Hyundai A-League Movements

Ahead of the official launch of the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season on Monday in Sydney, this official FFA preview details the fine-tuning during the off-season by each of the 8 Hyundai A-League clubs.

At a Glance

How many players have changed clubs?

.More.

Disciplinary Process Revamped for New Hyundai A-League Season

The disciplinary regulations of the Hyundai A-League have been revamped for the season which starts tonight.

“The regulations were reviewed because we wanted to ensure that football’s disciplinary provisions are not only consistent with those of the sport internationally, but also with community expectations within Australia,” said Football Federation Australia CEO, Ben Buckley.

The key changes include:

• the appointment of a three person Match Review Panel to review footage of each match where players receive a red card (send off);

• the appointment of a Disciplinary Committee to hear player appeals and direct referrals;

• the capacity for FFA to directly refer matters to the Disciplinary Committee if the referee has made an “obvious error”  and the matter is contrary to the good image of football;

• the capacity for players to challenge a red card decision on the basis that the referee, in possession of all the facts including available broadcast footage, has made an error;

• an increase in the number of accumulated yellow cards to 5 before a one match suspension is received.  For every 3 yellow cards after this, the player receives a two match suspension; and

• the opening of hearings of the Disciplinary Committee and the subsequent Appeals Committee to accredited media for reporting purposes and subject to certain conditions.

The new Match Review Panel is to be chaired by former referee, Barry Such.  Other members include former Socceroos, Alan Davidson and Jean Paul de Marigny and another former referee, Simon Micallef.

The Disciplinary Committee is to be chaired by John Marshall SC with lawyer and former Socceroo, Peter Tredinnick, as Deputy Chairman.

FFA’s new disciplinary regulations were developed during the off season following an analysis of other systems including FIFA’s, the Asian Football Confederation’s and other football leagues, as well as consultation with legal practitioners, former football players, the AFL, NRL, referees and the Australian Professional Footballers’ Association, Hyundai A-League clubs and State member federations.

“We hope the new set of regulations will eliminate many of the inconsistencies that existed in the system over the first three years of the Hyundai A-League and ensure that players, referees, clubs and fans have certainty over the disciplinary regulations and process,” Buckley said.

Olyroos bow out of Olympic tournament

The Australian Men's Olympic Football team (Olyroos) have bowed out of the Olympic tournament, after going down 1-0 to Côte d’Ivoire in Tianjin overnight.

A late goal by star striker Salomon Salou gave the Ivoirians victory, which sealed their qualification for the next round, while Australia had to settle for third spot on the group table ahead of Serbia on goal difference.

Australia had numerous chances to get the win they needed, but lacked the finishing touch in front of goal. David Carney went the closest in the first half, his shot cleared off the line.

19 Aug '08 Nigeria (oly.) 4–1 Belgium (oly.)   
19 Aug '08 Argentina (oly.) 3–0 Brazil (oly.)

16 Aug '08 Nigeria (oly.) 2–0 Ivory Coast (oly.)   
16 Aug '08 Argentina (oly.) 2–1 Netherlands (oly.)   
16 Aug '08 Italy (oly.) 2–3 Belgium (oly.)   
16 Aug '08 Brazil (oly.) 2–0 Cameroon (oly.) 

 Australia Narrowly go down

to Argentina

The Australian Men’s Olympic Football team have been narrowly defeated by Argentina in their second match of 2008 Olympic Games Football tournament in Shanghai tonight.

Australia held their own against their South American opposition for much of the match until, Argentinean striker Ezequiel Lavezzi scored in the 76^th minute against the run of play, confirming his team’s passage to the quarter-final stage of the tournament.

Argentina began the stronger of the two teams and could have taken the lead in the 15^th minute when Australian goal keeper Adam Federici was penalised for holding onto the ball longer than 6 seconds in his own penalty box. Argentina’s captain, Juan Riquelme’s took a shot from the resulting indirect free-kick and went marginally wide of the right-hand post..

Australia’s Billy Celeski had a great solo effort in the 21^st minute beating three defenders inside the Argentina penalty box only to see his shot blocked by a sliding Federico Fazio.

Juan Riquelme had another opportunity near the half-hour mark when Lionel Messi set him up outside the Australian penalty box, but Federici had the his shot well covered.

Australia had a chance in the 39^th minute when midfielder James Troisi slipped Archie Thompson a pass in behind the Argentinean defence. Unfortunately, Thompson’s shot was mis-timed and went wide of the goal.

Lionel Messi came close to scoring just before half time, again combining with Riquelme at the edge of the box, but his left footed shot also went wide of the post and didn’t concern Federici.

After the break, Argentina continued to apply the pressure and a flurry of shots from Riquelme and Javier Mascherano put the Australian goal in danger early on.

Midway through the second half, Australia had their best chance to score when substitute Nikita Rukavytsya fired his left footed shot into the side netting of the Argentine goal with his first touch of the ball.

The Argentinean goal came in the 76^th minute when substitute Angel Di Maria made a break down the left side of the field before passing to Lionel Messi in the middle of the park. Messi played a deft ball to Juan Riquelme who in turn passed to Di Maria on the left side of the Australian penalty box. Di Maria then crossed to Ezequiel Lavezzi at the far post who was able to blast his shot past a diving Adam Federici and into the goal.

Australia pushed players forward looking for an equaliser, but Argentina closed the game down, content with a one-goal victory and safe passage to the quarter final stage of the tournament.

Australia will play their final group match of the 2008 Olympic Games Men’s Football Tournament against Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) at the Olympic Sports Center Stadium in Tianjin on Wednesday 13 August (Kick-off 9:45pm AEST). Australia will need a win to have a chance of progressing to the quarter final stage of the competition.

Match Details

Argentina         1 (Ezequiel Lavezzi 76’)

Australia          0

Sunday, 10 August 2008

Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai, China PR

Referee: Viktor Kassai (HUN)

Assistant Referees: Gabor Eros (HUN) & Tibor Vamos (HUN)

Fourth Official: Jair Marrufo (USA)

Crowd: 38,182

Argentina line-up: 1.Oscar Ustari (gk), 2.Ezequiel Garay, 3.Luciano Monzon, 4.Pablo Zabaleta, 5.Fernando Gago, 6.Federico Fazio, 9.Ezequiel Lavezzi (7.Jose Sosa 87’), 10.Juan Riquelme (C), 14.Javier Mascherano, 15.Lionel Messi (13.Lautaro Acosta 93+’), 16.Sergio Aguero (11.Angel Di Maria 61’).

Substitutes Not Used: 18.Sergio Romero (gk), 8.Ever Banega, 12. Nicolas Pareja, 17.Diego Buonanotte.

Yellow Cards: Nil.

Red Cards: Nil

Australia line-up: 1.Adam Federici (gk), 2.Jade North, 4.Mark Milligan (C), 5.Matthew Spiranovic, 7.Neil Kilkenny 8.Stuart Musialik, 10.Archie Thompson (17.Nikita Rukavytsya 72’), 11.David Carney, 13.Ruben Zadkovich, 14.James Troisi (9.Mark Bridge, 65’). 16.Billy Celeski (12.Trent McClenahan 81’).

Substitutes Not Used: 18.Tando Velaphi (gk), 3.Adrian Leijer, 6.Nikolai Topor-Stanley, 15.Kristian Sarkies.

Yellow Cards: Adam Fedrici 74’, Mark Milligan 89’.

Red Cards: Nil

Men's Football Section of the 2008 Australian Olympic Team

Mark Bridge (Sydney FC), David Carney* (Sheffield United, England), Billy Celeski (Melbourne Victory), Adam Federici (Reading, England), Neil Kilkenny (Leeds United, England), Adrian Leijer (Fulham FC, England), Trent McClenahan (uncontracted), Mark Milligan (uncontracted), Stuart Musialik (Sydney FC), Jade North* (Newcastle Jets), Nikita Rukavytsya (Perth Glory), Kristian Sarkies (Adelaide United), Matthew Spiranovic (FC Nurnberg, Germany), Archie Thompson* (Melbourne Victory), Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Perth Glory), James Troisi (uncontracted), Tando Velaphi (Perth Glory), Ruben Zadkovich (Derby County, England).
* denotes over age players

Alternate Players

Leigh Broxham (Melbourne Victory), James Holland (Newcastle Jets), Chris O’Connor (Bray Wanderers, Ireland), Matt Simon (Central Coast Mariners).

Upcoming Match Details - Olympic Football Tournament – Beijing 2008

Côte d’Ivoire v Australia

Wednesday 13 August 2008 (Kick-Off Time 19:45pm CST (21:45pm AEST))

Olympic Sports Centre Stadium, Tianjin, China

Euro2008

more

	South Melbourne FC: MVP Night 08 Club legend to hang up gloves By George Kouroumalis South Melbourne FC regrets to announce the retirement of club captain, championship winner and inspirational leader Dean Anastasiaidis. Dean will leave the game and in particular the club being regarded as one of the best goalkeepers seen over the past decade, at VPL and NSL level. He was also given the honour of representing his country as a Socceroo in 2002. Anastasiadis began his South career in the 1992/93 NSL season after impressing many football pundits with his outstanding goalkeeping performances in the Victorian Premier League competition. At the time, his glove work with Fawkner was considered to be the best in the state and he was subsequently selected to join the South Melbourne side. With limited first team opportunities, Anastasiadis moved away from the club at the end of 1995/96 season, joining the newly formed Collingwood Warriors. As the years progressed he would also represent the Carlton Soccer Club and the Woolongong Wolves in the NSL, where he was able to play a prominent role against South to capture the 2000/01 NSL crown in a memorable Grand Final. At the beginning of the 2002/03 season, "Deano" returned home to join the strong South Melbourne squad in the NSL. Since that day, he has played an inspirational role in the clubs fortunes both on and off the field, re-establishing himself as one of the finest goalkeepers in the state and playing a major role in the resurrgence of the club when it returned to the State Leagues. This was showcased by being the captain of the 2006 championship team, which resulted in lifting the VPL Champions trophy along with his brother, coach and fellow club legend John Anastasiadis. On top of this honour, Dean was also the clear winner of the "Goalkeeper of the Year" honours in both 2005 and 2006. In an opportunity to farewell the SMFC family, Anastasiadis will be selected as first choice goalkeeper for the final two home games of the Foxtel Cup season, starting this week against Altona Magic. All fans are urged to come to Bob Jane Stadium to show their support this great club legend, who will be looking to finish his celebrated career on a high in front of a vocal and passionate home crowd.   Dean Anastasiadis Statistics DOB: 6th June 1970 Position: Goalkeeper Seasons at Club: 10 (1992/93 - 1995/96 & 2002/03 - 2008) SMFC Statistics: 1992/93 (NSL): 22 games, 0 goals 1993/94 (NSL): 27 games, 0 goals 1994/95 (NSL): 11 games, 0 goals 1995/96 (NSL): 15 games, 0 goals 2002/03 (NSL): 9 games, 0 goals 2003/04 (NSL): 0 games, 0 goals 2005 (VPL): 28 games, 0 goals 2006 (VPL): 28 games, 0 goals 2007 (VPL): 4 games, 0 goals 2008 (VPL): 12 games, 0 goals Total: 156 games (84 NSL, 72 VPL), 0 goals

2009 and 2010 FIFA Club World Cup to UAE

Football Federation Australia (FFA) CEO, Ben Buckley, said today that the experience of submitting a bid proposal for the 2009 and 2010 FIFA Club World Cup was valuable in terms of preparing for the 2018 FIFA World Cup bid.

 

Australia learned today that the 2009 and 2010 FIFA Club World Cup has been awarded to the UAE.

 The FIFA Club World Cup comprises the champion club from each FIFA Confederation. 

 "The United Arab Emirates has first class facilities and resources to put towards a tournament of this nature. 

 "FIFA has advised us that FFA’s bid was ‘exceptionally good’ and Australia has very strong credentials to host major tournaments.

 “But for a tournament that is little more than one week long, FIFA was of the view that distance was the major factor not in our favour,” Buckley said.

 “This is not an issue for a longer tournament where players are released by their clubs for national team duty two weeks beforehand.”

 Buckley said the Club World Cup decision puts no dent in FFA’s aspirations to host the FIFA 2018 World Cup or other major FIFA events.

 “In fact, President Blatter encouraged us to do so.

 "We want to be a strong and positive contributor to the world of football in as many ways as possible.

 “Major events can have a positive legacy for the growth and development of football in Australia, as well as our region, and that is why we are pursuing them.

 “This week’s FIFA Congress is part of that strategy, as is the 2015 Asian Cup," Buckley said.

 

 Πάμε και... Νότιο Αφρική!

 Η εθνική Ελλάδας των προκριματικών του Euro 2008 δεν θα έχει κανένα πρόβλημα να είναι παρούσα και στο Μουντιάλ 2010! Η κληρωτίδα έκανε το χατίρι της πρωταθλήτριας Ευρώπης, έφερε πλατιά χαμόγελα στην ελληνική αποστολή και πλέον ο στόχος της πρώτης θέσης του 2ου προκριματικού ομίλου που οδηγεί απευθείας στην τελική φάση του Παγκοσμίου Κυπέλλου της Νοτίου Αφρικής είναι απόλυτα εφικτός... Αντίπαλοι του αντιπροσωπευτικού μας συγκροτήματος στο 2ο όμιλο μετά την κλήρωση που πραγματοποιήθηκε την Κυριακή στην πόλη Ντέρμπαν είναι οι: Ισραήλ, Ελβετία, Μολδαβία, Λετονία και Λουξεμβούργο. Η πρεμιέρα της προκριματικής φάσης του Μουντιάλ θα γίνει στις 6 Σεπτεμβρίου, ενώ το πρόγραμμα θα καταρτιστεί κατόπιν διαβουλεύσεων μεταξύ των ομοσπονδιών. Προσοχή και σοβαρότητα συνέστησαν ο Οτο Ρεχάγκελ και ο Βασίλης Γκαγκάτσης. Η προϊστορία της εθνικής μας με τους αντιπάλους στα προκριματικά του Μουντιάλ. Οι υπόλοιποι όμιλοι...

1ος: Πορτογαλία, Σουηδία, Δανία, Ουγγαρία, Αλβανία, Μάλτα,

3ος: Τσεχία, Πολωνία, Βόρειος Ιρλανδία, Σλοβακία, Σλοβενία, Σαν Μαρίνο,

 4ος: Γερμανία, Ρωσία, Φινλανδία, Ουαλία, Αζερμπαϊτζάν, Λιχτενστάιν,

5ος: Ισπανία, Τουρκία, Βέλγιο, Βοσνία, Αρμενία, Εστονία,

6ος: Κροατία, Αγγλία, Ουκρανία, Λευκορωσία, Καζαχστάν, Ανδόρα,

 7ος: Γαλλία, Ρουμανία, Σερβία, Λιθουανία, Αυστρία, και Νησιά Φερόες,

8ος: Ιταλία, Βουλγαρία, Εϊρε, Κύπρος, Γεωργία, Μαυροβούνιο και

 9ος: Ολλανδία, Σκοτία, Νορβηγία, ΠΓΔΜ, Ισλανδία.

Θυμίζουμε ότι απευθείας στην τελική φάση του Μουντιάλ προκρίνεται ο πρώτος κάθε ομίλου, ενώ οι 8 καλύτεροι δεύτεροι θα δώσουν αγώνες μπαράζ.

Adelaide United to Face Kashima Antlers in Quarter-Finals of AFC Champions League

Adelaide United will face the Kashima Antlers of Japan in the quarter-finals of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League following today's draw at AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.  

Adelaide United became the first Australian club to progress to the knock-out phase of Asia's premier club football competition when they drew 0-all with Changchun Yatai (China) earlier this week to top group E.

 

The Kashima Antlers qualified for the quarter-finals after topping Group F with 15 points and are currently placed 6th in the J-League.

The AFC Champions League 2008 knock-out stages are played over two legs (home and away) with the quarterfinals scheduled for September 17 and 24, the semi-finals on October 8 and 22, with the finals to be played on November 5 and November 12.  

Should Adelaide United be successful in their quarter-final against Kashima Antlers, they would face either Saipa (Iran) or Kuruvchi (Uzbekistan) in the semi-finals. 

AFC Champions League 2008 - Quarter-Final Fixtures

Match Day 7: 17 September 2008 (Quarter-Final 1^st Leg) 

QF1:  Saipa (Iran) v Kuruvchi (Uzbekistan)
QF2:  Kashima Antlers (Japan) v Adelaide United (Australia)
QF3:  Al Qadsia (Kuwait) v Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan)
QF4:  Al Karama (Syria) v Gamba Osaka (Japan)

Match Day 8: 24 September 2008 (Quarter-Final 2^nd Leg)

QF1:  Kuruvchi (Uzbekistan) v Saipa (Iran)
QF2:  Adelaide United (Australia) v Kashima Antlers (Japan)
QF3:  Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan) v Al Qadsia (Kuwait)
QF4:  Gamba Osaka (Japan) v Al Karama (Syria)

Match Day 9:  8 October 2008  (Semi-Final 1^st Leg)
SF1: Winner QF 1 v Winner QF 2
SF2: Winner QF 4 v Winner QF 3

Match Day 10: 22 October 2008  (Semi-Final 2^nd Leg)
SF1: Winner QF 2 v Winner QF 1
SF2: Winner QF 3 v Winner QF 4

Match Day 11:  5 November 2008  (Final 1^st Leg)
Final: Winner SF 2 v Winner SF 1 

Match Day 12: 12 November 2008  (Final 2^nd Leg) 
Final: Winner SF 1 v Winner SF 2 

.More

 

SATURDAY NIGHT’S ALRIGHT

NEW DAY FOR HYUNDAI A-LEAGUE 2009 GRAND FINAL

Football Federation Australia (FFA) today announced that the Hyundai A-League 2009 Grand Final will be played on Saturday 28 February 2009 following the release of the Hyundai A-League 2008-09 Season draw.  More

FFA AND HYUNDAI CONTINUE PARTNERSHIP

Football Federation Australia (FFA) and Hyundai Motor Company Australia today announced  that the car manufacturer’s successful naming rights partnership of the Hyundai A-League football competition will continue for an additional four years to the end of the 2011-2012 Season.More

FOOTBALL SPREADS ITS REACH

 

Football Federation Australia (FFA) today made clear its intention to reach as many fans as possible with the release of its 2008 Pre-Season Cup draw.

 

Bunbury (WA), Caloundra (QLD), Cessnock (NSW), Mandurah (WA) and Mt Gambier (SA) and will all host matches for the first time, while Launceston (TAS), Campbelltown (NSW), Port Macquarie (NSW) and Wollongong (NSW) will again welcome Hyundai A-League clubs for the annual Pre-Season Cup.

 

The format of the 2008 Pre-Season Cup involves two groups of four teams (Group A: Adelaide United, Melbourne Victory, Perth Glory, Newcastle Jets; Group B: Sydney FC, Queensland Roar, Wellington Phoenix, Central Coast Mariners) with each team to play the other teams in their group once.

 

The top teams from each group after the three rounds will play-off for in the final on Wednesday 6 August with the winner presented the 2008 Pre-Season Cup.

 

The first round of the 2008 Pre-Season Cup will see Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United meet in what is turning out to be their traditional match at Aurora Stadium in Launceston, Tasmania, with Sydney FC hosting Queensland Roar at Campbelltown Sport Stadium in Sydney’s South West. Perth Glory and the Newcastle Jets will meet in Mandurah and the Central Coast will travel to New Zealand to face the Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium.

 

The Hyundai A-League 2008-09 Season will commence on Friday 15 August 2008.

Players and clubs sign 5 year agreement

 Australia’s Hyundai A-League players have today celebrated another first for the domestic league competition with the signing of an historic five year agreement between Football Federation Australia (FFA) and the Australian Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA).more

ΑΝΑΚΟΙΝΩΣΗ ΤΥΠΟΥ

Το Ελληνικό Μουσείο άνοιξε τις πόρτες του στις 12 Αυγούστου, 2008.

Το Μουσείο ιδρύθηκε και λειτουργεί κάτω από την ευθύνη του Ιδρύματος Ναυσικά

Σταμούλη.

Βρίσκεται στο κτήριο του πρώην Βασιλικού Νομισματοκοπείου στο 280 William Street,

(γωνία William & La Trobe Sts) και το Μουσείο θα είναι ανοιχτό Τρίτη, Τετάρτη και

Πέμπτη από τις 10 π.μ. με 3 μ.μ. Η είσοδος είναι ελεύθερη.

Σχολεία, σύλλογοι και άλλες ομάδες μπορούν να το επισκεφτούν άλλες μέρες εάν

έρθετε σε επικοινωνία με τη νεοδιορισθείσα Διευθύντρια κ. Βίκη Γιανουλάτου στο 8615

9016 να κανονίσετε ραντεβού.

Προς το παρόν, η έκθεση περιλαμβάνει αντικείμενα της Κλασικής Αρχαιότητας (5ος και

4ος αιώνας π.Χ.), από την Ελληνική‐Χριστιανική Βυζαντινή περίοδο και την Ελληνική

μετανάστευση στην Αυστραλία, τη Νότια Αμερική και την Ανατολική Ασία.

Ο Πρόεδρος του Ελληνικού Ιδρύματος Πολιτισμού της Ελλάδος, καθηγητής Γεώργιος

Μπαμπινιώτης, εκ μέρους των μελών του Συμβουλίου, εξέφρασε την πλήρη ικανοποίηση

του στην έναρξη του Μουσείου το οποίο αποτελεί μία σπουδαία προσφορά, για το οποίο

όλοι οι Έλληνες σ`όλο τον κόσμο θα είναι πολύ υπερήφανοι. Υποσχέθηκε άμεση

συνεργασία και τόνισε πως το Μουσείο θα είναι πολύ χρήσιμο για τις γενεές του

μέλλοντος.

Ο Πρόεδρος του Ελληνικού Μουσείου κ. Χαράλαμπος Σταμούλης αναφερόμενος στους

σκοπούς και τις δραστηριότητες του Μουσείου τόνισε τα εξής: «Το Ελληνικό Μουσείο,

το πρώτο και μοναδικό στο είδος του στην Αυστραλία, ήταν ένα όνειρο ζωής για τον

ιδρύτή του Σπύρο Σταμούλη, ο οποίος οραματίστηκε ένα κέντρο για την προώθηση και

διαιώνιση του Ελληνικού Πολιτισμού στους Αντίποδες.»

Εμπνευσμένοι από το όραμά του και σε στενή συνεργασία με το Έλληνικο Ίδρυμα

Πολιστισμού της Ελλάδας, μαζί με πολλούς άλλους συνεργάτες και υποστηρικτές, μέσα

στη δική μας κοινωνία, εκφράζουμε τα θερμά μας ευχαριστήρια. Προσδοκούμε να

δημιουργήσουμε μία Εστία η οποία προωθεί την Ελληνική Ιστορία και Πολιτισμό και

ενθαρρύνει τα μέλη της κοινωνίας μας από κάθε παρελθόν να πάρουν μέρος σ'αυτό το

συναρπαστικό ταξίδι.

Η οικογένεια Σταμούλη αισθάνεται ιδιαίτερα υπερήφανη να συνεχίσει την πραγμάτωση

του οράματος του Σπύρου Σταμούλη και να υποστηρίξει αυτό το μνημειώδες έργο.

Για περισσότερες u960 πληροφορίες επικοινωνήστε με την κ. Βίκη Γιανουλάτου στο 8615 9016

 

 

 

Στην Πηγή με κουπιά και πανιά!

Η συγκομιδή των ελληνικών μεταλλίων στους Ολυμπιακούς Αγώνες του Πεκίνου άργησε αλλά ξεκίνησε.                                                  Στην κωπηλασία ο Βασίλης Πολύμερος και ο Δημήτρης Μούγιος κατέκτησαν το ασημένιο μετάλλιο στο διπλό σκιφ.

Το χάλκινο

μετάλλιο κατέκτησε η Πηγή Δεβετζή στο τριπλούν με 15.23 ενώ επίσης χάλκινο πήραν στην κατηγορία Yngling στην ιστιοπλοία η Σοφία Μπεκατώρου, η Σοφία Παπαδοπούλου και η Βιργινία Κραβαριώτη και φώναξαν «για την Ελλάδα ρε γαμώτο»! Οι σημερινές επιτυχίες μετρίασαν την ελληνική απογοήτευση για τον αποκλεισμό της Φανής Χαλκιά. Η χρυσή Ολυμπιονίκης της Αθήνας βρέθηκε να έχει κάνει χρήση της γνωστής απαγορευμένης ουσίας Μ3 σε έλεγχο που έγινε λίγο πριν την έναρξη των Αγώνων. «Σοκαρισμένη και έκπληκτη», δηλώνει η ελληνίδα πρωταθλήτρια που κάνει λόγο για δολιοφθορά. Στην 6η θέση στον τελικό του διπλού σκιφ στην κωπηλασία η Χρύσα Μπισκιτζή με την Αλεξάνδρα Τσιάβου. Αποκλείστηκε ο Παυλίδης από τα ημιτελικά της πυγμαχίας. Οι ελληνικές συμμετοχές στο στίβο. Την 8η και τελευταία θέση στο ολυμπιακό τουρνουά κατέλαβε η Εθνική πόλο των γυναικών. Αποκλείστηκε ο Ρέππας στην ποδηλασία. Στα ρηχά οι αρσιβαρίστες

Το πρώτο μετάλλιο!

Το πρώτο ελληνικό μετάλλιο από το Πεκίνο ήλθε από την ιστιοπλοία. Το πλήρωμα της Σοφίας Μπεκατώρου, της Βιργινίας Κραβαριώτου και της Σοφίας Παπαδοπούλου κατέκτησε το χάλκινο μετάλλιο στην κατηγορία Ιγκλιγκ και μετρίασε την απογοήτευση από τον αποκλεισμό της Φανής Χαλκιά από τους Ολυμπιακούς Αγώνες λόγω ντόπιγκ. Η χρυσή Ολυμπιονίκης της Αθήνας βρέθηκε να έχει κάνει χρήση της γνωστής απαγορευμένης ουσίας Μ3 σε έλεγχο που έγινε λίγο πριν την έναρξη των Αγώνων. «Σοκαρισμένη και έκπληκτη», δηλώνει η ελληνίδα πρωταθλήτρια που κάνει λόγο για δολιοφθορά. Η ελληνική αποστολή διεκδικεί σήμερα και άλλα μετάλλια. Στην κωπηλασία το ανδρικό πλήρωμα στο διπλό σκιφ με τον Πολύμερο και τον Μούγιο και το γυναικείο με την Μπισκιτζή και την Τσιάβου αγωνίζονται στις 10.30 στον τελικό του αγωνίσματος. Το απόγευμα στις 4.30 αρχίζει τις προσπάθειές της στον τελικό του τριπλούν η Πηγή Δεβετζή ενώ στην πυγμαχία ο Ηλίας Παυλίδης θα προσπαθήσει να μπει στα ημιτελικά στην κατηγορία των 91 κιλών. Οι ελληνικές συμμετοχές στο στίβο. Την 8η και τελευταία θέση στο ολυμπιακό τουρνουά κατέλαβε η Εθνική πόλο των γυναικών. Αποκλείστηκε ο Ρέππας στην ποδηλασία.

08.00: Πασχαλίδης/Τριγκώνης Tornado Ιστιοπλοϊα
08.00: Βαγγέλης Χειμώνας Laser Ιστιοπλοϊα
08.00: Ευτυχία Μαντζαράκη Laser R. Ιστιοπλοϊα
08.30: Κώστας Γκαρίπης 94κ. (Α' γκρουπ) Αρση Βαρών
10.30: Τάσος Τριανταφύλλου 94κ. (Β' γκρουπ) Αρση Βαρών
10.30: Μπισκιτζή/Τσιάβου ΤΕΛΙΚΟΣ Διπλό σκιφ ελ. βαρων Κωπηλασία
10.50: Πολύμερος/Μούγιος ΤΕΛΙΚΟΣ Διπλό σκιφ ελ. βαρων Κωπηλασία
14.00: Φλώρα Ρεντούμη Προκρ. 100μ εμπόδια Στίβος
15.20: Κώστας Μπανιώτης Προκρ. Υψος Στίβος
16.30: Χρυσοπηγή Δεβετζή ΤΕΛΙΚΟΣ Τριπλούν Στίβος
16.00: Ηλίας Παυλίδης Ντουάρτε / 91κ. Προημιτελικός Πυγμαχία

Ο πίνακας των μεταλλίων

Θέση	Χώρα	Χρυσά	Αργυρά	Χάλκινα	Σύνολο
1	Κίνα	46	15	22	83
2	ΗΠΑ	29	34	32	95
3	Μεγάλη Βρετανία	17	12	11	40
4	Ρωσία	16	16	19	51
5	Αυστραλία	11	13	14	38
6	Γερμανία	11	8	12	31
7	Νότια Κορέα	10	10	6	26
8	Ιαπωνία	9	6	9	24
9	Ιταλία	6	7	8	21
10	Ολλανδία	6	5	4	15
11	Ουκρανία	5	5	9	19
12	Τζαμάικα	5	3	1	9
13	Γαλλία	4	12	14	30
14	Ισπανία	4	5	2	11
15	Ρουμανία	4	1	3	8
16	Καναδάς	3	7	5	15
17	Πολωνία	3	4	1	8
18	Τσεχία	3	3	0	6
19	Νέα Ζηλανδία	3	1	5	9
20	Σλοβακία	3	1	1	5
21	Γεωργία	3	0	3	6
22	Κούβα	2	6	6	14
23	Κένυα	2	4	2	8
24	Λευκορωσία	2	3	8	13
25	Δανία	2	1	3	6
-	Βόρεια Κορέα	2	1	3	6
27	Αιθιοπία	2	1	0	3
28	Ελβετία	2	0	3	5
29	Καζακστάν	1	4	5	10
30	Νορβηγία	1	3	2	6
-	Τουρκία	1	3	2	6
32	Ζιμπάμπουε	1	3	0	4
33	Βραζιλία	1	2	5	8
34	Αζερμπαϊτζάν	1	2	3	6
-	Ουζμπεκιστάν	1	2	3	6
36	Σλοβενία	1	2	2	5
37	Βουλγαρία	1	1	3	5
-	Ινδονησία	1	1	3	5
39	Φινλανδία	1	1	1	3
40	Εσθονία	1	1	0	2
-	Μογγολία	1	1	0	2
-	Πορτογαλία	1	1	0	2
-	Ταϊλάνδη	1	1	0	2
44	Αργεντινή	1	0	2	3
45	Ινδία	1	0	1	2
-	Μεξικό	1	0	1	2
47	Μπαχρέιν	1	0	0	1
-	Καμερούν	1	0	0	1
-	Παναμάς	1	0	0	1
-	Τυνησία	1	0	0	1
51	Ουγγαρία	0	4	1	5
-	Σουηδία	0	4	1	5
53	Λιθουανία	0	2	3	5
54	Αυστρία	0	1	2	3
-	Κροατία	0	1	2	3
-	ΕΛΛΑΔΑ	0	1	2	3
57	Αλγερία	0	1	1	2
-	Κολομβία	0	1	1	2
-	Κιργιστάν	0	1	1	2
-	Σερβία	0	1	1	2
-	Τατζικιστάν	0	1	1	2
62	Χιλή	0	1	0	1
-	Δομινικανή Δημοκρατία	0	1	0	1
-	Εκουαδόρ	0	1	0	1
-	Μαλαισία	0	1	0	1
-	Νότια Αφρική	0	1	0	1
-	Σιγκαπούρη	0	1	0	1
-	Τρίνινταντ/Τομπάγκο	0	1	0	1
-	Βιετνάμ	0	1	0	1
70	Αρμενία	0	0	5	5
71	Κινέζικη Ταϊπέι	0	0	4	4
72	Αφγανιστάν	0	0	1	1
-	Μπαχάμες	0	0	1	1
-	Αίγυπτος	0	0	1	1
-	Ιράν	0	0	1	1
-	Ισραήλ	0	0	1	1
-	Λετονία	0	0	1	1
-	Μαρόκο	0	0	1	1
-	Τόγκο	0	0	1	1
-	Βενεζουέλα	0	0	1	1
	Σύνολο	237	238	273	748

 

 Ρεσιτάλ...

Αν η αρχή είναι το ήμισυ του παντός, τότε η γεύση που μας άφησε η τελετή έναρξης των 29ων Ολυμπιακών Αγώνων Πεκίνο 2008 αφήνει πολύ μεγάλες υποσχέσεις για τη διοργάνωση... Οι οικοδεσπότες τα έδωσαν όλα και το αποτέλεσμα ήταν χωρίς προηγούμενο. Φαντασμαγορικό. Συνδυασμός ιστορίας, παράδοσης, πολιτισμού,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

αλλά και σύγχρονης τεχνολογίας όπου οι Κινέζοι έδωσαν ρεσιτάλ. Μεταξύ άλλων ο σκηνοθέτης Ζαν Γιμού μας... υπενθύμισε ότι ο Κομφούκιος ήταν Κινέζος και ότι οι συμπατριώτες του ανακάλυψαν το μπαρούτι, το χαρτί, την τυπογραφία και την πυξίδα.

Επίσης κρίνεται εξαιρετική κι η έμπνευση να επιλέξει 56 παιδάκια από ισάριθμες εθνότητες της Κίνας να απαγγείλουν τον εθνικό ύμνο.Οι πολύ δύσκολες καιρικές συνθήκες (σ.σ. οι παριστάμενοι έκαναν λόγω για αφόρητη ζέστη) δεν πτόησαν περίπου

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

90 χιλιάδες φιλάθλους να γεμίσουν το κατασκευαστικό αριστούργημα «Φωλιά του Πουλιού» το Εθνικό Στάδιο του Πεκίνου με τη βραδιά να κορυφώνεται τη στιγμή που ο τελευταίος λαμπαδηδρόμος, ο Κινέζος γυμαστής Λι Νινγκ, κυριολεκτικά ιπτάμενος, με φόντο μια περγαμηνή στην οποία αναπαρίστατο η πορεία της φλόγας από την Αρχαία Ολυμπία στο Πεκίνο και κάνοντας το γύρο του Σταδίου, έφτασε στο βωμό και άναψε την ολυμπιακή φλόγα κηρύσσοντας ουσιαστικά τους 29ους Ολυμπιακούς Αγώνες! Δείτε αναλυτικά όλο το πρόγραμμα των Αγώνων, τις ελληνικές συμμετοχές, τα ρεκόρ μέχρι το Πεκίνο, τις εγκαταστάσεις, τους αριθμούς της διοργάνωσης, αλλά και θυμηθείτε τα 109 ελληνικά μετάλλια στην ιστορία των Αγώνων όπως και τον συνολικό πίνακα των μεταλλίων ανά χώρα. MORE

Honours even in Sydney

 

Ney Fabiano and Clint Bolton

 

Melbourne Victory has opened its Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season with a 0-0 away draw to Sydney FC after an entertaining contest at the Sydney Football Stadium.

In a match with plenty of chances, neither side could find the back of the net, with Melbourne firmly in control for the first 45 minutes but missing chances to go ahead from Ney Fabiano and Danny Allsopp who had excellent opportunities.

Sydney had its go in the second half. Michael Theoklitos made one excellent save and then saw a free kick hit his right-hand upright, but both teams had to be content with a point.

It was a first half which had no goals but no shortage of action, with both sides spoiling several excellent chances at goal. Sydney keeper Clint Bolton was kept extremely busy, saving from Ney Fabiano in just the fifth minute and then defying Allsopp from close range shortly after.

Carlos Hernandez was having a stellar beginning to his season and while he fired over and then failed to test Bolton from a free kick he was commanding a dominant midfield performance.

New Sydney signing Chris Payne was very busy, but was finding it heavy weather against Kevin Muscat and Rody Vargas.

Up the other end, two Sydney defensive mistakes handed Tom Pondeljak then Jose Luis Lopez excellent chances, but neither could find the net. Pondeljak dribbled it over to Ney Fabiano, who was offside, while Lopez's left foot went straight at Bolton.

Sydney's best chances of the half went across the face of goal after a long run from Adam Casey.

Either side could have scored in the first ten minutes of the second half, with Muscat heading Evan Berger's corner just wide and then Simon Colosimo angling his shot just past the post.

Billy Celeski came on just after the hour, but the action was mainly up Sydney's end where Theoklitos denied Casey and then Shannon Cole hit the post from a free kick.

With 15 minutes left, an excellent build-up for Victory ended with Michael Thwaite who delivered a dangerous cross which Ney Fabiano failed to make contact with. Cole tried again from the dead ball and this time just went over Theoklitos' bar.

Looking for a late winner, Celeski smashed the ball straight at Bolton, while Hernandez again just missed with a quickly taken free kick.

Melbourne now travels to Wellington next week to take on the Phoenix in a re-match of the Pre-Season Cup final having taken its record against Sydney to ten matches with just one defeat.

Sydney FC 0
Melbourne Victory 0
Crowd: 16,227

 Theoklitos save seals Cup

Michael Theoklitos has produced a brilliant diving save to earn Melbourne Victory the Pre-Season Cup with an epic 8-7 penalty shootout success over the Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium.

The game ended 0-0 after 90 minutes, while respective penalty misses to Wellington's Shane Smeltz and Melbourne's Nick Ward saw the shootout go to sudden death. After Evan Berger had put Melbourne ahead 8-7, Karl Dodd stepped up but was unable to get past Theoklitos' right hand and Victory had claimed the season's first silverware.

It was a fitting end for Theoklitos who produced several excellent saves during the match to preserve the stalemate. Credit also goes to Rodrigo Vargas, Tom Pondeljak, Jose Luis Lopez, Carlos Hernandez, Sebastian Ryall, Danny Allsopp, Matthew Kemp and Evan Berger, who all hit their penalties with aplomb.

The first half was one of few chances, with the Phoenix having the best of the first 20 minutes before Melbourne grabbed the initiative in the shadows of half time.

Leo Bertos was particularly busy for the Phoenix and he had a couple of crosses cut off by Theoklitos and a free kick easily saved by the Melbourne stopper.

Melbourne's best early chance fell to Kemp, who tried to chip Glen Moss from a tight angle, with the Wellington keeper almost fumbling the ball over the line. In the 41st minute, Allsopp had an excellent chance blocked by a desperate Dodd and the Melbourne striker then tried a long-range volley which Moss had no difficulty in stopping just before half time.

Theoklitos had a few nervous moments when cleaned up by Jon McKain early in the second half, with the Wellington captain earning a yellow for his overzealous challenge. Other than that, the goalmouth action was few and far between with Victory closing up the space down the wings.

Kemp's dangerous cross just before the hour was cleared by Dodd, while Moss was forced off his line to thwart an advancing Allsopp, who had beaten the offside trap.

Richard Johnson produced a real threat to Theoklitos with an excellent 67th-minute volley which forced a diving save, while up the other end, Carlos Hernandez tested out Moss from distance, while Berger's cross was cleared by a busy Manny Muscat.

Wellington had the better chances to break the deadlock with Smeltz producing a testing header for Theoklitos to save after some good build-up play from Bertos on 80 minutes.

However, neither side could find the net and the trophy was to be decided by spot kicks.

Victory memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season are currently available from the Victory Shop, 236 Swan Street, Richmond, by calling 1300 GO MVFC or online by clicking here.

Wellington Phoenix 0
Melbourne Victory 0
Melbourne won 8-7 on penalties
Wednesday, 6 August 2008
Westpac Stadium, Wellington
Referee: Peter O’Leary
Crowd: 9208

 

North Queensland FC

Football Federation Australia (FFA) has awarded ‘exclusive negotiating status’ to the North Queensland Football Club (NQFC) in its bid to have a Townsville based team in the Hyundai A-League competition from 2009-10.

 

FFA CEO Ben Buckley said he had advised the leader of the NQFC bid, Don Matheson, of the decision today.

 

“The decision follows a competitive process involving two applications for a Hyundai A-League license in Townsville,” Buckley said.

 

“The level of interest in the Townsville region reflects the momentum behind the growth and development of the Hyundai A-League, as well as the strength of the North Queensland region.”

 

Buckley said that NQFC has one month to finalise its submission to FFA.

 

“Queenslanders have enormous pride and spirit in their sporting teams.

 

“I hope the potential to have a team of their own in the Hyundai A-League will inspire all North Queenslanders to be part of this exciting opportunity.

 

“Participation in the Hyundai A-League not only gives North Queensland another presence in a national sporting competition but also the potential to represent the region through Asian competition.” 

 

Buckley expressed his appreciation to the other consortium, led by Melbourne businesswoman Milissa Fischer, for her interest in the Townsville license also.

 

“We are very encouraged by the level of interest in the Hyundai A-League,” Buckley said.

 

“Since it commenced three years ago, it has had ‘cut through’ in the busy Australian sporting landscape with average crowds, viewership, membership, media coverage and profitability trending upwards each season.

 

“The attractiveness of the competition is clearly reflected in the level of interest in our expansion plans.”

 

FFA’s view is that the Hyundai A-League has the capacity to be at least a 12 team competition.

 

“When and where we expand the competition is measured simply by whether it is right for football, right for the existing Hyundai A-League clubs, right for the new clubs and right for the local community,” Buckley said.

 

“In the meantime, we look forward to NQFC entering the competition in 2009.”

 

 More

Campeones!

Πανάξια πρωταθλήτρια Ευρώπης αναδείχθηκε η Ισπανία επικρατώντας 1-0 της Γερμανίας στον τελικό του Euro 2008 στη Βιέννη. Για δεύτερη φορά στην ιστορία τους και έπειτα από την κατάκτηση του τροπαίου το 1964, οι «φούριας ρόχας» ανέβηκαν στο θρόνο του ευρωπαϊκού ποδοσφαίρου χάρη σε γκολ του Φερνάντο Τόρες στο 33ο λεπτό, όταν ο επιθετικός της Λίβερπουλ πρόλαβε τον Λαμ και με έξυπνο πλασέ νίκησε στην έξοδο τον Λέμαν διαμορφώνοντας το τελικό αποτέλεσμα. Ο Τόρες είχε κεφαλιά στο δοκάρι στην καλύτερη από τις αρκετές ευκαιρίες που είχε η ομάδα του Αραγονιές στο ματς μέχρι να διαδεχθεί την Εθνική μας στην κορυφή της Ευρώπης. Ενας πανάξιος θρίαμβος, για την ομάδα που δεν κινδύνευσε στιγμή στον τελικό και έπαιξε το πιο ελκυστικό ποδόσφαιρο στα γήπεδα της Ελβετίας και της Αυστρίας. Ισπανός και ο πρώτος σκόρερ του τουρνουά, ο Νταβίντ Βίγια (4 γκολ), μεγάλος απών του τελικού λόγω τραυματισμού. Πανζουρλισμός όταν σήκωσε το τρόπαιο ο αρχηγός Ικερ Κασίγιας, ο Ράμος φορούσε μπλουζάκι με αφιέρωση στον αδικοχαμένο Αντόνιο Πουέρτα της Σεβίλλης. Αήττητη με Μαρτσένα η Ισπανία, στα 46 ματς που έχει παίξει ο αμυντικός της Βαλένθια μετρά 35 νίκες, 11 ισοπαλίες! Η Γερμανία, μπορεί να παραμένει πολυνίκης του θεσμού με τρεις κατακτήσεις (1972, 1980, 1996), αλλά πλέον μετράει και ισάριθμες ήττες σε τελικούς (1976, 1992, 2008). Το πανόραμα της διοργάνωσης.

On the (Silk) Road to South Africa

Australia has drawn Bahrain, Japan, Qatar and Uzbekistan in its round 4 qualifying matches for the 2010 FIFA World Cup to be held in South Africa.

 

"We will have to work hard to achieve qualification but it will be a good test for us," according to the coach of the Qantas Socceroos, Pim Verbeek.

 

"The players know this and they will be very keen to play in these eight games and to get to the World Cup."

 

The other round 4 group of the Asian Football Confederation comprises Korea, Iran, Saudi Arabia, DPR Korea and the United Arab Emirates.

 

Verbeek said that the ten teams remaining in the two groups of the Asian Football Confederation had good qualities but it was also possible to look at possible weaknesses.

 

"That is the big challenge and we will be going for it," he said.

 

The Qantas Socceroos schedule will see them kick-off round 4 of World Cup qualification with an away game against the Central Asian Republic, Uzbekistan (population 28 million).  The full schedule involves:

 

§        10 September 2008, Uzbekistan v Australia

§        15 October 2008, Australia v Qatar

§        19 November 2008, Bahrain v Australia

§        11 February 2009, Japan v Australia

§        1 April 2009, Australia v Uzbekistan

§        6 June 2009, Qatar v Australia

§        10 June 2009, Australia v Bahrain

§        17 June 2009, Australia v Japan

 

Football Federation Australia (FFA) CEO, Ben Buckley, said that FFA will do all it can to ensure the Qantas Socceroos qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

 

"It's a truism, but nonetheless true.  We will leave no stone unturned to ensure that everything that can be done off the field to facilitate qualification will be done," Buckley said.

 

"Playing in the FIFA World Cup is an ambition shared by the entire nation and we will take all necessary steps to support Pim and the players to realise that ambition for all of us."

 

Buckley would not be drawn on the location and venue for the four home World Cup qualifiers.

 

Australia needs to finish in the top two of its group to qualify for the 2010 World Cup in June 2009.

 

The third placed team from each group will play one another in a home and away match for the right to play the top placed team from the Oceania Football Confederation for the final World Cup spot. 

 

 

Australia's record against the four opponents is detailed below.

 

JAPAN
P16  W6-D5-L5
- first match: 27-11-56 (W2-0)  - 1956 Olympic Games
- most recent match: 21-07-07 (D1-1, lost 3-4 on penalties) - AFC Asian Cup 2007, qtr final  

BAHRAIN
P2  W2-D0-L0
- first match: 22-02-06 (W3-1) - AFC Asian Cup 2007 qualifying  
- most recent match: 11-10-06 (W2-0) - AFC Asian Cup 2007 qualifying  

UZBEKISTAN
- no previous meeting at senior men's level

QATAR
P2  W2 -D0-L 0 
- first match: 06-02-08 (W3-0) - FIFA World Cup qualifying (Round 3 qualifiers)
- most recent match: 14-06-08 ( W3 -1) - FIFA World Cup qualifying (Round 3 qualifiers)

 

 

Qantas Joeys top ASEAN

 

The Qantas Joeys have claimed Australia's first title in the ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) Football Federation when they won a dramatic penalty shootout against Bahrain in Jakarta last night.  The ASEAN Football Federation forms part of the larger Asian Football Confederation of which Australia is a member.

 

Having earlier staged a come from behind 2-1 win over Bahrain during the group stage of the tournament, the Qantas Joeys knew they were in for a difficult match - which proved to be true.

 

Bahrain took the lead just before the half-time break when Ali Muneer finished off a well-worked counter attack with a simple tap in goal.

 

The Qantas Joeys applied the pressure in the second half and with seven minutes of regular time remaining, their persistence paid off.

 

A well delivered corner from Kamal Ibrahim was headed into the top right hand corner by substitute Marc Warren to equalise. The Qantas Joeys mounted a late surge and had three good chances to close the end of the match but unfortunately the winner was not to be found and the final went into extra time.

 

The Qantas Joeys continued to apply the pressure during extra time, creating many opportunities, but only to be denied by the Bahrain goal keeper who made numerous saves.

 

After 30 minutes of extra time, the match finished 1-1 and penalties would decide the champion team.

 

The first two penalties were converted by both teams.

 

Brendan Hamill missed Australia's third penalty, but the next Bahrain penalty struck the cross bar to keep the Qantas Joeys in the match.

 

The Penalty shootout then went to sudden death and Bahrain missed their first attempt with Qantas Joeys goal keeper, Lawrence Thomas, making a great diving save to his left. Australia's Kerem Bulut then stepped up and made no mistake as he blasted the winning penalty into the back of the net giving the Qantas Joeys an historic first for Australia in ASEAN, as well as a memorable tournament victory.

 

In the other match of the evening, Malaysia defeated Singapore 3-0 to take out third place at the tournament.

 

The Qantas Joeys will now return to Australia to continue their preparations for the AFC Under 16 Youth Championships to be played in Uzbekistan in October.

   

-ends-

 

Match details

Qantas Joeys   1 (Marc Warren 83’)

Bahrain            1 (Ali Muneer Redha 44’)

Qantas Joeys win 5-4 on penalties         

Saturday 19 July 2008

Lebak Bulus Stadium, Jakarta, Indonesia

 

Qantas Joeys: Lawrence Thomas (gk), Nathan Farrell, Petar Franjic, Brendan  Hamill (C), Koh Satake (Marc Warren 70’), Nikola Stanojevic, Christopher Bush (Tedros Yabio 77’), Jared Lum, Kamal  Ibrahim, Joseph Costa (Million Butshiire 65"), Kerem Bulut.

Substitutes Not Used:  Robert Kolak (gk) , Benjamin Harrington, Benjamin Kantarovski, Chahine Noujaim, Trent Sainsbury.

 

Yellow Cards: Kerem Bulut, Marc Warren, Nathan Farrell

 

Red Cards: Nil

 

 

 QANTAS JOEYS SQUAD

 ASEAN FOOTBALL FEDERATION

UNDER 16 YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS

INDONESIA 2008

7-19 July 2008

Kerem Bulut  (NSW), Christopher Bush  (ACT), Million  Butshiire  (WA), Joseph Costa  (SA), Nathan Farrell  (SA), Petar Franjic  (VIC), Brendan  Hamill  (NSW), Benjamin Harrington  (ACT), Kamal  Ibrahim  (VIC), Benjamin Kantarovski  (NSW), Robert Kolak (gk) (NSW), Jared Lum  (NSW), Chahine Noujaim  (SA),  Koh Satake (QLD), Trent Sainsbury  (WA), Nikola Stanojevic  (NSW), Lawrence Thomas (gk) (NSW), Marc Warren (NSW) and Tedros Yabio (VIC).

 

For more information about the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Under 16 Youth Championships – Indonesia 2008, please visit www.aseanfootball.org 

 

AFF U16 YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS 2008

 

	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
Australia	4	3	1	0	13	3	10	10
Bahrain	4	2	1	1	5	3	2	7
Malaysia	4	2	1	1	6	5	1	7
Singapore	4	0	1	2	2	5	- 3	2
Indonesia	4	0	1	3	1	11	-10	1

 

 

DATE	MATCH NO	MATCH			VENUE
09 July 08 (Wednesday)	1	Australia	2:1	Bahrain	Lebak Bulus Stadium
	2	Singapore	0:2	Malaysia	Lebak Bulus Stadium
11 July 08 (Friday)	3	Bahrain	1:0	Singapore	Lebak Bulus Stadium
	4	Indonesia	0:6	Australia	Lebak Bulus Stadium
13 July 08 (Sunday)	5	Australia	4:1	Malaysia	Lebak Bulus Stadium
	6	Indonesia	0:2	Bahrain	Lebak Bulus Stadium
15 July 08 (Tuesday)	7	Singapore	1:1	Australia	Lebak Bulus Stadium
	8	Malaysia	2:0	Indonesia	Lebak Bulus Stadium
17 July 08 (Thursday)	9	Malaysia	1:1	Bahrain	Lebak Bulus Stadium
	10	Indonesia	1:1	Singapore	Lebak Bulus Stadium
19 July 08 (Saturday)	11	Malaysia	3:0	Singapore	Lebak Bulus Stadium
	12 (Final)	Australia	1:1	Bahrain	Lebak Bulus Stadium
		Australia win 5-4 on penalties

   Τέλος εποχής

Μια ημέρα μετά τον ήττα που σήμανε τον αποκλεισμό από τη συνέχεια του Euro 2008, o Aντώνης Νικοπολίδης και ο Παρασκευάς Αντζας ανακοίνωσαν την απόφασή τους να αποχωρήσουν από την Εθνική ομάδα. Στη συνέντευξη Τύπου, στο προπονητικό κέντρο του Ζεεκίρχεν, αρχικά ο Νικοπολίδης και αμέσως ύστερα ο ʼντζας, ανακοίνωσαν την απόφασή τους να αποχωρήσουν από το αντιπροσωπευτικό συγκρότημα. «Για μένα, ο αγώνας με την Ισπανία είναι το τελευταίο παιχνίδι που θα παίξω με τη φανέλα της εθνική ομάδας» ξεκίνησε τις δηλώσεις του ο τερματοφύλακας του Ολυμπιακού. «Δεν είναι μια απόφαση μετά από ένα άτυχο αποτέλεσμα. Την είχα πάρει εδώ και πάρα πολύ καιρό αλλά περίμενα την κατάλληλη στιγμή» συνέχισε, για να ολοκληρώσει: «Θέλω να ευχαριστήσω τους συμπαίκτες μου, τους προπονητές, το σταφ της ομάδας, τη διοίκηση της ΕΠΟ και τον πρόεδρο κ. Βασίλη Γκαγκάτση. Πραγματικά, ζήσαμε πολύ μεγάλες στιγμές αλλά και λύπες, όμως το βασικό στοιχείο ήταν ότι πάντα λειτουργούσαμε ως οικογένεια, ενωμένοι. Περάσαμε μεγάλες στιγμές, όμως ο χρόνος είναι αμείλικτος για όλους μας. Σίγουρα περίμενα κάτι καλύτερο σε αυτή τη διοργάνωση. Φεύγω γεμάτος και χαρούμενος, νοιώθω υπερήφανος που ήμουν μέλος αυτής της ομάδας. Οι νέοι παίκτες που θα έρθουν πρέπει να γίνουν οι εγγυητές της συνέχειας αυτής της μεγάλης ομάδας. Δεν πρέπει να νοιώθουν και να κουβαλούν το βάρος αυτής της επιτυχίας. Το μόνο που πρέπει να έχουν στο μυαλό τους είναι η αγάπη και το πάθος για την ομάδα».

Ακολούθως, ο Παρασκευάς Αντζας δήλωσε ότι θα ακολουθήσει τον ίδιο δρόμο: «Θέλω να ευχαριστήσω τον κύριο Ρεχάγκελ αλλά αποφάσισα κι εγώ να σταματήσω. Θέλω να ευχαριστήσω όλους όσους συνεργάστηκα και να ευχηθώ καλή πορεία. Για τον αγώνα με την Ισπανία, όλοι ξέρουμε ότι έχει μια πολύ καλή ομάδα. Μπήκε δυνατά στη διοργάνωση, είναι ήδη πρώτη στον όμιλοι και όποιοι παίκτες τους και να παίξουν σε αυτό το παιχνίδι είναι εξίσου σημαντικοί. Θα είναι ένα δύσκολο παιχνίδι για μας. Όσο για το τι έφταιξε, αρμόδιος είναι ο προπονητής για να κρίνει τι έχει φταίξει και νομίζω ότι αυτός θα βρει τις λύσεις».

Πικρή Πρεμιέρα.....

Eντάξει δεν περιμέναμε ότι θα πάρουμε αήττητοι και το φετινό Euro... Σίγουρα όμως περιμέναμε ένα πιο ενθαρρυντικό ξεκίνημα. Η ήττα με 2-0 από τη Σουηδία στην πρεμιέρα της Ελλάδας στο Ευρωπαϊκό Πρωτάθλημα στο «Βαλς Σίζενχαϊμ» του Σάλτσμπουργκ δεν σημαίνει απολύτως τίποτα. Πέραν του ότι μας βάζει πλέον με την πλάτη στον τοίχο για τα δύο εναπομείναντα ματς στον 4ο όμιλο, με τη Ρωσία το Σάββατο (14/07-21:45) και με την Ισπανία την επόμενη Τετάρτη (18/07). Η τακτική Πορτογαλίας, χωρίς όμως την ίδια επιθετική προσήλωση και οργάνωση, φάνηκε ότι και εφέτος θ' αποτελέσει τη βάση του παιχνιδιού μας. Κι εκεί που η εθνική μάς έδινε την εντύπωση ότι τουλάχιστον δεν θα χάσει, μια πανέμορφη προσπάθεια του MVP του αγώνα Ζλάταν Ιμπραΐμοβιτς -που σκόραρε με τα χρώματα της Σουηδίας για πρώτη φορά μετά τον Οκτώβριο του 2005- στο 67ο λεπτό κι ακόμη μια αμυντική αδράνεια που έδωσε το δικαίωμα στον Χάνσον με αρκετή δόση τύχης πέντε λεπτά αργότερα να διευρύνει το σκορ, «τέλειωσαν» το ματς και δεν μας άφησαν κανένα περιθώριο αντίδρασης. More

QANTAS SOCCEROOS PROGRESS TO NEXT STAGE OF WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION WITH QATAR VICTORY 

Australia have ensured their progression to the next stage of qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with a 3-1 win over Qatar at the Al Sadd Stadium in Doha this morning (Australian time).

Brett Emerton scored a goal in each half while captain Harry Kewell added the third and also had a goal disallowed.  Emerton was earning his 66th cap taking him to fourth on the list of most international appearances for the Qantas Socceroos.

Former Asian Player of the Year Khalfan Ibrahim scored a 90th minute consolation for the home side but Australia was not to be denied their first World Cup qualifying win outside Oceania since 1985 against Israel.

Australia will complete their group fixtures next Sunday against China at ANZ Stadium, Sydney (6pm EST), looking to maintain a 37-match undefeated streak of home qualification matches stretching back to 1981.

The Qantas Socceroos will have to do without the services of David Carney, Mark Schwarzer and Luke Wilkshire who have now all accumulated two yellow cards during the campaign and will be suspended for the match.

In the other group match played overnight, Iraq defeated China 2-1 in Tianjin leaving Iraq and Qatar set to battle out second spot when they meet in their final group match next Sunday in Dubai.

Australia will join nine other Asian teams in the final stage of qualifying with the draw to be made on June 27.  The top four teams will qualify for South Africa with the fifth to play-off against Oceania's top nation.

For more match details see www.footballaustralia.com.au

 

TICKETS - AUSTRALIA V CHINA

Tickets are available from Ticketek, ph 132 849, web - www.ticketek.com.au and all Ticketek outlets.

Match Details:-

Qatar 1 (Khalfan Ibrahim 90')

Australia 3 (Brett Emerton 17', 56', Harry Kewell 75')

Australian line-up: Mark Schwarzer (gk); Luke Wilkshire, Michael Beauchamp, Jade North, David Carney, Carl Valeri, Jason Culina, Brett Emerton, Mark Bresciano, Brett Holman, Harry Kewell (c) (Bruce Djite 85'). 

Substitutes: Chris Coyne, Scott McDonald, Michael Petkovic, Rod Vargas, Mile Jedinak, Nick Carle,

Cautions: Carney 26', Valeri 52', Schwarzer 75', Wilkshire 88'

Referee: Gi Young Lee (South Korea)

Eight teams confirmed for next phase

Eight of the ten teams that will contest the 4th Round of AFC World Cup qualifiers have been confirmed after tonight's matches.

Only the second team from Australia's group and also Group 5 have yet to be decided.

Joining Australia are Bahrain and Japan (Group 2); DPR Korea and Korea Republic (Group 3), Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia (Group 4) plus Iran from Group 5.

Bahrain secured the point it needed with a 1-1 draw against Oman, while Japan were far too good for Thailand. DPR Korea won 2-0 at home to end Jordan's hopes, while Korea Republic go through after a 3-1 win over Turkmenistan.

Uzbekistan maintained its 100% winning record, with an easy 3-0 win over Lebanon, while Saudi Arabia won 2-0 against Singapore. Iran won 2-0 against Syria to earn their spot.

Iraq and Qatar have it all to play for next week in Dubai, while UAE needs a point from its final game against Syria to advance. A Syrian win will see them join UAE on eight points and down to goal difference.

Victory signs first Youth players

Melbourne Victory is close to completing its inaugural Youth team after signing seven promising young Victorians ahead of the first National Youth League (NYL) season.

Local players Mijo Marinovic, Robert Wynne, Antonio LaVerde, Aziz Behich and Matthew Foschini, as well as Stephen Hatzikostas and Fabio DiLizia from the Victorian Institute of Sport (VIS) will all represent Victory Youth when the NYL begins in late September.

Victory Youth Coach Mehmet Durakovic said he and Victory Youth Assistant Coach Steve Mautone left no stone unturned in recruitment and are looking forward to developing some of the state’s most exciting youngsters.

“There are so many talented players in Victoria and we’re confident that we’ve selected a very capable, young side with a tremendous future,” Durakovic said.

“Steve and I have watched countless matches throughout the state, and we’ve also received a lot of good feedback from the VIS, Football Federation Victoria and local coaches.

“We’ve gone from Melbourne all the way through to the country looking at these young players, and with so many promising youngsters there were many tough decisions.

“I’m confident that we’ve picked the right players and now can develop them into bigger and better footballers.”

Marinovic, 19, is the oldest of the recruits and joins Victory Youth from North Geelong, where he played in goal following stints with the Melbourne Knights in the Victorian Premier League and nearly a year in Croatia with powerhouse Dinamo Zagreb.

Wynne, a powerful defender with precise touch and vision, and LaVerde, an elegant midfielder with classy skills, both 18, have been signed from South Melbourne in the Victorian Premier League.

However LaVerde’s season may already be over following confirmation that the former VIS graduate injured his knee in a training mishap last week.

Behich, 17, is an energetic attacking midfielder whose exciting left foot was on display for Victorian Premier League side the Green Gully Cavaliers in a trial match against Victory earlier this month.

Foschini, 17, is a sturdy defensive midfielder from the Oakleigh Cannons in the Victorian Premier League and is the son of former Aussie Rules star Silvio Foschini.

DiLizia, 17, who captained the Qantas Joeys at last year’s International Youth Football Championship in Japan, trialled with Italian club AS Roma following the tournament and has represented Victory in several trial matches over the past two years.

At 16, Hatzikostas is the youngest of the group but has experience beyond his years, having played for Victory in friendly matches against China and Chinese Super League side Tianjin Teda last year and trialled with Greek side AEK Athens in 2006.

“We’ve selected quite a young side, but hopefully these players will develop over the next two years and will be knocking on the door of the senior team,” Durakovic added.

Durakovic, who made 64 appearances for Australia and played nearly 500 national league matches, was full of praise for the NYL, which will comprise of one team from each of the seven Australian Hyundai A-League clubs.

“Years ago, if these players didn’t go to the Australian Institute of Sport, they would go overseas or give up football and take up something else.

“Now, the NYL gives these players the opportunity to stay in Australia and work with a Hyundai A-League club, so it’s tremendous for them.

“I know it’s taken a while, but you’ve got to crawl before you walk and hopefully we’re heading in the right direction.”

Late strike sinks Victory

A late strike from Brazilian import Cristiano saw Adelaide United record a 2-1 win against Melbourne Victory in Round 1 of the 2008 Pre-Season Cup at Aurora Stadium, Launceston this afternoon.

Ney Fabiano scored early for Victory, before Cristiano equalised in the first half and then secured three points for Adelaide in the dying stages.

4720 fans braved the chilly conditions to witness a lively and entertaining contest, which saw Ney Fabiano put Victory in front with a forceful header from close range on eight minutes.

Nick Ward cross ed the ball to Ney Fabiano, who manoeuvred himself around Robert Cornthwaite and guided the ball past former Victory goalkeeper Eugene Galekovic.

Victory could have extended its lead on numerous occasions, with Evan Berger coming closest when he almost connected with a Danny Allsopp pass before colliding with Galekovic.

Adelaide worked its way back into the contest and equalised on 32 minutes when Scott Jamieson crossed into the penalty area, ensuring a goalmouth scramble that resulted in Cristiano scoring from point-blank range.

Victory looked to regain the lead throughout the second half with Allsopp and Ney Fabiano continuing to challenge Galekovic, while at the other end Mitchell Langerak, who replaced Michael Theoklitos following the break, had few saves to make.

Ney Fabiano almost sealed a late win for Victory when he headed into the crossbar, before Adelaide secured the win when a long ball found Cristiano, who struck cleanly past Langerak.

“I was very disappointed with the result, bitterly disappointed,” Victory Coach Ernie Merrick said.

“I know we had eight players out, but we expected to win that game and to be honest, I thought the boys did well enough to win it.

“We had three starting outstanding debuts and we’ve got three very good players in young Evan Berger, Ney Fabiano and Michael Thwaite, who was rock solid.

“We kept conceding corner kicks and it was about the sixth one that just fell to one of their players and it was a toe poke in.

“In the second half, Mitch punched the ball twice from a cross and corner kick and there was nothing until the last minute.

“Ney Fabiano’s terrific header from the free kick hits and crossbar and they go down the other end and score, so that was pretty hard for the boys to take, they’re gutted.”

Victory, which is likely to include Costa Rican international Jose Luis Lopez, will now focus on its next Pre-Season Cup fixture against Perth Glory at Members Equity Stadium on Saturday, 26 July.

Victory memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season are currently available from the Victory Shop, 236 Swan Street, Richmond, by calling 1300 GO MVFC or online by clicking here.

Melbourne Victory 1 (Ney Fabiano 8’)
Adelaide United 2 (Cristiano 32’, 90’)
Sunday, 20 July 2008
Aurora Stadium, Launceston, Tasmania
Referee: Ben Williams
Crowd: 4720

Melbourne Victory: 1.Michael THEOKLITOS (gk) (20.Mitchell LANGERAK (gk) 46’), 3.Michael THWAITE, 4.Steven PACE (6.Steve PANTELIDIS 87’), 5.Sebastian RYALL, 7.Matthew KEMP, 9.Danny ALLSOPP, 11.NEY FABIANO, 12.Rodrigo VARGAS (Captain), 15.Tom PONDELJAK (13.Nathan ELASI 72’), 19.Evan BERGER, 22.Nick WARD

Substitutes not used: 24.Semir SIVIC
Yellow cards: Danny Allsopp 42’, Ney Fabiano 49’

Adelaide United: 2.Robert CORNTHWAITE, 3.ALE MAO, 4.Angelo COSTANZO, 6.CASSIO, 9.Paul AGOSTINO (5.Michael VALKANIS 78’), 10.CRISTIANO, 13.Travis DODD (Captain), 14.Scott JAMIESON (18.Fabian BARBIERO 69’), 15.Jonas SALLEY (21.Jason SPAGNUOLO 69’), 20.Eugene GALEKOVIC (gk), 22.DIEGO

Substitutes not used: 30.Mark BIRIGHITTI (gk)
Yellow cards: Angelo Costanzo 46’, Alemao 52’, Travis Dodd 84’

 Victory adds second Costa Rican star

 Melbourne Victory has added a second Costa Rican international star to its stocks with the signing of dynamic midfielder Jose Luis Lopez on a two-year loan from Costa Rican giant Deportivo Saprissa.

Lopez, 27, will join countryman Carlos Hernandez in Melbourne and brings a wealth of experience, having captained Costa Rica at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and at the 2001 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Lopez has spent the past five seasons with Saprissa, where he won four national titles and the 2005 CONCACAF Champions' Cup, which led to the club’s first appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Victory Coach Ernie Merrick, who saw Lopez in action during a recent scouting trip to Central America, said the Costa Rican was one of the most significant signings in the club’s short history.

“The timing of me going over to Costa Rica between AFC Champions League games was when Saprissa were in the finals, so I saw him play and he was quite outstanding,” Merrick said.

“The focus of my trip was to watch him play in the finals and to talk him into coming to Australia and we were successful on both accounts.”

Lopez replaces Englishman Joseph Keenan, who had his contract mutually terminated overnight, as Victory’s fourth foreign player alongside Hernandez, Scotsman Grant Brebner and Brazilian Ney Fabiano.

“We were always aiming to add another creative, holding midfielder and the job description really meant that we wanted someone with good experience, who can cope with the rigours of that position and the stress of playing for a club that needs to perform well on a regular basis in front of good crowds,” Merrick added.

“He also had to be a very attacking minded player and a great distributor of the ball, and I was lucky enough to come across a Costa Rican teammate of Carlos, who’s a regular in the national team.

“Five years ago he joined Saprissa, Costa Rica’s top club, and that time Saprissa paid the highest ever domestic transfer fee for a player.

“He’s got a terrific record. He captained Saprissa, played in World Cup qualifying matches, played in the Olympic team with Carlos and played in the FIFA Club World Cup, where Saprissa finished third behind Liverpool and Sao Paulo.

“He’s just turned 27, he’s an experienced player and he’ll bring a lot of maturity into the midfield.

“He’s another fantastic addition with outstanding credentials, and together with our key recruits Michael Thwaite, Ney Fabiano, Billy Celeski and Tom Pondeljak, we’re putting together a very strong and exciting side for 2008/09.”

Merrick also acknowledged Keenan, who had his time with Victory restricted by injury and suspension and has been on trial with numerous clubs in Australia and overseas.

“Joseph wants to play first-team football and we don’t want to stand in his way,” Merrick said.

“We wish him all the best for the future and thank him for his contribution to the club.”

Lopez will arrive in Melbourne early next week and is set to feature in Victory’s 2008 Pre-Season Cup campaign, which begins against Adelaide United at Aurora Stadium, Launceston this Sunday (kick off 1pm).

Victory will face Victorian Premier League side the Whittlesea Zebras in a trial match at Epping Soccer Stadium on Tuesday, 15 July.

Victory memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season are currently available from the Victory Shop, 236 Swan Street, Richmond, by calling 1300 GO MVFC or online by clicking here.

Jose Luis Lopez

Date of birth: 31/3/1981

Place of birth: San Jose, Costa Rica

Nationality: Costa Rican

Height: 179 cm

Weight: 70 kg

Former clubs: 1995-2003 Club Sport Herediano (Costa Rica), 2003-08 Deportivo Saprissa (Costa Rica)

Victory earns its stripes against Zebras

Coach Ernie Merrick may have missed the opening minutes, but he arrived at Epping Soccer Stadium in time to see Ney Fabiano and Nick Ward score in Melbourne Victory’s 2-0 trial match win against the Whittlesea Zebras this evening.

However Merrick, who was caught in traffic after returning from the annual Hyundai A-League coaches’ forum in Sydney, revealed that Victory’s promising display was marred by an injury to Captain Kevin Muscat.

“It was a good performance,” Merrick said.

“We’ve been working on possession play and closing down hard on the opposition when they’ve got the ball and we did both of those jobs really well.

“We created a number of chances and it’s a bit disappointing that we didn’t score more goals.

“There’s one downside, a slight tear in the hamstring muscle of K evin Muscat, which will put him out for probably two weeks.”

Victory welcomed back Ward, Rodrigo Vargas, Sebastian Ryall and Nathan Elasi for its second trial match in as many weeks and produced a clinical exhibition that saw Ney Fabiano score on seven minutes.

The Brazilian forward positioned himself near the penalty spot calmly converted a pinpoint pass from Tom Pondeljak, registering his first goal in Victory colours to the delight of the crowd of around 3000.

Victory dominated possession and was denied a second goal by the crossbar when Danny Allsopp fired a powerful shot, while Whittlesea’s closest chance came just before half time in a goalmouth scramble that saw the ball fly over the target.

Ward doubled Victory’s lead on 74 minutes courtesy of an Allsopp assist before young goalkeeper Mitchell Langerak ensured the Victorian Premier League side remained scoreless with a penalty save in the dying stages.

“The backline of (Matthew) Kemp, Vargas, Muscat and (Michael) Thwaite had very good game,” Merrick added.

“We gave the ball away too much in midfield, but the combination of Ney Fabiano, who had an outstanding game, and Danny Allsopp was very good.

“Tom Pondeljak showed flashes of what he can do and set up the first goal, plus he should’ve scored one that hit the side netting at the end.

“The defensive midfield player Sebastian Ryall was very good, particularly in the second half, and it was good to see Nathan Elasi get a full run along with a couple of young trial players.”

Merrick said the team’s attention is now focused on its opening 2008 Pre-Season Cup match against Adelaide United at Aurora Stadium, Launceston this Sunday (kick off 1pm).

“Kevin will be missing, but it gives us an opportunity to use other players.

“Evan Berger, who was suspended tonight, was impressive in the first game (against the Green Gully Cavaliers) so he’ll definitely be getting a run.

“We’re really looking forward to travelling to Tasmania and we hope that we’ll be coming home with a win.”

Tickets for the match against Adelaide are available by calling 6333 0889, by logging on to www.maxevents.com.au or at the gate.

Victory memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season are currently available from the Victory Shop, 236 Swan Street, Richmond, by calling 1300 GO MVFC or online by clicking here.

Melbourne Victory 2 (Ney Fabiano 7’, Nick Ward 74’)
Whittlesea Zebras 0
Tuesday, 15 July 2008
Epping Soccer Stadium, Epping
Crowd: Approximately 3000

 Thwaite is over for Victory

 Melbourne Victory has made a major addition to its already impressive list of recent recruits, signing Qantas Socceroo Michael Thwaite on a one-year loan from Norwegian club SK Brann.

Thwaite, 25, who represented Brann in the UEFA Cup earlier this year, joins Ney Fabiano De Oliveira, Billy Celeski and Tom Pondeljak as Victory’s key arrivals ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season.

The versatile defender is set to join Victory on July 1 and will become the club’s seventh player with senior international experience, having made his debut for Australia against Jamaica in 2005.

“It’s very pleasing to be able to bring another Socceroo home, albeit for only a short time at this stage,” Victory Football Operations Manager Gary Cole said.

“He’s big, quick and will do a great job for us in defence.

“Michael’s quickly becoming a regular Socceroo and he’s a fantastic addition to our squad.

“We’ve now recruited four key players in Michael, Ney Fabiano, Billy Celeski and Tom Pondeljak, which has laid the foundations for a very exciting 2008/09 campaign.”

Thwaite moved to Brann from Polish club Wisla Krakow in January this year and has made four appearances for the Norwegian side, which is currently in the midst of its 2008 Norwegian Premier League campaign.

Thwaite is expected to make his first appearances for Victory in the club’s upcoming trial matches against the Green Gully Cavaliers on Monday, 7 July and the Whittlesea Zebras on Tuesday, 15 July.

Victory will open its 2008 Pre-Season Cup campaign against Hyundai A-League rival Adelaide United at Aurora Stadium, Launceston on Sunday, 20 July.

Victory memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season are currently available from the Victory Shop, 236 Swan Street, Richmond, by calling 1300 GO MVFC or online by clicking here.

  Patafta makes Newcastle switch

Melbourne Victory today announced that young midfielder Kaz Patafta will join the Newcastle Jets ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2008/09 season.

Patafta arrived at Victory on a one-year loan from Portuguese giant Benfica in June last year and made 14 Hyundai A-League appearances for the club, scoring his first goal against Wellington Phoenix in Round 20.

The 19-year-old played in four of Victory’s AFC Champions League 2008 matches and was mutually released from his Benfica contract last month, opening the door for his move to the Hunte r Valley.

“It’s been a great season in Melbourne and I’ve really enjoyed my time here,” Patafta said.

“I’ve learnt a lot both on and off the field from everyone at Victory and I’ve been happy living in this great city for the past 12 months.

“At this point in time it’s important for me to aim to be playing regularly, which I believe is the only way to improve at senior level.

“I’m really looking forward to a new challenge and trying to prove and cement myself as a regular first-team player.”

Victory Coach Ernie Merrick said the club didn’t want to stand in the way of Patafta’s ambitions and will look to add to both its senior and youth squads with further youngsters.

“Kaz is a promising young player and we don’t want to stand in his way of trying to secure a regular first-team position,” Merrick said.

“Kaz sees more opportunities with Newcastle and we wish him all the best for the future.

“We currently have five quality players aged 20 or younger – Leigh Broxham , Sebastian Ryall, Mitchell Langerak, Evan Berger and Nathan Elasi – and we’ll continue to sign more exciting youngsters to strengthen our first-team and our new National Youth League side.”

 Keenan given permission to trial

 Melbourne Victory today confirmed that English midfielder Joseph Keenan has been given permission to trial with clubs in Australia and overseas.

 Injury and suspension restricted Keenan, 25, to 12 Hyundai A-League appearances in his first season with Victory after arriving from Willem II in Holland.

 “Joseph has been given permission to trial with several clubs here in Australia and overseas and we’re fully supportive of this,” Victory Football Operations Manager Gary Cole said.

 “Joseph wants to play regular first-team football and we don’t want to stand in his way of achieving this.”

 Keenan has spent three days on trial with Hyundai A-League 2008 Champions the Newcastle Jets and will head overseas for further trials.

Victory signs Chonburi star

Melbourne Victory has capitalised on a relationship formed during its maiden AFC Champions League campaign and strengthened its attacking options with the signing of star striker Ney Fabiano De Oliveira for two years from Chonburi FC.

Victory fans were introduced to Fabiano, 29, during the club’s debut in Asia’s premier club competition and witnessed the experienced forward net two goals in as many matches against Victory.

“We played Chonburi in Bangkok in our second AFC Champions League match and Fabiano was a standout,” Victory Coach Ernie Merrick said.

“He caused lots of problems for our defence, scored the initial goal and then hit the post later on in the game.

“He really impressed us as a good competitor and he’s very skillful with an eye for goal.

“We followed up and our defence was impressed by him, particularly Kevin Muscat, who found him a handful.

“He’ll be a great addition to our strike force and adds the necessary depth to our team that we’ve lacked during the AFC Champions League.”

Fabiano spent the majority of his career in Brazil and Austria before joining Thailand Tobacco Monopoly FC last year and establishing himself as the Thailand Premier League’s top scorer with 18 goals, six ahead of his nearest rival.

The dynamic striker was transferred to Chonburi ahead of the 2008 season and scored three times in the club’s AFC Champions League matches, including one against Victory at Telstra Dome last Wednesday.

“We’ve been through quite a long negotiation with Chonburi, who have been absolutely fantastic in the process,” Victory Football Operations Manager Gary Cole said.

“Fabiano stayed over after Wednesday’s game to go through our normal screening processes and he’s come up very well.

“We’re excited about the fact that we can add another big, strong, high quality striker to our squad.

”It gives us a lot more depth and a lot more options and means we go into next season satisfied now with our strike force.”

Subject to visa approval, Fabiano will join Victory on July 1 and replace fellow Brazilian Leandro Love, who will return to Japanese side Vissel Kobe after completing his one-year loan deal, as the club’s fourth visa player.

Cole said Victory would look to foster its relationship with Chonburi, which won the Thailand Premier League last year and currently sits third on the 2008 ladder.

“We’ve had some good conversations with Thanasak Suraprasert, who is their General Manager, and he’s aware of how advanced, not just Melbourne Victory, but Australian sport is in terms of sports science and sports medicine.

“He’s asked in a couple of areas if we’re prepared to share information, which we certainly agreed to do and he’s also asked if they can send some of their staff over to look at what we do and how we go about doing it.

“One of the big pluses of playing in Asia is that we can form these relationships.

“We’ve got a good relationship with Chonburi and we also have a very good relationship with Gamba Osaka.”

 Victory ends Asian adventure in style

An inspiring return from Archie Thompson saw Melbourne Victory end its maiden AFC Champions League campaign in style with a 3-1 win over Chonburi FC at Telstra Dome on Wednesday evening.

Thompson came off the bench in the second half following an eight week break and had an immediate impact on the contest, putting Victory in front and setting up the goal that sealed the result for the home side More