Who's in your team?
Canberra United: it's the final but who should start?
Pick your team and post it here.
Wednesday, 14 January 2009
Socceroos to Canberra? D-day today
Will the Socceroos play in Canberra in March?
Apparently it's Canberra or Perth for the Kuwait game and today is D-day. Pim Verbeek and Ben Buckley will discuss the options today...expect an announcement before the week is out....though don't be surprised if the Gold Coast make a late run.
Logic tells me the Gold Coast to boost football before the A-League team comes in, but if Canberra get......what could that mean?
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
Saturday, 10 January 2009
Canberra United into historic final.
Canberra United defeated Newcastle Jets 1-0 in the W-League Semi-Final in Newcastle this afternoon to take their place in the first historic W-League final next weekend.
If Sydney defeat Queensland tomorrow Canberra will host the final.
For now isn't it great to see the team from the Capital in the final.
And it wasn't easy.
The Jets started well but came up against an inspired Lydia Williams in the Canberra goal.
She saved a rasping drive early, used her height to punch to great advantage on many occasions and even had to face a late Cheryl Salisbuy onslaught. But for a keeper brave enough to play in China in a World Cup with a broken arm, make that two World Cups this was a walk in the park....or a bruise in the ribs.
The Jets had the wind and the advantage in the first half. Joey Peters and Kate Gill were a theat all afternoon.
But Thea Slatyer lead the defence superbly, once again, closing down the early Gill breaks.
Canberra settled and Ashleigh Sykes showed her pace out wide. Caitlin Munoz was always positive on the ball and Amy Chapman was at her industrious best in the first half.
In fact it was Chapman who released Sykes down the right roared on by the Canberra fans who had make the six hour journey.
And Sykes used her pace and skill to get past Jenna Simon and played a delightful ball behind the retreating defence.
The incoming Kara Mowbray slotted the ball to make the score 1-0.
It was that way at half-time with both sides trying desperately to create clear openings.
The Jets came out on fire. Emily Van Egmond went close on a number of occasions. The Swedish import Frostevalle showed excellent pace to get into good shooting positions and Kate Gill had a couple of opportunities to do better.
The Canberra side was under the pump and tiring on a warm windy Newcastle afternoon. But Robbie Hookers team are well organised, particularly in defence.
Ellie Brush would have caused watching Matildas Coach Tom Sermanni further thoughts with another tidy display. Sasha McDonnell worked hard all afternoon and was frustrated to be substituted in the second half.
Bec Kiting was tested throughout, but the defensive unit held firm.
And then Canberra who were always looking to steal possession and release the pacy Sykes did just that with 15 to play. One on one the young Dubbo star watched her shot come back off the keeper. She could have sealed it.
The Jets immediately threw on the most capped Australian football Cheryl Salisbury and immediately she found space in the box and drove hard for goal. A superb save and catch by Williams was the Canberra keepers answer.
And then the Australian Captain charged for a high ball. One of the most fearsome sights in Women's football but she was ably match by Williams who picked up a few bruises for the cause. Salisbury was booked for her challenge.
It wasn't always pretty but Canberra United are in the first ever W-League final.
A great team performance with the defence holding firm throughout. Ashleigh Sykes created the goal, the only goal of the game. That one run from Sykes was perhaps the difference between the two sides.
The Jets had most of the play but couldn't get enough time or space in front of goal. And that's the difference.
Player of the Match: Lydia Williams. Confident throughout. She's a keeper who allows the team to perform in front of her. And should the opposition ever get through the defensive eight then you can be almost certain Williams will stop whatever comes her way.
Who would bet against Canberra United now?
Friday, 9 January 2009
ANU defeat Newcastle Jets Youth
As the A-League bid for Canberra ramps up it's interesting to note preparations for our young players continue apace at various clubs, inparticular at ANU FC under John Mitchell's Coaching.
ANU downed Newcastle Jets last weekend and head to Sydney FC today for another game but the program been undertaken is perhaps more interesting and is outlined below.
Report starts here:
ANU Football Project Produces Early Result Early on Sunday morning 16 young footballers returned to Canberra without
fanfare or public comment, but with a deserved sense of pride and an infectious
sense of fun and hope.
This group of footballers had just defeated
the Newcastle Jets National Youth League in Newcastle.
This was the first outing for the new ANU FC squad who boast an average age of just 17.
The National Youth League is an Under 20 competition and the Newcastle Jets
players were all 19 and 20 and vying for a place among Australia’s footballing
cream ‐ a stern test for the burgeoning ANU squad which included 15 year old
Dom Falla and 16 year olds, Tom Rogic, Alex Meibusch, Danai Gapare and Declan
Poon.
An ANU FC spokesperson said the Club were thrilled at their new venture to
support the development of elite youth footballers. “What an extraordinary first
result for us. The new squad has been training together since mid‐November
and the result speaks volumes about the success of the program thusfar."
New Head Coach, John Mitchell, has brought a professional program to the Club and
the players can’t get enough of it … there were over 30 players at training the
night before the Newcastle game.”
The ANU FC program includes an intensive gym program designed by former
English Premier League strength & conditioning coach, Andrew Young. The
players are in the gym three times per week in the close season in a fully
sponsored program.
The on‐field program is based on the former AIS model originally developed by Socceroo Technical Adviser, Ron Smith and indeed Smith took charge of the ANU squad for a few weeks in December.
In addition to the Canberra based program, Mitchell has arranged for many of
the players to train with Sydney FC. This week a further four players are trialling
at Sydney – Luke Pilkington, Tal and Cyffin Evans and Ben Mitchell.
Next week the ANU are on the road again, this time to play the Sydney FC youth
team who currently top the NYL table.
Thursday, 8 January 2009
A-League bid assists Socceroos to Canberra?
The Canberra Times understands a decision on the location for the first game could be made in the next two weeks.
Barr said the opportunity came about because of discussions with the FFA about Canberra's bid for an A-League team.
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/sport/soccer/canberra-a-chance-at-hosting-roos/1401357.aspx
The ACT Government is in discussions with the Football Federation of Australia about hosting a Socceroos game at Canberra Stadium this year.
Initial talks were held late last year about the possibility of a Socceroos Asian Cup qualifying game being held in Canberra.
Sports Minister Andrew Barr said yesterday, ''We are in discussions with the FFA about hosting a Socceroos game and with a great stadium like Canberra Stadium, if the FFA are looking to take the game outside the major metropolitan centres, then we think Canberra would be a fantastic place to do that.''
There are two Asian Cup qualifiers already in the calendar this year, one on March5 against Kuwait and the other November14 against Oman.
Neither has a venue assigned.
Canberra Stadium is one of several venues across Australia vying for a fixture.
The Canberra Times understands a decision on the location for the first game could be made in the next two weeks.
Barr said the opportunity came about because of discussions with the FFA about Canberra's bid for an A-League team.
Canberra Stadium is already hosting one international football game this year, with the Wallabies playing a Test against Italy on June13.
Meanwhile, Canberra may host an international involving the Matildas as soon as the end of the month.
Matildas coach Tom Sermanni is trying to set up some friendly games against a European opponent at the end of January and start of February and Canberra is in line to host one of a possible two matches.
Canberra United chief executive Heather Reid was confident the ACT's success in the W-League would help the capital's claim to host an elite women's soccer game.
Monday, 5 January 2009
Kofi Danning enters the fray
You might have missed it but former Majura junior and AIS Graduate Kofi Danning came on for his A-League debut for Sydney FC on Saturday night.
He didn't change the game, nor make much of an impact. But he played in front of 23,000 fans in Adelaide and he's just 17.
Good luck to our latest Canberra football rising star.
Friday, 2 January 2009
Mrs Wensing: Canberra A-League fan.
It's very interesting seeing the numbers and range of people who are supporting the Canberra A-League bid.
Recent stalls at the Canberra Centre have shown that anyone and everyone is likely to sign-up.
My favourite?
Mrs Wensing.
When approached by a volunteer to sign up for football, she dismissed the volunteer with a brush of the hand and some annoyance at been asked. I watched the exchange with some amusement....
But then as Mrs Wensing walked away the penny dropped.
Do you mean football as in Soccer? she asked and she was back in a flash.
Well suddenly we found a new best mate.
Mrs Wensing played football in Holland as a young girl on the streets of Eindhoven. She always shouts for Holland and of course Australia when we make the World Cup.
I love football, and I'd love to see a team in Canberra, said Mrs Wensing.
Thankyou Mrs Wensing.
The support for the bid is proving to be across the board, young and old, male and female. Very interesting.
Socceroo lends support to Canberra bid.
Socceroo Carl Valeri takes time out from his short break from Italy's Serie B to show support for the Canberra A-League bid.
Fitsum Habtemariam, myself, and Jono MaClaren are just some of the volunteers who took time out for a photo with Carl.
Thursday, 1 January 2009
It's 2009: Volunteers pushing Canberra bid
We have over 5,000 pledges of support. This is down to our growing band of volunteers.
As the feel for the bid appears to be growing across the city and the region the numbers of people able to assist even on a limited basis is increasing and giving further support to those who have already done a fair bit.
We have been given access to a wonderful spot in the Canberra Centre for the next couple of months, so if you can give a couple of hours of your time once a week, once a month or just once please let
"Ben Sakker Kelly"
We generally get 4 or 5 people out at the same time so you'll have plenty of support.
Or if there are other ways you can assist at your work, club registration day, school or local shops please don't die wondering.
Any other ideas we'd love to hear although if you can take the idea on we may be able to get some people to assist.
Happy New Year. 2009? Will we get an A-League team?
Carl Valeri to Atalanta?
Would be a good move for Carl. Many rumours at this time of the year this is just another one.
Time for Canberra's Socceroo to move methinks...here's hoping it's to a higher league.
Saturday, 27 December 2008
Canberra Extend Unbeaten Streak to Seven
Semi Finals hear we come, Media Release United 1 Roar 1 from Canberra United below.
Canberra United have booked a date with the Newcastle Jets in the Westfield W-League semi finals following a 1-1 draw with the Queensland Roar at McKellar Park on Saturday evening in wet conditions.
Following the Central Coast’s 2-0 win over the Melbourne Victory prior to kick off, Canberra kicked off the match guaranteed at least third place with a possible home final on the line depending on other results.
Despite the torrential rain that tumbled all afternoon leading up to kickoff, the McKellar Park pitch stayed reasonable dry which was inducive to quality football arguably played by the league’s two most inform teams.
A controversial missed penalty by captain Ellie Brush following a failed sending off of Queensland keeper Casey Dumont proved significant in the outcome of the match as the visitors secured a late equaliser in another thrilling match.
With a changed line up due to injuries and fatigue, Hayley Crawford started in the middle along side notable defender Bronwyn Studman on the wing and Nicole Sykes starting at left back.
Studman had the first chance of the game and after only two minutes when Caitlin Munoz found the winger at the back post free but was unable to beat Queensland’s custodian Dumont near post with a quality save.
It was Queensland that had the better of the chances in the first half when Elise Kellond-Knight’s free kick forced a low save from Canberra goalkeeper Lydia Williams before striker Lana Harch nearly beat Williams far post with a curling shot from outside the box only minutes later.
The visitors best chance came mid way through the half when Tameka Butt lined up a shot that clattered into the crossbar after taking a deflection on the way to goal after 26 minutes.
The rain returned late in the second half with neither side able to create further opportunities as scores remained locked 0-0 at half time.
Both sides were determined to come away with the three points in the second half with entertaining football again leaving the 712 crowd on the edge of their seats.
The first chance of the second stanza fell to Munoz on the 52nd minute mark when the striker tried to create something out of nothing with a shot from a shot from a wide angle forced Dumont into making a save near post.
Minutes later it was Queensland on the attack and looked dangerous when Butt strolled her way into the box before being tackled but the ball fell perfectly for Harch who again couldn’t find the inside of the far post.
In the 66th minute, Canberra United were eventually rewarded for their hard work when Munoz found the back of the net after a neat give and go with Kara Mowbray on the end of the box left the dangerous forward with an easy finish far post.
Ten minutes later, the home side should have doubled their lead when captain Ellie Brush missed a penalty after Ashleigh Sykes was dragged down by Dumont with the keeper fortunate to remain on the park.
Sykes was chasing the rebound after Crawford’s blistering shot from 20 metres out struck the cross bar and some how managed to stay out of the back of the net but Sykes was on hand and took a touch toward goal only to be fouled by Dumont on metres from goal.
After Dumont was controversially not shown a red card, Dumont went from villain to hero second later denying Brush with a diving save to her right.
The penalty breathed life back into the visitors as Queensland pressed for an equaliser which eventually came in the 87th minute through substitute Vedrana Popvic breaking the hearts of the brave Canberra United supporters.
Two minutes after coming onto the park, Popvic headed home a pinpoint cross at the back post from an Alicia Ferguson cross wide on the right hand side of the park.
Both sides pressed on searching for the match winner but desperation was evident as both sides played long balls looking to catch either backline napping with prevail as the score remained locked at 1-1 come full time.
Canberra United head coach, Robbie Hooker, pleased with his side performance despite conceding the late goal.
“I thought it was an entertaining game and again thought we were the better side, created better chances and probably should have won,” Hooker said.
“It was another good all-round performance.”
“We kept possession well on a pitch and in conditions where you’d probably think that we wouldn’t be able to do that and out composure again in the last third was good along with the middle third.”
The draw extended Canberra United’s unbeaten streak to seven and look the form side heading into finals.
“We’ve got one more hurdle to get over before we make the Grand Final which on form should see us play Queensland again but in one off games sometimes things don’t go to script.”
Canberra United: 1. Lydia WILLIAMS, 3. Amy CHAPMAN, 4. Bronwyn STUDMAN (19. Jennifer BISSET 61‘), 5. Sasha McDonnell (12. Kara MOWBRAY 46‘), 6. Caitlin MUNOZ, 7. Ellie BRUSH, 8. Rebecca KITING, 10. Hayley CRAWFORD, 13. Thea SLATYER (17. Christine WALTERS 69‘), 14. Ashleigh SYKES, 15. Nicole SYKES
SUBS NOT USED: 20. Maja BLASCH
GOALS: MUNOZ 66’
YELLOW CARDS: CRAWFORD 19’
RED CARD: Nil
Queensland Roar: 1. Casey DUMONT, 2. Kate McSHEA, 3. Karla REUTER, 4. Clare POLKINGHORNE, 5. Brooke SPENCE (11. Ruth BLACKBURN 77‘), 8. Elise KELLOND-KNIGHT, 9. Alicia FERGUSON, 10. Lana HARCH (15. Stephanie LATHAM 93‘), 13. Tameka BUTT (14. Vedrana POPOVIC 85‘), 18. Courtney BEUTEL, 19. Ellen BEAUMONT
SUBS NOT USED: 20. Lara BOON
GOALS: POPOVIC 87’
YELLOW CARDS: REUTER 14’, FERGUSON 21’
RED CARDS: Nil
Crowd: 712
Referee: Jacqui MELKSHAM
Ends
Contact
Chris Gottaas
Media and PR Officer
Canberra United FC
Lucky Queensland?
Queensland Roar may have won the Minor Premiership but they can't beat Canberra United.
They lost at home earlier in the year to United and should have lost tonight.
Ashleigh Sykes was brought down in the second half with United leading 1-0. Casey Dumont the six foot Queensland keeper should have been carded but in keeping with the overall quality of W-League refereeing she stayed on the park and saved the subsequent Ellie Brush penalty.
And what might that mean for the Roar's chances next week.
And indeed Canberra's.
Verdana Popovic scored, an offside goal according to the Canberra players after the game, but in truth the game should have been dead.
Queensland started stronger, playing football from their keeper, passing out from the back. A different style to Canberra but today it was easily thwarted.
Kate McShea and Alicia Ferguson controlled the game early but the Canberra defence held firm and Lydia Williams was rarely tested.
In the second half Hayley Crawford ran the show. Her ball skills, deft passes were a delight to watch. Sasha MCDonnell was withdrawn and Caitlin Munoz dropped deeper.
Suddenly it was all Canberra and when Crawford and Munoz combined around the edge of the dee, Crawford played in Munoz, and Caitlin finished with aplomb for her fourth of the season. The crowd loved it.
Then came the turning point. Again Crawford pulled the strings, gliding past players and making room for a wonderful shot which hit the bar and the ever alert Ashleigh Sykes pounced but was tripped by Dumont.
Late on the Roar kept playing their passing game, it was slow and ineffectual. But from a deep cross Popovic escaped her marker and headed home from close range.
Tameka Butt was tricky, Elise Kellond-Knight worked hard. Claire Polkingthorne was kept busy all afternoon by the pace of Sykes.
For Canberra Bec Kiting, Ellie Brush were strongly supported by Thea Slatyer. Williams was confident in goal. And young players Nicole Sykes, Bronwyn Studman all played their part.
Amy Chapman again tormented the Roar and linked well with Munoz.
This league has enabled many players to reach for the heights, particularly new and younger players.
The Canberra crowd has been the best in the league and over 700 turned up again in atrocious weather.
A great battle and these two sides may well meet again.
The FFA should play final games in Canberra if Canberra get there, for the good of the game:)
Hear Lauren Colthorpe, Lydia Willams, Rhian Davies and Ellie Brush review the game and the season on the Nearpost Tuesday from 6.30pm.
Wednesday, 24 December 2008
Happy Christmas to you!
And isn't it great that there is some football on Boxing Day in case we are losing at the cricket or your favourite ship is last in the exciting Sydney to Hobart boat race.
And of course only 3 more sleeps until Canberra United play again.
And for Christmas I hope you get what you wish for, peace to you all.
A goal for John Aloisi, a plan for John Kosmina and for me
A team for Canberra that's not too much to ask for is it:)
And if you can join a few of us at the Canberra Centre Mon or Tues 29th to get the Supporters Pledge campaign rolling along then email me at flanagan.eamonn@gmail.com
Thanks for all your comments, support and views during the year and may your team do a little better next year...yes even if you are a Rangers, Man Utd or Sydney FC fan:)
Cheers
Eamonn
Monday, 22 December 2008
Capital Punishment head to Sydney.
Dressed in green, Capital Punishment fans headed to Sydney to show support for Canberra A-League's bid. A great day was reportedly had by all..read more...
Capital Punishment, Canberra’s newly formed Canberra A-League and W-League supporters group headed to Sydney FC on Sunday to barrack for Canberra in the Sydney FC Perth Glory clash at the Sydney Football Stadium.
Resplendent in green the supporters were in good mood from the off.
A Canberra Times photographer and ABC TV crew filmed the singing, chanting group on departure from McKellar Stadium.
The group were well prepared. Faces painted, shirts on, and banners made for a colourful scene and when asked to provide a chant, the newly formed group rose as one with “Ole Ole Ole Canberra Canberra.”
The fan group were a mix of male and female young and old all out to enjoy the historic day.
Perth Glory players were a little surprised to see the away end filled with Green shirted fans rather than their usual Glory purple. But at the end with a 4-1 drubbing of Sydney in the bag they were happy to celebrate with anyone!
And the Canberra fans in true Aussie tradition had sung loud and hard against Sydney FC all afternoon. A taste of things to come when we enter the league?
Eugene Dadi and Nikita Rukavystya were the first to give the fans the high five and sign autographs. Nikolai Topor-Stanley was presented with a shirt from fan group organiser Anthony Hatton and proudly swung it around his head.
Socceroos Legend Tony Popovich and former Sydney FC players Mark Rudan and Ufuk Talay signed the fans banner.
Ned Zelic came over after the game and spent time chatting with the fans.
Bid Leader Ivan Slavich, who travelled on the bus with the fans wearing his Capital Punishment shirt, agreed it was a wonderful trip.
“It was a fantastic day out, a bringing together of many people in the community to show support for the bid. We’ve still got a lot of work to do but days like this add real value to the community and the bid. I’d like to thnk Anthony Hatton for organising the trip. He’s done a wonderful job.”
Fox Sports covered the singing Canberrans during the game, “Give us a licence, Give us a licence,” they chanted. One wag suggested they should have sung “Give us Sydney’s licence,” such was the home sides performance.
A great day and a bus trip home with memories and stories locked away.
And a special mention to Ken Sharp, Commercial Manager, from Sydney FC who welcomed and assisted the organisation of the day.
The community focus for the bid now turns to securing 20,000 pledges, we’re already over 4,000, if you can support or assist in anyway please contact flanagan.eamonn@gmail.com
Sunday, 21 December 2008
1150 see Canberra win, 500 more pledges for A-League
Russ Gibbs called the game on 2XX, and it was a great call. I listened, unable to get to the game, but the excitement of the the United win, the chanting of the crowd and goals goals goals made for great radio.
For those 1152 lucky enough to see "the best W-League game this season" I suspect they will be back next week for the Queensland game.
To hear Robbie Hooker, Amy Chapman and Tal Karp interviews tune into 2xx 98.3fm today from 3pm...or get it streamed from www.2xxfm.org.au
Official Match Report below.
Last Minute Winner Secures Final's Berth
Christmas arrived early when Canberra United secured a berth in the Westfield W-League semi final’s courtesy of a last minute goal from Amy Chapman to win 3-2 over the Melbourne Victory at McKellar Park.
In a nail biter, three goals scored in as many minutes in the second half to see the Victory level the scores twice as the 1152 in attendance were all on the brink of heart attacks before Chapman sealed the three points and a finals spot in the 93rd minute.
Canberra’s Ellie Brush set the tone with the first goal of the match courtesy of spectacular goal in the 35th minutes despite the efforts of the Victory backline.
Brush’s initially hit the cross bar with a header from a Chapman corner before Sasha McDonnell followed up from the rebound but he attempt was cleared off the line with the Victory defence before the captain put the home side in front.
The visitors had the first chance of the game only five minutes from kick off when Sophie Hogben found herself in space but couldn’t beat Lydia Williams in goal with a shot directly into the arms of the goal keeper.
After Brush gave Canberra United the lead with her third goal of the season, McDonnell should have made doubled the lead when the striker found herself all alone on goal but a great stop by Victory keeper Melissa Barbieri kept her side in the game at half time.
It didn’t take long for the home side to nearly extend their lead in the second half when striker Caitlin Munoz cut inside at the top of the eighteen yard box but struck her shot just over the bar after only five minutes into the second stanza.
Seven minutes later, Canberra United continued to press forward as Munoz played a ball into the box from the left hand corner which sailed over everyone’s head including Barbieri but Chapman volleyed the opportunity over the gaping goal.
Victory nearly made Canberra United pay for the missed opportunity two minutes later when Selin Kurulay came within a coat of paint of levelling the scores when her shot beat Williams but struck the crossbar.
As time worn down, Melbourne continued to press forward and create opportunities in search for an equaliser but it was Canberra who nearly scored when the pacey McDonnell chased down a back pass which nearly defected straight to substitute Ashleigh Sykes after Barbieri tried to clear the ball.
From an angle Sykes should have put her side two goals to the better but managed to miss the target despite Barbieri stranded near the top of the box.
This time the visitors made Canberra pay for another missed chance when Sarah Groenewald levelled the scores after Williams was caught out of position and watched helplessly as the ball rolled into the back of the net in the 82nd minute.
With heads in hands around McKellar Park, Kara Mowbray sparked life into the stadium when she put the home side back in front only a minute later after the winger beat the defender before calmly slotting the ball home just inside the left hand upright.
Canberra looked to have secured a final’s spot for the second time in the game until Melbourne had other ideas when Marlies Oostdam found the back of the net over the out stretched arms of Williams just inside the far post after 85 minutes of play had passed.
The travelling Melbourne fans thought they had salvaged a point from the road trip north until last week’s provider turned goal scorer in the 93rd minute when Chapman found the top corner with a speculative left foot from about 30 metres out despite Barbieri getting her finger tips to it.
Winning goal scorer, Amy Chapman, credited her side for their patients and their hard work in Canberra United’s first home win of the season.
“It’s definitely exciting for us to get some points after 90 minutes of working hard,” Chapman said post match.
“Sometimes it’s backfired for us against the Central Coast and Newcastle when we lost in the final minutes but we stuck at it today and nearly let it slip away a couple of times but we kept our composure.”
“We were a bit disappointed to let in the goals we let in but the atmosphere was amazing.”
“The Canberrans really get out and support us.”
“It’s really exciting now being in the finals and hopefully even get a home semi.”
The home side confident regardless of who they end up meeting come semi final time with only one round remaining in the Westfield W-League season.
“If we play some quality football and take out chances I think we’re one of the only teams able to beat Queensland in this competition but it’s whether or not we’re about to capitalise on our opportunities we create.”
Canberra United is confident their season is back on track after the win over the Victory despite results not going their way earlier in the year.
“I think we’re gelling well now at the end of the season.”
“We made it difficult for ourselves by not getting points early on but it’s six games now undefeated which is pretty good lead up for our finals campaign.”
Chapman though didn’t go as far as to apologise for the heart ache the fan’s suffered during the thrilling match.
“We’re just keeping our fans on their toes and scoring in injury time also heaps but I think we’ve been playing consistently well away from home and maybe a few nerves play a role at home but today shows that we were the more composed and experienced team.”
But Chapman admits it’s a big relief to finally come away with the three points at home and get her first goal of the campaign.
“It’s really good to win in front of home fans who have been consistently coming out and supporting us and now we’re just excited to be in the finals.”
“I did say I was going to go for a run today because I wanted to get on the scoresheet but at the end of the day it’s a team game and I think we created a lot of opportunities and finally relieved to finally get one in.”
Canberra United: 1. Lydia WILLIAMS, 2. Rhian DAVIES (4. Bronwyn STUDMAN 62‘), 3. Amy CHAPMAN, 5. Sasha McDonnell (14. Ashleigh SYKES 72‘), 6. Caitlin MUNOZ, 7. Ellie BRUSH, 8. Rebecca KITING, 10. Hayley CRAWFORD, 11. Cian MACIEJEWSKI, 12. Kara MOWBRAY, 13. Thea SLATYER
SUBS NOT USED: 19. Jennifer BISSET, 20. Maja BLASCH
GOALS: 7. BRUSH 35’, 12. MOWBRAY 83’, 3. CHAPMAN 90+3’
YELLOW CARDS: 2. DAVIES 37’, CHAPMAN 75’
RED CARDS: Nil
Melbourne Victory: 1. Melissa BARIERI, 2. Megan ARCHER, 3. Marlies OOSTDAM, 4. Tal KARP, 5. Laura ALLEWAY, 6. Maika RUYTER-HOOLEY, 9. Rebecca TEGG (7. Sarah GROENEWALD 52‘), 11. Brittany TIMKO, 12. Sophie HOGBEN (21. Sarah RICHARDSON 62‘ (10. Stephanie TANTI 88‘)), 14. Selin KURULAY, 15. Daniela DIGIAMMARCO
SUBS NOT USED: 20. Nicole PAUL
GOALS: 7. GROENEWALD 82’, OOSTDAM 85’
YELLOW CARDS: 2. ARCHER 22’
RED CARDS: Nil
ATTENDANCE: 1152
REFEREE: Lee COREY
Saturday, 13 December 2008
Canberra to secure home final?
Canberra United thumped the Central Coast Mariners 3-0 in Sydney today. With Sydney losing to bottom place Perth and Melbourne losing to table topping Queensland, Canberra moved into joint second place, albeit for a short time with Newcastle expected to thump Adelaide tomorrow.
And next week United are at home to Melbourne Victory who are one place above; we could be set up for a home Semi if United do the unthinkable and win at home and the Jets lose to Queensland.
Ere we go, ere we go. ere we go. Who scored Caitlin Munoz, Hayley Crawford and Captain Ellie Brush.
Thursday, 11 December 2008
Volunteers to win the bid....oh and two Fed. Members
Yes it's all about the money but the increasing army of volunteers is beginning to make waves across the Community.
Slowly but surely we have people from all the clubs in Canberra approaching the Canberra A-League bid.
With the Western Sydney bid on the nose, the major financier just signed on to Sydney FC, Canberra, I believe, is leading the pack.
20,000 signatures required and more foundation memberships or even Corporate Club Memberships that's what we can do now for the bid.
Russ Gibbs leads the way with 750 signatures I vowed to beat him. It's a personal thing with him and me:)
Wilhelmina Kemperman has many to report in.
Christine Ng has at least 300 in hand
Steve Forshaw 150
Eamonn my good self 400
Aaron Walker, Tim Skinner, Fitsum Habtemariam, John Barilero, Spiros Pajkoski, Mick Klimi (Cooma) Carlo Aliffa (Goulburn) ANU Gym, Ranse Maclean, Michael West, Ben Sakker-Kelly, Jess Salvage, Danny Marlow, Jason Thornton, Graham Wilson, Kenrick Winchester, Adam Castle, Chris Conti and Rob Janssens are all on the job.
I've probably missed a few.
Last night at Turner School, a Christmas Concert with a queue for sausages. 40 people asked 100 signed on including kids. I would have got more but the concert started!
We're aiming for 5,000 by Christmas, 20,000 by Feb 28....and of course if you can get 100 yourself we'd love to hear from you....
and remember you are not alone..but the more you get the less everyone else has to get.
Be part of something special.
This bid is going to win. Now is the time to jump on board....and push this bid over the line. The more the number rises the more people will hear about it and take notice, the more the number will rise.
Two Federal Members of Parliament pledged their support yesterday. Mike Kelly and Kate Lundy. Not a signature, I mean, they will open doors to assist the bid....
We're starting to make waves...and it's feeling awesome!
Tuesday, 9 December 2008
Nearpost Radio Tonight
Sunday, 7 December 2008
Canberra A-League fans head to Sydney FC
Join the bus with Ivan Slavich here Ned Zelic will meet the group at the game and lots of media coverage for this historic trip.
Can't make the bus, or live in NSW or Sydney you can still join the fans and do your bit for the Canberra A-League bid, and get cheap tickets in the Canberra A-League bay. Contact.
Saturday, 6 December 2008
Supporters pledge begins.
We had one person at Tuggeranong United Summer Sixes last night and Tuggies Juniors on Friday. Just one.
Over 660 people signed up.
A big thankyou to Russ Gibbs.
Can you get more than Russ, at your club, in your local shopping centre, or workplace. Please contact me.
Football to save Aussie Financial Crises!
SOCCER could be the unlikely saviour of the flagging Australian tourism industry, according to research by the NSW Parliamentary Library.
The article below was in the Australian, written by the Political Reporter. Slowly we're moving from the sports pages and people are seeing the possibilities for the Country through the game.
This can only be a good thing for the game in the coming years. Me, I got my tickets and I'm off to Tokyo for the Japan Australia World Cup Qualifier.
Why?
To help solve the Japanese financial crises of course..and that's the sort of guy I am.
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au...013404,00.html
Football focus to kick tourism goals
Imre Salusinszky, NSW political reporter | December 03, 2008
SOCCER could be the unlikely saviour of the flagging Australian tourism industry, according to research by the NSW Parliamentary Library.
Investment in soccer could also boost Australia's exporting and diplomatic efforts, thanks to the surging popularity of the sport in Asia.
Researcher and economist John Wilkinson says universities could leverage Australia's membership of the Asian Football Confederation by offering training programs for Asia's new breed of football administrator.
Dr Wilkinson estimates the 2018 World Cup could contribute $5.4 billion to the local economy if Football Federation Australia is successful in its bid to host the Cup, which runs for five weeks and is considered the biggest sporting event in the world.
He also says soccer could be the avenue for deepening cultural contacts with the region.
"Encouraging more Asians to travel to Australia (given the rise in Asian overseas travel) necessitates getting Asians to know Australia better," he writes.
"One way to do this could be taking advantage of the surge in popularity of football in Asia ... there appears to be a significant interest in football in China and this could be taken advantage of, to encourage even more Chinese tourists to visit Australia."
Dr Wilkinson credits Rupert Murdoch, chairman of News Corporation, owner of The Australian, with igniting Asia's passion for soccer by beaming in European games via BSkyB and its affiliates since 1989.
The 2002 World Cup, which was co-hosted by South Korea and Japan, was watched by 11.1billion viewers in Asia, compared with 4.1 billion in Europe.
Events NSW research director Rob van den Honert agreed that soccer generally, and the 2018 World Cup in particular, could boost Australia's diplomatic and trade efforts in Asia, comparing the effect with the role played by rugby in trans-Tasman relations.
With the Rudd Government already pledging $32 million for the development of soccer over the next four years, Mr van den Honert agreed that established codes such as Australian football would be "terrified" if the round-ball game received even more public support.
Friday, 5 December 2008
Canberra United draw.
Ful report from Canberra United below
Canberra United FC
Media Release
Saturday, 6th December 2008
Canberra and Sydney Draw Level
Canberra United extended their unbeaten streak to four games but could only managed another 1-1 draw at home this time against Sydney FC in a thrilling and physical fixture.
In an effort to score more goals, Canberra United opted against the classical 4-4-2 formation by playing three upfront, four in the middle and three in defence.
Sydney FC had the first chance through Servet Uzunlar who nearly caught Canberra United custodian Lydia Williams off her line but an outstretched arm palmed the ball over the bar in what’s becoming a trademark save for the Canberra keeper.
In the 30th minute, Westfield W-League’s leader goal scorer Leena Khamis had Sydney FC’s best chance of the first half when the striker found herself one on one with the keeper but Williams charged out and made another great save.
Seven minutes later, Canberra United’s Caitlin Munoz put the home side on the board first with a rocket from 20 metres out left Sydney’s keeper Nikola Dieter no chance of getting a hand on it to the delight of the 840 in attendance.
It didn’t take long for Sydney FC to strike back when defender Rhian Davies took down Sydney’s Nicola Bolger from behind in the box in the shadows of half time.
Jordan Marsh stepped up to the spot and calmly slotted the penalty past a Williams diving to her right hand side.
With scores level at half time 1-1, both sides came out firing but it was the visitors who dominated the second half but it was the home side who had the better of the chances.
Ten minutes into the second half, Canberra’s Grace Gill limped off with what’s been initially diagnosed with ankle ligament damage and expected to keep her out of action for about four weeks.
The home side nearly took the lead fifteen minutes into the second half when Ellie Brush pushed the ball out wide to Munoz who played a dangerous ball into the box along the deck but striker Ashleigh Sykes couldn’t redirect the ball towards goal.
Ten minutes later Canberra had another opportunity, when Ashleigh Sykes flicked on a Munoz thrown in across the face of goal but neither Sasha McDonnell and Kara Mowbray could get boot to ball.
With time winding down, Sydney FC had a great chance of their own with ten minutes remaining when Kylie Ledbrook played a ball into Leena Khamis who back heeled to Ledbrook on the penalty spot but Brush slide across to deny the visitors a shot on goal.
Canberra’s last chance came with five minutes to go when a communication breakdown between defenders left Ashleigh Sykes and Caitlin Munoz along with the keeper but both players had eyes for the ball and hit the ground when they collided with each other.
Canberra United’s head coach Robbie Hooker wasn’t pleased with the result but admitted it was a fair result.
“Not pleased, considering that was a game we needed to win to be in with a chance to get a home final,” Hooker said.
“But just the way the game ended up panning out, I think a draw at the end of the day was probably a fair result.”
Hooker admits that the goal of a home semi final is becoming increasingly difficult despite the fact that his side is on a four game winning streak.
“If you look at our last four games, a win and three draws, it’s going to mean we are going to have to string together three more wins and go unbeaten for seven weeks now, that’s a big ask,” Hooker said.
“To make a home-semi final, it’s going to be tough.”
The draw sees Canberra United remain in fifth while Sydney FC sit in third with three games remaining in the season.
Canberra United: 1. Lydia WILLIAMS, 2. Rhian DAVIES (12. Kara MOWBRAY 69‘), 3. Amy CHAPMAN (19. Jennifer BISSET 87‘), 5. Sasha MCDONNELL, 6. Caitlin MUNOZ, 7. Ellie BRUSH, 9. Grace GILL (8. Rebecca KITING 57‘), 10. Hayley CRAWFORD, 11. Cian MACIEJEWSKI, 13. Thea SLATYER, 14. Ashleigh SYKES
SUBS NOT USED: Nil
GOALS: 6. Caitlin MUNOZ 37’
YELLOW CARDS: 11. Cian MACIEJEWSKI 59’, 13. Thea SLATYER 78’
RED CARS: Nil
Sydney FC: 20. Nikola DIETER, 3. Danielle BROGAN, 4. Alesha CLIFFORD, 5. Lisa GILBERT, 6. Servet UZUNLAR (13. Loren MAHONEY 86‘), 10. Kylie LEDBROOK, 16. Linda O’NIELL, 17. Danielle SMALL, 18. Nicola BOLGER (15. Jessica SEAMAN 72‘), 19. Leena KHAMIS, 21. Jordan MARSH
SUBS NOT USED: 1. Rachel COOPER, 14. Maggie ELHUSSEINI
GOALS: 21. Jordan MARSH 43’,
YELLOW CARDS: 5. Lisa GILBERT 16’, 16. Linda O’NIELL 21’, 10. Kylie LEDBROOK 89’
RED CARS: Nil
Sales Team Volunteers: Could this be you?
We've had one person volunteer to sell Foundation Memberships by phone. He is a Sales Manager of many years experience and will teach you the ropes and write the script. In short he'll lead the Sales Team.
It costs nothing, and unfortunately we can't pay..but happy to enter into interesting negotiations..say number of sales equal a free season ticket if/when we get in...If you have some time, we have an office in Civic for you to use.
Do you know a person who think would do a sensational job please pass the info on. The time to help the bid is now and the more volunteers the less work for all those involved. Hey it could be fun!
If you can volunteer to sell FM's after 5pm any day please let us know.
Increasing the number of FM's is crucial to the bid and with an increase in chatter across town in the coming weeks we'd like to lift our numbers.
Wednesday, 3 December 2008
20,000 Canberra A-League Supporter Pledges. The search is on.
One of the criteria set by the FFA at the recent meeting called for 10,000 Canberra and Regional Supporters. Ivan Slavich is aiming for 20,000.
On Saturday Canberra A-League Bid Leader Ivan Slavich and Canberra Times General Manager Ken Nichols will launch the Supporters Pledge Campaign...and it's free!
So we'd love you to sign up www.a-league4canberra.com and help get others to sign up.
Please download the Supporters Pledge form
a-league4canberra.com.au/userfiles/file/support[1].pdf
and take it to your workplace, school, club or shopping centre and help us reach our target.
And if you sign up through Saturday's Canberra Times you can win a free coaching clinic with fmr Socceroo Ned Zelic, Canberra United packs and signed A-League footballs.
And of course you can send the link on to your friends, family and colleagues.
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
Nearpost Radio talks football!
National Show:
National Show Download
Including all the A-League news, A-League review, Socceroos A-League team and W-League wrap and more.
Download Canberra United and Tuggies Gunners fan Keon Ansell
Canberra A-League news
Two paid staff.
10,000 supporters petition to start this week.
Regional meetings planned.
Search for major Sponsors ramped up.
Bus trip to 21 Dec, Sydney v Perth full steam ahead...sign up and send a signal to the FFA.
Football infrastructure; fine details been worked on.
Project Manager, Canberra A-League Bid that's me! So guess I'm going to be busy.
Last nights Committee meeting was the best and most dynamic I've attended. There is in my opinion, a real dynamism about our bid and our possibilities.
With two positions being funded this clearly shows the intent and capabilities of the Canberra bid.
With Investor funds secured the search is on for Sponsors and Coporate Box indications from Canberra, Australia and Overseas. We are spreading our net wide to utilise the advantage of the appeal of the World Game and our great Capital City/Region.
Securing the annual revenue and increasing community support and awareness, developing the football infrastructure, and foundation memberships have now increased in priority ahead of the FFA decision in March.
Can you organise a petition at your workplace, club or local shopping centre....a few hours work is all we need.
Do you have contacts of sponsors through your work or community links we should chase up. Please contact me to discuss further flanagan.eamonn@gmail.com
Sunday, 30 November 2008
Ashleigh Sykes double in the West.
Canberra United trailed 2-0 in the West with ten minutes to go. Superstar Lisa De Vanna had scored after half-time to give Perth the two goal lead.
But Ashleigh Sykes, United's young striker scored two late goals and the points were shared.
Canberra are now in 5th place with four to play, a point outside the crucial top four.
Sydney, Queensland and Melbourne all at home but all are in the top four. It won't be easy.
Can Canberra do it? Sure, next week it's a do or die game with Sydney FC....and don't we love to beat Sydney:)
Thursday, 27 November 2008
The Chief has spoken: What do you think?
Canberra United Coach has handed in his report card after five rounds of the W-League season.
He's given the team an overall B, with the forwards falling below the mark. Lydia Williams brings the average up with an A.
Read Robbie's report card and feel free to write what you think....I know you will:)
Enjoy..andit's taken from www.canberraunited.com.au website.....read on.
Canberra United's 1st Semester Report CardWednesday, 26 November 2008 After five rounds of the Westfield W-League, head coach, Robbie Hooker put his Canberra United side under the microscope to analyse the first half of the season. While scoring has been difficult to come by with only four goal, there's been little difficulty in keeping the ball out of the back of our own net with three clean sheets.
Goalkeeper
Comments: We’ve only had to use the one so far. Lydia’s saved us on a few occasions however that’s what she’s there for, that’s what she trains for, so at this stage she’s done her job how we expect her to.
Grade: A
Defense
Comments: Being the backbone of the team, we’ve only conceded four goals in the first five games which is good and two of those goals came from rare mistakes which you won’t see again this year. Three clean sheets says good things about the defensive structure however we’ve probably lacked a little bit of composure at times so there’s certainly some room for improvement.
Grade: B+
Midfield
Comments: Midfield is a strange one because defensively they’ve been the key to a lot of our defensive structure along with the back four, however, when we’re in transition after having won the ball we tend to turn the ball over to quickly rather than try to keep possession. A little bit more composure when we get the ball would be good and a little bit more structured play would be a little bit better as well.
Grade: B
Forwards
Comments: This one’s a double edged sword , because in terms of chance we’ve had by our forward players have been numerous and a lot of those chances have been created individually or with one other player. To do that requires a lot of hard work and skill however on the other side the number of chances we have created but haven’t scored from is a concern.
Grade: C+
Overall
Comments: We’ve still got a lot of room for improvement but I don’t think we’ve been outplayed by any team this year which is a really positive sign. We just need to make sure we get our selves into the finals and from there I think we’ve got the players and the game to maybe even go on and make the final
Grade: B
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
Nearpost Radio: Hear from Canberra United star and ACTAS Coach
Interview with Canberra United midfield star Cian Maciejewski, Terry Henry rants against Craig Foster and Fozzie's Socceroos recent article, all the A-League and W-League news and reviews.
Download National Show
Locally we hear from ACTAS Coach Milan Milovanovic, who gives us an update on ACTAS and changes at the AIS and impacts on ACTAS.
Download Local Show here
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