The Lowdown

2011-01-03T09:20:00.002+11:00

A LITTLE WHILE AGO I WAS ALLOWED INTO THE " ARCHIVES " AT SOCCER HOUSE .

THE FOLLOWING ARE EXTRACTS FROM THE TASMANIAN SOCCER COUNCIL LATER TO BECOME THE TASMANIAN SOCCER FEDERATION MINUTES . UNFORTUNATELY LATER MINUTE BOOKS ARE UNABLE TO BE LOCATED .

CAN ANY OF YOU ADD ANY INFORMATION

The Tasmanian Soccer Council 1929 – 1970

Prior to 1939 the Council appeared to meet on a haphazard basis. On occasions up to twelve months occurred between meetings. The Chairman appears to have been voted in on the day.

1931 Formal State Body first discussed. Resolved that Major Cottrell Dormer be approached for his approval

1932 The following meeting a Constitution was presented accepted and signed by the member Associations. These were The Tasmanian British Football Association, The Northern Tasmanian British Football Association, and Break o’ Day Association.
First mention of the Ewing Cup for competition between the Associations.

1933 Break o’day Association disbanded.

1937 First mention of the Hawkins Cup for intrastate under 19 teams.

1947 The Chairman Mr. Michael noted The Ewing Cup was in Launceston. The Waterside Workers Federation to be approached for its recovery.
First Mention of the Cottrell Dormer State Premiership Trophy.

1951 Noted prospect of arranging a demonstration game on the North West Coast.
1952 Queenstown and North West Tasmanian Soccer Associations became members

1953 V Tuting elected as 1st Life Member. Queenstown Association disbanded.
1954 T Rose founder member died in London.
1963 Ampol Cup introduced for competition by members of the Associations.
1971 W Drew, D Stoddart and G Dale elected Life Members

2010-12-17T13:48:00.002+11:00

Can you help me update this list please

Tasmanian Players who have gained International Honours

Name Year Opponents Remarks

L Norman 1923 China 1st Test Sydney
L Norman 1923 China 4th Test Newcastle Withdrew due to injury
J Stonor 1923 China 1st Test Sydney
L Honeystett 1923 China 2nd Test Melbourne
J Stonor 1924 Canada Melbourne
L Norman 1924 Canada
L Honeysett 1924 Canada
W Faulkner 1924 Canada
H Wise 1948 New Zealand Selected to tour NZ but injured in Training and did not play.
A Rattray 1953 Hong Kong 5th Test Adelaide
A Rattray 1956 Various Olympic Games Melbourne
W Firkins 1957 New Zealand Overseas tour.
P Owen 1964 New Zealand Under 16 Match Olympic Park Melbourne
D Longo 1993 New Zealand Auckland and Melbourne
D Longo 1994 Japan Melbourne
D Longo 1994 Chile Anofagusta
D Longo 1994 New Zealand Melbourne
A Breaden
K Reynolds
L Fabrizio
Jonathon Carter
Richard Lecyzinski Australian Schoolboys
Andrew Lecyzinski Australian Schoolboys

2010-12-12T13:31:00.002+11:00

CAN ANY ONE ADD TO THESE NAMES PLEASE . ALL LIFE MEMBERS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE GROUPS.

THANKS

BRIAN

Tasmanian Soccer Federation also known as Tasmanian Soccer Council.

Vic Tuting
Fred Joughin
George Arnott
Ken Howe
L Dick
D L Smith
A Fillbrook
H J Corrigan
W Drew
D Stoddart
G Dale

Northern Tasmanian Soccer Association

George Dale
Ross Wesson
Kerry Dennis
Cyril Cosslett
Jim Witheford
Ron Proctor
Nick Kupesky
C Williams

North West Tasmanian Soccer Association

K Howe

Southern Tasmanian Soccer Association

Edwin Storr
George Fry
Vic Tuting
Norm Evans (Senior)
Baden Evans
J H Southorn
J Meehan
H Blackburn
Roy Stoneman
Brian Evans
D Stoddart

A December Letter

2010-12-07T16:03:00.002+11:00

I notice on Walter’s site a lengthy debate on the merits of a State league. The views expressed are varied on the format of such a competition.

However I feel we should pause and examine previous attempts to form and maintain a statewide competition. Perhaps we may learn something.

One point of difference between the late Steve Gasparinatos and yours truly was that I believe we can profit from history whereas Steve used to say the only way was forward and history was history.

The first State League was formed in 1978. The competition was first mooted in 1976 and all and sundry poured scorn on the concept. This all changed when the Tasmanian Soccer Federation announced that the competition would commence in 1978, from then on it was a mad scramble to lodge the applications. Everyone wanted to be in it. In latter years I sighted a few, the best works of fiction I have seen for a long time. The most stunning Junior development programmes, Stadiums and facilities one could imagine.

Eventually things got under way with 8 teams. There was no reserve league, the reserves taking the place of their Senior XI in the local Divisions North and South.

Tasmanian Soccer in 1978 was similar to Caesar’s Gaul. It was divided into three parts.

At the head we had the Tasmanian Soccer Federation. They ran State teams, thought up the State League and where the contact with the ASF.

They had little or no income but employed a part time Secretary Manager.

The TSF had two members, The Southern Tasmanian Soccer Association and Northern Tasmanian Sports. The former were an association as opposed to the latter which was a limited Company.

As the TSF had no staff it delegated the day-to-day management of the State league to the STSA who incidentally employed the same part time manager but on a full time basis.

Registrations were carried out on a local basis so we had the instances where a Northern player’s fees were say $30 but a Southern player would be paying $80 to $90.

Discipline was another major difference. No matter where the player offended his regional tribunal sat in judgement. It soon became evident that there was a discrepancy over the Tribunal benchmarks. The TSF being entirely toothless couldn’t do anything, as the players were not registered with them but their local bodies.

The original plan was to expand the League in 1979 to 10 teams. You can imagine my delight when South won the league and became eligible.

In due course the great day came for us to be admitted only to learn that the league would remain at 8 but would be expanded to include reserves.

How could this happen, the TSF had made the decision, it had been published and agreed to.

After the mist had cleared it transpired the 8 clubs had overturned the decision. Unbeknown to all the TSF had allowed a club management group to be formed and they told the TSF they wanted reserves not 10 teams.

So we had a competition organised by the TSF managed by the STSA and jumping to the Club management group’ bidding.

Eventually the league was increased to 10 but folded the year after.

Why? Everyone ran out of money. The South Sea Bubble all over again

A contributing factor was that the fees increased. Same players, same referees, same grounds but as you are in the State League and it is more competitive it will cost you more. I never saw the logic.

1994 saw another attempt to manufacture a State competition. By now the TSF was on its deathbed however even though it was on borrowed time it decided to clone the National league and run a summer comp.

To start with the management was just as convoluted as the Gallic principle still applied but the concept had some merit, as summer evening games at Wellesley were an undoubted money-spinner.

Within a year the TSF had disappeared (that is an interesting tale) with Soccer Tas coming into being. Now we only had only one Master but Northern and Southern tribunals still operated. The new set up allowed for interchange of tribunal staff.
The flies appeared in the ointment when the winter came. Soccer Tas placed an embargo on STATE players preventing them from playing.
A glorified team-stacking rule was introduced; only 3 state players could be on the field at any one time. So most players just sat around.

The summer comp lasted two years as some players and every one of the administrators were worn out through operating all year round.

The final state competition, which lasted until 1999, was the simplest version of all. Seniors supported by either a youth or reserve side. Its very success led to its demise.

During the previous years a genuine promotion and relegation system had been in operation. At the end of the season there was a three-way play off made up of the 2 top regional clubs and the bottom state side.

The trouble started when the Southern sides kept winning eventually the membership became 8 south 2 north.

Another aspect was a carry over from the 1994 set up; remember at that time the local regions could set the rules for their members. It was no secret that Northern Tasmanian Sports disapproved of the State League.

It couldn’t prevent its members joining so made life as difficult as possible. Northern Clubs had to fulfil their regional obligations before they were permitted to join the state comp. This effectively meant they had to field four teams per Saturday sometimes simultaneously at either end of the island.

No such rules applied in the South

In late 1998 Devonport indicated they probably wouldn’t continue so Soccer Tas pulled the plug.

So what have we learnt?

1. Tasmanian numbers are too small to support a summer / winter competition.
2. Clubs only think of themselves and don’t take into account the aspirations of those outside their immediate group.
3. FFT should grasp the nettle firmly and simply announce the new comp and the rules. (Watch the scramble)
4. Don’t give yourselves airs and graces.
5. Make it affordable
6. Remember those who are not selected or do not apply. They are just as important as the " priveledged" few.

A Late November Letter

2010-11-25T13:24:00.000+11:00

I believe I have mentioned elsewhere that whilst engaging in bucolic pursuits I refect on my involvement in the game of association football.

What was soccer like when I first trod the hallowed turf of South Hobart in 1954 and how has it changed. Well Tasmanian soccer in 54 was like living in a block of flats. Everyone knew that there were other residents in the building but only met them on the stairs or lobby from time to time. Occasionally there would be an organised dinner party where all took part. The greatest excitement would be when there was an organised visit by the gasman or meter reader. On an intermittent basis the residents would get together and sally forth for an outing.

Things stayed much the same until the 1st State League. I suppose you could say there that the residents organised regular card evenings until some one started to lose too much money but on the local scene the little box system persisted.

The big changes came when Rodger Marlor became the permanent paid part-time secretary. I cannot remember the date. Things certainly became better organised in Southern Tasmania. I could not tell you what was happening up North as in those days there was little or no communication at Club level.

Then along came the summer state league followed by the winter state league then in 1999 nothing at all. The Southern super league based at KG V failed to get off the ground. I have had plenty of time to revisit the paperwork surrounding that venture. Like most projects sounded a good idea at the time but in reality was doomed to failure. Why? Because the proponents only listened to those that supported it. I remember at the meeting the general consensus being “if we are going to lose money we would rather do it at our home venues “.

In between time Soccer Tas was formed. No longer a block of flats but a guesthouse with a landlord. All paid the same rent, no visitors without permission. No longer the occasional chat on the stairs but organised games nights in the lounge room. You actually got the opportunity to meet the people upstairs.

Sadly we no longer receive any guests. This is understandable when we look at the way soccer has changed on the National and World scenes. Rarely do Club or representative sides do the Grand Tour of all states.

The A League has replaced the National adult carnivals.

I do not know what was going on the junior scene but things must have been very different especially in Hobart. I do remember a High School

league and the uproar when the Southern Tasmanian Soccer Association decided that all “Division 1 “ Clubs should have junior teams. This I believe has been a major plus in Southern Tasmanian Soccer. I wish this principle were statewide.

Met a gentleman at Golf the other day that claimed he set up the current Primary structure. Apparently all Hobart used to come under one administration. He set up the current three regions concept. He was also instrumental in bringing in reduced ground sizes, as it would appear all matches were played on full size fields in those days. Are we talking about 20 / 30 years ago??

There are those that say that Soccer was at its height in the 60’s or 70’s. I am not so sure. Perhaps at the top level but certainly not down below. The 60’s and 70’s Junior and Primary Soccer, which are the building blocks of our game, were pale in comparison with our present structures.

The ‘Premier League “side I played for in about 1960 was not in the same town as a current Division 2 sides. People only remember the talented few.

I believe that Soccer was at its peak during the initial State League period about 1968? . Not only was the Premier State League a top-notch competition but also the local supporting leagues were nearly as good. I recall in the 1st year two of the leading Southern Div 1 sides were S Hobart and Hobart Juventus. We could debate this aspect forever.

What are the positives after 50 years? A common statewide administration even though there are still pockets of parochialism. A structured Coaching and development program albeit largely self-funded by the participants. More participants at both Adult and junior levels. The remarkable expansion of women’s soccer. In the early days women’s teams commanded a novelty value. Not so now I am glad to say Women’s soccer is a standalone-expanding component of the Tasmanian Soccer scene.

Are there negatives? Of course there are but I’ll leave that to you .

Hope to see you around next year and may the side you support prosper.

Brian Roberts.

A Letter from under the house

2010-11-01T09:42:00.001+11:00

In common with you all I am a keen observer of the articles and
comments that are posted to Walter’s blog site.

Among the more recent postings was an appeal to us to put our thoughts in writing and submit them to FFT rather than merely express our
opinions under a pseudonym.

This induced a train of thought and awakened a memory cell.

I am not a ruminant although at this time of the year with the season well past I tend from time to time take stock of the season past.

This period of reflection usually takes place as I weed my vegetable gar-den or whilst waiting for my playing companion to emerge from a bunker at Kingston Beach Golf Club.

During my time on the Board of Soccer Tas people either accosted me at matches or stopped me in the street to give me the benefit of their latest brainstorm.

It got to the stage that if I went to a game I would hide my light under a
bushel thus ensuring I obtained some enjoyment.

If you are serious about putting a concept to the powers that be either FFT or your own club use the following as a template.

The subject I have chosen “ The Fantasy Tasmanian Premier League “

Football Federation Tasmania Agenda Item No
Board Meeting

Subject Matter

A Proposed Elite Tasmanian Soccer Competition

Preamble

This paper addresses a proposal for an elite Tasmanian Soccer Competition. I have been requested to advise on the feasibility, and general impact of such a Competition on the Soccer Community. I shall also make reference to the financial exposure of participants.

Background

Board members would be aware that there have been previous attempts to organize elite statewide competitions. Whilst these have initially created a great deal of inter-est eventually lack of finance and a disproportionate local representation led to their demise.

Discussion

It is necessary from the outset to determine what is the objective of such an elite Competition.

The objective is to allow the best 66,88 or 110 soccer players in the State to dem-onstrate their skills on a regular basis. It is the opportunity for the best 6,8,10 Coaches to ply their trade against comparable opponents on a regular basis. It is the opportunity for 6,8,10 Management teams to engage in a truly professional Soccer Club Management strategy without distraction.

Working on the hypothesis that such a Competition may proceed I believe usage of the term State League for the fourth time smacks of repetition and is also divi-sive. May I suggest the term TS league or something similar be utilised. This expression is more district neutral and can continue to be utilised should membership be for one reason or another be ultimately restricted to a particular area of the State. This would if a winter competition were implemented allow the continued use of the “ Premier” definition.

The crux of the matter is the composition of the membership. Previously members have been drawn from existing participants, however the number of individual clubs has decreased thus wholesale transferring of allegiance to a new concept would denude the Northern and Southern Premier Leagues of members.

The proposed member may be a stand-alone organization. It would not be compelled to field reserves, or juniors. This would free the member’s management team from these distractions thus allowing them to con-centrate purely on the success of their team.

However if an existing Club wishes to participate it may do so.

Membership of any such proposed competition should be no less than 6 and no greater than 10.

Venues

The venue for all Southern games would be KG V Soccer ground. Dependent on the number of entries matches would be scheduled at 4, 6, and 8 pm on Saturdays. Ground Management would be the responsibility of the FFT. Northern matches would be played at agreed venues with the ground man-agement be carried out by the FFT or its agents.

Finance

Membership fees of the competition should be no less than $7500 and no more than $10000. Members would not pay ground rent, referee fees, lighting costs and be allowed to register up to 20 players at no cost.

FFT would be responsible for all ground management thus collecting the gate receipts, canteen proceeds and sponsorship monies.

The minimum prize money would be as follows (based on 6 teams @$10000) a minimum of: -1st prize $20000, 2nd Prize $15000, 3rd prize $10000, the balance to be divided between the remaining 3 sides.
Dependent on the number of entries the Prize monies would be adjusted.

Time Frames

Any radical departure to the norm as described above will in the short-term cause disruption so it is necessary to try and achieve some compromise.

Crucial to this is the time frame when the Elite Competition will take place.

Previously we have both winter and summer state competitions.
The winter competition disturbed the existing Southern and Northern Competi-tions and as set out above the impact now would be greater than in the past.

The summer competition whilst a financial success for clubs with home grounds simply exhausted players and staff, as Soccer became a year round competition.

Consideration should therefore be given to either of the following alternatives:

1. An elite competition run for a limited number of entrants during the winter .As previously stated besides one off Teams (Clubs) current members are permitted to enter the elite competition. They can make the decision whether to commit to 2nd, 3rd, 4th adult sides and junior commitments.

2. An elite competition run for a limited number of entrants during the late autumn. As previously stated current members are permitted to enter the elite competition.

It is believed that the above whilst a compromise meets the objective.

Conclusion
It is recognized that the above is a radical departure from the Company benchmarks and current strategies. The merit of the proposal is that no current club need enter however they are not prevented from entering a team. Should they do so they can determine the extent of their commit-ments to the local league .

I commend the above for your consideration.

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I look forward to your comments not on the paper but if you think the format is suitable for expressing your thoughts to FFT.

Brian Roberts 1/11/10

"From Under the House" - Brian Roberts

2010-10-25T09:21:00.000+11:00

In years past before the arrival of the “ BLOG” I used to write a monthly letter from under the house.

To some it was a source of pleasure to the Directors of Soccer Tas as it was then a source of annoyance

I wrote the following in one of my first letters in 1999. I believe the content holds as good today as it did 11 years ago.

“ The room under my house is home to the fragments of my career as a golfer, soccer player and so on. The golf ball with which I scored my only birdie, plastic eyesores for being the best “shirt picker upper “ plus medals and ribbons for just being around.

Amongst this dust laden clutter used to live the WAWOTAM Birds.
I trapped and held captive these ecological disasters when I was chairman of South Hobart Soccer Club however when I resigned that post they escaped. Where they live now I know not but I do know their migratory path takes them to Wellesley Park where they view last seasons offspring and then on to all corners of the land. Their haunts are the end of season planning meeting and as they are invisible are able to plant their seeds in the minds of Club officials without detection.

At the conclusion of the season we are able to see how fruitful have been their efforts. Row upon row of plastic monolith march across car, trestle, kitchen and clubroom tables. Their serried ranks glistening in the spring sunshine. Some trophies are larger than their recipients.

The product of endless meat raffles, sports cards and donations wrung from butchers, bakers and candlestick makers ultimately poured not back into the game but into the coffers of the “Trophy House “.

I appeal to you Presidents, Secretaries, Team Managers if young Joe or Jessica shows talent give them a soccer ball. You’ll earn the gratitude of their parents. You’ll get them out of the house, away from the computer and they’ll be better players for next year. If they are super prospects give them entry to a coaching course and a soccer ball. If they are like me no talent at all give them a photograph. You don’t have to dust a photo and they take up less space in the room under the house.

David tells me that he can arrange for soccer balls with your club logo on the cover. Help stamp out the WAWOTAM Birds.”

I am glad to say that this year the President of South Hobart put to flight these accursed avian parasites.

No multiple medals or plastic figurines for adults or juniors.

Brian Roberts

The Disappearing Club - Brian Roberts

2010-09-16T21:17:00.001+10:00

Association Football Clubs have been appearing; disappearing; merging and being absorbed by big brother since the sport first came to Tasmania.

Why Football Clubs are formed is simple. Men with a common understanding come together and decide to play their chosen sport.

Caledonians, a group meeting of Scots in a milk bar. Rapid a group of workers at a Boarding House. Clarence, three SHSC players resident on the Eastern Shore.

However why do Clubs disappear?

Firstly I have taken a few at random and endeavoured to give a brief synopsis of their demise concluding with what I believe are common factors.

ALPS. Australian Labour Party Supporters. A happy group with no pretensions to greatness who decided to play football. Nothing more or less. Some where along the way they were persuaded to be SHSC 4th XI.

Things changed overnight. The subscription structure changed, SHSC couldn’t afford to be fined for odd socks and shorts. ALPS players were promoted up the ranks. Eventually the rump left and formed Hobart Wanderers. They soon found that running a Club was more difficult than anticipated. Someone has to do the paperwork, go to Soccer House, and make sure the regos are up to scratch. Things had changed whilst they were associated with SHSC.

The remnants now play as a Beachside social XI.

So what went wrong or changed? Is there a place for a group with no pretensions of greatness who want to play football?

Only if you toe the line and meet the ever-increasing FFT fees structure.

Caledonians. A group of Scotsmen with a romantic name that in the course of time became the best team in Tasmania. A Club whom anyone would have thought would have lasted forever. What led to their absorption into the Kingborough Soccer Club?
Why would a Metropolitan Club go to the country?

Did they ever recover from the financial burden of the original State League? Like others they certainly overstretched themselves. However in the long term others recovered. They certainly had under 19 or was it 18. But I don’t think they ever had a defined junior structure. David Hill delivered the final blow when they were compelled to change their name. West Hobart Lions didn’t sound the same.

P O Saints. They sprang from the loins of Taroona St Mirren. A core of Prison officers and semi retired ex Premier league players formed a Club. A competitive Division 1 side. They ran out of administrators. No one offered to fill the breach so the two or three workhorses pulled the plug.

St Leonards Rovers. I know nothing of their origins but was present on the board of FFT when they left. Their Chief never got to grips with the revised fee structure. With the forming of the State Wide body it was promised that fees would reduce. They did not. All that occurred was that the fee structure became universal throughout Tasmania.
This was the final straw to a struggling Club so they disappeared into the Carrick Social League.

George Town S C. A town that could support two Clubs that got together to form a Northern Powerhouse. Where are they now? Did the town fall on hard times? Did everyone grow old? Did they simply run out of people? Did the ruling body make life to difficult?

Launceston White Eagle. The name says it all about formation. I recall being defeated by a very good team at Dover Village. So what happened? Did everyone die? Did all the young people grow older, get married and raise children?

So what causes are common to some but not all.

They ran out of people to fetch and carry. They worked the willing horses to death

The players got old and were not replaced.

It just became too hard to meet the FFT administrative and financial benchmarks.

lack of a junior substructure to replace the departing players and
administrators

Soccer Tasmania did not have a sympathetic attitude toward the purely social Club.

They had conform to the norm.

Another contributing factor not often taken into account was a result of a series of well meaning but not evaluated decisions by past FFT Boards. At no time were the flow on effects neither calculated nor measured.

That Division 1 mirror the Premier League structure but consist of only standalone clubs.

That Division 1 should mirror the Premier league and have a Reserve grade.

In theory the statistics made these viable decisions. In practice the calculations failed to take into account the uneven spread of the talent.

Added to the above we saw FFT move Clubs from Divisions two and three to Division 1 to give the league critical mass. However no regard was taken of the talent pool available or the increased financial burdens that would be imposed. We have already seen some Clubs disappear from Division 1.

Let's be frank Huon Valley bit the bullet and now some years after accepting the move have returned to Divisions 3 and 4. If this decision had not been taken they would have disappeared.

Christian United after accepting a move to Division 1 have after a brief stay run out of legs and have disappeared never to be seen again.

Rapid who became Kingston Cannons who in turn became Southern F C are an example of a Club in long slow decline.

They never recovered from the name change and setting up in competition to Kingborough.

To add to their woes there was a loss of magic built on their past record.

Descending to Division 2 at the behest of FFT they at FFT’s request filled a gap in Division 1 to slowly see their player and administration pool disappear.

You may find this scenario distasteful but I fear they will be the next casualty unless their administrators take a long hard look into their crystal ball.

In the three cases outlined above I hold FFT to account. They to fulfil their long term plans asked Clubs to fill vacancies in the diminishing ranks of Division 1 without any regard to the clubs ability to meet the upgraded benchmarks and financial burded .

The exception that proves the rule is Nelson . They have survived through sheer hard work and establishing a junior base .

A History of Relegation and Promotion - Keith Roberts

2010-08-13T17:18:00.003+10:00

Promotion and relegation have been part of the football scene world wide for many years. Locally, in Tasmania it has existed in a somewhat stop start fashion. Doubtless to operate successfully there needs to be a broad base of clubs, something of a pyramid structure which feeds aspiring clubs to the top. Unfortunately Tasmania with its small club numbers has more often than not seen an inverted pyramid with little support in its base.

However, despite some shortcomings promotion and relegation has been pursued in a variety of formats. Only the State and Premier South leagues have seen promotion and relegation. In earlier times entry into the Premier league was by application or by the wish of the controlling body to increase (or at times decrease) the number of clubs in the Premier league. Clubs withdrew or disbanded in the years prior to 1940 and a new aspirant stepped up to fill the gap with varying success.
The increasing numbers of players and clubs after 1946 permitted a growth in the Premier league despite the at times fleeting nature of some teams. Migrant inspired clubs were accepted on formation into the top league, some lasted, whilst others faded away.

Growth.

Caledonians (Scotland) 1951, Juventus (Italy) 1956, Rapid (Austria) 1958, Croatia (Croatia) 1960, Olympia (Greece) 1962, and White Eagles (Poland) 1964, were some of the most notable examples, the first three clubs going direct to the top flight. Croatia and City United moved up to replace Kingston and Hollandia who withdrew to lower leagues at the close of 1960. Olympia and Wayatinah came up for season 1962 when a 10 team competition was deemed to be “the way to go”. The first straight swap between a relegated and promoted club occurred at the close of season 1962. University in last spot were replaced for season 1963 by Division 1 winners Inter. Finally White Eagles were promoted for 1964 to the Premier league when two clubs were disbanded and the hapless Metro pushed out as it was back to 8 teams.
Once more it was 10 teams for 1965, again Metro and University found themselves on the way up only to be both demoted at the close of the season with the 8 teams supporters back in vogue.
Luck now played a part in the relegation stakes, first in 1966 South Hobart were bottom but the Division 1 league was won by Caledonians Reserves, Rapid also escaped the drop in 1967 when Hobart Rangers merged with Caledonians, the vacant place for some reason being taken by University over the Division 1 winners Metro.

Play-Offs.

The close of the following season saw a new way of deciding promotion matters, the play-off system being introduced. Metro defeated University 4-2 on aggregate to take their spot in the Premier league for 1969. Despite being last that season they held of the University challenge with a 3-3 score line. University tried again the following years but this time it was White Eagles who denied them promotion with a 2-2 draw.
However, University were not to be denied as the 10 team league was back on the agenda and they together with Dnipro made it to the top for 1972. The last of the play-offs saw Dnipro survive 4-2 over the colourful Malaysian Tigers.

The play-off system was now put to bed and automatic promotion and relegation was to be strictly adhered to with the continuation of a 10 team top structure. South Hobart (1973) were the victims of the new system with Taroona being the first club to try their luck at staying up. South Hobart soon returned to the Premier level as Taroona quickly disappeared. Eastern Suburbs took University’s position but like Taroona before them soon found they were swapping back with their earlier victim.

North.

No fixed promotion and relegation system appears to have operated in the Northern leagues. The formation of a Combined league in 1969 saw the ebb and flow of clubs as some disbanded and others were promoted to build up the league to 12 teams prior to the State league of 1978. The reformed State league North of the mid 80s saw the inclusion of new clubs who in the main have remained to form the nucleus of today’s Northern competition.

STATE LEAGUE ONE.

For season 1978 it was the new all state league with five south and five northern clubs for the start of this new experiment. Hobart Juventus was the notable absence from the league but with promotion in the air for the top southern and northern clubs their appearance was but delayed.
But South Hobart instead took the Division 1 title with Burnie in the north. However, promotion failed to materialise with a Reserve state league being preferred. Burnie and Hobart Juventus made it to the State league for 1980 with Hobart Olympia and Launceston United going for the drop. South Hobart took White Eagles place for season 1981 with fortune favouring Ulverstone who stayed up as St Leonards declined promotion.
However, the State league despite its high standard did not last and the Premier North and South State leagues re-appeared for the period 1982 to 1987.
Automatic.
The new 8 team league with a quite viable Division 1 beneath was made even more competitive with automatic promotion. South Hobart and White Eagles went out in the seasons 1982 and 1983. South Hobart failed to regain their place whilst White Eagles took two seasons to come back up. Phoenix came and went, with University and Metro dropping in the following seasons. Surprisingly Howrah and Hobart City stayed up until the later made a hash of things by walking off the field during a match. The State league was back the next season for 1988 so that City were lucky just drop one rung.

STATE LEAGUE TWO.

The ten team State league was to remain the same for its first two seasons. Like all the best laid plans things went awry from season one (1988). George Town withdrew after on only one season (Caledonians last), then Launceston did likewise in 1989 (Croatia Glenorchy last). Burnie were moved into the league, but no team from the South was invited so a 9 team league eventuated. Burnie promptly came last in 1991 and were quickly moved back to Division 1 North to leave an 8 team State league.
There now seemed to be no mechanism for entry into the State league as Hobart Olympia occupied bottom spot for 2 seasons (1992-1993).
The season 1994 saw yet another proposal, this time for a Summer State league, Ulverstone reduced the northern participation to 2 clubs but Riverside Olympic and South Hobart were accepted making for an odd 9 teams. Devonport did not like the new set up which had some clubs operating all year round. They withdrew from the summer league but at least it was now 8 teams. That did not last long as the summer format came to grief and competition returned to the winter set-up of 10 sides with the acceptance of Devonport (back in the fold) and Launceston for 1996. The play-offs were back again this time to commence in 1997 with a triangular series between the bottom State league side and the champion Division 1 North and South clubs.

University won the triangular series with Riverside Olympic dropping out of the State league. Clarence were the successful play-off team at the close of season 1998 with Launceston departing the scene.

As you Where!

Devonport once again withdrew from the league which was now all southern clubs except for Launceston City (previously Juventus), it’s not a surprise that the State league folded after 1999 and reverted to the North/South structure. Metro were the beneficiary from the change being moved to the Premier South league which remained at an odd 9 sides.
Division 1 club DOSA now applied and were accepted for 2001 to be the tenth league side. However, despite a lot of enthusiasm DOSA spent a miserable 3 seasons anchored at the foot of the league before being removed in 2003.
The league remained at 9 clubs for the next two seasons before Hobart United were given the approval to move up after taking out the lower leagues. This decision came with return of the play-off for the third time with Hobart United falling at the first hurdle when they lost their play-off against Taroona.
Seasons 2007 and 2008 saw first Metro defend their position against Beachside, and then New Town Eagles from 8th spot shrug off Hobart United. However, the Premier South league was now to be 8 teams with the automatic removal of the bottom two clubs Metro and Taroona at the close of 2008.

The future is to be a 8 team league with automatic promotion and relegation. History suggests there could be a change in a few seasons time?

CLUB MOVEMENTS 1920-
YEAR CLUBS UP DOWN
1920 4 St George Disbanded
1921 3 Hobart Disbanded
1922 4 Cadburys Application
Sandy Bay Application
1923 4
1924 4 Hobart Ath Application Cadburys Withdrew
1925 4 Corinthians Disbanded
1926 4 Cadburys Application Cadburys Disbanded
1927 3
1928 3
1929 3
1930 4 Navy Ath Promoted
1931 5 Cascades Application
1932 5 Hobart Ath Disbanded
1933 4
1934 4 Navy Ath Withdrew
1935 3
1936 3 Cascades Disbanded
1937 3 West End Promoted
1938 3
1939 3 West End Disbanded
1946 4 Metro Application
Hobart Utd Application
1947 4
1948 6 Waterside Wks Promoted
ANM Application
1949 8 Wanderers Application Waterside Wks Disbanded
Titan Promoted
1950 7 Hobart Utd Disbanded
1951 7 Caledonians Application
1952 7 Titan Disbanded
Wanderers Withdrew
1953 6 Bronte Park Application Sandy Bay Disbanded
1954 8 Wanderers Re-accepted Bronte Park Withdrew
Hollandia Application Bohemians Disbanded
Bohemians Application
1955 6
1956 9 Juventus Application Wanderers Withdrew
Hydro (H Rgs) Promoted
Kingston Promoted
1957 8 ANM Withdrew
1958 8 Rapid Application
1959 8 Hollandia Withdrew
Kingston Withdrew
1960 8 Croatia Promoted City Utd Disbanded
City Utd Promoted
1961 8 University Promoted Juventus Withdrew
1962 10 Olympia Promoted University Relegated
Wayatinah Promoted
Juventus Re-accepted
1963 10 Inter Promoted Inter Disbanded
Wayatinah Disbanded
Metro Relegated
1964 8 White Eagles Promoted
1965 10 University Promoted University Relegated
Metro Promoted Metro Relegated
1966 8
1967 8 Hob Rangers Merged
1968 8 University Promoted University Relegated
1969 8 Metro Promoted
1970 8

YEAR CLUBS UP DOWN
1971 8
1972 10 University Promoted
Dnipro Promoted
1973 10 Sth Hobart Relegated
1974 10 Taroona Promoted Taroona Relegated
1975 10 Sth Hobart Promoted University Relegated
1976 10 East Subs Promoted East Subs Relegated
1977 10 University Promoted
1978 10 STATE LG
1979 10 Olympia Relegated
Lton United Relegated
1980 10 Hob Juventus Promoted White Eagles Relegated
Burnie Promoted
1981 10 Sth Hobart Promoted
SOUTH
1982 8 Sth Hobart Relegated
1983 8 University Promoted White Eagles Relegated
1984 8 Phoenix Promoted Phoenix Relegated
1985 8 White Eagles Promoted University Relegated
1986 8 Howrah Promoted Metro Relegated
1987 8 Hobart City Promoted
1988 10 STATE LG George Town Withdrew
1989 10 Burnie Promoted Lton United Withdrew
1990 9
1991 9 Burnie Relegated
1992 8
1993 8 Ulverstone Withdrew
1994 9 Sth Hobart Application Devonport Withdrew
Riv Olympic Application
1995 8
1996 10 Devonport Re-accepted
Lton United Re-accepted
1997 10 Riv Olympic Relegated
1998 10 University Promoted Lton United Relegated
Devonport Withdrew
1999 9 Clarence Promoted
SOUTH
2000 9 Metro Application
2001 10 DOSA Application
2002 10
2003 10 DOSA Relegated
2004 9
2005 9
2006 10 Hobart Utd Promoted Hobart Utd Relegated
2007 10 Taroona Promoted
2008 10 Taroona Relegated
Metro Relegated
2009 8 Taroona Promoted University Relegated

An Interview with Corey Smith from Glenorchy Knights

2010-08-03T20:47:00.005+10:00

Do you read Blogs and did you know that some have requested for an interview with Corey Smith?

"Yeah I read the Blogs, but mostly the comments don't concern me. The people that write the comments are obviously muckraking most of the time, because if they had a real issue with me surely they would take any issue to my club or the federation - it’s their way of hiding behind the name anonymous and still saying what they want regardless of how sensible it is. Certain things upset me on the Blog those being the more personal comments. If someone has an opinion on the way that I play or an opinion on what I'm like and how valuable I am to the team, then that's their opinion it's fine. What I don't like is the personal attacks on people either towards me or others particularly the younger players in the league. People don't know the other side of me or what I am like off the field so why should they comment."

So what is Corey Smith like off the Field?

"I would say that I am pretty laid back really. With my job I am involved with football people most of the time, I enjoy and love that. It has got to the point were my on field issues have the potential to effect my career, so I will need to decide what's more important, playing what I love or my career. This of course is in relation to my red cards, because people don't know why I received the red cards people may form the wrong conclusion about me. For instance you may see that I got a red card, what you don't know is what the card was for. I think that my three red cards this season have been really harsh to be honest. I'm basically paying for being a spoilt brat in the past I guess. I forged a reputation for myself when I was younger and unfortunately that reputation has brought me unstuck now. I think when I was younger at 15 I had the ability and size to play senior soccer but maturity wise I wasn't ready."

"When I was young I made mistakes and that damaged my reputation and has stuck with me ever since. I don't blame referees for this situation, they obviously try and be impartial but if Corey Smith goes in for a tackle and they other team go up with a fuss, they automatically assume I have done the wrong thing because of my reputation. It must be hard for referees but it is extremely frustrating for me as well. Most frustrating of all though is what a red card means for my team and my club, because if I get sent off they are the ones to suffer. I have read in some Blogs the question why does the club continue to persist with Corey Smith? To be honest if I had the disciplinary record of mine I wouldn't persist either...but then club does persist because they see what I have received the cards for, and they see that the cards aren't a fair indication of what has happened."

What I find hardest is the inconsistencies in ref’s decisions in a game. For instance there were similar situations or worse than what I got a card for and these incidents go unpunished, not a free kick or yellow given to other players for similar offenses. So that's the hardest pill to swallow. It's like there is one rule for me and different standards for others."

What are Knights doing to encourage respect for referees?

"It must be hard being a referee I can empathise with them. The Knights have had an evening when we invited Robert Freke to have a night with the youth, plus an information session for being a referee. Despite my personal record I am very firm with our youth regarding referees and very respectful of referees. Knights are very positive about refereeing and trying to promote players into the role.
I don't find the ref training courses that accessible though...we should be looking outside the playing committee into the broader community for refs...you see AFL advertise for umpires why we can’t we do that. ....In regards to abuse being a reason for it being hard to keep referees, I would agree totally with that, but I would put it to them that they receive less abuse at every game than I do. So there should be protection for both referees and players.
The clubs need to be responsible for abuse to players as they are with referees. You can ignore the abuse for so long but it doesn't make for a fun environment to play in. So I can empathise with referees in regards to abuse better than most. FFT need to focus on education clubs and making it better for people on the park. Why give up referring just because you’re being abused, aren’t the ref’s being paid for the job. As a player you don't get paid and you still cop abuse every week and we still keep playing.

I do find some clubs more personal in their abuse. I read Sean's interview and his view was very similar that you do dread going to play some clubs because of the abuse you know you are going to receive, but let’s say I enjoy scoring against those teams so much more than others. "

Have you always played for the Knights?

"I played for University first when I was younger this is when the state league was on and I played for the seniors for two years, then Metro Claremont for two seasons, and in 2004 to Zebra's for one year. Since 2005 I have been at the Glenorchy Knights. Knights has been the club I have felt most at home at, and this is the club that I have most of my friends at as well which is the reason I probably went there in the first place."

What do you consider your best year in soccer thus far?

2005 would have to be my best year which is when we won every competition. I think this Knights team was the strongest team that I have ever seen play. It would be interesting to see the 2005 Knights team play the current South Hobart side. Player for player it would be close, but I would say the Knights side would win. Eamon Kelly was the coach at the time. Shae Hickey and myself were bench players, and that was something I liked about this side, we had such a strong side that you had to work hard to earn a spot on the team sheet.
I think South have set the benchmark this year, they are the best both on field and are probably one of the strongest off the park. From the outside looking in I think the set up of the club looks good, there's a lot of focus on juniors. I like the fact that juniors are coming up through the ranks they haven't just recruited. Of course they have recruited some players who have obviously been attracted to the club. South have won the title by streets this year, and although for other clubs the title race has been a non event, it can only be good for the sport in the long run. I think other clubs need to aspire to improving their programs so they can compete with South Hobart.
I've been talking with people from other clubs and they looking to lift the bar, looking to import players and develop more juniors which they haven't had to do in the past to keep up with South. This can only be a good thing for local soccer.

So what are the Knights doing for next year?

"Last year and the year before we obviously brought down Breno and Igor through Futsal, so repeating this is an option depending on viability off course. There are a few players we are looking to recruit from other clubs and interstate, which obviously I can't talk about...if you can get another player why not. We were obviously looking early in the year at recruiting Seth Otte because he's exceptionally good but not getting a start in the South Hobart seniors. Players such as that, which can strengthen your squad why would you not contact them, any club will do that.
At the end of the season I think and I hope the Knights will keep the majority of our players together. Knights are intending to sign a new coach as well. I hope Nick will continue with the Reserves as he has done a fantastic job this year. Hopefully a new coach will also attract new quality players as well."

The resignation of Eamon Kelly last year what effect did that have on the club in your opinion?

"The whole event was an interesting time, it all happened so quickly, nobody saw it coming. It did destabilise the team for a short time but it wasn't as bad as others have made out. We drew with New Town Eagles nil all which was the day it all happened. That game was at Clare Street and that's always going to be a hard game - Eagles have a fortress at Clare Street. The week after we drew Burnie United in the cup and absolutely dominated, had 70% of the procession and still managed to lose the game. Then everyone started coming out saying we had lost our way. I'm pretty sure after that we played South Hobart in the anniversary match and that was a disaster. We didn't have a full strength side and South Hobart with a big crowd came out to play and ripped us to shred. So the three games, the devastating loss to South Hobart and people had written off the second placed side, but a lot of clubs would like to be in the same place as the Knights right now, equal second in the league, we've still got results and we've still got all the players we started with and lost no one because of it. "

Were do you see your future in soccer?

"I find coaching more rewarding than playing, Futsal more so than outdoor. I find it really rewarding to watch the younger players develop and have opportunities to play. Obviously being 27 I'm not ready to retire...while your still fit its great to keep playing, but one eye I have on my career in football which I love"

What is your career then?

"My role is the state coordinator in Futsal and acting as the current CEO while our CEO is sick. It involves running Futsal, which is indoor soccer across the state. The primary roles are administrating the sport, coaching, co-ordinating of the programs etc. An aim is to have our Futsal program. Statewide we currently have 3000 players and it’s a rapidly growing sport. Our biggest areas are Hobart, and the North West and we are expanding into Launceston, Kingborough, Devonport and Dodges Ferry. By the end of summer we aim to six fully operational regions of Futsal in the state."

What's the difference between Futsal and FFT's Indoor Soccer?

“Haha should I answer that?...............Ummm well.......... We offer a lot more pathways for kids. Futsal for us is a sport in its own right, for FFT it’s an off season offering. Vikings Futsal is the biggest Futsal organisation across the world and we have connections to clubs like Barcelona FC, Atletico Mineiro and Rhyl FC across the globe...we can send kids to these places as part of the development pathways which is an obvious difference to FFT. In terms of the weekly competition we are quite similar. If I had to choose been FFT and VIKINGS I would say play both if you have the time.”

What did you think of the Central Coast Mariners Game?

"What a great initiative but it means nothing if there is no continuity involved. I would like to see an under 23 team playing against the Central Coast annually. I'd prefer them to say Under 23 and just stick to the younger players. This time they did stipulate that it was a senior team open to all players but then they did pick a younger team. If they stuck with a formula ongoing you don't get the older players being in the initial squad and then having it cut out from underneath them, like Ben Croswell for instance. If it’s a senior men's side why wasn't Ben in the team? On a good day I think Ben is the best player in the state. I thought there were some strange selections in the Tassie squad but I can’t see any reason why Ben wasn't in the side. For me he is the best player in the state...reeks havoc when he's playing well a big game player."

"FFT need to bring in some consistency with the sport and ensure that events happen regularly, for example 9 years ago I played a game for Tasmania u/23 against Melbourne Knights at York Park and since then there has been only 2 or 3 more games for Tasmanian teams? Why is this? and why can Vikings and clubs such as South Hobart bring in good teams and coaches on a regular basis and hold high profile events before the federation does so...they (FFT) need to be announcing now that games like Central Coast will be a regular thing. I think John Bolous will be good for the state and has made a positive impact already with his emphasis on participation.

How do you sum up your season this year?

“Season of lost opportunity, every time I run into a little form I've been suspended which is frustrating for me and my teammates. As an older player in the squad my team and club look to me for leadership and to be honest I think I've let my club down in that regard. I have had some really influential games and some games when I have been non existent. My aim for next year is to gain consistency and to play the full season and not be suspended. I do think my performance has been affected by the cards I have received this year. I find my self caught because every foul I give away I get a yellow card. The games I've struggled in I've just come back from suspension and have been hesitant, not worked as hard as I normally would as I've held back from tackles for instance and not played my normal game. This year I've had a better attitude and discipline in the game but have a worse disciplinary track record than ever. I need to keep my head down... I don't think I am a dirty player not at all, some may argue with my comment but I never go in with the intent to injury someone in a game. I play hard; I aim to give 100% to my club every time I play and that won't change.”

Most feared opponent?

"Janko Begovic from Knights when I played against him as he was always very intimidating and I was very young back then."

Biggest influences on career?

"Matty Sanders and Ben Peter, life long friends who I have grown with playing soccer."

If you could invite any three person to dinner from any time period and any field who would they be and why?

"Off the top of my head the three people I would invite would be the three referees who sent me off this year so I can have a long discussion. No that's a joke of course. I'd invite Alex Ferguson because he's stayed in job and pretty much achieved all there is to achieve. Coaching and education wise he would be fantastic to have at the table. Lance Armstrong would be my second choice because anyone who can overcome cancer and win 7 tours is amazing. His ability to motivate would be fantasic and a great man to talk to. Eric Cantona who is my childhood hero and the first number 7 at united I adored when I was a kid."

Games This Weekend

2010-07-29T23:11:00.001+10:00

Kingborough Lions
Olympia FC Warriors
Lightwood Park
Saturday 14:30

New Town Eagles
Clarence United
Clare Street
Saturday 14:30

Glenorchy Knights
Tilford Zebras
KGV Park
Saturday 18:30

South Hobart
Taroona
South Hobart
Sunday 14:30

Devonport City
Burnie United
Valley Road
Saturday 14:30

Launceston City
Northern Rangers
Mitsubishi Park
Saturday 14:30

Somerset
Launceston United
Cardigan Street
Saturday 14:30

Ulverstone
Riverside Olympic
Ulverstone Showgrounds
Saturday 14:30

Video Highlights Tas -V- Central Coast Mariners

2010-07-28T11:08:00.001+10:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5dsXG9i2zM

Tassie Loses the Game but Wins the Evening

2010-07-27T22:58:00.004+10:00

Tonight Tasmania Seniors played Central Coast Mariners A League team in a friendly match that had all who attended walking away happy regardless of the 3 0 loss scoreline. With crowds streaming in the gate and the official count at 1,768 FFT and the Mariners could only be delighted with the southern crowd & hospitality on offer.

Steven Payne the Tasmanian coach was delighted with his teams effort and he deserves to be as the players did not let him down. No doubt the Mariners were the better of the sides, being a class above the Tasmanian standard, but for a team that has never played together as a unit and had only one 20 minute strategic talk pre match the Tasmanian lads can be proud of the soccer played and a gritty performance all round.

Others will give better match reports no doubt but what can be said is that the Tasmanian defense was continually put under pressure but managed to keep the scoreline 0 - 0 at half time and in fact to 76 minute before the first goal was taken against them. Will Abbott and Marc Iseli played great football as central defenders and Jim Pennicott and Liam Scott were very solid down the sides. With good support from the midfield in particular Marcello Marchioli who did a fine job of ancorhing the centre midfield the Tasmanian team did well to absorb the pressure and still produce their own chances.

The half time score highlighted the the vistors lacked of an effective striker and this situation was addressed second half with the entry of Matt Simon and Adam Kwasnik, and it was only a matter of time before the goals began to land in the back of the net.

The first scoring opportunity of the evening belonged to Andy Brennan who missed in the opening minutes, but showed the intention of the Tasmanian lads that they were there to play the game and not just defend which is never attractive football.

Comments were made by the visitors at the youth of the side and the promise this holds for our state, with our youngest player being only 16 and then 4 others at 17 and then 18 year olds to early 20's the standard age.

It was well worth the $10 entry as it was a very entertaining night out for all who came. Hopefully this match will give incentive for other teams to come to the south and for Football Australia to reconsider the idea that Launceston is the home of soccer for A League matches. Well done to all the Tasmanian players and congratulations to FFT for a fine effort in bringing this game to the state.

Interview for Central Coast Mariner v Tassie Game

2010-07-26T21:58:00.000+10:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTXp-4yBYhY

Walter's Back

2010-07-23T17:32:00.003+10:00

Good News Walter is back and that can only be good news for Football in Tasmania.

The Lowdown will remian but will now focus on interviews of players and coaches from all the clubs. If you would like to nominate players or people of interest I would be glad to hear from you.

Thanks again for all the support over the past 5 weeks.

Cheers Football Fan!

Tasmanian Team Announced to Play Central Coast Mariners

2010-07-22T14:51:00.003+10:00

FFT Media Release

Football Federation Tasmania announced that the selection of players for the Tasmanian state team to play the Hyundai A-League side, Central Coast Mariners in Hobart on July 27 is complete.

The following 16 players will represent Tasmania: Brayden Mann; Liam Scott; Jonathon Lo; Kostas Kanakaris; Bobby Eaves; Tom Roach; Andy Brennan; Ben Hamlett; Sam Kruijver; Will Abbott; Jim Pennicott; Marc Iseli; Nathan Pitchford; Marcello Marchioli; Daniel Brown; Chris McKenna.
Two alternative players are on stand-by: Ricky Self and Bart Beecroft.

"This week I have had the pleasure to work with 25 individuals who worked very hard and responded brilliantly to the challenge," said Steve Payne, Football Federation Tasmania Technical Director.
"I have the utmost respect for all 25 players and for the way they and our clubs responded to the call to arms."

Payne added: "It was extremely difficult to choose the final 16, but those are decisions that have to be made. I telephoned all the players individually and I must say that the reactions I had from players who did not make the cut were very supportive.

"This game is a big deal for Tasmania and whatever happens on the night, there are only positives to be taken from it. We all have to get behind our boys who have stepped up to the plate."

Payne would also like to thank former professional goalkeeper and respected Coach Neil Connell for his assistance in working with the goal keepers and Anthony Alexander, full-time southern development officer for Football Federation Tasmania for his invaluable input into the final selection process. Payne also acknowledged the efforts of Sandra Chisholm, who has taken on the role of sports trainer for the event.

"To all those who wish to make comment re this posting please comment without personal attack on indiviuals. Foul language and slander will result in your post being deleted.

Results for the Weekend

2010-07-18T09:15:00.004+10:00

Taroona 1 lost to New Town Eagles 3
Scorers
Taroona - Ruaidhri Carey
New Town Eagles - Mark Page, Simon Strang

Kingborough Lions 2 lost to Glenorchy Knights 4
Scorers
Lions - Ryan Bevan and Joel Schuth Lions
Knights - Joshua Fielding, Corey Smith William Roberts 2

Tilford Zebras 2 drew Clarence United
Scorers
Zebras - Andrew Telega, Ricky Self
United - Luke Huigsloot, Benjamin Hamlett

Olympia drew 1 South Hobart 1
Scorers
South - Jim Pennicott
Olympia - Kosta Grillas

Games This Weekend

2010-07-16T11:26:00.000+10:00

Southern League
Tilford Zebras
Clarence United
KGV Park
Friday 20:00

Kingborough Lions
Glenorchy Knights
Lightwood Park
Saturday 14:30

Taroona
New Town Eagles
Kelvedon Park
Saturday 14:30

South Hobart
Olympia FC Warriors
South Hobart
Sunday 14:30

Northern League
Launceston United
Launceston City
Birch Avenue
Saturday 14:30

Prospect Knights
Devonport City
Harley Parade
Saturday 14:30

Riverside Olympic
Burnie United
Windsor Park
Saturday 14:30

Northern Rangers
Ulverstone
NTCA
Saturday 16:30

FFT Steven Payne Announces the Inital Squad of 25 for State Team

2010-07-13T18:55:00.003+10:00

Steve Payne, the FFT State Coaching Manager has released the names of the 25 players who have been invited to attend the training sessions from which a squad of 16 will be selected to represent Tasmania in a game against Central Coast Mariners in Hobart on Tuesday July 27.

Joey Simmons Riverside Olympic
Sam Hughes Riverside Olympic
Chris McKenna Devonport City
Bobby Eaves Somerset
Will Abbott TIS
Mark Iseli. Kingborough Lions
Marcello Marchioli Kingborough Lions
Nathan Pitchford New Town Eagles
Adam McKeown New Town Eagles
Ben Hamlett Clarence United
Ben Crosswell Tilford Zebras
Ricky Self Tilford Zebras
Brayden Mann Ulverstone
Sam Kruijver South Hobart
Jim Pennicott South Hobart
Daniel Brown South Hobart
Hugh Ludford South Hobart
Liam Scott South Hobart
Bart Beecroft South Hobart
Tom Roach South Hobart
Shae Hickey South Hobart
Jonathon Lo South Hobart
Andy Brennan South Hobart
Kosta Kanakaris South Hobart
Greg Downes South Hobart

Southern & Northern Teams Announced for U 20 Curtain Raiser

2010-07-13T00:39:00.003+10:00

Football Federation Tasmania have announced the two squads to play the curtain raiser game to be played on Sunday 25th July at Aurora Stadium. The aim of the two teams is to showcase the talent on offer in Tasmania to an audience that includes A League personnel among others who be in Launceston for the game between Melbourne Victory and Central Coast Mariners.

The two squads consist of players under the age of 20 representing the southern and northern regions of the state. Each club was asked to nominate one player from each position with only two players being selected from each club.

Southern Under 20’s Squad David Abbott Taroona FC Marcus Atkinson Taroona FC Ryan Bevan Kingborough Lions Marcus Bremner Kingborough Lions Andy Brennan South Hobart Brady Cronk Olympia FC Kurt Engels Tilford Zebras Alex Holmes Glenorchy Knights Jacob Huigsloot Glenorchy Knights Alex Leszczynski New Town Eagles Jeremy Marshall New Town Eagles Sam McIntyre Clarence United Alex Nandan Olympia FC Liam Scott South Hobart Cameron Sweeney Clarence United Jason Voss Tilford Zebras

Northern Under 20’s Squad
David Smith Launceston City Patrick Farrell Riverside Olympic Bart d'Zeffrey Launceston United Declan Cuschieri Northern Rangers Luke Kolodjashnij Launceston City Bradley Chilcott Devonport City Aaron Moores Somerset SC Sam Hughes Riverside Olympic Chris Hill Prospect Knights Brody Denehey Somerset SC Jordan Douce Devonport City Adam Beard Ulverstone SC Brayden Mann Ulverstone SC Matthew Sessay Prospect Knights Stefan Jago Northern Rangers Kyrone Johnson Burnie United

The Southern Under 20’s will be coached by Nick Lapolla while the Northern Under 20’s will be coached by Mitchell Billing.

Final Results for Weekend

2010-07-11T17:43:00.001+10:00

Premier LeagueClarence United 0 drew with Taroona 0

Glenorchy Knights 0 lost to South Hobart 5

Olympia FC Warriors 1 drew with New Town Eagles 1

Tilford Zebras 0 lost to Kingborough Lions 1

Reserves
Clarence United 5 defeated Taroona 1

Glenorchy Knights 0 drew with South Hobart 0

Olympia FC Warriors 5 defeated New Town Eagles 2

TIS 4 defeated Tilford Zebras 0 Locked

Olympia Draw with Eagles in Exciting Match

2010-07-10T17:30:00.004+10:00

In an exciting match this afternoon Olympia managed to draw with New Town Eagles 1-1.
The draw earns Chris Hey's team an ever important point to make them level with Taroona FC who are yet to play against Zebra's tomorrow.

Kosta Grillas scored first for Olympia and Adam McKeown scored for Eagles.

In a game that had several missed opportunities for both sides, plenty of goal mouth action and shots hitting the cross bar at both ends and then a red card for Olympia in the last 15 minutes it was a game of high drama.

Olympia are also celebrating the fact their Reserves won convincingly 5 -2.

Hopefully Olympia President George will be in a happier mood this week when he sits down to pen his letter from his desk.

Players Olympia Warriors FC:
Nester Dmitri, Phillips Benjamin, Cronk Brady, Richardson, Hugh Hedge, Adam
Mason, Lee Grillas Kosta, Mohamad Youssef Nandan, Alex Hey Jayden , Wadawu Warren, Kumpulainen Christopher, Farrugia Justin, Tsimiklis Christo

New Town Eagles Players:
Pitchford Nathan, Louden Stephen, Clark Andrew, Page Mark, Leszczynski Alexander, McKeown Adam, Anderson Michael, Whitehall Ben, Strang Simon, Wass, Christopher Vernon, Jamie Hudson, Blayne Menzie, Ethan Kent, Shane Quan, Joshua
Minty, Craig

South Defeat Glenorchy Knights 5 - 0

2010-07-09T22:37:00.005+10:00

Knights Coach Nick Harrison "We changed formation tonight after watching South play Kingborough last week when they had one player up front. Most teams play one up front we thought we would have a go tonight and play three up front see how South would cope with that. But you can't make mistakes against South as you get punished. First half, nothing in it, Benny's made a mistake, he knows that, Hugey switches off and all of a sudden we're two goals down in two minutes. Your chasing the game, I said to the players at half time, your still in it but it's going to be hard against a team like South Hobart.
Did we have a shot on goal, probably not. A bit harsh I know, your not going to win games unless you have shots on goal, South had half a dozen chances and converted five. That's why their champions. No one expected us to win it outside our club, we give it a fight, we fought to the end. Congratulations to South Hobart."

South Hobart Coach Ken Morton said " I think the game went as we expected, they played pretty strongly in the fifteen minutes with three up front. I think they did it from a defensive point of view to try and stop our full backs getting forward, but as the game progressed we took control... At the end of the first goal we scored a great goal a strikers goal from a free kick and then Johnny Lo got in with a nice header from a cross as well so we've gone into to half time in a comfortable position. The second half they had a little bit of possession it was in no mans land we were able to control the game and we were able to score another two quick goals."

"It's an exciting time for us, were playing well with a lot of confidence were looking quite sharp, after winning the championship we are still have the winning spirit."

Glenorchy Knights
1 Peter, Benjamin 2 Nowicki, Mathew 3 Marsh, Jackson 4 Barabara, Juma 5 Clay, Jade
6 Huigsloot, Jacob 8 Smith, Corey 9 Fielding, Joshua 10 Koroma, Amadu 11 Hope, James
12 Green, Brodie 14 Roberts, William 18 Grundy, Anthony 25 Grainger, Bradley
Coach Harrison, Nicholas

South Hobart 1 Kruijver, Sam 2 Scott, Liam 4 Downes, Gregory 5 ludford, Hugh 6 Beecroft, Bartholomew 7 Hickey, Shae 8 Pennicott, Jim 9 Kanakaris, Kostas
10 Roach, Thomas 11 Brennan, Andy 14 Lo, Jonathon 16 Brown, Daniel Moncur, Mark
Coach Ken Morton
Wookbum, Heo

The Weekend Ahead

2010-07-08T22:23:00.007+10:00

As another weekend approaches in the Forestry Southern Premier League, and the title won, much of the interest turns now to the bottom of the table contest between Olympia and Taroona.

The game between Olympia and New Town Eagles would surely give Chris Hey and his team high hopes of claiming another much need 3 points. Olypmia will have the home advantage which will help negate the big kick of New Town Goalie Nathan Pitchford that has been so effective this year at Clair Street.

Also with a true home advantage is Clarence United who will be challenged by Taroona FC. This will be a tough match for Taroona with the recent form that Andrew Brown's lads have been playing in. If the new comers to the league are to ensure a place in 2011 they will need to play to win and this may be the surprise game of the round.

Glenorchy Knights will be hosting South Hobart on Friday evening and the will be aiming to erase the last encounter with South Hobart when they lost 7 - 1. "We go into the match against Knights knowing that we are Premier League Champions. We will go into the game positively and with a good determination and spirit to keep our winning habit.
Shae Hickey returns to the squad after missing last weekend’s game, so we will be at full strength. I am sure Knights will come out fighting and try and be the first team to beat us this season and eliminate the memories of our Centenary Gala day victory."

The final game of round 17 will be Tilford Zebra's at KGV against Kingborough Lions. Last week the Lions played more attacking football and looked a better unit for it, but to defeat the Zebra's one would think that they will need to come out with something special for this game to take home any points.

There is much interest in the Launceston League this weekend as table leaders take on Burnie in Burnie always a hard task. The other games Devonport City vs Launceston United, Launceston City play Somerset and Ulverstone at home against the Prospect Knights.

Tasmanian Team to be Announced to Play Central Coast Mariners

2010-07-06T11:04:00.004+10:00

"Technical Director of FFT Steven Payne has announced that he will be coaching a squad of players drawn from the North and South of the State to play the Central Coast Mariners who have decided to stay longer after their A-League match against Melbourne Victory."

The letter from Steven is on South Hobart Website as are quite a few questions regarding who will be selected to play, who will do the selection, and why is Steven Payne the coach and who selected him and is he the best man for the job?

One wonders if you had to pick the very best 15 from across the state without restriction of age or club who would end up in the squad. I wonder if anyone would even make if from the North considering how well some Southern Teams are playing at the moment. Surely South Hobart & Zebras would have to have a larger representation of players than other clubs?

It will be interesting to follow the blog over coming days to see who the football community of Tasmania consider worthy to represent the state.

South and Zebras Win Comfortably

2010-07-03T21:33:00.005+10:00

Zebras had a comfortable win over Taroona 3 0 today and South walked away with the title by defeating Kingborough Lions 2 - 1 in results from today's matches.

South Hobart 2 defeated Kingborough Lions 1
Marchioli, Marcello (penalty)
1
Taroona 0 lost to Tilford Zebras 3
Telega, Andrew
Welch, Jayden(2)

South Poised To Seize Title

2010-07-01T22:26:00.004+10:00

South Hobart are in a position to take the title beyond reach this weekend if they defeat Kinborough Lions who are travelling to South Ground to play 2.30 pm this Saturday. South are playing with a full squad this will be a difficult game for the Lions who are following up from a loss against the Eagles last week.

Playing at the same time on Saturday at home Taroona will play host to the Zebra's who will be keen to put on a good performance and take away the three points. This is an ever important game for Taroona as they need to try and distance themselves from Olympia who are only one point behind TFC.

Sunday sees the final two games with Olympia playing Clarence United at South Ground at 2.30pm. Chris Hey will be hoping to "pull one out of the box" and continue on the confidence of winning last weekend against Taroona.

The final game is between New Town Eagles and Glenorchy Knights which in many respects should be the match of the round. Knights lost last weekend but still sit second on the table and need to seize the three points to stay in front of Zebras, while the Eagles will have the home advantage and confidence of defeating the lions at the Den.

Draw for South and TIS makes for fine entertainment

2010-06-30T21:21:00.004+10:00

TIS played excellent football but failed to defeat South tonight with the Reserves game ending in a 4 all draw. The institute lads were very unlucky to not win the match and Dean May would have to be happy with his lad's performance against the table leaders.

In an initiative from TIS the game was streamed live via a web link. It would be interesting to hear feedback from the viewers as to the quality. While the game was being streamed there was up to 130 people online and once the viewers from South & TIS site are added to this figure it easily exceeds the number of people in the stalls. A estimate of people at the game on what was a particularly cold night would be no more than 50 people.

TIS vs South in Reserves Game Tonight

2010-06-30T08:47:00.003+10:00

Dean May's institute boys play the South Hobart Reserves this evening in what will surely be a fine display of football.

The TIS won convincingly last week against Taroona but this match will be a challenge for them if they are to defeat current leaders South Hobart. South has won the last two encounters and will aim to continue with the winning form. Senior players 17 yr old Andy Brennan, Greg Downes & 16 yr old Jim Pennicott will drop down to play in tonights match. This will also be the last match of Andy King before he returns home to England to finish work commitments.

The game will be held at KGV at 6.30pm but if you can't make it to the ground or want to watch in the comfort of your arm chair all you need to do is copy and paste the below link at 6.30 pm to watch.

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/tis-mens-soccer

Saturday Night Result

2010-06-26T21:21:00.002+10:00

Clarence defeated Knights 2 - 0

Today's Results

2010-06-26T19:41:00.003+10:00

New Town Eagles defeated Kingborough Lions 3 -1

Reserves Kingborough defeated Eagles 4 - 1

What the Coaches Had to Say
Eagles Coach George Krambousanos "It was the same sort of result for the first half and same type of game when we previously played here, we were two nil up at half time, only they didn't get a goal before half time. But geez they came out hard in the second half and we just lost our way for about 20 minutes, but what a marvelous goal by Blain, unbelievable goal. It's the first time we have had 14 fresh players on the park, and as you noticed yourself we needed the whole 14 players to be fresh on the park today. A great game...but the boys are back on track, that three times when we have scored three goals in a row. I mean that's a fantastic effort."

Kingborough Coach Geoff Freeman "We really paid the price for going down to ten men when Mark Isac was off getting the head bandaged up, even saying that when we were down to ten men we missed two glorious shots the one where Joel put it over. Two nil at half time, second half I thought we played really well, put them under the pump, really pushed home to the end. Unlucky, great strike that third goal from the Eagles, before that we did everything but score...it just wasn't our day. The ten minute period when Mark Isac was off really hurt us - to concede 2 goals in that time really hurt us."

You Tube Link Poses the Questions

2010-06-26T19:08:00.003+10:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-TQMMr9sHo

Friday Results and Milan Lakoseljac Cup

2010-06-25T22:45:00.003+10:00

Results:
South Hobart Seniors defeated Tilford Zebras 3 - 2
South Hobart Reserves defeated Tilford Zebras 5 - 0

Milan Lakoseljac Cup
Clarence away to Burnie
South Hobart away to New Town Eagles

Inaccuracy in todays article

2010-06-25T11:14:00.002+10:00

Dear Tasmanian soccer fans,

In my article in The Mercury today, "Zebras fight to turn tables," the scoreline for last weeks Statewide Cup game is wrong. This is not the fault of The Mercury but an oversight on my behalf. I would like to take full responsibility and make a note that the correct scoreline was in fact 2-1 to South Hobart.

Kind Regards,

Callan Paske

Weekend's Games Will Create Interest Top, Middle & Bottom

2010-06-24T21:37:00.011+10:00

This weekend will see the return match between top of the table South Hobart and Tilford Zebra's on Friday night at KGV. Last week South Hobart defeated Zebra's 2 -1 aided with the benefit of an own goal.

South Hobart will be determined to stay in winning form and hopefully improve on last weeks preformanc in particular the first half. The Zebra's mean while will have every intention of being the first team to defeat South this season and will be looking for a home ground advantage to lift their players.

Just as interesting as the top is the mid table contest, with outcomes having a significant impact on the top four by the end of the weekend.

New Town Eagles face the challenge of the Kingborough Lions at the lion's den on Saturday afternoon. The Lions must win if they are to maintain touch with the current top four teams. Clarence currently hold a one point lead over Kingborough so a win is vital.

This week Clarence will be hoping to defeat second on the table Glenorchy Knights, and on recent form this is quite possible. Having last week come from a 2 goal deceit to defeat Devonport 3 -2, and an important win over Kingborough in the previous weekend.

Finally Sunday's games sees the intriguing bottom of the table clash between Olympia and Taroona. This is a critical match for Chris Hey to win if he intents to start the final round off with any chance of avoiding relegation. If Olympia fail to win this match one will wonder if the Warriors will go through an entire season without a win, a thought that would have seemed impossible at the start of the season.

Whom ever your team there is no doubt that winning this weekend will have significant impliations on the final round.

Raine & Horne Offer $500 to Southern Football Clubs

2010-06-24T07:21:00.004+10:00

Rick Abbott from Raine & Horne will pay any Southern football club $500 for every property they sell that comes to a R & H branch via a soccer club.

If any property owner seeking an appraisal of their property mention their club and the offer and subsequently list and sell through R&H, $500 will be paid to the club upon settlement of the sale.

It doesn’t have to be a club member, just anyone who has been told to mention the deal.

Potentially a good earner for clubs if taken advantage off.

All they have to do is contact:

Rick Abbott
Principal/Consultant
0438 132 287
rick.abbott@rhtas.com.au

Boulous gets permanent nod

2010-06-23T16:43:00.000+10:00

A quick announcement...

As I am sure all clubs are aware, John Boulous has been appointed as permanent CEO of Football Federation Tasmania. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate him on his appointment for the three year contract and wish him all the best for his family's relocation to Tasmania.

I look forward to seeing what strategies he can implement for the growth of the game in Tasmania now that he has a long term future in the state.

I am particularly interested to see how the professionalism of FFT is handled as a business and remain of the view that there now seem to be some people within the organisation that are bent on building the community.

For anyone not aware, Michael McKenna has instituted another fantastic source of collated information on the FFT Website for game coverage. Just go to the News tab on the FFT website and click on FFT Weekly.

That's it from me and I look forward to seeing who draws who in the cup draw on Friday night as well as the rematch between Zebras and South. Can Zebras break Souths unbeaten streak? Comments welcomed....

Get low... get lower... then get the lowdown,

Callan

TIS to Play Taroona FC tonight

2010-06-23T13:26:00.002+10:00

Tonight TIS lads are playing Taroona FC in a Reserve Match. Last week the TIS failed to progress forward in the Milan Lakoseljac Cup so will be looking to return to winning form tonight.

Dean May TIS coach said of tonight's match "It's important that the boys bounce back from a good performance at the weekend, not the result they wanted, so it's important that they carry this on with them tonight. We have been working on more movement and shape, and hopefully they can put that in against a strong Taroona. In last weeks game, technically we played very well.

It's one of those games when your chances fail, its the luck of the draw. Burnie scored two goals in the last fifteen minutes. The first was an overhead kick, nine out of ten go over the bar, or miles wide, this one went into the top corner. We pressed trying to get the equaliser and again the second goal, 24 metres out volley could have gone anywhere but went into top corner. Yeah the boys are very disappointed, but its not all about the result.

The feedback I've got from the North West is very positive about the way the boys played, so happy with that."

Clarification...

2010-06-20T15:28:00.003+10:00

Can I make it completely clear that unless a post or topic has my name signed at the bottom it is not written or produced by me. I wish to make it crystal clear about which pieces of writing on this blog are produced by me and hence, reflect my views on the state of play in southern football.

Cheers,

Callan

South Hobart Defeat Zebra's to Move On To Next Round

2010-06-19T22:10:00.005+10:00

Tilford Zebras came out with nothing to lose and everything to play for in the third round of the Lakoseljac Cup. For the first 35 minutes the Zebra's were the dominate team seemingly having plenty of time and room to move the ball around the park. Ben Croswell was having an impact every time he had the ball and scored the first goal at the 20 minute mark. Ricky Self also played extremely well and was causing havoc down the right hand side.

South defender Jun Kwon began this game in a defensive midfield position but seemed to be several feet off the pace and in a rare first half substitution Ken Morton pulled Kwon and replaced him with youngster Andy Brennan. This change certainly helped settle South and they began to apply more pressure on the ball and make more scoring opportunities.

South's constant pressure finally bore fruit when Andy Brennan equalled in front of the goal early on in the second half. The Zebra's at this point had seemed to drop off the pace a little and South looked the fitter of the two teams.

The second goal, an own goal, came from a deflection off a long outside the box, Liam Scott kick.

In the midfield Johnathan Ladic played a solid game for the first appearance against his old team but failed to control the midfield as he has been in recent games for his new club. The standout player on the evening was Daniel Brown who was excellent in defence taking the ball at critical moments helping deny Zebra's the upset of the season. Zebra's seemed to only come back onto the game in the final moments once Daniel had left the field due to injury.

Although unable to defeat South in this game, Zebra's perhaps came the closest to challenging the undefeated champions in 2010, and makes for fine football viewing when the two teams meet again next Friday in the first game of the first game of the third round.

Ken Morton South Hobart Coach "Fist half we were asleep, we didn't come out and play and Zebra's took initative and have got good players who will do that, who will punish you. But in the second half it was one way traffic, if we had won by three or four goals nobody could have complained. Second half we totally dominated, little bit of pressure on us in the last three or four minutes when Daniel went off, but other than that a pretty preformance."

"It was a good game, shame we couldn't hold onto a one nil lead at half time, but South Hobart are a very good side, they came back in the second half controlled a lot of the game. Disappointed about not knocking them off, the boys played well, but not good enough." Tilford Zebras coach, Romeo Frediani

Clarence Come Back for Dramatic Win Against Devonport

2010-06-19T17:11:00.008+10:00

Devonport scored early and held a 2 goal advantage before Andrew Browns lads found form to win in extra time 3 - 2. Many thanks to both coaches who were happy to be interviewed and give their views on the game.

"It was close, a good top fight a good game. The game started well, we were up one nil through a goal from Chris McKenna, a header. Fifteen minutes after that were up 2nil with a goal from Kurt Howard. Then just before half time Clarence got us on the break, we failed to clear it so they got one. So at half time it was 2 - 1. The second half was pretty open with both teams having chances to finish the game off but neither did and then with three minutes to go Clarence equalised. Then it went to extra time and unfortunately for us, fortunately for Clarence they managed to go one up just before half time in extra time so final score was 3 -2.
Best on the field would have to be Chris McKenna, he played hard all day, he took a few hard knocks from Clarence who were obviously well aware of his abilities and marked him pretty tight. A very good cup tie, Devonport had the chance to win the game in the final minute of normal time but missed a header from 2 yards out. So disappointing at the end, but obviously the better team won on the day." Thomas McGInn Head Coach Devonport

"We were two nil down after 18 minutes, they had one disallowed about 5 minutes before half time and then a minute before half time Ben Hamlett pulled one back, lovely round the goal keeper and slotted it into the back of the net on an acute angle, a good goal. Then with 10 minutes to go in the second half "Alfie" scored a great goal, beat three or four players and then rifled into the top right hand corner, a super goal to make 2 - 2. Then the first period of extra time a set piece, again another on we practice in training, freaky, we tried all year and haven't scored all year and now two in two weeks. The kick was taken by Sam McIntyre and Cannamela at the back post. A great game of football." Andrew Brown Head Coach Clarence United FC

Burnie & Eagles Come Away with Home Game Wins

2010-06-19T16:27:00.007+10:00

TIS played excellent football today against Burnie but still lost 2 - 0.

"The first half TIS just played all over us. They played a 4 - 3 - 3 line up and they played us off the park. We both had chances in the first half, probably not very good chances from neither side. We came out at half time and changed our formation and were able to change the play to suit us. We scored at the 70th and again 5 minutes later." said Sam Cox coach for Burnie FC.

Goal scorers for Burnie were Sam Cox and Chris Smith, however best on field would have to go to Jeremy Walker (who originates from the North West)who was was definitely the stand out player on the day.

In the match between Olympic and New Town Eagles the Eagles had a comfortable win 3 0.

Friday Night Results

2010-06-19T09:37:00.002+10:00

Glenorchy Knights walked away with the points last night in the Premier League defeating Taroon 1 - 0. Scorer for Knights was Juma Barabara.
The Knights now sit second on the standings table with a better goal difference to the Tilford Zebras.

Knights Reserves defeated Taroona 1 - 0 the scorer was Nektarios Vavoulas.

Taroona and Knights Play Catch Up Round

2010-06-18T06:53:00.007+10:00

This evening Taroona FC are playing Glenorchy Knights at home in a round one catch up game. This is an important match for both teams in which three points to either would have significant consequences. Three points to the Knights would keep them in touch on second place with Zebras, however still a long way from front runners South Hobart. A win to Taroona would be another hurdle for Olympia to leap to avoid relegation and would almost ensure Taroona a place in the league for next year.

Last week the two teams meet for the round two clash and the final result was 3-1 in favour of the Knights. In this game Glenorchy Knights dominated play for long periods, when Taroona did control the play they failed to finish and looked in need of a an effective striker.

Knights coach Nick Harrison will again be looking to last weeks scores Josh Fielding and Corey Smith to repeat their goal scoring efforts.

Taroona's goal last week came from a penalty so they need to look for more depth in the scoring department if they are going to snatch the 3 points from this weekend's encounter.

An Intriging Weekend of Football Ahead in Milan Lakoseljac Cup

2010-06-17T18:45:00.016+10:00

An intriguing week of football is ahead for the teams remaining in the Milan Lakoseljac Cup this weekend. Two Southern teams make the journey north to compete against their Northern counterparts with the remaining two games to be held in the South of the State.

New Town Eagles are taking on Riverside Olympic at 2pm at Eagle's Clare Street ground and George Krambousanos is hoping to turn last week's defeat against South into a home ground win. This will be a hard game against the visitors as Riverside Olympic are currently only one point behind the current leaders the Northern Rangers, and from all accounts the Olympic have been in fine form in the last few weeks.

The TIS youngsters will face the difficult task of defeating Burnie at home. Dean May said "Burnie are renowned for being a physical team, so if the boys keep the ball moving and limit the number of touches on the ball this will counter the Burnie style of play. Playing in Burnie is an excellent opportunity to exposure the TIS to a North West audience. I am looking forward to the game. An ideal game would be for TIS to meet Ken's team in a final."

Also on the bus this week is Clarence United who have drawn Devonport City. The challenge for Clarence will be playing an in form Devonport who are bringing a full strength team to the game, plus Devonport have the home ground advantage.

The last game of the third round is South Hobart against Tilford Zebras at 6pm at KGV. South's coach Ken Morton is determined to win everything on offer this season in the club’s one hundredth year so this is a must win game for the club. Adding interest to the South Zebra game is that this will be the first time Johnathan Ladic has played against his former team mates since his transfer to the Zebra's.

South Coach Ken Morton regarding the weekend said "We're looking forward to the cup game to give us break in the league but still its pressure as its an important cup competition. I won the first Lakoseljac Cup when Brendan was a striker for Glenorchy Knights, there is a bit of history there and its a little bit special for me. I think the boys are looking forward to it, and they are in a relaxed mood. Daniel Brown will be back after missing last week from his 5th yellow card, so we'll have a full squad to pick from. We look forward to the game."

Congratulations to New Zealand on a Historic Draw or is that a Victory

2010-06-16T18:55:00.010+10:00

In a game where Slovakian players say the 1 - 1 draw felt like a loss and the Kiwi's say it's one of their countries great sporting moments, you can only want to celebrate with the victors. Well done to New Zealand for a fine display of football and a strong dose of courage thrown in for good measure.

In New Zealand's second only ever World Cup appearance they had everything to gain and nothing to lose. Same story in 1982 when the All Whites lost all three matches and didn't offer any resistance to there first round departure.

Going in as the true underdogs the game looked lost when in the 50th minute Slovakian Robert Vittek headed his country into the lead.

But three minutes into injury time, Reid popped up at the back post to head Shane Smeltz's cross in off the post to deny Slovakia victory in their first World Cup match as an independent nation.

New Zealand coach Ricki Herbert hailed the point as the greatest result in the rugby-mad country's football history.

"We came across with the intention to make a difference and we certainly did that against a highly rated team," said Herbert, who played in the Spain WC 28 years ago.

What has surprised me with the neighbours win is how insecure I felt immediately as the "They won, We lost" set in. I do have to confess nothing gives me as much pain or grief as to be beaten by the Kiwi's. Nor am I more pleased and relieved than when we beat the Kiwi's at anything, it just as sweet as beating the Poms at cricket.

This Kiwi phobia perhaps it comes from the shame of the under arm delivery all those years ago, or is it that every time we take on the All Blacks we come out a little worse for wear. This notion of them and us was then was truly challenged when my youngest child said to me "Does this mean New Zealand are better than the Socceroos?" I had to stop and ponder my reply.

I decided I didn't think so. I could honestly say that in fact, I felt rather proud of our across the ditch, neighbours and when that goal when in I for one jumped up and cheered.
You have to give New Zealand credit for a splendid display of football from a tiny country with even less exposure & resources than ours. The win can only mean good things for the game we love for them and us.

Until next time

The Manageress

If Pim Can't Find His Hair How Do We Expect Him to Find a Striker??

2010-06-14T20:40:00.013+10:00

The questions has been raised how could we put the fate of the Australian Socceroos into the hands of a "Own Up Bauldie" or "I used to have Hair and am yet to come to terms with misplacing it". What were FFA thinking - this is a serious question and needs answers and appropriate punshiment.

At Germany v Australia post match interview Pim Verbeek looked like a deer caught in the headlights, scared, confused and ready to be run over... Oh I forgot that had just happened in the previous 90 minutes.

Someone has to ask the question - why after winning qualification with team formations and players playing certain position, what was with the team sheet vs Germany. Perhaps it was a very clever ploy to lull Ghana & Serbia into a false sense of security.

Seriously though you have to ask why he chose this game, of all games, to experiment with his line-up, and his formation.

I suppose I am being harsh, plus I did have a secret passion for Guus (now there was a head of hair) but when we were at the World Cup last time it always looked like we had a serious game plan.

Anyhow now that I have had my vent I feel so much better.

Oh on a final note what was with refree's hair, he should take a lesson from Sean's Head Band Book and put away the brill cream.

Until next time.

The Manageress

South Hobart Win Physical Encounter Against New Town Eagles

2010-06-14T20:14:00.003+10:00

South Hobart has gone through Round One and Two undefeated in the Forestry Tasmania Premier League downing White Eagles 1-0 in a tightly contested match at Clare St
South Hobart pressured early , Andy Brennan blazed a shot over the Eagle’s bar from outside the box after just 30 seconds. On the 11 min mark Kosta Kanakaris drove a delightful cross across the box from the left, Johnathon Lo flicked the ball on and Andy Brennan scored when he side footed the ball into the back of the Eagles net.

A penalty was awarded to South Hobart’s Jonathon Lo when he controlled a Tom Roach cross and was bought down in the box by a Eagles defender. Hugh Ludford penalty was confidently saved by Nathan Pitchford’s cat like reflexes.

In the first half White Eagles had two excellent chances from their forwards to score. Jacob Clamp found room on the right where he turned and fired at close range, goal keeper Sam Kruiver was quick off his line and smothered the shot. Adam McKeown also shot from inside the box which went straight at the goalkeeper Sam’s nimble hands.

The second half was a very physical affair with many free kicks awarded to both teams. Both team’s Keepers had excellent games particularly with set pieces where free kicks were accurately targeted at danger areas around the six yard box.
South managed to play some good procession football through the midfield in difficult ground conditions, Tom Roach , Bart Beecroft and Shaye Hickey consistently fed their forwards. Kosta Kanakaris had a headed goal disallowed as he was deemed offside and Pitchford saved a low drive from Jonathan Lo who always was difficult to contain.
White Eagles team should be well pleased with their result as they pushed the South Hobart Champions all day and managed to get numbers forward to create chances in front of goals.

Sunday Results

2010-06-14T17:32:00.001+10:00

Results for the Sunday Games are as follows:

Premiers SHFC defeated Eagles 1 - 0

Reserves SHFC lost Eagles 3 - 2

U 19's SHFC Won Eagles 5 - 1

Premiers Clarence defeated Lions 2 -1 Penalty in the 91st minute (cracking shot)

Knights defeated Taroona 3 - 1

Zebras defeated Olympia 1 - 0

Germany Dismantle Australia 4 - 0

2010-06-14T06:28:00.003+10:00

The 90 minutes couldn't come quick enough. Two more goals in the second half was horrible but the red card to midfeilder Cahill was insult to injury. Germany were impressive and deserved to win, giving us a lesson on how to play.
It was a game we were not expected to win but I for one didn't expect to be so comprehensively thrashed with a red card thrown in. Ouch

The faces of the Aussie crowd said it all...

Half TIme Couldn't Come Soon Enough

2010-06-14T05:25:00.002+10:00

The referee brings the first half to a end, and it couldn't come soon enough for the Aussies across the world. The sheer speed of movement from Germany sees them trail by two, and it could have well been more. That all came after Australia narrowly missed a chance inside the opening minutes when Garcia's shot was blocked on the line.

Hmmm...

Casino In Need of Rent a Soccer Crowd

2010-06-13T17:16:00.004+10:00

At Wrest Point Casino on Friday night there was an invite only to all clubs and associated officals, to help launch a sponsorship offer to conincide with the launch of the World Cup.

Every club and their representatives were invited to free food and drinks and to enjoy the company of soccer's major sponsor Forestry Tasmania among others. Unfortunately few took up the offer and rent a crowd could have come in handy on this occassion. To an outsider it would appear that there there's much passion or excitment in the local game about the world game. Some may say that the event was a cynical ploy by the Point to raise money or that FFT should question who their bed fellows are. Whatever your view, on offer is a venue for your club to watch games on big screen with the chance to win prizes and share the excitment with many others. Perhaps the perfect venue for a recuirment...

Truth was, for those who bothered to come out in the wintery weather it was an entertaining evening shared with others who love the great game.

Quick Note

2010-06-12T22:49:00.003+10:00

Seth Otte played for South Hobart today in the Reserves but I did not get the chance to have a chat with him. I don't believe this story will end here though...

I have to thank my head stats man for all of his hard work today. Dean Willcock should be commended for his concentration over 90 minutes today and his hand writing is impeccable! Also a quick thanks to Chester who has revolutionised the way I record statistics. These stats should be up on the blog soon.

Thats all...

Get Low

Callan

First round of games done and dusted

2010-06-12T21:38:00.005+10:00

Well...

I've changed the blog back to a standard, slicker type setting after much talk of the bright blue blog (note the alliteration) that was blinding people at their desk tops.

The weekend has only just begun and already we are four games down as well as two games into the world cup.

I watched another improved Olympia display on Friday night at KGV against Glenorchy Knights, a game that had plenty of goal scoring opportunities. When Olympia took the lead I thought Chris Hey might finally find that win that he has been striving for, but alas it was not to be. After a well fought James Hopes goal put them in front at the 21st minute mark they conceded in the very next minute. A Corey Smith free kick was rebounded around in the box until Amadu Koroma put it in the back of the net.

Half time and it was time to regroup with Knights coming out strong in the second half. With a total 14 shots on for the game the Knights were bound to create more opportunities but it took something special to break the deadlock. Corey Smith fired a lovely shot into the top of the goal after checking just outside the 18 yard box. Knights finished victors 2-1.

Olympia FC Warrios Coach Chris Hey:

"I thought overall from our perspective it was probably one of the best team performances of the year. The boys worked well for one another and that sort of atmosphere out on the park holds teams in good stead. It took a good goal to break the deadlock but I think we're getting there."

Glenorchy Coach Nick Harrison:

"I am happy as the last game we won was against Olympic last round. I didn't think there was a lot in it. I didn't think we played as well as we did last week against Zebras to be fair but we will all take a win. Hopefully now we can move on to Taroona."

South Hobart hosted Clarence United today and were stunned in the second minute when Samuel McIntyre connected with a lovely set piece ball to head home from six yards. Clarence, as I said they would (big noting!), troubled South with their big bodies at set pieces and for a lot of the first half they stifled play. Clarence were able to carry the advantage into the break and one can only imagine the hair dryer treatment Ken Morton gave his players in the sheds.

The discipline that playing this sort of tight, defensive structure takes it toll on concentration and Clarence cracked on the 60th minute mark when Jonathon Lo struck home from just outside the box. Once South were back on level pegging the game changed dramatically with Korean import Jun Kwon involved in some beautiful pieces of interplay through the middle. Rumours of him departing for A-League duties somewhere soon do not seem to be unfounded. South fired another four goals home once Kostas Kanakaris came off the bench and injected some extra fire into the line up. He scored on the 65th and the 69th minute, both goals coming from intuitive play and knowing where to be in the box. Thomas Roach also contributed a goal and set piece specialist Greg Downes scored from yet another free kick with his first touch off the bench at the 84th minute mark.

South Hobart Coach Ken Morton:

"I thought Clarence started well and it was a super cross for the goal. For 15 minutes they rattled us but after that I thought we took control of the match. Our passing and movement was super today and second half when Kostas came on he gave us a bit more experience. Players were able to work off him and that created the chances."

Clarence United coach Andrew Brown:

"I thought the first half we were very disciplined and in really good shape. We scored a really good quality goal and I thought the game was going according to plan. I am not exactly sure why but we were very sloppy in the second half, specially the back four. Three very soft goals were very frustrating but the last two goals were very good goals."

Tilford Zebras hosted New Town Eagles tonight at KGV and again the underdog took the lead. Jacob Clamp finished a rebound from keeper Jason Voss after a quickly taken Eagles free kick caught him off guard. Henry Fagg was the benficiary of a delightful Jonathon Ladic probing chip from the middle of the ground late in the second half. He headed the ball into the far left of the goal to level in the third minute of extra time in the second half.

The second half saw Zebras begin to take the ascendancy and they went ahead through A Ricky Self volley from just outside the box on the 53rd minute. Ben Crosswell then put them 3-1 ahead in the 77th minute when he broke free for a one-on-one with Nathan Pitchford which he finished cleanly. Eagles clawed (pardon the pun) one back in injury time through Adam McKeown but that was quickly replied to a minute later when Jayden Welch was played through by another sublime Ladic ball.

Tilford Zebras Coach Romeo Frediani:

"I thought it was a good game and the boys knocked the ball round really well. We have been working on that in training and the transitional play through the midfield worked well. We put some chances away and could have had more in the first half. Eagles fought the whole game as you can see when they scored at the end but we managed to score another one after that."

New Town Eagles Coach George Krambousanos

"We scored the first goal and the plan was to have three forwards and bypass the midfield. They scored two good ones and two soft ones. We do have a few players out but I am happy with the boys."

In the other game Kingborough Lions beat Taroona 1-0 with the goal scored at the 79th minute by Tim Polmear.

It was a frenetic two days and I will leave you with a few musings...

1. There were two or three tackles made on Corey Smith on Friday night that would have been yellows if it was Smith tackling himself. Thoughts?

2. Who will be the team to beat South Hobart this year?

Until Monday....

Get Low.... Get Lower.... and then Get The Lowdown.

Callan

Teams Gearing Up For Long Weekend

2010-06-09T22:02:00.004+10:00

It is sure to be a long, long, long weekend for a lot of teams with two games in three days for most. Many of the coaches will assess their Monday squads after seeing how the players pull up after the first round of games.

Holidays and university exams have hit teams hard again with a few individuals choosing to spend the weekend relaxing rather than enjoying a two game slog.

Teams should be pumped and raring to go as the weekend combines with the beginning of the biggest show on earth; The World Cup.

With South Hobart seemingly too far out in front, the race will be on to use this weekend, with six points on offer, to push for the coveted second position.

Eagles will meet an eager Zebras outfit on Saturday night at KGV with only a day and a half to recover before they host league leaders South Hobart on Monday.

Taroona will meet Lions away and then play the Knights for the first time this season, who they will meet again the following Friday in a catch up game.

Clarence are away to South Hobart on Saturday and then home to the Lions on Monday in a weekend that could really shape where they end up come the end of the season.

The Tilford Zebras will be looking to stake their claim to second position with good results against Eagles and Olympic on the weekend.

Read The Mercury on Friday for more news from coaches on how they will approach the games and stay updated over the weekend by following me for live results at the games as they happen on twitter (@paskey14).

Cheers,

Callan

Seth Otte to Join Knights - No Longer!!

2010-06-08T16:26:00.004+10:00

It appears that young Seth has gone from seeking a request to transfer to no longer wanting to move...Oh so near and yet so far from marching with the Knights.

One can only wonder what changed young Seth's mind, could it be the reality check of what leaving a club entails mid season. One would think that the South Rserves will be delighted to have Seth back

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The latest news on the football grapevine is that Seth Otte from South Hobart Reserves is moving to Glenorchy Knights.

The word is that me may have a better chance of going into the seniors than current chances with SHFC.

Tasmanian football live on Twitter

2010-06-08T11:10:00.002+10:00

Premier League football results are now being posted as they happen, live, at the games. You can follow paskey14@twitter.com just by going to the twitter site and searching for it. This is a great way to get live score updates as they happen which will then be written about on here once match reports are finalised.

I look forward to seeing everyone over the weekend at the games. Four sleeps to go until the greatest sporting event in the world kicks off and I can already feel the buzz.

Until next time,

Callan

No News is Bad News

2010-06-07T21:45:00.009+10:00

You can imagine our shock when it was read on Walter's Blog last week that he was about to go on a well earned holiday for 5 weeks. Being driven into action a band of true Football / Blog Reading tragics have decided to blog in Walter's absence.

Input from all is welcome and in particular match reports and photos can be sent in. If you wish to give regular updates email reports will be posted as soon as we get them.

For now ...