Kaz Patafta: Everyone has an opinion!

Another day another article on Canberra's Kaz Patafta. This time it's 442 discussing what Kaz needs to do.


Kaz, of course is well known and respected throughout Canberra fooball. He Captained the Under 17's at the World Cup a few years ago and was outstanding and a joy to watch.

Gus Hiddink called him into the pre-World Cup squad into 2006.

High hopes. He headed off to Benfica and returned to Melbourne Victory where limited game time saw him move to the Newcastle Jets this season. Not before he smacked in a wonderful goal against Wellington Phoenix.

This season, Kaz has had a few minutes so far against Perth. He didn't make the bench in last weeks game.

However there is light at the end of the tunnel for Kaz and many other talented players.

The new Australian Youth League. Where all players are guaranteed game time.

If Kaz doesn't crack the first team at the Jets immediately playing in the Youth League should increase his confidence, if that is required, and enable him to make a bigger impact when he gets his chance again.

Everyone seems to have an opinion on what Kaz should do.

His skill is undoubted and clearly there are areas Kaz needs to improve on if his Coach, be it Ernie Merrick, or Gary Van Egmond are to play him.

I would love to see him get an extended run, but like Nicky Carle for the Socceroos the Coaches he works with don't seem to have the confidence, yet, to give him those games.

Maybe he should go back to his World Cup playing position. His control is his asset and every Australian team, particularly Newcastle at the moment, needs someone to keep the ball.

Although most prefer the Mile Jedinak or Terry McFlynn style of combatant.

What ever else happens people will continue to make wild statements about Kaz. For some reason he seems to bring out an opinion in every football fan.

But here's hoping we see one of Canberra's finest young players make an increased mark this season.

And Canberra's other Jet Shaun Ontong has his plaster off and is back in training.

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Canberra stars in the news.

Socceroo Carl Valeri on the move? Ned Zelic on SBS catch his video here during the week. Nikolai Topor-Stanley plays centre-back for Olyroos! Kaz Patafta, Shaun Ontong, Caitlin Munoz, Amy Taylor and Adam Casey replaced by Irish popstar!


Carl Valeri's contract is up in twelve months. How many more times will he have played for the Socceroos by then?

And then he's a free agent. So don't be surprised to see Carl move on from his Serie B side, Grosseto in the next few weeks. But where to?

Serie A, or a top Serie B club I reckon but you never know. Holland could be the go, although with an Italian agent I expect him to stay in Italy.

Nikolai Topor-Stanley played a rare game at centre-back for the Olyroos last night. They drew with Chile 1-1 in Darwin. FFA Release at the very end of this post.

Former Canberra Croatia now Canberra FC Ned Zelic was interviewed on SBS today and you can see Ned in his tourist cart with Scott McIntyre giving his thoughts on playing football in Georgia. Yes Ned is still playing!

Kaz Patafta and Shaun Ontong. Both Canberra lads are now at Newcastle Jets.

Kaz played in the recent 1-0 defeat of the Mariners whilst Shaun is out for three months with a foot injury. Cruel world football. We wish Shaun, who was a recent guest on Nearpost radio a speedy recovery.

Better news for Adam Casey. The Sydney FC forward/winger come right back is back playing after breaking his leg early last season. He played in the recent 0-0 game against Blacktown before being replaced by Deltra's boyfriend Irish popstar Brian McFadden. Good to see Adam back.

Talking recently from Sydney FC, Adam said, "When I look at the talent around the dressing room, there's some great players, but I'm determined to work hard and earn my place."

Caitlin Munoz joins fellow Canberrans Amy Chapman and Lydia Williams as the Matildas head to China with a very young side.

And a former Matilda, Amy Taylor, loved her time in Canberra, playing for Tuggeranong United, Canberra City ACTAS under Katrina Neuss before being a Matildas for 8 years. Wally Hovell and Neuss were just two of the locals Amy mentioned in an interview for the Nearpost which you can hear in coming weeks.

For now she's WIN TV Sports Presenter and host of Football Superstar which airs on Thursday on Fox 8 at 7:35pm. Amy talks about the show on Tuesday on Nearpost radio.

Olyroos v Chile.

Qantas Under 23s Draw with Chile

The Qantas Under 23s played out an entertaining 1-all draw against the Chile Under 23s tonight in front of 1,780 fans at the Darwin Football Stadium. Kristian Sarkies opened the scoring for the Qantas Under 23s from the penalty spot in the 27th minute and Felipe Seymour equalised for the Chileans in the 67th minute with a clinical finish from inside the box.

Qantas Under 23s Head Coach Graham Arnold made 10 changes to the line-up for tonight's match with Mark Milligan the only player to start both games.

The match began at the same frenetic pace that was seen on Friday evening with the Chilean having the first attempt on goal in the 3rd minute, but five minutes later Kristian Sarkies had the Qantas Under 23s first shot which was expertly tipped over the bar by Gregory Saavedra in the Chilean goal.

The Qantas Under 23s continued to apply the pressure with Nikita Rukavytsya netting in the 21st minute but the goal was disallowed for off-side. But the Qantas Under 23s were on the scoreboard in the 27th minute when Kristian Sarkies calmly slotted home a penalty after David Williams had his shirt pulled in the box in a goal scoring opportunity.

Nikita Rukavytsya nearly doubled the lead in the 41st minute when his deft control in the box allowed him to unleash a stinging shot to the near post, but again Saavedra was on hand to make another crucial save.

After the half-time break, the Qantas Under 23s continued to push forward and had the bulk of possession and scoring opportunities. Had it not been for the goalkeeping heroics of Gregory Saavedra, who made a number of saves and interceptions, the Qantas Under 23s could have extended their lead on a number of occasions.

Just after the hour mark, Neil Kilkenny put Michael Zullo through but Saavedra was quick off his line and cleared the ball from Zullo's feet outside the area..

Chile's patience paid off midway through the second half when Felipe Seymour finished off a one-on-one opportunity against the Qantas Under 23s goalkeeper, Chris O'Connor, shooting low and hard to the bottom left corner of the goal.

After the match Graham Arnold was again pleased by with the performance of his players.

"Our players again performed well up against very good opposition tonight," said Arnold

"The purpose of this camp was for me to make critical selection decisions and also to prepare the players for the Beijing Olympic Games,"

"Based on that, this camp has been extremely successful, we have been very well looked after by everyone here in Darwin and the effort of all the boys could not be faulted.

"Now my coaching staff and I have a very difficult task in selecting the final squad that will go to the Olympic Games," concluded Arnold.

The Qantas Under 23s will take time out from their training camp in Darwin and will conduct a football coaching clinic tomorrow afternoon with Northern Territory junior football players before heading home on Tuesday.

The Australian Olympic Men's Football team will be named by the Australian Olympic Committee on Friday 4 July 2008 in Sydney.

-ends-



Match Details:
Qantas Under 23s 1 (Kristian Sarkies 27' (penalty))
Chile Under 23s 1 (Felipe Seymour 67')
Sunday 29 June 2008
Darwin Football Stadium, Darwin Australia
Referee: Peter Green (Brisbane)
Assistant Referees: Tim Lay (Darwin) & Rohan Kelly (Darwin)
Fourth Official: Maurice D'Arrigo (Darwin)
Crowd: 1,780

Qantas Under 23s: 1.Chris O'Connor (gk), 3.Trent McClenahan, 5.Mark Milligan (Captain), 6.Nikolai Topor-Stanley, 7.Neil Kilkenny, 8.Kristian Sarkies, 9.Nick Ward (2.Jason Hoffman 65'), 10.Nikita Rukavytsya (20.Matt Simon 65'), 12.Nigel Boogaard (16.Robert Cornthwaite 67'), 15.David Williams (17.Michael Zullo 56'), 19.James Holland (4.Billy Celeski 70').

Substitutes Not Used: 18.Tando Velaphi (gk), 11.Tarek Elrich, 13.Troy Hearfield, 14.Nathan Burns.

Yellow Cards: Billy Celeski 73', Jason Hoffman 84'.

Red Cards: Nil

Chile Under 23s: 1.Gregory Saavedra (gk), 2.Marcelo Diaz, 3.Eugenio Mena, 4.Bruno Romo, 5.Bastian Arce, 6.Sebastian Mendez, 7.Felipe Seymour, 8.Angel Rojas (16.Sebastian Barrientos 56'), 9.Eduardo Vargas, 10.Esteban Paredes (Captain) (15.Fabian Torres 90'), 13.Esteban Saez (11.Boris Sa gredo 25').

Substitutes Not Used: 12.Fabian Cerda (gk), 14.Sebastian Diaz, 17.Lucas Dominguez, 18.Matias Campos.

Yellow Cards: Eugenio Mena,27', Esteban Paredes 34'.

Red Cards: Nil



Previous Match:

Qantas Under 23s 3 (Aaron Downes 20'/68', Troy Hearfield 76')
Chile Under 23s 4 (Esteban Paredes 26'/85', Boris Sagredo 47', Eduardo Vargas 82')
Friday 27 June 2008
Darwin Football Stadium, Darwin Australia
Referee: Ben Williams (Canberra)
Assistant Referees: Mark Finestone (Darwin) & Ned Sparkes (Darwin)
Fourth Official: Rohan Kelly (Darwin)
Crowd:1,404

Qantas Under 23s: 18.Justin Pasfield (gk), 5.Mark Milligan, 6.Bruce Djite (10.Nikita Rukavysta 68'), 9.Tarek Elrich, 14.Billy Celeski, 15.Leigh Broxham (23.Nick Ward 79'), 17.Aaron Downes (16.Robert Cornthwaite 86'), 19.Mark Bridge (captain) (4.Michael Zullo 83'), 21.Dario Vidosic (7.Neil Kilkenny 67'), 22.Troy Hearfield, 24.Adam D'Apuzzo.

Substitutes Not Used: 1.Chris O'Connor (gk), 11.Jason Hoffman, 12.Nigel Boogaard, 28.Trent McClenahan.

Yellow Cards: Leigh Broxham 47', Adam D'Apuzzo 50', Aaron Downes 82'.

Red Cards: Nil

Chile Under 23s: 12.Fabian Cerda, 2.Marcelo Diaz, 3.Bruno Romo, 4.Eugenio Mena, 5.Bastian Arce, 6.Sebastian Mendez, 7.Felipe Seymour, 8.Angel Rojas, 9.Eduardo Vargas, 10.Esteban Paredes, 11.Boris Sa gredo

Substitutes Not Used: 1.Gregory Saavedra (gk), 13.Esteban Saez, 14.Sebastian Diaz, 15.Fabian Torres, 16.Sebastian Barrientos, 17.Lucas Dominguez, 18.Matias Campos,

Yellow Cards: Bruno Romo 60', Sebastian Barrientos 63', Eduardo Vargas 85', Esetban Paredes 89'.

Red Cards: Nil

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Canberra's Shaun Ontong's injury blow

FourFourTwo are reporting Canberra born and Newcastle Jets new signing Shaun Ontong is out for three months.

This is a real blow for Ontong who was desperate to impress and further his career with the Jets. Shaun was an entertaining guest on Nearpost radio recently, we wish him a quick recovery.

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Mariners walking wounded.

Central Coast Mariners Coach Lawrie McKinna is bringing his team to Canberra for two pre-season games in three weeks, and a coaching session open to any Junior/grassroots or Senior Coach. The Mariners will also be back to play against Kaz Patafta and Shaun Ontong's Newcastle Jets on July 11th at Canberra Stadium.

But who will play Belconnen and The Rockets?

According to McKinna, Nik Mrdja and Matthew Osman won't play games for four weeks, Paul O'Grady could be ready for the Canberra games in three weeks, Greg Owen starts running in six weeks, but Dean Heffernan is back in training next week. Clearly managing the squad getting them all fit for the first A-League game never mind tactics/training games etc, is a major management problem.

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Best footballer, best cook?

Adelaide United housemates Bruce Djite, Nathan Burns, Kristian Sarkies and Shaun Ontong shared the most talented football house in the country last season. They can all play but can they cook?

According to Newcastle Jets new signing Shaun Ontong who joined us on Nearpost radio last night, Kristian Sarkies is "the" cook, in that household.

So how will Shaun cope without Sarkies the Cook in his new abode in Newcastle?

Shaun wasn't looking forward to being without a cook. But we hear Kaz Patafta is a good cook as well:)

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Nearpost Radio: Shaun Ontong, Amy Chapman

Nearpost Radio:

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This week: Newcastle Jets new signing Shaun Ontong joins us in the Studio. Socceroo talk. Amy Chapman gives us all the Matildas news from Vietnam see below for all the details



We've got an interview with Matildas Star Amy Chapman who is in Vietnam for the Asia Cup.
Newcastle Jets new signing and former Adelaide United player Shaun Ontong joins us in the studio to discuss Adelaide United's historic journey in Asia.
We look back on the Socceroos against Ghana and preview the World Cup Qualifer against Iraq.
News, quiz questions, dedications and more

Second half;
Locally Russ and Chris wrap all the Men and Women's Premier League scores.
All the news from Capital Football and the city of Canberra.
Extended interview with former Belconnen junior Shaun Ontong.
Junior football with Woden Valley President Alan Hinde.

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Canberra mates to join up?

Kaz Patafta is a strong possibility to join his old Canberra Black Mountain training partner Shaun Ontong at Newcastle Jets. Still not confirmed, but I reckon it's a done deal. And we'll try and break Shaun Ontong on the Nearpost show on Tuesday to get all the goss!

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Five Canberran Footballers

Canberrans making football pay

The Weekender: This week I review the FIVE Canberrans playing in season three of the A-League. Which Canberran will be next?
Matthew Kemp, Nikolai Topor-Stanley, Adam Casey, Shaun Ontong and Kaz Patafta.

This week I take a look at the five Canberra players in the A-League. Their clubs, their performances in the season just gone and what lies ahead.

*Robbie Cattanach had a short-term contract with Sydney FC and made his one and only appearance against Perth Glory

Matthew Kemp, Melbourne Victory.

Matty Kemp is the eldest of the five Canberrans earning their living from football in the A-League. Having transferred from Adelaide United at the end of Season Two, he was expecting big things from the Champions, his new club, Melbourne Victory.

Like his team, Kemp struggled to make a quick impression in the new season. And his versatility may not have helped. Right back, then midfield and centre-back before finally settling in at left back.

The Victory fans, perhaps stunned by the team’s performances seemed to take a big dislike to Kemp. Occasionally the booing of their player, Kemp, was embarrassing.

To Kemp’s credit he has turned the support around. He finished as the left back. Showing determination and composure in defence, and adding much to the Victory attack. Only a goal was missing.

Kemp goes into the new season with strong home support, a guaranteed place in the side, and increased confidence on the back of a strong Asian Champions League campaign.

Nikolai Topor-Stanley, Perth Glory, Olyroo, Socceroo

Hold on to your hats, Topor-Stanley has had an outstanding season. Is there no end to this former Tuggeranong United juniors’ potential? He’s clearly the mover and shaker in the group.

His club form suffered last year, like most Olyroos, from his overseas travel, but the experience gained will assist him in the coming years.

Looking forward to the Olympics, he can expect to be in the squad, and is starting to pop up in Socceroos squads. He should get game time against Ghana on Friday, even if only as a sub.

Two years ago Nikolai was at Manly United in the New South Wales Premier League. Now, a Socceroos left back, although many still think he is best at centre back, Nikolai brings composure and skill to any team he plays for.

Has another year on his Perth contract, but clearly has the ability to head overseas already.

Unlike many Australian footballers Nikolai has strength and physique on his side. Would go well in England or Germany.

If Australia qualifies for the 2010 World Cup, Nikolai will be in the squad. That’s my prediction!

Adam Casey, Sydney FC.

Despite his injury just nine games in, Casey made a big impression on me. His strong running, powerful energy, meant he was able to force his way into Branko Culina’s Sydney side.

He even scored his first A-League goal. For a young player things were starting to happen. He’d been included in every Olyroos squad when fit, then disaster struck in Round 9. A broken leg and the season gone.

But he’s back, fully fit and training hard.

He’ll be better, more confident, for his games last season, and will be fighting hard for a place in Kosmina’s Sydney side. His pace could see him getting starts early in the season.

He knows his recovery has come too late for Olympic selection but he needs to remain injury free and continue to make his mark in the A-League. A big season for Casey coming up.

Shaun Ontong, Newcastle Jets.

Ontong had a good season. He might not think so and he won’t be happy with the amount of game time he got, but given his horrific time trialling overseas, his early season injuries, Ontong is now a part of professional football.

He’s signed a two year deal with Newcastle Jets, and has a chance to establish himself as a first eleven player over the coming season.

A player with terrific energy, he always impresses the Fox Sports commentators when he comes on, Ontong has a great opportunity now to build on his first professional season.

If he can stay injury free, get time on the park, with his pace and desire, he could make a big impact.

Don’t be surprised to see him switched to full-back in coming seasons. His natural aggression, pace and stamina would give another dimension to many sides.

Kaz Patafta, Melbourne Victory, on loan from Benfica.

On his return from Benfica, Patafta was built as the next big thing. He startled and excited the Victory fans in his pre-season performance against Sydney FC.
But it all turned sour. Little game time, and a struggling team he was given little chance to make a mark.

But he will. He has an abundance of skill and will come good. But who will give him a real chance?

Like many Aussie footballers, Patafta is a late developer, physically. And with Victory struggling Coach Ernie Merrick clearly wasn’t going to give him time to play himself in.

His loan period ends June 30th. He needs to move, to get more game time. He had some moments and he scored a wonderful goal in front of his adoring Melbourne faithful at the Telstra Dome.

He’ll be better for the experience. Newcastle Jets would be a great move. Or maybe he’ll go back to Benfica. He could stay at Melbourne, I suspect not.

Wherever he goes Patafta, like Nicky Carle, will become a fine player in his late twenties. He just needs game time and plenty of it.

In the competitive world of football, who will take the chance?

And indeed who will be the next Canberran to make football pay?

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Canberran moves to Newcastle

Shaun Ontong has joined the Newcastle Jets for next season.

Adelaide United FC , midfielder Shaun Ontong and has been released by the club. United Coach Aurelio Vidmar informed Ontong that he would not be part of the club’s 2008/09 plans once his contracts expire in June.

A former Qantas Young Socceroos Captain, Ontong managed 9 appearances in his debut Hyundai A-League Season, the 21 year old winning Adelaide United’s Best Team Man Award along the way.

“Shaun can find himself extremely unlucky. We made a decision that we didn’t think he would be a starting eleven player next season, and we think it is important that he finds some first team football to continue his development,” Vidmar said.

Ontong in the meantime has signed a two year deal with the Newcastle Jets and could join his new team mates before United’s 2008 AFC Champions League Group Stage campaign ends.

“While it is disappointing to be leaving Adelaide, it will be an exciting new challenge for me in Newcastle, and I look forward to cementing a spot with the Jets and moving into the next chapter of my career,” Ontong said.

“I want to thank Aurelio Vidmar and the Adelaide United Football Club for giving me an opportunity to be part of their squad and helping me to develop and improve both as a player and a person. I wish the club all the best for the future.”

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Canberra's Shaun Ontong on the move?

Adelaide United's Shaun Ontong is expected to sign for the Newcastle Jets this week.

Former Australian Under 20 Captain Ontong was given a lifeline last season by United after difficult times overseas. Limited game time, however, has probably meant he's keen to move to a club where prospects of playing are increased.

Newcastle Jets Coach Gary Van Egmond is perhaps the best place for Ontong next season if he can't force his way into the Adelaide squad.

Sounds like a good move to me!

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Canberra Short Shorts

Kaz Patafta, Shaun Ontong, Ben Williams, Steve O'Connor, AIS, Youth League lots of Canberra football news here.


Kaz Patafta meets Les Murray Sunday 5pm. Canberra and Melbourne Victory's Kaz Patafta will be on SBS The World Game on Sunday around 5pm. Sir Les will interview Kaz.

Kaz Patafta and Shaun Ontong. Mates in Asia.
In the week when Nikolai Topor-Stanley is named in his first Socceroos squad, Kaz Patafta and Shaun Ontong were playing in Australia's most successful Asian Champions League night..ever.

Kaz came on for Victory in their 2-0 win over Chunnam (Korean Cup winners) and Shaun was on the bench in Pohang City, Korea as Adelaide United won 2-0.

The lads who used to do extra training together running up Black Mountain are reaping the rewards now.

Referee Ben Williams
What did you do on Wednesday. Get stuck on The Tuggers Parkway, struggle to park in Civic, bunked school, late home from the office.

Ben Williams was in Iran refereeing Sepahan in their 2-0 defeat to Syrian side Al Ittihad

Steve O'Connor
How fast do you have to be to play International Football. Well Steve say's 3.25 seconds over 20 metres is to slow. Test yourself today!!

Brett Emerton was around 2.7 secs at age 15. The Gympie flyer James Downey at Perth Glory is similarly quick.

Australian Institute of Sport
It's beeen along time since we've had four players in an AIS side from Canberra. Kofi Danning, Sam Munro, Dane Milovanovic and Ivan Pavlak are all playing in an AIS side that is joint top of the VPL after 3 games.

And you can imagine they have had to take a bit of physical stuff over the last couple of years from other teams not used to losing to kids.

"It's been so bad, sometimes I want to get my kit on and get out there. But the lads have learnt and this year they are starting to give it back just a little. They are looking after themselves better. In one game last year we had three guys off with blood injuries at the same time," said AIS Coach Steve O'Connor

Youth League..first ray of light for Canberra football?
The FFA are interested in Canberra making up the 8th team in the Youth League next year. In conjunction with the Wellington Phoenix or as a stand alone team it's too early to say.

Finances would be the only thing stopping us. Time to get our thinking hats on Canberrans.

With the Youth League offering $5,000 a season the four Canberrans in the current AIS squad would probably prefer to stay in a Canberra Youth side then head off to one of the other seven Australian Youth teams.

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Shaun Ontong makes Asian Champions League Bench

Canberra's Shaun Ontong, former Australian under 20 Captain, has recovered from injury to take his place on the Adelaide United bench alongside Nathan Burns in tonights crucial ACL opener in Pohang, Korea. Team for tonights game listed below.

AFC Champions League 2008 – Match Day 1 (Group E)
Pohang Steelers v Adelaide United FC
Wednesday 12 March 2008
Kick-Off 8.30pm ACDT
Pohang Steelyard, South Korea

Adelaide United FC Starting XI
30.Eugene GALEKOVIC (GK), 2.Richie ALAGICH, 4.Angelo COSTANZO, 6.CASSIO, 7.Lucas PANTELIS, 11.Bruce DJITE, 13.Travis DODD (Captain), 15.Jonas SALLEY, 18.Robert CORNTHWAITE, 21.Jason SPAGNUOLO, 22.DIEGO.

On the Bench
1.Daniel BELTRAME (GK), 3.Milan SUSAK, 10.Nathan BURNS, 14.Shaun ONTONG, 20.Robert BAJIC (GK), 23.Dez GIRADLI, 26.Fabian BARBIERO.

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Podcast: All the Manchester United terrace chants!

On the poddie this week, download here

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Interviews with:
Coerver Coaching Alfred Galustian
1. How it all started
2. Who Alfred has coached and worked with, and his views on Australian football
Adelaide United's Shaun Ontong
Manchester United fan Brendan Flanagan and those terrace chants
Arif's big issue
All the A-League predictions
Women's football coming to the ABC, looks like it.

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Good signs for Canberra's Shaun Ontong

Canberra's Shaun Ontong started his first A-League game last night for Adelaide United.

Adelaide United 1 Peth Glory 1 was how it finished.

The former Australian Under 20 Captain is slowly but surely getting an increased amount of game time. Even if it is as a result of the Olyroos games and injuries, Shaun surely won't care.

And after the horror run he's had with injuries it's great to see him play.

And on last nights game. He's fast, very very enthusiastic. Has skill, quick feet and looks like he'll be around for a while. And don't you love the way he gets in their faces.

He won't die wondering!

If he can stay injury free, and continue to get game time he may well be the sort of player who pushes for a starting place next year. As a former Australian Under 20 Captain he must surely have more to offer once he gets more games under his belt.

Think Adam D'Apuzzo at the Jets, Bruce Djite, Leigh Broxham and even Nathan Burns. All players who have pushed and earned a regular place in their second year.

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Podcast this week. Details here.

More from the Podders!

This weeks poddie has the following:


Matildas, Interview Shaun Ontong, Preview of Melbourne Victory


1. Eamonn and Terry talk Melbourne Victory

2. Matildas wrap about 4:20 secs

3. Interview Shaun Ontong Adelaide United 8;42 sec

4. Eamonn and Terry preview A-League.15 mins



Approx times.



Sorry about sound in places..we're working on it!!



Will be in studio soon, very soon so quality will improve.

Any thoughts feedback suggestions welcome.

Either on football, production or podcasting gear and stuff.



Thanks



Eamonn



Next week:

We welcome Sarah to our team, our Sydney FC football correspondent,

Matildas star Caitlin Munoz

Review and prevew of the A-League.

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The return of the forgotten Australian U20's Captain

Canberra's Shaun Ontong can't wait to get going again.

If you think footballers have it easy spare a thought for Canberra’s Shaun Ontong.

Product of the AIS and Australia’s Under 20 Captain, Ontong headed off overseas on the same plane with a certain Matthew Spiranovic to German side FC Nurnberg after the last World Cup.

Hopes were high for both players. Spiranovic signed, played against Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, and ended up winning a German Cup winners medal. Oh and he was then called in to the Socceroos squad for the Uruguay game in June.

How did Ontong go? Ontong pulled a groin muscle in the trial and ended up coming home to Australia. He captained the under 20 side in Korea in the Asian Championships in November last year. He then was without a club. He trained with Melbourne Victory for a month before heading to Switzerland for a week’s trial with FC Sion.

“The week, became a month and no offer was forthcoming,” said Ontong

“What do you do? Do you come home? The A-League is over for another year. Or do you stay and hope to pick up a club, and at this stage of the year it could be any club.”

“It was always a dream to play overseas. I felt to go home was to fail. I was determined to stay. I rang anyone I knew in football to try and get a club, a chance,” said Ontong.

“I ended up in Slovenia, with Maribor. You are only allowed three foreigners and they had five. I made six so I was never going to get a chance. From there I went to Bela Krajina.”

“It was crazy. I was living in a backpackers. I was trying to train. But I was having to guard my gear, to protect if from being stolen. At one point I got the girl behind the bar to guard my gear so I could go for a run.”

“I had a trial but hadn’t played for a month so wasn’t fit. I’m the sort of player that goes 120% and I pulled my groin again.”

“The club provided no treatment for foriegners, so I was looking on the internet trying to figure out how to treat myself. Things were pretty bad.”

“So I came back to Australia. South Melbourne invited me down to train, and I was off for a trial with Wellington, when Adelaide stepped in.”

So what is the injury status now.

“Well, I pulled my groin 3 times in twelve months, but I expect to be fully fit for the start of the A-League season. I’ve reassessed where I’m at. I’m delighted to get an opportunity with Adelaide.”

“I got great mates here. (Kristaian) Sarkies, Nathan Burns and Bruce Djite are all here.”

“Football is a funny game. Things can change so quickly. I saw Burnsy playing for the Socceroos recently. I felt emotional for him. It was great.”

“I’m just hoping to get playing again with Adelaide.”

When you play Kaz Patafta at Melbourne Victory will it be like the junior football days in Canberra?

He laughs, “You mean Belwest v Belnorth. Yes it will. They were great days. There were no football worries then.”

“I’ve learnt a lot by going overseas. And it’s made me stronger. I’ve got my love of the game back and I’m getting ready to play again. I’m with a professional club, they are protecting me, not rushing me back before my injury heals. I’ve just started jogging. Things feel good.

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Quick Quiz: Know your football

Quiz Level:Rated Very hard.

See answers and how you rate below

Who did Canberran and Adelaide United's Shaun Ontong travel overseas with for a trial in Germany? (2 points)

Kaz Patafta. Who did he support when he was boy? In Europe? In Australia? (2 points)

Which club did Kaz trial with in Europe when he was 15? (1 point)

Kaz has written a foreword for a book, alongside Mr. Football Les Murray. Name that book. (5 points)

Which Australian sides were Shaun Ontong and Kaz Patafta captain of. (2 points)

Most correct answer gets listed as the first ever Football in the Capital quizmaster.

Answers below:

1. Matthew Spiranovic, FC Nurnberg

2. Man United (Boo) Canberra Cosmos (hooray)

3. Real Madrid

4. http://www.notjustfootyclub.com.au/

5. Under 20'sand Under 17's

Out of 12

If you got 12: You must be Les Murray

more than 9. A real football fan. Well done you're are a champion. Have a great day, you deserve it.

6-9 Don't study enough football on the net when you are at work. Lift your game.

3-6 Really, suppose you still call it soccer

0-2 So you are watching those other codes. Stop it, or you'll never score more than 2!

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Kaz Patafta: Why I signed for Melbourne Victory

Football in the Capital caught up with Australian under 17 and under 20 representative Kaz Patafta.

This was his first interview since returning to Australia from Portugese giants Benfica. Thanks for you support Kaz.

Let's clear one thing up: "Jorges Mendes is my manager, not my girlfriend." says Kaz Patafta.

Canberra footballer Kaz Patafta is back in Australia.

Patafta has signed a one-year loan deal with A-League Champions Melbourne Victory as he looks to further his career.

Patafta’s, who moved to Portugese giants Benfica last year straight from Radford College, has a further two years to go on his Benfica contract.

But for now he’s back in Australia and looking forward to joining up with his new team-mates on Monday as Victory fly put to play the Chinese National side in China.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the guys. It’ll be good to play with Leigh Broxham. I’m good mates with Leigh so I’m really looking forward to that.”

Leaving Canberra for European football is many players dream, but it can also have it’s drawbacks.

“I was living the dream really. I’d always wanted to play in Europe, so when I got the chance I jumped at it. I was training every day with guys like Rui Costa (ex-AC Milan) Nuno Gomes. They are amazing players. Watching what they could do with the ball in training was a fantastic learning experience.”

“I played in front of 20,000 in a Youth game between Benfica and Sporting Lisbon at the new Benfica stadium. (Stadium of Light).

“But it’s also hard being so far from home if things are tough. You don’t have your friends and family to talk to. You have the phone and internet but it’s not the same."

“I learnt a lot. Benfica wanted me to go on loan to a Portugese club where thy could keep an eye on me. But once they researched Melbourne and the quality of the A-League they were happy to let me come here. I’ll be able to send video’s so they can see how I’m going.”

Patafta was signed by chance. Victory Coach Ernie Merrick was watching Sydney play in the Asian Champions League. He got talking to a young woman, Patafta’s girlfriend and manager. From this chance meeting Patafta was signed.

Patafta laughs, “Yes it’s true about the chance meeting, but my girlfriend is not my manager. My manager is Jorges Mendes.”

The Canberran is in good company. Mendes is also manager of Portugese and Manchester United superstar Ronaldo.

The A-League has been criticised for not having enough games. In fact A-League player of the year Nicky Carle has just left for Turkish club, Genclerbirligi stating a lack of games as a reason for going.”

Patafta is aware of this but adds, “I want to improve as a player. Benfica wanted me to do pre-season with their first team, but I wanted to get more game time. To develop as a player I need to play in a positive environment. Melbourne has 24 A-League games plus at least 6 Asian Champions League. I also want to play for the Olyroos in their Olympic qualifiers. I was asked to join up for previous games, but Benfica wouldn’t release me. Being in Australia I will have more opportunity to play.”

“Playing for Australia is an amazing thrill. Captaining the Under 17’s at the World Cup in 2005 was the highlight of my career. It’s something I’m passionate about.”

Patafta played junior football for Belnorth.

“I used to play against (former Australian under 20 captain) Shaun Ontong. Belnorth v Belsouth. Shaun has just been signed by Adelaide United and that’s a great move for him.”

Canberran Ontong found it hard to get a club last season, despite being a former captain of the Australian Under 20 side.

“That was hard to take. As my captain at the Under 20’s and a great friend I wanted to see Shaun playing. He got some games with FC Sion in Switzerland but it’s great he’s at Adelaide for next season.

“Shaun is my best friend in football. We alwaystrained to gether at the Australian Institue of Sport. We use to run up Black Mountain together. We were always doing extra training.”

So when you Melbourne run out against Adelaide it will be like Belnorth v Belwest?

Patafta laughs, “Yes I suppose it will.”


Football in the Capital will have more from Victory's Kaz Patafta later in the week, including what he's heard about the Victory fans.

We'll also have updates from Victory's Patafta and Matthew Kemp during the season.

Follow Melbourne Victory, through Canberran eyes here on this blog, as they try to win the A-League back-to-back, and become the first Australian club to progress beyond the group stages of the Asian Champions League.

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Canberra's Shaun Ontong signs for Adelaide United

Another Canberra footballer makes the breakthrough.

Sports Australia.com are reporting that Adelaide United have signed another Canberran, Shaun Ontong, for the coming A-League season.

Ontong, who has also captained the Australian Under 17 team, is a quick, tenacious and disciplined player who is extremely versatile and able to play as a midfielder or wide defender. The 20 year old from Canberra has made 20 appearances for the Young Socceroos and is thrilled to have signed with The Reds.

“It’s unbelievable and a dream come true for me. It has been a long time coming and I have been working very hard to get this opportunity and am very grateful to Adelaide United,” Ontong said.

“I will grab this opportunity with both hands. I have been watching Adelaide United in the Hyundai A-League, I like the way they play and am looking forward to being part of the club’s continued success.”

Ontong could not have joined a better club. An exciting young side Adelaide also have vital experience in Paul Agostino, Ange Costanzo and Bobby Petta.


Shaun OntongBorn: 24 March 1987, Canberra ACTPosition: Midfielder/wide defenderHeight: 175cm. Weight: 71kgClub History: AIS, ACT Academy of Sport & Belconnen United (Canberra)Additional Information: Former captain of Young Socceroos (Under 20’s) and Joeys (Under 17’s).

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