2008 News
Strikers
Statistics 2008 (as at 11/9/2008)
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Local Clubs Results
Strikers 1sts 2 v Casey Comets 3 (C.Di Petta, S.Vernon)
Strikers Res 1 v Casey Comets 4 (D.Reid)
In our final game for the season we traveled the short
trip to neighbours Cranbourne. Going into this game without Chas who
came down with illness the night before the game, to Chas’s credit
he made himself available to sit on he bench. Andrew Curd was also on
the bench coming on to make his debut in the last 15 mins.
We had a shocking with Cranbourne going into a 2 goal lead inside the
1st eight minutes, 2 defensive errors saw there forwards easily slot
2 goals away and really should have been 6 with them hitting the post
on 2 occasions and missing point black sitters. God knows how we only
went in 2 down at half time.
A few choice words from George saw us start the second a lot more positive
and from the kick off, nice passes from Derrick and Greg released Steve
Vernon for his 1st goal of the season. 2-1 and we’re back in it
only to gift Cranbourne an easy 3rd to effectively kill the game. To
our credit we never gave up and Murat had the chance to bring us closer
from the penalty spot after Steve was tripped in the box, however he
crashed his shot against the bar and the chance was gone.
Chas got us back into it late on when he buried a shot from around ten
yards, we actually could have drawn level with one or two good chances,
but typically this season we failed to capitalize and when the final
whistle went we had another lose to contend with.
So it’s back to Div 3 next year, a very disappointing
season to say the least, after a promising pre-season we just never
came to terms with the step up from Div 3.
Next year will se a very strong league with Port Melbourne and Waverley
Wanderers vying for promotion. 2 teams who are always capable of throwing
money at players to get them back up again, with Noble Park and Nunawading
getting promoted we face a very stiff challenge.
Ressies
Lost 4-1 to a young Cranbourne side, however nothing should be taken
away from these boys as they pushed the league to the very end, getting
Jarryd, Andrew,Graeme and a few others all into the senior squad was
definitely a positive from a club point of view.
Training Ground News
There are only 6 weeks til pre-season starts boys, enjoy your
break and remember to bring your runners, drinks bottle and sick bag
with you on the 11th Nov.
Final BAWBAG shirt tally
Curry 10
Murat 9
Damo 8
Dean 6
Jovan 6
Jose 5
Adam V 5
Steve 4
Matty P 4
Danny 3
Adam gk 3
Marcus 3
Chaz 3
Greg 2
Luke 2
Roy 1
Vaughan 1
Joe D 1
Brad 1
Ozzie 1
Derrick was the only one NOT to get it, well done son.
Final stats in training games Italians Played 36 won 2 lost 34
Scots Played 36 won 36.
George’s team (blue) won 17
Dougie’s team (orange) won 27
Keeno’s team (green) lost 6.
Strikers 1sts 0 v Knox City 6
Strikers Res 2 v Knox City 2 (A.Curd, G.Wright)
With 5 players missing from the starting eleven it
was always going to be tough against a very strong Knox side, The 1st
half was riddled with mistakes and to make matters worse Jose was shown
a straight red card after a scuffle with an opposition player after
22mins.
The 2nd half wasn’t much better from our point of view, with the
heads going down early on, on the positive side we did manage to get
young Jaryd almost the full 90mins, after he played a full game in the
ressies, at 16 he did very well and hopefully with a little bit of improvement
he can command a regular senior game next year.
Ressies
Knox have led the league for most of the season but haven’t
managed to beat us, we could have had the game sewen up in the 1st half
but a few missed chances cost us in the end.
With Doncaster winning it looks like they will take the league out,
but all due respect to our young lads for taking it to almost the final
game.
Training ground news
Robbie Curry was the recipient of the BAWBAG shirt yet again,
he’s got that more than Murat now, don’t think it’s
got anything to do with his Scottish team he spouts on about, or his
upfield endeavours, he thinks he’s a centre forward these days.
Robbie captained the team on Saturday, it was a torrid time for the
young man, copping 6 but we did see some Curry like tackle’s,
usually means around head high.
Team News
Again we will struggle to field a full strength team for our
visit to Cranbourne, Derrick, Murat, Roy are injured, whilst we have
Jose and John Jovan suspended.
We should have Steve Vernon back and Matty Pierce
Strikers
Statistics 2008 (as at 28/8/2008)
View
Local Clubs Results
1sts Strikers 1 v Chelsea 3 (D.Ventieri)
Res Strikers 3 v Chelsea 0 (D.Hodge 2, G.Wright)
Well looks a belting on the scoreboard but this was
anything but. With Derrick out and Adam Ventieri only just passing a
fitness test we lined up with Roy in midfield and Matty Pierce dropping
to the bench.We started slow but soon got in behind the Chelsea defence
with some nice play by Roy and Chas, setting up Steve Vernon for a shot
at goal. However in 32 mins John Jovan received a straight red card
when he collided with a Chelsea midfielder, down to ten men we actually
played some nice stuff and looked like we would take the lead. A thru
ball released Luke Ventieri just before half time but rushed his shot
and missed the target, we really should have scored, Vernon and Roy
both went close as we finished the half stronger.
Chelsea took the game to us without really threatening and again it
was us who carved out the best scoring chances with 2 one on ones and
2 chances squandered.
We were made to pay dearly for those errors as the Chelsea striker stole
in at the back post to guide a shot past Adam to go one nil up.
For the 1st time in a long time our heads went down, even with Chelsea
going down to ten men we lost 2 very soft goals to see our season going
from bad to worse.
Dean Ventieri got us a late consolation, well deserved as Dean at 17
has done exceptionally well for us this season.
Chas was having his best game for the club and along with Matty Pierce
kept us driving forward.
Missed chances have killed us this season and really shouldn’t
be in this position, for a relatively poor 2nd Div this year the standard
hasn’t been great, with some teams prepared to break the bank
with very ordinary players to fail yet again, we can at least have the
knowledge the club is back in the black and every player who pulls on
a Strikers shirt is here for the right reasons, we may well go down
but the spirit and facilities here are in good shape, its only a matter
of time until we stride forward in the right direction in the proper
manner.
Ressies
Strikers 3 v Chelsea 1
The ressies have made sure there season goes right down to the wire,
with Knox here next week they have got themselves within striking distance
to that elusive title.
Another 2 goals from Hodgy that takes him to 11 this season made sure
we got full points.
From The Training Ground
We welcomed back George Hughes last week from his overseas junket, George
was on a spying mission and we interviewed him on Saturday morning,
George said he thought the boys have done really well without him but
his phone bill was thru the roof. He had to call Dougie every Friday
night with the team selection and every half time to tell him what changes
to make during the game, it worked well with 2 wins from 2.
The BAWBAG shirt made a welcome comeback on Tuesday night with only
one recipient, it just had to go to ROBBIE CURRY fully decked out in
his sheep outfit fresh from a home draw against the mighty ones on the
weekend. With his sheep beanie and tattoo he cuts a dashing figure running
around like fkn Drew Jarvie.
Good to see them squeeze past Ayr Utd last night 1-0 big result for
the sheepshaggers.
The boys trained very well yet again with Stevie Vernon totally destroying
the training nets with the shooting exercise be nice to see him do the
same on Saturday against his old team.
Team News
Injuries again haunt us, Derrick still 50-50, Adam Ventieri the same,
Murat struggling, Jovan gone for the season, Roy doubtful. So we go
into the Knox game depleted but whoever is called upon will do a job,
we welcome the Knox folk to McClelland Dr there coach called George
after their game last week to apologise for not helping us in our plight
to avoid relegation. Nice touch Danny and we wish you all the best for
the future.
SAXON SPORTS (new indoor leagues starting soon)
Juniors: Will be held on a Wednesday afternoon/evening starting at 4:30pm.
The season starts on Wed 8th October. I currently have had interest
in Under 13's, 15's and 18's comp as well. With an affordable fee of
$8 per player per game it is an ideal way for the juniors to keep their
eye in over the off-season.
Prizes: We have a shield on site that will be engraved
accordingly and we provide trophies to Premiership & Runners up
in all grades.
Mens: I endeavour to run a competitive off-season indoor
soccer competition involving as many outdoor clubs as possible. It will
be held on a Wednesday evening/night after the Junior comp matches.
We look to have the season starting on the same date as the Junior’s
8th Oct. The comp will contain 2 grades; premier and reserves with a
maximum of 7 players per team (5 on the pitch and 2 subs). Where possible
all clubs are encouraged to submit a Premier and Reserve side to maximise
its success and lifespan. I believe with the comp being advertised and
run as professionally as our regular indoor sports this competition
will be held in every off-season with great success and great reward;
develop strong relationships for both the centre and all clubs in the
area and to develop outdoor players over the off-season. We don’t
require a membership fee but there will be a $50 game fee per match
per team; we advise that players are informed prior to the commencement
of the competition that
they will be required to pay weekly.
Prizes:
Premier Division:
- Free Saxon Sports Platinum Advertising Package. Contains on court
signage, Online advert and link to your clubs website and presence in
all of our Newsletters.
- Provide a $400 sponsorship to the Premiers and a $200 sponsorship
to the Runners-up.
- Discounted court hire rates subject to availability for both Premiers
and Runners-Up.
- An in-house shield that will remain in our bar for both Premiers and
Runners-Up.
Reserves:
- Free Saxon Sports Platinum Advertising Package. Contains on court
signage, Online advert and link to your clubs website and presence in
all of our Newsletters.
- Provide a $300 sponsorship to the Premiers and a $150 sponsorship
to the Runners-up.
- An in-house shield that will remain in our bar for both Premiers and
Runners-Up.
If you believe the club would be interested in either of our upcoming
competitions please contact us on:
Ash: ash@saxonsportsfrankston.com
Chris: info@saxonsportsfrankston.com
Centre: 9783-6066.
For further info about the centre go to www.saxonsportsfrankston.com
Strikers
Statistics 2008 (1sts as at 2/8/2008, Res as at 9/8/2008)
View
Local Clubs Results
Eastern Lions and Stonnington City Match Reports now
on.
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Reserves Team Photo 1
View
Reserves Team Photo 2
1sts Strikers 2 v Eastern Lions 1 (M.Dermirkol 2)
Res Strikers 1 v Eastern Lions 3 (D.Hodge)
Great result for us on Saturday, in a game we just
had to win the boys didn’t let us down. From the kick off we took
the game to the Lions and they couldn’t get out of there own half.
Chas released Luke Ventieri after 15mins and he should have put us ahead
but missed the target to the right when clean thru on goal. Murat Steve
Vernon and Dean all had shots at goal as we went for broke. No real
threat from the Lions going forward but they did give us a scare when
there striker got a free shot from inside the box that went just wide.
Half time and although fairly well in control no goals to our credit.
We came out in the 2nd half with the same attitude and really took the
game to them, Vernon got clear inside the box and rattled the post,
however Murat followed up to drive the rebound into the net from 10
yards. 1 nil up after an hour we were well in control. Lions responded
by making 2 changes and throwing men up front to get that equalizer,
we dropped out of the game for a fifteen minute period when they really
threatened us, we seemed to have weathered the storm but with 12 mins
to go a free header inside our box ‘again’ let there striker
even things up.
Instead of feeling sorry for ourselves we went at them again, as only
3 points would do for us on the day, Roy came on for Matty Pierce and
a lovely thru ball from him released Vernon inside the box, just like
last week Steve was upended only this week the ref got it spot on and
awarded a penalty, Murat stepped up and after a delay his shot was saved
by the Lions keeper, however Murat kept his head and calmly slotted
home the rebound for his 2nd of the game.
Kilner replaced Vernon and Jose came on for Chas who both ran themselves
ragged.
All in all a good performance under severe pressure by the boys to get
that much needed 3 points, we were down if we lost today but we showed
great resilience to overcome a dogged Eastern Lions, we go into the
Chelsea game in 2 weeks still in the 2nd Div and everything to play
for. Well Done.
Ressies
Lost 3-1 to a young Eastern Lions, injury and suspension with the added
touch of bad luck looks like its catching up with us. The problem of
doing so well and the 1sts struggling this year has meant losing much
needed experience from the team, With the likes of Matty Pierce who
has done a fantastic job in the 2nds he is also needed in the seniors,
Jarryd Barnes and Lee Brown are another two who have starred and being
looked at for senior games. It’s a nice problem for the senior
coaches but a little frustrating (result wise) for the reserve coaches,
but the upside to that is we’re getting young reserve players
into the senior environment. Whatever happens or where ever the reserves
end up at the end of the season it has been an absolute brilliant effort
by each and everyone of them.
From the Training Ground
Back down to earth on Tuesday with every senior player back on the training
track, in a rain sodden pitch and arctic winds the boys did there 5k
run, doggies on the hill and 200 sit ups, although they were allowed
to do them under the covered terracing. We finished with a 35 mins eachway
game, the Italians started brilliantly going into a 3 goal lead, captain
Chas was strutting his stuff with the Ventieri triplets being very cocky,
Robbie Curry had been transferred back to where he belongs and Matty
Pierce thinking he was fkn Del Piero.
All that was to change 2nd half when Kilner (hat-trick) Murat (hat-trick)
Jose (didn’t score) and Derrick (4 goals) Steve Vernon knotched
a late double, and of course the ever reliable Curry scoring a lazy
5 to see them off 17-3.
A bit of a drubbing for the Eye Ties but as they tell us they’re
world champions and we’re NOT. Man of the Match was Adam the keeper
who kept a 2nd half clean sheet for an emphatic win by the Scots.
Teams were Italy Chas, Luke, Dean, Adam, Matty,Marcus
Scotland Curry,Derrick,Murat,Kilner,Jose, Vernon, Big Dan,Jovan,Roy,Adam,
No game this week as it’s a catch up weekend, but the boys have
a training session at 7am Sat morning, we’ll only be in until
lunchtime with them getting a well deserved afternoon off. Bring boots
runners swimming gear for Seaford beach and water bottle.
Team News
No news as yet as there’s no game, next week however we entertain
close neighbors Chelsea, we welcome back Marcus, and George Hughes of
course, strange how they 2 have been away for the same length of time
as each other, im sure there’s a perfectly good reason.
View 2008 Match
Day Programmes
View
photographs from the Stonnington City Game
1sts Strikers 2 v Stonnington 1
Res Strikers 2 v Stonnington 2
Tremendous effort by the lads on Saturday, taking all
3 points in an excellent encounter with Stonnington. Couple of forced
changes to the starting eleven with Marcus Brownlie and Robbie Curry
unavailable.
Stonnington started very well with there left sided wing back causing
us a lot of bother early on, he created a couple of chances with Adam
dealing with them.
Danny, Adam and Luke Ventieri were holding our back line together with
Jovan and Chas defending the midfield. We created our first real chance
when Murat linked up well with Matty Pierce to force their keeper into
a fine save.
Stonnington pressed forward and always looked dangerous out wide, but
when we got in behind their defence they really didn’t know what
to do. A good break thru the middle saw Steve Vernon flattened just
outside the box, Derrick stepped up and crashed an unstoppable shot
past there keeper from 18 yards into the top corner for us to go one
nil up. The celebrations said it all as every player joined in, the
passion and effort have never been an issue here.
We went in at half time with the lead and some verbals from both sides
seemed to fire up a few on the way to the changing rooms.
Second half started with the Strikers taking the game to Stonnington
and creating a couple of good chances, Stonnington seemed to be rattled
and couldn’t cope with the constant threat we had up front, although
they were still dangerous on the break.
In the 65th min Steve Vernon was upended inside the box by there keeper,
the ref somehow awarded a free kick and didn’t even talk to the
keeper who was the last man, great work by Di Petta Jovan and Pierce
released Murat, who’s shot was held by their keeper. Strikers
were flying now and every time we went forward looked like scoring.
In the 80th min a race to the bye line with Luke Ventieri and there
winger over ran it, quite unbelievingly the ref pointed to the spot
and gave them a penalty…their striker duly converted to give them
the equalizer.
With our heads still shaking in disbelief we re-grouped and kept our
discipline, Steve Vernon was again thru one on one and again taken down
by there keeper, no penalty not even a yellow card, however a Stonnington
player talked himself into a booking and was then sent off, down to
ten men we pressed forward looking for that winner, with 5 mins to go
Dean Ventieri who had an outstanding game beat the offside trap rounded
the keeper and calmly stroked home to make the score 2-1.
Dougie put young Jarryd (17) on for his debut in midfield for the injured
Derrick, and Greg replaced Steve up front. Murat had a tremendous effort
when he volleyed from 18yards that would have been goal of the season,
however it just shaved the bar and ending up on top of the net. Kilner’s
experience holding up the ball in the attacking third ran the clock
down well for us.
Stonnington thru everything forward in the 7 or so minutes added on
and only brilliant defending by Luke Adam Danny and Matty kept them
out. The final whistle was met with loud cheers as it looked as though
we would suffer another ‘’hard luck story’’
with the dubious penalty awarded against us, but all credit to the boys
for sticking with it, the winning goal may have been offside but Dean
did run from a deep position, 2 Strikers players were definitely offside
but not interfering with play, for once we got the benefit of the doubt.
Thoroughly deserved and their coach said we wanted it more.
It was good to see so many Stonnington people in after the game.
Ressies
The Ressies were held to a 2-2 draw by a much changed Stonnington, regarded
earlier on in the season as the whipping boys they have assembled a
group of young players who looked very slick. They took the game to
us and put us under pressure, but credit to our boys who stepped up
and created a few good chances.
From The Training Ground
The boys still doing the gym on a Tuesday night, however they were back
on the ground Thursday, with shooting being the main priority ahead
of the Eastern Lions do or die clash on the weekend, the situation is
simple, lose and we’re DOWN win and we go into the last 3 games
still alive.
No real candidates for the BAWBAG shirt this week, but there is always
the same guys who cant help themselves, Murat Jovan and Jose all in
contention, but it eventually went to Chas for picking Robbie Curry
as a striker in the game.
Needless to say Dougies team won again, with Curry being subbed early
in the 1st half.
Team News
Derrick is the only injury worry for the Eastern Lions trip, should
be a 3 week rest with the hammy, everyone else except from Marcus who
is still on wedding leave, is available.
Strikers
Statistics 2008 (as at 1/8/2008)
View
Local Clubs Results
Sth Springvale and Doncaster Rovers Match reports have
just been added (1/8/08 2:05)
1sts Strikers 0 v Doncaster Rovers 4
Res Strikers 0 v Doncaster Rovers 1
Humped, is the only word that can come close to Friday
night’s trip to Doncaster.
We started well enough and were fighting for every ball trying to unsettle
a youngish quick Doncaster side but a hopeful cross from there striker
just wasn’t dealt with and it came off one of our defenders to
end up in the top corner of the net. The heads seem to go down and we
found ourselves 2 down in 24 minutes when their Brazilian winger unleashed
a ferocious shot which Adam did well to get a hand to but couldn’t
stop it from going in.
We then had our best spell with Murat working hard and Ventieri linked
up with Kilner to force their keeper into a couple of saves.
The 2nd half was non-existent in regards to attacking, we just couldn’t
muster a shot at goal. They managed to make it 3 with a great strike
inside our box and somehow managed to squeeze a fourth from nothing
to finish the 90mins 4 goals to the good.
Ressies
What a great effort it was from this young side, we went down 1-0 to
a fine Doncaster team who only scored in the last minute to win the
game. But all credit to our reserves, as they were down to the bare
minimum player wise but still managed to take the game all the way to
Doncaster. A great first half move down our right ended with a great
ball into the box for Hodgy to hit a volley that nearly broke their
crossbar. It went right down to the wire with Doncaster scoring right
at the death to secure all 3 points, a draw was the least we deserved.
Training Ground
Back at the gym Tuesday and buckets of sweat, and that was just Dougie
trying to pick a team for the weekend. With George away on transfer
duty we welcome back Steve Keenan who will assist Dougie for the next
2 games. Thursday saw the Italians sign Greg Kilner a shrewd move by
Chas but to still no avail as they went down yet again, Dougies team
1 Steve Keenan’s team 0.
Dean Ventieri got the shirt, I think for just being Dean. Adam Ventieri
was warned about his behaviour as he was heard calling the Scots ‘’homos’’
Not on Adam…….
Team News
Here we go again,,, Marcus in Qld for brothers wedding, and it gets
worse for the ressies, Lee out for season, Gavin off to snow, Leigh
gk last game before he’s off to the states….with various
injury worries for both squads it will be interesting lineups. Maybe
we can take a leaf out of ‘’other’’ teams books
and just play whoever,,,no need to clear them….Maybe not as we
would get demoted to the industrial league.
Strikers
Statistics 2008 (as at 23/7/2008)
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Local Clubs Results
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Diamond Valley Match Report has just been added
1sts Strikers 2 (M.Dermikol, D.Chisolhm) v
South Springvale 0
Res Strikers 0 v South Springvale 0
Good result for the boys on the weekend, with only
our 2nd win for the season. Taking the game to Sth as early as the 2nd
minute we managed to get the ball in to the box and the sth defender
hand balled for us to be awarded our first penalty for the season. Murat
rifled the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-0. We allowed Sth
to come into the game more and Adam had to be on his toes, Danny,Adam
Ventieri and Robbie Curry held the defence well with Jovan Chisholm
and Di Petta playing nice football through the middle. Kilner up front
was holding the ball up well trying to bring Luke Ventieri into the
game and we created one or two good chances with there keeper doing
well to keep our strikers at bay.
A corner was won on the left and taken by DiPetta after 76mins for Chisholm
to latch on to it unchallenged just inside the box, his shot cannoned
of the underside of the bar before going in and put us 2-0 up.
George made a few changes bringing on Matty Pirece, Dean Ventieri and
Steve Vernon, We had a few good chances to bury Sth but had to settle
for a 2 goal win. Thoroughly deserved with the boys playing some of
their best stuff all season.
We look forward to traveling to Doncaster next Friday night.
Ressies
With the suspensions, injuries and seniors digging into the reserves
we are running out of players, with barely 12 men to chose from we dropped
two valuable points at home to Sth Springvale. With chances to win 2
games we just couldn’t get the elusive goal to take the points,
we dominated the game and almost clinched it with Hodgy going very close
near the end. But not to be, looking forward to Doncaster who are 3rd.
Training Ground News.
With the weather kicking in the boys have been utilizing the Karingal
Gym, with Dominic putting them thru their paces.
Thursday night saw another full house with Steve Vernon getting the
BAWBAG SHIRT for leaving his team mates on Saturday night to go and
attend to his ‘’sick’’ girlfriend, we admire
Steve’s nursing duties but personally I would have said I had
to work, set himself up nicely.
Team News
With the exception of Roy we have a full squad to choose form for our
trip to Doncaster on Friday night.
1sts Strikers 1 (L.Ventieri) v Diamond Valley
Utd 2
Res Strikers 3 (D.Hodge, M.Pearce, G.Wright) v Diamond Valley Utd 1
Diamond Valley 2 v Strikers 1
In a hard fought match Strikers were a little unlucky
again to come away with nothing. There was great fight in the team and
really took the game to the Valley, on a tricky pitch there was going
to be mistakes made, unfortunately it was us, Adam came out for a ball
with there striker inside the box and launched him into the air, a penalty
was given and duly converted. The 2nd half was only ten minutes old
when a cross from the right ended up in the top corner 2-0 down the
boys dug in and attacked Valley for most of the half, we got back into
it after 75 mins when Luke Ventieri lashed home a shot from inside the
box, a great finish by Luke and he almost salvaged a draw when he just
failed to turn in a close range shot in the dying minutes. In the 92nd
min Rui was red carded when the ref deemed a two footed tackle was enough
to send him for an early bath, disappointment again as we really did
deserve something from this game, like so many this season the effort
was there but the luck is just not.
So it’s back home next week against South Springvale with 7 games
remaining we just have to win most of them to have any chance of staying
up. Good luck lads.
Ressies
Valley 2 v Strikers 3
Another great win away from home by the boys, a goal from Hodgy and
Matty Pierce before half time and a 2nd half pen from Graham Wright
was enough to see off the Valley. Jeremy Swellinger was very unlucky
with 2 shots that hit the post, Drew Reid, Justin and Andrew Curd were
outstanding, but it was a great team effort, 2 Points behind leaders
Knox the league is definitely there to be won by this young squad.
From The Training Ground
Less said the better about the performance on the training ground on
Tuesday. Pity there wasn’t 11 BAWBAG SHIRTS.
Moving on………………….Thursday
was better with the usual Italian crew getting a fair old belting AGAIN
from the Scots and rest of the world X1. Dougie was absolutely devastated,
as he had actually hung his hat on this team to eventually win BUT to
no avail. So that’s George back to within 3 games of Dougie with
George departing next week to sunnier climates his chances of catches
him look very slim indeed.
Team News
We have Roy and Jose both suspended for the game against Sth Springvale
on Sat at McClelland Dr. Steve Vernon returns and Murat has served his
one match ban and is available to play.
Good Luck
View
Local Clubs Results
1sts Peninsula Strikers 1 (C.Di Peta) v Port
Melbourne 1
Res Peninsula Strikers 1 (D.Reid) v Port Melbourne 0
Big game and a win really needed to give us the confidence going into
the final 3rd of the season, in our efforts to avoid relegation against
a Port Melb team who beat us convincingly earlier in round 3. We started
slow and and no surprise when the Port defender got a free header from
around 7 yards to put his team one nil up. However we dug in and just
before half time a lovely thru ball by Jovan released Chas Di Petta
and from 18 yards fired home the equalizer, delightlful finish by Chas.
The 2nd half was a torrid affair with both teams creating chances to
win the game, unfortunately for the Strikers we couldn’t get that
winning goal to catch up with the teams above us. With 8 games remaining
it will take a huge effort by the lads to avoid returning to Div 3 they
fought so hard to get out of last year.
Next week we travel to Diamond Valley for what is always a tough encounter,
good luck to the boys and keep believing.
Ressies Strikers 1 v Port Melb 0
Good result for the ressies as they now go within 2 points of leaders
Knox, Drew Reid got the winning goal with a nice finish to seal all
3 points.
Keep up the good work lads and the league is definitely there for the
taking.
From The Training Ground
In artic conditions Tues and Thurs the boys worked hard as usual with
a full house on both occasions. The Mafioso bros Ventieri Chaz and Matty
Pierce all played in the same team yet again and yet again they lost,
they really are no match for the Scots Marcus,Curry,Chopper Jovan and
Jose throw in a couple of Germans Kilner and Adam the keeper then you
can see where the quality is.
The ‘’BAWBAG SHIRT’’ surprisingly went to George’s
lovechild Marcus Brownlie, a player who has unbelievably escaped it
all season when he has fkd up in more than several occasions (off the
park) his latest misdemeanor seen him miss training with bronchitis,
why ? the weather ? naw… the damp condition of his training gear,,naw
,,just to many fags Marcus…..the smoking variety that is,,,’’BUT
AV CHUCKED THEM’’ only person I know who gets bronchitis
after chucking them.. Well I suppose its up there with him falling asleep
on the Pakenham train and going 15 stations past his stop, or forgetting
to invite his girlfriend to a recent 21st. All in all well deserved
and someone new instead of captain Murat.. Couple of unusual sights
at training this week when Greg Kilner was asked (first up) to give
us a warm up exercise and failed miserably, 40 years of experience goes
for nothing when your put on the spot and crumble there was Robbie Curry
cracking under pressure to come up with one only to lay down and surrender
so meekly and get the whole team press ups. Although George did take
a liberty when asking Nick the Russian who has just not come near to
picking up the Ferguslie Park accent George has. Nick has picked up
the word ‘’WHIT’’ from George and of course
got the team more press ups.. In saying that George’s Russian
is coming along very well he was overheard asking Nick last Thursday
night ‘’ you- come- watch- game- Sat- ur- day… big
man ?? Nick … WHIT
He didnt come along….GOOD LUCK THIS WEEK BOYS
Team News
We welcome back Murat from injury but unfortunately lose John Jovan
to suspension 5 yellows. Steve Vernon still has one game to serve, tough
place to go and win but we can do if we apply the same commitment as
the recent Northcote game.
PENINSULA STRIKERS would like to congratulate FRANKSTON
TOYOTA which is one of our major sponsors on winning the TOYOTA PRESIDENTS
EXCELLENCE AWARD for the year 2007.
Congratulations to HOWARD BOULD and MICHAEL BEAMISH and the whole team
at Frankston TOYOTA.
Strikers
Statistics 2008
(The following is a match report from Michael
Di Petta, Chas' 6 year old son)
In a performance that can only be described as one of the best this
year the Peninsula Strikers were robbed of three points going down to
Northcate 2 – 1. I have been asked by my Papa Chas to describe
the events and action of the day.
After a superb win the week before against all the odds and the referee
hopes were high that the season had taken a turn for the better. The
strikers have had no end of bad luck this year they remained winless
after round 11 and had lost players Vaughn Donaghy and Joe Donnelly
to critical knee injuries and Greg Kilner to serious back injury, they
were also lacking other key players, Dean Ventiri, Steve Vernon, and
Danny Rossier who were all suspended, an injury cloud over the Captain
Murat Dermikol due to and Karate mishap added more problems for coaches
Chisolm & Hughes.
The Venue Jonn Cain Memorial Park and the Team Northcate, the strikers
had simply nothing to lose, and in pregame preparation a calm nervousness
was clear and felt even by me as I was amazed by the way the boys prepared,
between eating my pizza which my mum packed for me and also downing
a banana, I saw a side of the boys which I had never seen this season.
It was clear that they believed and as the team was read out this belief
became stronger. We welcomed a well over due Mathew Perce, and the names
continued Ventiri, Jovan, Jose, Curry, Monkey, Papa then a roar and
we were walking out onto the pitch.
I tried to hide on the Bench but the linesman who was eventually to
take total control of the game asked if I be placed over the fence,
Thanks Uncle George for lifting me over without disrupting my Nintendo
DS Play, imagine the trouble I could of coursed if I had of been left
on the bench.
The Game started and away we went, the boys looked good and sure enough
the system Uncle George put in Place was working, and from the outset
the strikers were playing with composure and poise. The game was at
a frenetic pace and the all Italian Backline of Ventiri Luke & Adam,
Roberto Currie, & Marciano Brownlie were handling the pressure well.
The nerves seem to disappear and within fifteen minutes a great tackle
by Jovan and great Vision from Papa sent Perce Flying down the left
hand side, from the resulting attack we gained a corner.
Papa took the corner with his usual whip not one of his best but somehow
it fell to Derek Chisolm who made no mistake making it 1 – 0.
The ex Premier League player as Uncle George describes him scored his
second in as many weeks. The game ebbed and flowed and before I knew
it, it was halftime and strikers who really dominated play except for
the last 5 minutes of the first half went in 1 – 0 infront.
Halftime interval was the best part of the game as I was introduced
to the free lollies and cordial, that the players get, boy, the best
10 minutes of the day for me and the other 5min was listening to the
heartwarming plea from Uncle Douggie to continue with the same passion
and commitment shown in the first half.
Game on 45minutes to go could the strikers do it. As we went out with
a plan hodgey hid me and the linesman did not see me, so I was upgraded
to front row seats. The boys continued where they left off, and at the
65th min a great ball from Jose who ran him self ragged put Murat through
with the keeper one on one but a week shot failed to test the keeper.
(Having said that Murat played a superb game playing as the lone ranger
upfront.) 10minutes latter Papa Stole the ball and had a shot from 35meters
seeing the keeper off his line, if only I could of controlled it with
my Nintendo I’m sure it would of went in, but it missed to the
left side.
Hodgey was substituted for Murat and almost instantly had a positive
impact, at this stage we had played 80 minutes and the score was still
1 – 0. As Northcate Pressed they eventually got a striker into
the box, which was well handled by Adam Ventiri, but as Rixson went
down and the ref waved play on the linesman who decided that kicking
me off the bench was not enough he flagged the ref who was only 5 meters
away from the incident, and the referee decided he would listen to the
linesman 20meters away from the incident and awarded a penalty.
I must admit that I learnt a whole lot of new words which I cant wait
to try out at school but it made no difference the decision was made,
penalty awarded. Adam our goal keeper got a hand to it but it was beyond
him 1 – 1 with 5 minutes to go. With little more than 90 seconds
left a rebounded ball was hit into nortacates attack and their striker
was left clear offside infact some 3 – 4 meters and guess what??
The linesman did not wave his flag and Rixon made it 2.
Unfortunately for all the players it was a game which should has given
them points, but unfortunately the bad luck, that they thought they
got rid of returned with decisions that my little brother could have
made has returned.
To make matters worse we will now miss Jose & Murat for 1 week through
yellows cards. In wrapping it up as its way past my bedtime all I can
say is that if the strikers can continue with this commitment to each
other and dedication to believe in their ability the season is not over
by a long shot.
Thanks for a great day and the extra vocabulary that I will still need
my papa to explain. What does youfarkintwat ref mean????
Michael Di Petta
6 Years of age from Peninsula Panthers
1sts Strikers 1 v Northcote City 2
Res Strikers 0 v Northcote City 0
(Match Report to Follow)
View
Local Clubs Results
View
the Independent News Match Report For Waverley Wanderers Game
Strikers 2 v Waverley Wanderers 0
Well we knew it would happen just took a bit of time, taking
nothing away from Waverley it was a very good 3 points as both teams
knew how important a win was. We started well with Vernon busy up front
getting good service from Jose, Jovan and Chaz from the midfield. After
25mins the ref pulled a straight red card on Steve Vernon after a clash
with their centre half, amazing as he missed the two blatant hits on
Steve just prior. However with the ten men we actually started to impose
ourselves on WW and a good run and chip by Chisholm saw his effort rebound
from the bar, not long after that Murat had a brilliant overhead kick
scrape the bar with their keeper well beaten. The 2nd half started with
us taking the game to them with Jovan driving the team from midfield,
with only one forward George shuffled things 5 minutes into the half
with Luke Ventieri pushing up to support Murat. Going for the win it
was a brave move by George as with the ten men we could have got caught
on the break. Currie and Adam Ventieri were outstanding at the back
with Jovan and Dean Ventieri helping out at every opportunity. We won
a free kick on the edge of the box when Luke was upended in the 68th
min, with Jose and Derrick over the ball Murat got on the end of the
wall to disrupt things Jose ran over the ball allowing Derrick to strike
for goal, a slight deflection saw the ball buried in the bottom corner
of the WW net as the boys celebrated wildly. The passion was there for
all to see and the hard work and dedication over the weeks was at last
getting rewarded.
The ref still had a major impact on the game when he decided (in his
own mind) that a player who picks the ball up for a throw in then decides
not to take it should be sent off, duly sending Dean Ventieri to the
dressing room with still 15 mins to go. Dazzled doesn’t come near
as everyone who witnessed that was speechless.
However it only made us more determined to put the game beyond any doubt
and good play out wide by Derrick saw his cross into the box met by
Luke who coolly slotted into the net for number 2.
A great win indeed, a much needed 3 points against the odds, it’s
hard enough to play 11 v 11 but when you lose 2 players it makes it
very difficult indeed, the boys celebrated with the song for the 1st
time this year and for those who witnessed it will have no doubts on
the passion there is for this club in the dressing rooms. WELL DONE
GUYS.
Ressies
STRIKERS 4 Waverley Wanderers 2
Got back to winning ways with a resounding 4-2 win, in fact the boys
were up 4-0 and coasting Dave and Jimmy rotated the squad a little which
allowed them to come back with 2 late goals but the job was already
done. Mark Le Gnok with a brace Graham Wright again and Drew Reid were
the scorers. Great to see so many young boys getting the opportunity
and doing so well. That keeps us 2nd top behind Knox who are 3pts ahead.
From The Training Ground
The BAWBAG SHIRT found it’s way back to it’s rightful owner
with Murat picking it up for the 12th time this season. He allegedly
kicked a parked a car bruising his foot and putting him in doubt for
tomorrow’s game at Northcote.
Fairly quiet on the training ground this week as one or two of the boys
recovered from injury and flu, still Dougies team got there noses in
front with an easy win over Georges boys on Thursday night. The orange’s
led by the ever reliable Chaz blitzed the blue team 12-3 that makes
it 14-13 to Dougies team for the season thus far.
Team News
Few doubtful for game at Northcote, Murat and Marcus recovering from
injury, will be without Dean Steve and Danny all suspended. Rui’s
clearence hasn’t came thru as yet and unlike other teams in the
league we will abide by the rules set by Stonnington not the FFV and
await for the all clear. He should be available against Port Melb.
Good luck to all Strikers teams on the weekend.
The Str1ka
View
Local Clubs Results
Strikers 1 v Cranbourne 3
Not one of our best performances against local rivals
Cranbourne. In a very subdued start by the Strikers we found ourselves
1-0 down with a very dubious offside decision, Adam came out and left
his goal unguarded as the offside shout went up to no avail, the ref
played on and we were punished. We didn’t recover as they’re
very young midfielder dictated the play in the midfield and was no surprise
when we lost an incredible goal from a corner from around 3 yards. With
nine men defending it is with total amazement Cranbourne managed to
squeeze the ball over the line.
What ever George said to them at half time seemed to work as we came
out with a different approach, added a little more bite to midfield
and actually challenged for the ball. Good work by Vernon setup Demirkol
with a close range header to get us back into the game. As we pushed
forward it opened things up at the back and Presti pounced with his
first touch to put the game beyond us at 3-1.
With Danny Rossier getting red-carded in the 2nd half which was no more
than a leveler as the ref took centre stage, he red carded the Cranny
centre back earlier, not only did he miss the offside goal he chopped
2 perfectly legal Cranbourne goals off with his totally inept performance.
No wonder the game in Victoria is in such a state with clowns like this.
We introduced new signing Derek Chisholm in the 2nd half and we welcome
Derek to the squad, with 2 weeks to go in the transfer deadline we expect
to add one or two more.
We welcome Waverley Wanderers to McClelland Dr on Saturday which really
is do or die for the Strikers we were very unlucky to lose to them in
the 1st game of the season, turns out to be WW only win so far. So its
battle of the cellar dwellers with the loser being almost condemned
to 3rd Div football next year. Good luck to both sides.
Ressies
Went down 1-0 to a young Cranny side, unfortunately for Jimmy and Dave
they were robbed of they’re whole striking department with Hodgy,
Piercy and Adam all in the 1sts this week. That’s life at reserve
level with the seniors taking priority but with a little luck we can
get our title bid back on course this week with more players becoming
available.
News From The Training Ground
Tuesday night cold wet and windy had a full quota of players yet again
The effort put in is very encouraging we just need that little bit of
luck on the weekend to get that 1st win. John Jovan got the shirt with
his efforts with Doreen, (not sure who she is) (hope Cassie is aware)
anyway he said he got delayed with Doreen or something of that nature.
Dougies team got a much needed win to bring the training games level
at 9-9, Dougie said the secret of the win was NOT to pick the Italians
as they often choke dive and scream when tackled. So with the likes
of Currie, Brownlie, Chisholm, Pierce, Jovan, Adam (NOT Ventieri) Jose
and Vernon his team had a resounding 7-2 win. Well-done Dougie.
Team News
Never rains but it pours, out this week is Danny with suspension, Marcus
possible 4 weeks with ribs, Kilner back problem added with long term
injuries to Donaghy and Donnelly we go in with the bare threads of the
squad, Youngsters Jarryd and Lee could well come into contention in
the next few weeks.
Joe Donaghy goes into hospital on Saturday for his knee reconstruction
we wish Joe all the best and a speedy recovery young man.
We are also trying to sign Rui Mannuelle from overseas, Roy as he is
known trained with us Thursday night and looked sharp, still overcoming
an operation may be one or two weeks away but he looks promising.
Young Lee Brown trained well and could come in if needed.
Calciatore Profilo #4
Nome : Chaz Di Petta
Posizione: Midfield/Striker
Soprannome : Chazino
Vecchio Squadra: Cranbourne, Chelsea, Pines
Favorito Squadra : Milan, Glasgow Rangers
Migliori allenatore : George Hughes
Favorito Giocatore : Zinadane Zidane
Favorito Internazionale Squadra : Scotland
Favorito Cibo : Cibo a scarso valore nutritivo
Favorito un bicchierrino : Vino
Favorito Squadra compagno : The Ventieri bros
Favorito Passatempo : Spending time with wife Alma sons Michael 6 Rocky
4 and Daniella 3 coaching U’7s at Mornington Junior Soccer Club.
Migliori Gol Segnare : For Chelsea v Cranny last minute 1-0 win.
Di Piu Imbarazzo Momento : Missing 2 penaltys in training game to let
Georges team win against Dougie.
Ambizione : to be successful with the Strikers and score a pen.
The Str1ka
View
the Independant Newspaper Article about Knox Game
Knox 2 v Strikers 0
Strikers were beaten 2-0 at Knox on the weekend. Very even 1st half
with chances at both ends , however the game turned in the 55th minute
when a hopeful ball into our box seen Adam nudged off it and a deflection
off there striker saw the ball heading for the back of the net only
for Luke Ventieri to punch it off the line, penalty and a red card just
about sums up our season. Down to ten men and down 1 nil it was always
going to be a hard ask against a very strong Knoux team, they made it
2 nil late on to take the 3 points.
We look forward to the Cranbourne visit on the weekend
News From The Training Ground
No training on Tuesday as we took on 1st Div club Langwarrin in a friendly
match that both teams needed. It gave us the chance to play some fringe
players and try and enjoy a game with no pressure for the players. Langwarrin
started well and scored inside the first ten mins, We knocked the ball
around well and created one or two good chances. Langwarrin got away
from us late in the 2nd half but all credit to our boys they never gave
up with Dean, Chaz (pen) and Steve all getting on the score sheet we
salvaged a very well deserved 3-3 draw.
Thursday saw us back on the training track and Matty Pierce was the
recipient of the ‘’BAWBAG SHIRT’’ his heinous
crime was to wear a terrible green and gray hooped thing on his back,
we as his team mates let Matty down with not warning him about the coaches
particular Glasgow preference when it comes to the wearing of club shirts.
Sorry Matty.
Ressies
Great win at Knox on the weekend beating the top team 2-1. 2 goals from
Matty Pierce secured all three points for the youngsters.
Team News
No Greg Kilner or Luke Ventieri this week, Greg is struggling
with a back injury and Luke is suspended for one game. Big Dan and Robbie
Curry are both doubtful for the Cranbourne visit.
Player profile next week
The Str1ka
View Local Clubs
Results
In the local derby V Casey Comets, Casey where just
too strong taking the game 3-1 Murat was the goal scorer for us. We
did have the majority of the second half but just couldn't score.
The reserves also went down 1-0.
Match report from the STRIKA hopefully to follow.
In a tough fought game unfortunately the Strikers went
down 2-0. The Reserves on the otherhand had a great win against the
top spot team which now puts us only 2 points behind.
(Match Report from The STRIKA to come)
This week we play Casey Comets at home get along and support the boys
in this local derby.
View
Local Clubs Results
Chelsea 1 v Strikers 1
In a very close hard fought match Strikers earned a
well-deserved point away at Chelsea on Saturday. George Hughes made
3 changes to the starting eleven. With Joe Donaghy and Vaughan Donnelly
both out with long term injuries Robbie Curry and Chaz Di Petta came
in and Greg Kilner also came in for Steve Vernon up front. Brad Franken
returned and started on the bench. Reserve top scorer Daniel Hodge also
earned a place on the bench for the 1st time this season.
The game started off well with both teams attacking from the off, Chelsea
had 3 corners in quick succession all dealt with by our defence. In
attack Kilner was holding the ball up well getting support from the
midfield. We got a scare in 28th minute a bad clearance from keeper
Adam let in there striker to fire the ball towards the top corner, Adam
redeemed himself with a top class save. In the 35th min Greg Kilner
turned the Chelsea center half and released Murat just inside the box
Murat’s first time shot looked to be covered by the Chelsea goalkeeper
but he let it slip under his body and Kilner was on hand to roll the
ball into the net from close range.
We were coming more and more into the game with some great work from
Jovan Damo Chaz in the midfield, Jose was giving Kilner great support
through the middle.
Just before half time we lost a very sloppy goal, a Chelsea free kick
was launched hopefully into our box and the one time we switched off
it allowed there centre half to control and hit from inside the six
yard box, Adam managed to block it but the Chelsea striker was on hand
to bundle the ball over the line from 2 yards, Terrible goal to lose
as the ref blew for half time at the kick off.
The second half started with us under a bit more pressure as Chelsea
went with 3 up front, our defence of Browlie, Curry, Rossier and Luke
Ventieri were outstanding, dealing with everything coming there way,
in fact it was Murat who almost turned the game on its head after an
hour when he unleashed a tremendous strike from 18 yards that brought
out the save of the match from the Chelsea keeper. With Vernon coming
on for Damo who put in a great shift, Dean Ventieri for Chaz who ran
himself ragged we looked as if we could get that winning goal, Dean
had a brilliant effort that scraped the bar in the last 5 minutes which
would have got us our first win. Brad Franken came on for Murat and
we seen out the last few minutes with really only one scare when there
striker got into a good position Luke came across and got a brilliant
last gasp tackle in. So 1-1 it finished, Chelsea possibly had one or
two more clear cut chances but with a new system implied by George Hughes
for the first time this year all credit must go to the boys for a great
point away from home. We will not go anywhere more intimidating than
Chelsea and we kept our discipline very well when even after the final
whistle the players were heckled and challenged on the way to the dressing
room. There a top 4 team and we proved we can match it with them, next
week we travel to Knox where it won’t be any easier but we must
keep getting points to get us off the bottom spot on the ladder. Brilliant
effort lads.
Reserves Chelsea 3 v Strikers 1
Disappointing result for the ressies after there good form
recently, going down to a stubborn Chelsea side. Hodgey opened the scoring
but were soon on level terms, Chelsea got 2 pens in the 2nd half the
2nd one unbelievable where the ref pulled that one from nobody knows.
A little bit of inexperience cost us but we still sit clear 2nd and
take on top team Knox on Saturday. Good luck lads.
News From the Training Ground
In a biting cold Tuesday evening we had a full quota of players,
with the exception of Greg Kilner who was convalescing after his goal
on the weekend.
George again got himself the winning team when some dubious refereeing
decisions went his way. The game went down to a penalty shoot-out and
again the culprit was Chaz Di Petta when his twice taken kick was saved
by Leigh in goals. Dougie was distraught as all he needed was Chaz to
score one of his chances to give Dougie a win over George. We interviewed
Dougie after training and he said he would be more careful with his
training team selections in future. George had a smug look about himself.
That’s 8-6 in George’s favour now, but as Dougie said ‘’there’s
a long way to go’’. The MURAT SHIRT this week went to our
Bob Marley look-alike Danny Rossier, although we cant go into to much
detail lets just say there were plenty stories flying around about our
Rastafarian headed defender at a certain nightclub on Saturday night.
We thank Damo once again for the info. Matty Pierce was very lucky to
miss out. Also Robbie Curry got nutmegged by a pole and gave away a
penalty at training so both fortunate not to get the SHIRT.
We were also missing Jose who was at college brushing up on his Scottish
sayings after complaining to teammates he doesn’t know what George
means when he shouts ‘’ Jose whitthefuckwizthat’’
Jose ‘’stoapgeeinthefuckinbawaway’’ or Jose
‘’kickittaefuck’’
Maybe we will see the best from him when he understands the Glesga accent.
To add to our ever-growing readers of this column, up to 7 now read
this we ask a trivia question on our club or game. This weeks is…
Is it possible for the same player to score 3 goals in a game without
any other player touching the ball ?? think about it.
AND has any of the current players or coaches been involved at Cranbourne,
Langy,Strikers and Pines.??? Answers on a postcard there will be a prize
of two free tickets to McClelland Drive this Saturday 7th June.
Team News
Brad Franken leaves to return to the UK on Sunday we will miss
Brad’s involvement here as he embraced the club since joining
us in January. Brad put his hand up for the captaincy and shows the
love he has for this club in such a short period of time. He will be
missed in the dressing room as well as the park as he always played
his heart out for us. We wish him all the very best and urge him to
stay in touch we will have a beer after the game on Saturday with Brad.
Joe Donaghy and Vaughan Donnelly have both had it confirmed they need
full knee re-constructions, which is very sad, as the season has now
ended for them; we wish them a full and speedy recovery.
Good to see Leigh Wilkinson back at training on Tuesday and hopefully
on the park in the not so distant future. Everyone is ready for another
treacherous task away to Knox on the weekend; there flying high and
we’re still looking for that elusive 1st win.
Player Profile #3
Name : Robbie Curry
Age : 25
Previous Club : Frankston Pines
Position : Central Defence
Nickname : The Quiet Assassin
Hobbies : Train spotting, Stamp collecting.
Favourite TV shows : Big Brother Neighbours.
Favourite Movies : Saturday Night Fever, StarTrek.
Favourite Food : Curry
Favourite Team : The Sheep
Favourite Player : Drew Jarvie
Favourite Teammate : Big Alex (he left Robbie)
Favourite Music : Anything Scottish
Favourite Singer : John Jovan
Best Goal Scored : for Pines v Westgate slide tackle in own box
Ran 80 yards one two with striker and chipped the keeper from 30 yards
Most Embarrassing Moment : Pulling a hammy celebrating above goal
Ambition : Guiding Strikers to promotion this year and retiring to serve
the Victorian Police Force.
Thanks Robbie and all the best on the weekend.
Cheers ‘’The Striker ‘’ or it is "The
STRIKA"
View
Local Clubs Results
Latest news views and lies from the dressing
room.
Strikers 0 v Eastern Lions 0
Frustrating game as we had almost all the play, we played some of the
best football we have seen all season but unfortunately there was nothing
at the end of it.
Any time we did penetrate the Lions back line our forwards were unable
to apply the finishing touch.
We welcomed Vaughan Donnelly into the starting eleven in place of Robbie
Curry and Vaughan started well winning a few hefty tackles but after
22 minutes he twisted his knee going for a ball and had to be replaced
by Chaz Di Petta. John Jovan was working hard in the midfield alongside
Murat and Jose.
We had to reshuffle the defence when Damo slotted in for the injured
Vaughan. There was no real threat from a very subdued Eastern Lions
although they did find themselves in game winning positions late on
with 2 one on one’s with Adam. We cleared the danger and it would
have been an injustice if we lost this game.
It does give us a lesson in regards to no matter how much any team is
out the game they can get that one chance to bury you.
Our fortunes seem to get worse when late on young Joe Donaghy badly
twisted his knee in a challenge and had to go to hospital with suspected
ligament damage.
Steve Vernon and Luke Ventieri worked hard up front and could have won
the game with chances in the 2nd half but typical of our season so far
we just didn’t have the killer touch. George introduced Dean and
Greg in an attempt to get that elusive 1st win, however Lions stood
firm and got the draw they wanted.
Next week we are not to far from home when we go on our first of 2 away
games, Chelsea have started reasonably well and we can be assured of
a hard game down there on the weekend. After that we travel to Knox
then bring the season to the half way mark when we entertain Cranbourne
back at McClelland Dr.
News From The Training Ground
There seems to be a monopoly on the ‘’BAWBAG SHIRT’’
with Murat getting it for the 8th time this year. His latest embarrassment
meant the BBQ he arranged with no meat no gas and no 1st team coaches
had the ‘’specially invited ‘’ hand picked guests
heading for Dominoes Pizza shop around 9pm hungry and emotional. We’re
just going to re-name the BAWBAG SHIRT the MURAT SHIRT.or should that
be MOO MOO.
We possibly witnessed the goal of the season from big Dan when he launched
himself forward winning 3 tackles and lashing the ball past Leigh from
all of 25 yards just as well it was at the no net end as it would have
destroyed it.
Player profile #2 Big Dan
Name : Daniel Rossier
Age: 24
Position: Centre Back
Nickname: Stoner
Favourite Team: Southampton
Favourite Player: Robbie Curry
Favourite Singer: Bob Marley/ John Jovan
Favourite Goal Scored : Don’t know haven’t scored yet
Best Mate: Matty Pierce Southampton boy
Most Embarrassing Moment: Missing pen at training and coaching staff
still looking for the ball.
Ambition: To take Strikers to the Premier League in 2 seasons.
Reserves
Strikers 2 v Eastern Lions 1
Another good win from the young ressies,, we took the lead early on
when Hodgy and Matty Pierce combined for Daniel Hodge to slot past the
Lions keeper to go one up.
Eastern Lions equalized midway thru the 2nd half when there striker
latched on to a pass to bury it beyond Leigh, however this team never
wants to settle for anything less than a win and Jarryd Barnes got on
the end of a lovely thru ball to slot it past the Lions keeper to get
maximum points. That puts us 2nd on the ladder which is a tremendous
effort by all concerned, from a team who struggled in Div 3 last year
to one of the contenders this year is quite a remarkable turnaround
with such a young squad. All credit to Jimmy Stewart and Dave Reid who
have assembled a very watchable footballing team.
Team News
With the doom and gloom casting a dark shadow over us we learn
this week we could be without the services of Joe Donaghy, Vaughan Donnelly
and Brad Franken for the rest of the season Joe and Vaughan sustain
bad knee injuries on the weekend and Brad has informed us he intends
to go back to the UK on a permanent basis in 2 weeks. With Damo off
to the Euros for 5 months it leaves us very depleted. However George
has put things in motion to bring a few players to the club and that
will happen very soon.
This week we travel to Chelsea always a difficult place to get points
but the boys are as ever very focused. We will bring in Matty Pierce
and Adam Ventieri who have both done exceptionally well in the reserves.We
also have Robbie Curry back.
"The Striker"
View
Local Clubs Results
Stonnington 2 v Strikers 1
As I wasn’t at the game I have to rely on others views. We lost
two dreadful goals in the 1st half and really made a mountain for ourselves
to climb in the 2nd period. After starting brightly enough Greg Kilner
scored two goals only to see the linesman flag for offside twice, disappointing
as we actually played very well to set up both chances, that’s
when we need a little luck as on both accounts Greg couldn’t have
been more than half a yard offside. However after the break we took
the game to Stonnington and Chaz almost scored with a free header within
2 mins of the restart. We closed down and fought for every ball in the
midfield, something that was missing before halftime.
George made two changes after an hour with the Ventieri bros Luke and
Dean replacing Greg Kilner and Chaz Di Petta.
It looked to have worked when going 3 up front Luke latched on to a
ball and from 18 yards buried it in the bottom right hand corner, it
was all Strikers as Vernon, Brownlie and Damo all bursting into the
box only to be denied by last ditch tackling from the home team.
George made his last sub when he replaced the tiring Jose with John
Jovan, who added more bite in the middle, with seconds remaining a back
post ball was almost bundled over the line by Luke but the home defence
managed to desperately clear the danger. With Adam in the Strikers goal
hardly involved he did have to be alert late on when they almost caught
us on the break, making a fine save.
So here we go again ‘unlucky’ I think we were due something
from this game, unlike last weeks game v Doncaster where the better
team won, today Stonnington were no better than us, we just let ourselves
down by losing two shocking goals and giving ourselves to much to do
in the 2nd half.
Next week we entertain Eastern Lions who were promoted with us last
season, it’s a real six pointer, as we just can’t afford
to lose any more games at home.
Ressies Stonnington 0 v Strikers 4
Another great win from this young team with Matty Pierce 2 Vaughan Donnelly
and Hodgy doing the damage all before half time.
No report as the ressies coaches are away having a latte and smoking
cigars.
News From the Training Ground
As expected another full house at training, The dreaded ‘’BAWBAG
SHIRT’’ goes this week to ‘’DAMO’’
personally I think Damo was hanging out for it to get his name in the
website. However he forgot his ‘’boots’’ all
any football player needs to remember to bring is his boots, his bosom
car buddies Jose and Murat have both received the shirt in recent weeks
and we think Damo just felt left out. Murat not only got drunk, left
his car in the city, left his house keys in his car in the city and
entertained an absolute ‘’minger’’ but Damo
got the jersey.
In another cliffhanger the training game this week went to Dougies team,
Chaz was absolutely devastating in front of goal and it’s good
to see he has put that double penalty miss last Tuesday firmly behind
him.
In the game where a stale stench of raw (South African) fish seemed
to follow Murat he got plenty room to rattle 4 or 5 goals to boost his
confidence, it just seemed that no defender would go near him.
There were other culprits up for the award with Dean noticing that Dougie
was wearing a nice pair of tartan ankle socks under his tracksuit but
this was not confirmed, personally I would have great pleasure in giving
it to one of the coaching staff. So maybe now that should put paid to
any doubters that think the coaching staff are writing this.
As we don’t have a camera big enough there is no photos of Joes
latest body piercing. We look at the first player profile Marcus Brownlie.
NAME : Marcus Brownlie
AGE : 23
Nickname : ‘’OOR WULLIE’’
Position : Hivnae goat wan.
Favourite Team : Glasgow Rangers
Favourite Player : George Hughes
Favourite team mate : The 2 physios
Girlfriend : My Darling Lauren
Favourite Food : Scotch Sausage
Favourite Drink : Scotch
Favourite Sayings : A TELT HIM….BUT A DIDNAE NO.
Honours : Winning 3rd Div and clubs B&F 2007 & Hampton Park
U’8 coaches award. The coach was ma da.
Most embarrassing moments : Scoring the winning goal FOR Berwick last
year.
Getting sent off v Berwick last year
Winning the clubs B&F last year.
Ambition in football : To score a goal even at training. And work on
my Scottish accent.
Thank you Marcus, we look forward to you gaining your ambitions at
the Strikers. Next Week we look at Big Dan.
Team News
Robbie Curry is not available this weekend with work commitments, Brad
is still away in the UK Vaughan Donnelly is recovering from a knock
and the club has transferred Ozzie to Springvale City, we wish him all
the best with his new club.
View
Local Clubs Results
The Mystery writer is back again.
Strikers v Doncaster Rovers 1-3
Yes, disappointment again as this young squad attempt to get
our first win on the board. Playing a very well organized and experienced
Doncaster side we took the game to them in the first 20 minutes, a few
little errors here and there let in the Doncaster forward to slip the
ball past the diving Adamovski in the home goal. We probably had our
best spell after that with Murat and Steve Vernon both going close.
The 2nd half started with Jose playing some very nice football in our
midfield trying to create that opening to get us back into the game.
John Jovan was replaced with Damo midway thru the 2nd half and Luke
Ventieri replaced by Greg Kilner. Doncaster were always a threat and
Robbie Bresciano (brother of Socceroo Marc) out muscled our defence
in 70 minutes to strike an unstoppable shot past Adam. As we pushed
forward against the ten men we left ourselves exposed at the back and
were duly punished when the Doncaster winger beat the offside to round
the keeper and make it 3 nil.
Joe Donaghy had to be replaced with ten mins to go with a groin strain,
Dean Ventieri joining Kilner and Murat up front, Dean latched on to
a good strike and save by there keeper to volley home from 12 yards,
It was however only a consolation goal as the final whistle blew at
the resumption of play.
The boys worked hard but were punished for giving the ball away in dangerous
areas, in this league there is far more quality than last years 3rd
Div and it will be a battle for every single point. We stay focused
and turn our attention to next weeks trip to Stonnington, a ground where
points don’t come easy.
Like to thank the ref’s and the Doncaster committee for coming
in to the clubrooms on the weekend to share the hospitality, shame only
one or two of the Doncaster players came in when the girls in the canteen
had organized food for them.
Nice to see Steve Keenan back helping out the seniors by taking the
warm up. Steve has been at the Strikers for a number of years and his
influence is well appreciated by everyone.
Reserves News
Strikers v Doncaster 2-0
2 fine strikes by Graham Wright secured all 3 points for the ressies.
Playing against a young Doncaster side that were in the top 3. It was
late in the game when Graham beat the offside trap and rounded the Doncaster
keeper to roll the ball into an empty net, not being satisfied with
that Graham then latched on to an Adam Ventieri cross to almost burst
the net with a glorious strike from around 16 yards, two quite tremendous
goals from Graham who really should practice his goal celebrations,
you’d think he’d be used to it as that’s around half
a dozen he has scored for the season now.
Great win from the reserve side and puts them up to second spot in the
league.
News from the Training Ground
Once again we had a full quota of players at training. There is no denying
that the boys are hurting in regards to the league position but the
spirit and work rate is still very high.
The recipient of the dreaded ‘’BAWBAG SHIRT’’
this week surprisingly went to our South American hero ‘’Jose’’
he got a little tired and emotional whilst out drowning his sorrows
at the weekend, ended up head down behind a local club ‘’Kittens’’
apparently looking for a stray pussy, poor Jose fell asleep and woke
up 4 hours later. Once again we thank Damo for sharing this with us,
and confirmed by Marcus Brownlie, who we still don’t know how
he came to be in ‘’Kittens’’ when his girlfriend
was tucked up in bed at home.
Re-arrange this sentence Marcus…. Bird window sleeping out sneak
2am.
George and Dougie have asked me to give special mention to Robby Curry,
he knows what for, cheers Robby.
In a hard fought training game where no quarter was given the Orange
team (George’s team) beat the blue team (Dougie’s team)
on pens, With Big Dan the culprit with a horrendous effort, so much
so we’re still looking for the ball in the timber yard next door.
Vaughn Donnelly Murat Chaz and Luke Ventieri also missed from the spot
but Big Dan’s was the miss of the season.
Greg Kilner’s integrity was questioned late in the game when his
attempted cross fell at the feet of one of ‘’his own’’
Greg simply dispelled any theories he was cheating when he stated he
just wasn’t good enough.
So another week and the spirits as ever stay high, we look forward to
the Stonnington game and endeavor to give our loyal fans who have stuck
by us something to cheer about.
Don’t miss next edition of ‘’ News from the training
ground’’ as we introduce player profile’s, we will
also be asking George why whiteboard markers are being lost at such
an alarming rate and look at Young Joe’s latest body piercing
and if we can get the website a little bigger we will show photos!!!!
This is a not to be missed edition girls.
Team News
We are still without Brad and Ozzie for the away trip on Saturday;
Young Joe is getting treatment for a groin strain, as is Steve Vernon
with an ankle. Everyone else is fit and ready to turn the tide.
The boys would like to take this opportunity in wishing Man Utd and
Chelsea all the best in the upcoming Champions League Final and of course
Glasgow Rangers in there quest in the UEFA Cup Final.
Yours in Sport
A.N Other.
Ps we thank last weeks senior player for the report and this week’s
by a committee member.
View Local Clubs
Results
MATCH REPORT Sth Springvale 3rd May 08 (thankyou to
the anonymous person who sent in this report)
Despite losing our first 5 games the morale in the camp is still very
high. Our 1-0 away loss to South Springvale on the weekend was met with
some disbelief not only amongst the Strikers people but the home coach
and players. We created many chances hitting the woodwork on 3 occasions,
losing the only goal of the game just before half time with a penalty.
Adamski in goal did very well on a few occasions to keep Strikers in
the game but the chances at the other end were spurned and the chance
to gain our first point was squandered.
The training ground was again buzzing on Tuesday night with the boys
desperate to put there latest disappointment behind them the work ethic
of this group of players can never be questioned, with the help of a
little luck going in our favour it is only a matter of time until the
boys turn things around, there is a lot of quality here but the inexperience
in the team is getting the better of us right now.
There is a long way to go and with determination and hard work it will
see us getting points on the board and continuing the season in a much
more positive note.
ON A LIGHTER NOTE
The training ground is a place where the players cannot hide especially
when you have the likes of ‘’so called mates’’
like Damo, Chaz, Kilner, Curry, Jose players who are always quick to
point out any misdemeanors with player’s antics outside the club.
Murat came in for some serious ridicule last week gaining the dreaded
‘’BAWBAG TOP’’ for the 4th time this season,
his latest downfall came about when at his own birthday party, the coaching
staff were NOT invited to, one of his girly mates allegedly called him
his pet bedroom name ‘’Moo Moo’’ very cute indeed.
We thank Damo for sharing that with us. Dean Ventieri ran a close second
with little pop socks he wore rather than the normal football ones you
would expect to see, but the fact he came straight from a school detention
and 200 hundred lines of ‘’I must not tackle in the box
‘’ he managed to get away with it.
We look forward to Dean scoring his first goal for the club as a MacDonald’s
happy meal voucher awaits him.
Team news for the weekend’s game against Doncaster Rovers.
We will be without Brad who is attending a wedding in the UK. Ozzie
is still a week or so away with work commitments but we welcome the
return of John Jovan who comes back into the squad after serving a one
match ban, everyone else is fit and raring to go as George Hughes tries
to get that elusive first win.
Reserve news
Jimmy and Dave continue to entertain us with attacking football from
this very young reserve side, sitting nicely four points off top spot
were a little off colour on the weekend going down 1-0, after such a
great win the previous week 6-0 v Diamond Valley, but just like the
senior side the inexperience of this team will make things inconsistent
in terms of results.
Hodgey must get a mention for his 4-goal haul in the last home game.
They face a tough game v Doncaster this week. Good luck to both teams.
Despite having 70% of the game, hitting the post etc,
we just couldn't score going down 1-0 to South Springvale.
The Reserves also lost 1-0
(Match Report to follow) or email me one at peninsula.strikers@yahoo.com.au
View Local Clubs
Results
Strikers lost 2-0 against Diamond Valley Utd, Diamond
Valley Utd scored both their goals in the 1st half, we had much of the
play in the second half but just couldn't score. What made matters worse
was the send off of John Jovan after a second yellow.
The Reserves are continuing their great form with a 6-0 win, with Hodgey
scoring 4 of them.
After going down 3-0 at Port Melbourne in a Friday
Evening flood light game (the reserves 2-0 up at half time fell away
badly in the second half to loose 3-2.)
It was hoped that we would at least start our point’s campaign
at home to Diamond Valley, having seen the reserves give the Valley
Reserves a 6-0 hiding in difficult conditions we thought the scene was
set for something special from the team.
I believe a comparison albeit could be set between the English Premier
League and the Championship League for when teams come out of the lower
competition on they find it very hard to get to grips with the higher
competition. Such is the case it seems for Strikers this season. We
have lost many vital position players in the off season
and despite recruiting players, they have as yet not really settled
down to the competition. Our coaches know what these players should
be doing that is concentrating on the game for the whole of 90 minuets.
It was evident on Saturday that the players were not tuned in, in the
first half.
Defensive errors through players ball watching and not player watching,
opened up our defence and two unnecessary goals were given away one
very early in the game.
We could have been down even further at half time although it must be
said that the ball hitting the post at the Valley end did not help our
cause. As George would say we need a little bit of luck.
The second half proved to be a complete turn around we had 70% of the
game and two goal line clearances a great save from a Joe Donaghy special
stopped us from at least getting a draw.
Although we are sitting at the bottom as they say “it is a long
season” lets hope in the next few games we can fully concentrate
on the field and get some much needed point’s.
If their is anyone out there that would like to write
a match report for the games please do so at peninsula.strikers@yahoo.com.au
View
Local Clubs Results
Saxon Sports Frankston
Saxon Sports have new seasons starting soon, if you are interested then
please feel free to let Chris or Ash know at the Centre on 9783 6066;
Senior Soccer Competitions
Monday and Tuesday Nights -$50 per team - 5 a side - 30 minute matches
We are very strong with our lower grade teams at the centre but are
looking to improve the strength of our top grades.
If your club members are interested in entering a team or two then we
will be happy to put up any signage you may have, within the centre.
We will also waiver the registration fees.
Junior Soccer Competitions
Monday Evenings - $8 per player - 5 a side - 30 minute matches
The centre has always run a very successful summer competition but we
are keen to provide a winter option to all the soccer mad juniors out
there!
Again, if your club enters one or more teams then we are happy to display
any club signage that you may have, within the centre.
We will also waiver the registration fees.
Experienced Soccer Referees Wanted
We are currently looking to recruit new referees to the centre and there
will be a spot as Head Referee available in the next few weeks. This
role would enable the referee to ref up to 20 games a week and earn
some handy dollars! So, if you know of anyone within your club who may
be interested tell them to phone Chris or Ash at the Centre on 9783
6066 today!
I look forward to working closely with all the local soccer clubs over
the coming years and hope that this email can be the start of a relationship
that benefits all parties involved.
Regards
Chris Hall
Saxon
Sports Frankston
CHCA Cricket
Equipment and Coaching
In a tough tussle against Northcote City, Strikers went down 3-2. On
a picture perfect day with a strong crowd it was a game that looked
like nobody would score. We drew first blood though with a great goal
from new comer Bradley Frankel, Northcote struck back not long later
to make it 1-1 and then scored another to make it 2-1 and then another
to make it 3-1. We pushed forward though and managed to get one back
with a great goal from Murat Demirkol. But it wasn't enough.
View
Some Photographs of The Game.
We play Port Melbourne Friday Night under lights
Strikers played Waverley Wanderers @ Waverley. In a
game that we dominated we just couldn't get over the line. Winning 2-1
at half time, Waverley continued to pepper our goals and were rewarded
with 2 goals making the final score Strikers 2 - Waverley 3.
The Reserves had a good 2 - 1 win.
View
Local Clubs Results
Strikers played Noble Park on the weekend and won 3-1
with the old timer Greg Kilner scoring a hat trick.
Having returned from the bonding theme at Phillip Island,
Strikers played Fitzroy at Perry Road continueing the good form with
a 3-2 win.
In the continuing tournament at Perry Road Strikers
beat Doveton 2-1 in an encouraging result. The squad have gone to a
camp at Phillip Island this weekend.
Our reserve side not often mentioned have also been playing practice
games and this young side have beaten Langwarrin Rowville Rosebud and
only lost to White Eagles 2-1 after leading 1-0. Dave Read and Jim Stewart
are shaping the boys into a good tea.
Strikers lost their first game of the pre season in
the round robin tournamentheld at Perry Road last weekend. Meeting the
hosts Springvale White Eagles the team played well but went down 3-1
In the competition being held at Springvale White Eagles ground in the
first week we had a good draw against higher opposition placed Westgate
2-2
In the game from this weekend a comfortable 5-1 win over Provisional
League side Rowville Eagles.
In the dressing room Lee Wilkinson appears to have returned from a brief
stay at Langwarrin.
Craig Wright is training with the club after leaving us for Berwick
City last season.
2008 Division 2 South East Fixture Just Released. Click
Here
Frankston Pines Fixtures 2008. Click
Here
Langwarrin's Fixtures 2008. Click
Here
Mornington's Fixtures 2008. Click
Here
Seaford's Fixtures 2008. Click
Here
It seems to be common place at Strikers to have completely
different squads each season and this year will prove no exception for
our senior eleven.
We will introduce our new players soon of our old players Matt Minor
and Garry Hughes are both overseas while 3 players have retired Alex
Rae Steve Keenan and Jamie Skelly the latter having taken the reserve
eleven coaching position at Langwarrin. Perhaps the biggest loss is
that of Simon O’Donnell who has returned to Langwarrin taking
with him Leigh Wilkinson who wants to try his luck at higher level football.
Mickey Moore looks to be heading to Seaford so as you can see a big
recruitment drive will be needed.
Last weekend our first eleven played a friendly at Warragal winning
2-0 over the coming weeks we will be playing in a tournament at Springvale
White Eagles venue
Here is a list of the games
FEB 17 KO 6 pm v Westgate
FEB 23 KO 4 pm v Rowville Eagles
MAR 1 KO 6 pm v Springvale W.E
MAR 9 KO 6 pm v Doveton
MAR 16 KO 6 pm v Fitzroy
MAR 22 KO 6 pm v Berwick Kings
MAR 30 KO 4 pm v Noble Park
Strikers last week played a friendly against Pines and showed some good
promise. We went down 3-1 with Murat scoring the goal.
Pre- Season training for the bayside Teams starts this Wednesday 30th
January at McClelland Drive starting at 7pm
Click here for
the Strikers Pre-Season Training Schedule
Congratulations to Damien and Anna on the birth
of their daughter recently.
Merry Christmas to all our members and their families
Visitors for league games to McClelland Drive next season
are as follows:
The fixtures are not out yet but here are the clubs
CASEY COMETS
CHELSEA
DIAMOND VALLEY
DONCASTER
EASTERN LIONS
KNOX
NORTHCOTE
PORT MELBOURNE
SOUTH SPRINGVALE
STONINGTON
WAVERLEY WANDERERS
The recent AGM that the Strikers produced some nice surprises for the
attendance the club financially is back on track after three years of
hard work. The promotion to Division 2 was a topic of conversation and
had many people saying could it be a back to back.
Tony Hall long time President has retired from his position stating
it was a job for a younger person now He was however persuaded to hold
a place on the general committee. Colin Mitchell was elected as the
new President with Tommy (Snappy Tom) Wright as Vice President. Trudi
Hay is the new Secretary, Damien Bradbury stepping down due to family
commitments but once again took a minor role on the committee.
Steve Murtagh and Clayton Lee again put their hands up for continuing
their club roles while Bruce Mitchell and Darren Lee replaced Ann McFarlane
and Graham Watson on the committee Bernie Greenman and Mark Mills also
stood again for committee, all were thanked for offering their services
to the club.
Laurence Hall will continue to run the clubs excellent Website.
Player News
Of last seasons squad three have decided to retire
Alex Rae Steve Keenan and Jamie Skelly the latter taking on a coaching
role at Langwarrin. Garry Hughes and Matt Minor are overseas and will
possibly miss most of the season. Robbie Curry also looks set to be
changing his job and his new position could side line him from playing
for the club.
Any future players reading this is welcome to attend training starting
next week.
Click
here for Pre Season Letter from coach George Hughes re: training dates
