY, 10. Andrew TRAVERS, 14. Eric NOHELI
YELLOW CARDS: Nil
RED CARDS: Nil

Photos: Glenn Dawson

CAPITAL LEAGUE
MATCHDAY 5
Saturday 30th April 2016

By Chris Webb

O’Connor Knights v ANU FC

(Kaleen Enclosed)

O’Connor Knights will be looking move on from their disappointing loss to Weston-Molonglo FC and get their finals charge back on track however hosting the students is no easy task. While Coach Michael Spaleta admits their last outing was not their best, he should be pleased with some individual performances, notably the dominant display by evergreen midfielder Hector Cerda-Cid and his midfield partner Hassan Kamara. The additions of the powerful Tal Evans and the pacey Brett Forward were also welcome sights, and Spaleta will look for both to have an impact in this one. The students are coming off the back of their second straight 2-1 victory; both with their fair share of luck involved, and are looking for some improvement. Jon Scott showed his creative genius against Tuggeranong United and Branko Milenovic is hoping he can be the catalyst for ANU FC to put on a dominant display.

Tuggeranong United v Canberra Olympic
(Kambah 3)

Tuggeranong United are feeling the pain of putting in a much improved performance and still having nothing to show, conceding a last minute goal to ANU FC. How such a talented squad could start the season with four straight losses is baffling, but improving displays suggest a win is right around the corner. Canberra Olympic are also yet to win a game, however their current position belies some impressive results including draws with both the red-hot favourites for silverware ANU FC and Queanbeyan City, putting Olympic in good stead for the race for finals positions. David McCarron is being hailed as the ‘Irish Fornaroli’ after his amazing bicycle goal last time out, and he will be one Tuggeranong United will need to keep at close quarters. 

Queanbeyan City v Narrabundah
(Riverside Stadium)

After an amazing start to the season which saw six points gained and twelve goals scored in just two matches, the men from NSW have only managed one point from the last two matches and, as such Queanbeyan City need to hit the ground running against Narrabundah at the Riverside Stadium. Coach Vltako Tomeski will be looking to give their title challenge a much-needed injection and will be hoping for recent experienced recruit Marcin Zygmunt to take charge of the midfield. The visiting Bulls have proved themselves to be anything but easy beats, slightly unlucky to concede two late goals to lose to league leaders White Eagles in their last outing. With the likes of Liam Boyle and Kenny McDonald, Narrabundah are sure to cause City headaches on the counter, but Queanbeyan will be confident of getting the job done in front of their vocal home fans.

White Eagles v Weston-Molonglo FC
(Woden Park) 

Weston-Molonglo FC make the short trip up Hindmarsh Drive to Woden Park to face undefeated league leaders White Eagles. After a poor start to the season Weston-Molonglo are coming off the back of two straight wins which has seem jump from second last to sit on equal points with Queanbeyan City. Weston-Molonglo are hopeful on the return of up to six first graders including talisman Adam Johnston, and are aiming to be the first team to take points off the mighty Eagles. These two teams met last season in the Westfield FFA Cup, with White Eagles comfortably knocking their lower league opponents out of the competition, and they will be quietly confident of repeating the feat. In Pepe Varga and Eoin Devaney the Eagles have a formidable and potent frontline of which Weston-Molonglo will be very wary.

TABLE

LEADING SCORERS 
4 Nathan WALKER (Queanbeyan City)
3 Danny KRAJACIC, Olaide YINKA-KEHINDE (ANU FC), Hassan KAMARA (O’Connor Knights), Daniel CRKOVSKI, Nik NOVESKI (Queanbeyan City), Eoin DEVANEY, Thai TRAN (White Eagles)
2 Jonathan SCOTT (ANU FC), Jeremy HEGARTY (Canberra Olympic), Mark WALKER (Queanbeyan City), Danny BABIC (Weston-Molonglo FC), Pepe VARGA (White Eagles), Own GOALS
1 Sam CARTERS (ANU FC), Daniel FOUAD, Dave MCCARRON, Richard SANTIAGO (Canberra Olympic), Osazuwa AKIOYA, Liam BOYLE, Shane HAIDUK, Kenny MACDONALD (Narrabundah), Brett FORWARD, Robert GRIFFITHS, Brandon HAWKER, Daniel JADRIC, Dene MCHUGH (O’Connor Knights), Danny BYRNE, Mat RYAN, Dragan STEGNJAIC (Queanbeyan City), Sean MURPHY, Ciaran RAYMENT, Kris ROBERTSON (Tuggeranong United), Josh PENDER, Kian PRAMMER, Pete SPILLER, Any WOODS, Harrison WRIGHT (Weston-Molonglo FC), Bruno COLUCCIELLO, Milan SANTRAC (White Eagles)