Glenorchy Knights - Future A-League Champs?

[The Majestic]

The Game

The fans today felt it was going to be a big game this one, the local media were giving the Knights no chance of winning. The Galaxy kicked off the game and they had early control passing it around before the Knights went on the attack Cody Bird was offside a lot in the first half, but the one that hurt the most was the first one, Brad Bauer had found himself in some space, and he goaled. The fans errupted in cheers but the referee called offside. Glenorchy went forward again and again Cody Bird was offside he could not seem to keep himself onside and the Glenorchy fans were getting frustrated. The Los Angeles Galaxy fans would have been looking worried as well, as Glenorchy had more attacking shots then they had, Tibesy was brought into the game when the Galaxy went for a goal but it was a great save, to the corner past. There were only inches in this one, and he managed to keep it out and it was a corner kick for the Galaxy, another shot on goal and another save by Tibesy.

Glenorchy on the counter attack had a shot, this time ot was Danni Condron, but she could not keep the ball down and it sailed into the crowd, the local fans let out a sigh of relief as that ball would not stay down. David Harding was brought into the game early, he was told to get forward and make more chances for the team, and he almost got that chance but the ball again sailed straight over the bar again. The Los Angeles goalkeeper had been feeling lucky throughout the game and with the balls flying over his head he felt no need to worry, the whistle blows and the half was over. Scores were level and Los Angeles may have felt they should have been leading with the goal that was saved, though Glenorchy should have felt they were a chance of being one up as well.

Glenorchy kicked the second half off, and they were able to make an early chance, no goal though the ball was saved and it gave the goalkeeper something to think about, Glenorchy decided to change their formation, they reverted back to 4-4-2 and they swung the changes off went Harding and on came Cameron DeSalis, the guy everyone has been touting as a captain of the side, and when he came on he did what no one would have ever saw coming, he got the ball he ran forward and he slammed it into the back of the net!! Glenorchy were up 1-nil no one at the ground could believe it, the dead lock was broken by Cameron DeSalis.

Galaxy fans dropped their heads they were shattered and they were worried, David Beckham found himself in some space, and he let rip at the goals, but the ball was saved and Glenorchy were able to go on the counter attack again. They went forward but another offside this time it was Jimmy Francis, even though he had found the back of the net the flag was up and the goal was not going to stand.

But no need to worry Glenorchy fans, guess who it was again? A pass from Falco Walker to Cameron DeSalis and a great strike saw another goal in the back of the net for Cameron DeSalis! Can Glenorchy do the impossible? Could they have beaten Los Angeles Galaxy? The LA fans started to think so once Glenorchy had emptied their bench all thier subs were given time on the pitch, a few minutes to go and the LA Galaxy get to have another shot on goal Ben Robinson is in goal and he catches the ball the LA Galaxy fans have had enough of this and they are heading home. Glenorchy have managed to win a game they were not given a chance at winning.

The final whistle goes and Gleorchy has won.

Post Match Analysis

Key Man Watch

LA Galaxy - David Beckham: Beckham had a key header in the game that lead to a dangerous strike on goal but Tibesy as he has been since his first game for Glenorchy was able to see the ball off. Make no mistake about it Beckham was a key for the LA Galaxy, but they had a good keeper today and kept them all out.

Glenorchy - Matthew Makepeace: With every passing game I start to like this kid more and more, he made some fine passes and there weer some in particular that lead to some key strikes on goal. With all the news of players being wanted by top clubs be prepared to hear Matthew Makepeace's name added there very soon.

Final Thoughts

Well then I had called LA Galaxy an easy victor here today, but this has gone down as a major upset for Los Angeles. I had given the Knights no chance and they somehow came away with the win, it was a very well deserved win, there is no taking away from this for the side they deserved the win and they made Los Angeles pay for their missed chances.

The Majestic added 5 Minutes and 27 Seconds later...

Knights cruise to historic victory!
by Jacob Lynch

The Glenorchy Knights have defied the odds and beaten the American powerhouse side Los Angeles Galaxy in California. No one gave the team much of a chance to win but some good substitutions have given the Knights the win.

The first half saw no goals at all, David Harding was sent onto the pitch late in the first half and was given a chance to go for goal but after all the shots on the goal that the Knights had no goals were scored.

Cameron DeSalis was brought on the pitch in the second half, and he managed to score not once, but twice in the match to see the Knights home.

The Knights could have snuck a few more goals, they had a lot of good strikes on goal, but the ball managed to fly over the bar.

David Beckham who was praised by Vandenberg before the game snuffed at the comment "I am more interested in praise form my own manager." Becks said during an interview prior to the game with ESPN.

The Knights boss was not to bothered by the comment by Beckham "We won the game, that's all I care about." said Vandenberg after the game.

Glenorchy Knights now expect maybe they will get some respect now after this game "We're give next to no chance at the A-League Title" menions David Harding "We have showed here today, with two good players out, we can match it with the big boys of football." Harding continued on.

A spokesmen for the Glenorchy Supporters Group has expressed pleasure in such a win "This represents the beginning of a successful era for the Knights"

With this win, the season ticket sales have reached 17,000 with the new expectation that 19,100 will become season ticket holders for the side. The news keeps getting better for the Knights.

The Knights also managed to come out of this match without any injuries which will come as good news with Sandars and Ashie already missing for the Knights.


The Knights are back in Tasmania to play Burnie United in Burnie before playing Chicago next, and maybe even another big name club, if all goes well it is unsure if there will be many more Friendly offers for the team.

They have a game against Chicago, Burnie United and Launceston City to play, Jueventus had declined to play a Friendly at Glenrochy Stadium this game as a let down for Glenorchy fans players and coaching staff.

The Knights have been looking for some challenging games before the real stuff begains next month but it would appear that they have the 3 games remaining before a big pre-season competition coming up that they are not expected to win at all.

Manchester United makes million dollar bid for young Knights
by Chris Cox


Manchester United are rumoured to have made million dollar bids for the Gilligan brothers David and Brian playing for Glenorchy in the Hyundai A-League in Australia. The Knights were given 5 days to accept the transfer offer that is said to be worth $1.2mil but that is not all.

The Red Devils have made a play for Glenorchy Stiker David Harding, the Australian born striker has been offered a contract said to be worth $825k he will be transfered straight away to the team. But there is talk that Harding will not be taking the offer, he has been also approached by Liverpool as well but there is no word on whether he will take it.

Arsenal has made a play for Christian Shulse, as has AC Milan, and Juventus, the Juventus deal was rejected quickly by the Knights as there was no money for them in the deal. Chelsea have also made a late play for him as well, but there is no talk of the terms of the deal there yet.

Another Glenrochy player Jimmy Francis has also been a target of interest from Liverpool, while no offer has yet to be announced, there is talk that they are after him to fill their team out.

Waight snubs new Knights deal
by James Matthews

Young Glenorchy Knights stiker Josh Waight has rejected a new deal offered to him by the side. Glenorchy have looked to keep him at the club but a spokesmen from the Waight camp says that Waight is weighting up his options.

"We are looking at the best deal for him (Waight)" said Waight's manager today Glenorchy are said to not be very pleased with the news of this, after a big win in California the Knights were expecting more good news but it has not come.

"It would not be in his (Waight) best interest to sign now, not with English clubs circling around the team." mentions Waights manager as to why the young striker has not accepted the new deal, it is expected that at the end of the season Glenorchy will make a new offer to him.


Waight who has not yet played a senior game with the Knights seems to feel he is worth more then what Glenorchy are offering, while Glenorchy nor Waight's management are going to speak of the terms of the deal, it is expected it is a minor bit better then his current deal.

This deal would tie him at the club for another season at a wage not that much more then what he is being paid and Waight may think that if he refuses a new contact he may get paid more at the end of the season.


Glenorchy officials are not talking, and are remaining tight lipped over all contract talk but the Knights are looking at keeping all their players at the club but concede that some are going to chase better contracts overseas.

The Majestic added 4 Minutes and 25 Seconds later...

VS

Match Preview

The Knights come back to Tasmania to play their affiliate site Burnie United a team that has been a fairly decent team in the Tasmanian Northern Premier League. But they are up against a side that destroyed Hobart Olympic, easily beat the Zebras and easily beat their name sake let's not forget the latest win over the Galaxy in the States this past week. Glenorchy have made saome changes as everyone new they would David Harding makes way for Josh Waight who has rejected a new contract to stay with the club, Ili Reland makes his return and Maxie is in the side. Nathan Stevanovich has been given a rest and Jason Leung makes his return to this side.

Match Odds

Burnie Utd: 50-1 Draw: 11-2 Glenorchy: 1-33(fav)

Key Man Watch

Burnie Utd: William Lee - The young defender is on my key man watch list today as he is a talented young defender that the Knights have been looking at he has also been known to be a future talent for the team and he will give some headaches there for the Glenorchy forwards.

Glenorchy: Petar Copic - I have gone with a defender key man watch today, with both Copic and Lee being young defenders and the keys to their side, Copic is one player that I believe is going to go far with this side if he stays. I am sure we are going to see some Croatian scouts in the stands throughout the season and I am sure they are going to call this guy up soon.

Line ups

Glenorchy Subs

Prediction

Glenorchy should not have any trouble today, as Burnie United are not even in their league, and when I say this I mean they are not a team that could pull off an upset unless the Knights play a bad game. I cannot see where Burnie are going to score from, I am tipping Glenorchy by 3 or 4 goals.

 

[saladguy]

Great update mate and c'mon the Knights!

 

[The Majestic]

Thanks

​

The Game

Glenorchy entered their 2nd last friendly looking to get all their players match firt for the coming season. Burnie kikced off the game and made some passes and then the ball was turned over Makepeace got the ball, and the Knights had their first strike on goal Condron took a long shot but the ball would not stay down, a problem she has had in recent games. The keepr brings the ball back into play, the ball is turned over Adam Garland gets the ball and he moves forward and he puts the ball into the back of the net Glenorchy lead 1-nil. Burnie turned defensive and wanted to hold the ball up, they start to pass it around and the Glenorchy defense take the ball out, Josh Waight with the ball moving through the centre, he passes it forward Cody Bird is offside free kick awarded to Burnie. The keeper gets the ball into the centre and Josh Waight has tripped a Burnie player, the referee appears not to be in a good mood today and he gives Waight a yellow card. Another forward strike by Glenorchy Cody Bird gets clear but he is called for offside after a nice pass by McKissack Glenorchy again unable to get the goal due to the offside rule.

Burnie clear the ball out of the danger area but it is taken down by Waight, to Condron, then over to McKissack, he pushes forward he passes to Bauer and he is getting into the box he shoots and it's in! Glenorchy have scored their second goal with a good bunch of passes starting in the middle. Bauer has his first of the game and Glenorchy are now 2-nil up here at Montello, Burnie. Jimmy Francis jogs onto the pitch and he is ready to take his spot on the pitch off goes Garland who has been into the play a lot in this game, Francis is into the play early a pass to McKissack, to Condron, then bacck to Francis he shoots and scores!! Glenorchy lead 3-nil and the half is almost over, Burnie kick us off but the ball is taken from them, Glenorchy start to make the changes as Cody Bird makes way for Cameron DeSalis, McKissack makes way for Blair Stevanovich.

The whistle blows and we are going into half time, Glenorchy's defense has been the key so far, as has their centres Garland scoring, McKissack also getting off some passes, Condron getting forward and having shots on goal giving the keeper some headaches while also sending some high. Waight hasn't had a bad game, aside for the yellow card he got early in the game. Blake Jones, Brian Gillian and Petar Copic have been strong down back. Tibesy has been good in the goals again as well getting some shots from Burnie he has put them away and been able to keep that clean sheet that he has had since his first game.


During the break we see Cason Valdez, and Jason Leung come onto the pitch, we see Condron and Waight leave the game both have been good. Leung gets into some early trouble copping a yellow card for a trip. Jimmy Francis would become hard to handle for Burnie he would provide a lot of run forward, and would take some shots not until the 73rd minute would he again make a strike on goal that would leave the goalkeeper stunned.

His second goal was a peice of briliance that left the goalkeeper dazed and confused, 4-nil and Glenorchy have had a dominate day, Cason Valdez wanted to find himself on the goalscorers sheet, he took a shot on goal and it went through into the back of the net.

Glenorchy made a lot of shots on goal and have outplayed Burnie, with William Lee trying his best for Burnie United but he was unable to stop the run that Glenorchy had.

Post Match Analysis

Glenorchy today did what they have done the whole pre-season in their Friendly Games, they have come out and dominated and walked away with the win, they have also shown that they rely on no man in this team, with Sandars and Ashie out injured, and a few players resting, they had Harding sitting at home resting he and Ashie were dominate in the first game and then Cody Bird was dominate and it has changed with the games. The Glenorchy boss has copped criticism for his substitutions and today he changed the formations a few times, and moved players from each position.

With this being a Friendly I cannot see many problems using as many subs, the maximum number is 12 and today all 12 were used, though Tibesy was left in goal for the majority, with Ben Robinson given some time, I would say this is good rotation by Glenorchy keeping the team fresh, while giving players some game time. Today's game however it was a bit one sided, and you have to expect that with Glenorchy in the A-League playing a team in the Tasmanian Northern Premier League, but this is a good experience for some in the Burnie side and make no mistake they have some good young players, and the future is bright there for them in their league.

They have an affiliation with Glenorchy and they get a taste of big time football, that is good for everyone concerned.

Key Man Watch


Burnie - William Lee: I like him, he was very aware today, and he was composed under pressure, he made some crucial interceptions and gave his side some chances at attack that were fended off. A player for the future he is only young at the moment and I am sure Glenorchy will be keen to know his progress.

Glenorchy: Petar Copic: I am not sure if there is anything to say that has not been said he has been a solid defender and has even scored which has surely put his name forward for the Croatian national team.

Scott McKissack: I am going to also today comment on a player that has not usually raised many eyebrows with his play, but today McKissack stepped up today. McKissack made some good passes, and a few in particularly were absolutely key today. One of which was an early pass to Garland which found him in some space and he was able to goal.

The Majestic added 1 Minutes and 44 Seconds later...

Harding a wanted man
by Ryan Brazendale

Glenorchy Knights Striker David Harding has become a very wanted man of late, Manchester United, Liverpool, AC Milan, FC Internazionale have all been offering big contracts for Harding to leave the Knights and play abroad.

Harding who is only 22 years of age at this present moment has his football ahead of him, the young Striker has been left with some tough decisions to make, club loyalty or take a big contract and show the World his talent.

Harding rejected his first contract deal which was a deal to see him leave for Manchester United, the deal was not known but it is believed to be worth over $1million dollars and would have seen him secure bonuses, per 10 goals and anything else that was involved.

Barecelona have also provided their interest in the striker today with an offer that has not been disclosed yet, Harding has yet to make a decision but with the A-League Pre-season coming up and the transfer window closing he has to decide soon.

Harding who comes from the Glenorchy Knights' Tasmanian Southern Premier League side has been looking for the chance to show his skills on the World stage, Harding has been declared for Australia and will play in the coming World Cup Qualifiying for Australia.


But where will Harding be calling home in 2008? Will he leave the Knights for a big career in Serie A? Or in the Spanish Premier League? Or will he find himself in the English Premier League? There should be an announcement soon on his future.

Harding will most likely miss the new Knights Friendly clash against Launceston City as the rotation policy is still in effect.

 

[The Majestic]

VS

Match Analysis

Match Odds

Launceston City 50-1 Draw: 11-2 Glenorchy: 1-33(fav)

Team Line Ups

Glenorchy Subs

Preview

This is the Knights final hit out before the A-League Pre-season begins and they are up against a team coming off a poor performance, Launceston City finished on the bottom of the talbe in the Northern Premier League and today they are against a team that has been firing. Glenochy have been showing a lot their young players have been catching the eye of the big name clubs around the world. Today we will see how the Knights handle the bottomed out Launceston City team who are going to be in some trouble.

Key Match Watch

Launceston City - Adrian Kennedy: The 16 year old Attacking Midfielder has only just landed here at Launceston, after being signed to them as apart of the Glenorchy Knights affiliation deal, he is probably going to be the only shining light for the side.

Glenorchy Knights - Josh Waight: Today we have had a look at the young striker who has yet to agree to terms with a new contract not many clubs circling yet but he was good last time out for the Knights he played at Montello and he provided some good passes, today he has to impress to get himself a new contrace or get some attention from the bigger known clubs.


Prediction

This game is pretty much going to be a nasty game, Launceston City will suffer at the hands of Glenorchy, and we could almost see a cricket scoreline. Glenorchy are red hot and Launceston are just flat. When I say this is going to be nasty I do not mean both teams are going to come out and bash each other. I mean Glenorchy are going to make the poor team from Launceston suffer, and suffer big time.

The Majestic added 4 Minutes and 4 Seconds later...

First Half

Launceston City kicked off the game they passed the ball around a bit before the Glenorchy strikers got the ball, McKissack passed it to Bauer but he was offside and the referee awards a free kick to Launceston City, they try to push forward but they turn the ball over and Glenorchy are on the breakaway, Waight with an inside pass to Bauer he makes a shot and the keeper sees that ball fly over the bar and it's a goal kick, he gets the ball out of danger and the City defenders are pressing hard to get it out of there, but they turn it over McKissack to Garland, Garland passes to Waight and Waight has a shot on goal, and it's there, the first goal of the game to Waight. 1-nil is the score Launceston City kick off from the centre and they attempt to go forward, but they are stopped in their attack by Leung, he passes forward to Makepeace he drives it forward and he finds Bauer, Bauer makes some space and he shoots for goal and it's there it's now 2-nil amd the game plan of Launceston has been broken open early.

Kennedy is having a bad day out today, and Waight is having a good game early on here, Thomas and Brazendale in the middle, Thomas passes to Brazendale and he passes it to Lynch he holds it up and the ball is stolen by McKissack, he passes it long to Bauer, he presses forward and takes a shot on goal but the ball is wide and that is not going to trouble anyone here today.

Browning passes to Hilder, he passes to Macri and they bring it out of defence the balls with Kennedy now Waight and Bauer are there, as is Gilligan and Copic, Copic has the ball and Waight runs forward, But Makepeace passes it to McKissack, he gets passed their defence and it's just he and the goalkeeper now, goal! It's now 3-nil and nothing is going right for Launceston City,

Back in the middle, Kennedy turns it over, and Glenorchy are on the march, Waight has it now and he is in scoring range and he puts home his second, a breakaway by Glenorchy has seen their second goal in 2 minutes. And Waight is happy with the finish there.

Now we see the first changes by Glenorchy they like to throw around the changes, the Launceston team are going to try and stop the bleeding, they revert to their old style and they are defending hard, the whistle has gone, McKissack finishes the half with the ball and Glenorchy finish with the scores on the board here in a rather dry day here in Launceston.

Second Half

We are back here at the Car Manufacter Park here in Launceston, Glenorchy are going to kick of this one, they are leading the home side 4-nil Gleorchy have swung the changes, Jimmy Francis is now on the pitch, David Harding, and Falco Walker have made their mark on the pitch now as well. The first push forward Francis takes a long range shot and that is just wide, he has a thing where he makes it go wide maybe this guy cannot swing the ball back. But Browning has the ball and he plays it to Lee, who passes to Brazendale, and they are pressing, but the Glenorchy Knights have gained control, Waight has the ball now and he is pressing forward they cannot stop him and no one has challenged him he passes to Adam Garland, Garland scores it's now 5-nil.

The Launceston City boys have a lot to think about, they have had a terrible day, and have some good signings but they are all have a bad day here, Josh Waight has the ball and he shoots on goal and he scores that is his third and he has had a great day out here, and that is it for the game for Waight he has been called over and he will be replaced by Maxie, the Glenorchy crowd here are clapping him off and he gives them a wave Maxie runs onto the pitch and he is ready to take up the position that was made vacant.

Oh, we have an injury here Jimmy Francis slide into Brad Brazendale and the 14 year old striker is down, this is not good news for him or the City, or even the Knights they have been persuing the young man and if this is bad he may miss the season! A little striker on striker violence a freekick is awarded to the City and they are going to press, but the Glenorchy defenders have made sure to clear the ball Robinson even thoigh he has not had many shots at him has been good in goal, and he has surely done enough here to gain a spot on the pitch for another day.

The final whistle goes, and the game is over Glenorchy had a good one here their final Friendly game is over and now they are going to Perth to face Perth Glory in their first ever pre-season A-League clash!


Post Match Analysis

Today's game lived up to all expectations Glenorchy did not let up on the team that finished the season in last place, they made sure they had control from the first whistle until the last and no one can be disappointed with this scoreline. I predicted a win by Glenorchy and they showed the class that I had expected them to show and they walked away with the game. Josh Waight was class today scoring 3 goals, and impressed as he needed to, Brad Brazendale has a suspected knee injury we are unsure of how bad that injury is, it was the only concern from the game. Glenorchy recently signed the 14 year old striker to be apart of the future of the team, but with the knee injury we are unsure of how long he will miss this season. There are some good signs there for Glenorchy as I have said McKissack started his pre-season very slowly but has been getting back into it, while Harding was getting some passes and passing them off, the defenders were solid yet again, I cannot fault much with the Glenorchy game plan. Like in every other game we saw them play around with their formations and play around with moving players around, Harding moved back and forth from the wings and saw Glenorchy change from their usual attack to a 4-4-2 formation.

Key Man Watch

Launceston City - Adrian Kennedy: He had a bad day, every time he got the ball a Glenorchy player would end up with it none of his passes went to their targets, while he was not the worst today he certaintly had a miserable day. But I am sure he will pul it together he is only a kid and he was up against a very tough outfit today, I am sure he will show the critics how good he can be in tume.

Glenorchy - Josh Waight: I thought Waight was the best player on the pitch today, with not only his three goals, but he gained himself an assist today as well it was a top all round performance by him. He stepped up when he needed and he can hold his head up high after this game. Glenorchy's confidence in the young striker paying off 3 times in the one game.

 

[freddiw]

WOW you are not gonna lose.

Internet tactic or your own>?????

good work and KUTGW

 

[Jaztheman]

Wow seems you've been getting alot of victories and very simple ones in recent times. Keep this up Maj.

 

[The Majestic]

WOW you are not gonna lose.

Internet tactic or your own>?????

good work and KUTGW

My own, I haven't gone on-line with the game yet.

Throughout the friendly matches I changed formations a few times in the second half just to see how the team would go with them in there.

 

[Covvy]

What a great so far mate! LOL there has never been a story on tassie let alone Glenorchy.

 

[freddiw]

ok amte well good luck

 

[The Majestic]

What a great so far mate! LOL there has never been a story on tassie let alone Glenorchy.

I thought I would go one better with my story, instead of moving the Southern Tasmanian Premier League side, I made a team from scratch, I also thought since I support Glenorchy in the football I would do a Glenorchy one which lead to the black and white shirts.

 

[PaulNixon1]

Glenorchy Knights Future A-League Chumps sound better

KUTGW Maj

 

[The Majestic]

VS

Pre Match Analysis


Match Odds

Perth Glory: 1-6(fav) Draw: 5-1 Glenorchy: 10-1

Line ups

Glenorchy Subs

Match Preview

The Friendly matches are over and we are now into the serious stuff, Glenorchy have been on a hot streak in their Friendly Games, but they are going to be taking on a team that has more experience then them and will provide them with a few headahces in the Perth Glory. Today's game is the first ever pre-season game that Glenorchy will be playing they enter this comp as an unknown and no one is giving them a chance to make an impact on things. Perth Glory are the favourites with the bookies at the present moment and they should be they are a tougher side that have more games under their belts then the Knights have.

Key Man Watch

Perth Glory - Nicky Rizzo: The left winger I believe is going to be the man that is going to be unstoppable, Glenorchy are going to have it cut out for them with him.

Glenorchy Knights - Brian Gilligan: the versatile defender will be the key for the Knights he can move from the defense to forward if they need it and they are going to need it in this game.

Prediction

I am going to predict the Glory will be too strong they are going to score at least twice today to put this game past the grasp of the Knights.

The Majestic added 12 Minutes and 36 Seconds later...

First Half

The early momentum was with the Glory they kicked off the game and they moved the ball around when Glenorchy got the ball they sent it forward and the man that managed to sneak through and score was Josh Waight, a long range shot right into the back of the net, that saw Glenorchy get the perfect start they wanted in their first pre-season game. The Perth Glory tried to slow down the game and tried to prevent the Knights from getting anywhere near their goals and getting another one but Vice Captain Cameron DeSalis popped up and scores a goal. Glenorchy win themselves 3 corners in a row, and the third one sees Ili Reland who has not yet scored pop up with a header that goes straight into the back of the net, the Knights have been very impressive early here and they have managed to score again.

Another strike on goal saw Josh Waight in space and from 30 metres out he hit the ball and he sailed straight into the back of the net the Knights score again, there is no stopping the Knights in their play at the moment. Josh Waight was on the end of another pass and he hit another piledriver from 30 mteres and it just went straight into the back of the net, it was so hot you could almost see flames burning the net. Perth Glory started to defend a little and keeping the ball to themselves and kept moving it around they had a shot on goal but it lands safely in the arms of Tibsey the time ticks away as Glenorchy Knghts attempt another strike on goal but the half time whistle blows.

The Perth Glory fans are standing in shock, they cannot believe what they have seen their team has just fallen apart in the space of a few minutes and they have conceded so many goals so fast. Glenorchy fans who have travelled up form Tasmania would be happy at what they are seeing at the present moment at half time the Glory would be trying to figure out where they went wrong and how they are going to stop the bleeding here while Glenorchy will be looking to add to the woes of the Perth Glory.

Second Half

Glenorchy had made some changes at half time, and Haridng was brought onto the pitch, the Knights kick off the half and they try to go forward first, some passes along the way see them in the box and they take a shot the ball sails over the bar. Jimmy Francis comes on for Josh Waight who had been impressive today, Francis takes an early shot and it goes wide the keeper. Glenorchy go on the rebound but Cameron DeSalis is brought down in the box and the referee has awarded a penalty and David Harding will be lining up to take this one, he takes the shot and it is saved but Harding chases the ball down and lays his boot into that ball and the fans can hear the air escape the ball as it flies into the back of the net he may have missed the penalty but he managed to score the goal anyway.

Glenorchy adds more insult to injury as Blair Stevanovich who was brought onto the pitch manages to get a ball passed the goalkeeper, this signals the point where the Perth Glory fans had, had enough of this game they are leaving the ground in the dozens they want to get away from this game. Glenorchy started some party tricks now, they called the goalkeeper up from the back and set him into play in the corner set up and he managed to score himself no one could believe it the keeper with a header from nowhere manages to score himself a goal after the third corner and he was there and able to score. David Gilligan managed to again find himself in some space, he charges forward and he too slams home a goal, what the hell is happening? Glenorchy have scored 9 goals and Perth Glory have not even scored they have not even looked like scoring they have had only the three shots on goal.

Glenorchy venture forward again and they are looking to score they are in some space, a Glenorchy player has been taken down, this is going to be interesting to see what the referee's decision here he has awarded a penalty to Glenorchy. David Harding is going to set up for another crack at a penalty his last effort he missed and managed to get the ball on the rebound. Harding lines it up and he puts it into the left corner of the goals and that has now made the game 10-nil it has been a thrashing here today, something no one here at the arena expected no one could have imagined this. Perth Glory have the ball the stands only have Glenorchy supporters left and they are partying sure this is only the pre-season cup but who would not be happy with this scoreline?

Perth Glory have the ball, the game is almost over Harding steals the ball and there goes the whistle we hear the cheers of the Glenorchy fans in the stands they celebrating and chanting they have enjoyed every second of the game and have enjoyed every goal that was scored.

Post Match Analysis

Today's game will go down as a major upset as far as Glenorchy managing to beat Perth Glory by 10 goals, Glenorchy will be proud that have taken their first pre-season game by so many goals. I had given Glenorchy no chance, and they have managed to destroy the Glory, no one would have expected to see this game end with a 10-nil result the way it did. Glenorchy were just a class above the Glory.

Key Man Watch (Perth Glory) Nicky Rizzo = Today's game will be a game that Nicky Rizzo will want to forget, he made one big error and he was never the same again in this game, his confidence took a hammering and he never looked good. A performance that will best left in the past and not talked about again, he was not the only one that had his confidence battered today.

Key Man Watch (Glenorchy) Brian Gilligan - An impressive game today by Brian Gillian, the central defender was in exceptional form and he capped the performance by creating a goal, he showed why all the big league teams are really wanting to sign him.

 

[The Majestic]

Knights Announce Captains
by Corey Walker

Glenorchy Knights have selected their leadership group for the season that is coming up, they have picked Christian Shulse who appears now in high demand overseas, as well as Cameron DeSalis who is also in high demand as of late.

Defender Petar Copic from Croatia has also been added to their leadership group as a DVC he was an surprise choice, no one could argue with the decision of Shulse and DeSalis both have been in fine form for the Knights.

Though there are some thatr are worried that selecting both DeSalis and Shulse could be a bad idea as both are being tempted to leave the club and play overseas but they do not appear to be going anywehre at the moment. Glenorchy have been trying to get them to sign on for another season at the moment they have 2 years left on their current deal but the Knights want them to sign that they have no intentions of leaving.

Glenorchy fans have apparently taken the news that these two are giing to be captain and vice captain for the seaon coming up, the Knights fans are also ready to turn out in big numbers to see the Knights play their first ever home game against the Melbourne Victoy.

Glenorchy Stadium is expecting at least 40,000 fans to go through the gates and cheer home the Knights, the Glenorchy reserves will be playing the game before, in that team will be the players who are unable to play for the Knights at the moment. Falco Walker, Danni Condron, will be putting on the boots to play against the Tasmanian Institute of Sport side consisting of Kayden Walker, Adam Williams, and William Lee.

That game starts at 4pm.

Young Knights England bound?
by Kayden Walker

English premier league clubs are looking to step up their attack on the Glenorchy Knights young guns, it is believed that there are many clubs circling around the team looking to nab themselves a future star.

Glenorchy Vice captain Cameron DeSalis has been one player that the teams have been looking to snatch, as well as Gleorchy captain Christian Shulse, and strikers Harding and Francis.

Harding has attracted the interest of Real Madrid and A.C Milan, who are both looking to secure the young striker. Liverpool have shown a lot of interest in a few Glenorchy Knights players one of which has been Jimmy Francis.

Irish duo Brian and David Gilligan's price keeps going up with each time Glenorchy reject a deal, it is expected that one English club will offer $7.5 million to secure David Gilligan or even Brian Gilligan.

Stephen Reese, Glenorchy Knights young defender has also attracted from interest from English Clubs as well. Some of the younger players have been looked at but being they are young they are not allowed to he signed.

Glenorchy are going to have some trouble keeping their players are the club, with all these big clubs coming after their players.

Sandars & Ashie Resume training
Source: Knights.com.au
By Michael Lee

Glenorchy has been given some good news today as Ashie and Sandars able to train today after both suffering injuries in Friendly Games. Ashie was injured against Hobart Olympic and Sandars was injured against the Glenorchy Knights at KGV Soccer Park.

Ashie who had suffereed fractured ribs was given some light training for the last few weeks, she resumed full time training this week, she will not be selected for the coming game against the Victory though. While Sandars with an ankle injury has not been able to do as much training as he would have liked coming into this week.

He will play in a mock game, of Futsal at the Glenorchy YMCA to get back into some fitness, Glenorchy has also checked in on Brad Brazendale he will miss upto 2 months of football. He will be treated by Glenorchy physio Tommy Mendez who had been checking him over before he was signed by the team.

It is believed that Ashie, Danni Condron, Cason Valdez, and Brett Doyle will be playing in a Glenorchy Reserves game with Dr. Pepper. Falco Walker, and a few other players unable to play in the pre-season will be playing for Glenorchy Knights against the Glenorchy Reserves side before the Glenorchy/Melbourne Victory game.

The Glenorchy Magpies as they are referred to, and are trading as are looking to impress and the young players who cannot play for the Knights main side at the moment are looking to impress as well.

VS

Pre Match Analysis

Match Odds

Glenorchy 9-1 Draw: 4-1 Sydney FC 1-4(fav)

Line Ups

Glenorchy Subs

Match Preview

Glenorchy Knights are at their brand new stadium for the first time ever in A-League competition and they will be looking to crush the hopes of the away team Sydny FC who are looking to spoil the Knights big day. It is hard to know who will have the advantage here, this stadium has yet to see an actual match yet, and it's going to make it difficult. The Knights gain back Ashie and Sandars who both have been missing from the side since the pre-season both will be a welcomed addition to the side.

Key Man Watch

Glenorchy - Petar Copic: The ever reliable Croatian defender is going to be the key here for the Knights he has not disappointed anyone since he has started for the Knights he was a handy signing and he will be the man entrusted with keeping the Knights in this game.

Sydney FC - Brendan Santalab: The striker has the ability to cause the Knights some headaches it is going to be upto the Knights to shut him down and they are going to find it hard I believe to contain him the whole game.

Prediction

Despite the big win against Perth Glory I believe Sydney FC have enough to see off the Knights here and I am expecting an easy victory for Sydney FC. I believe this is going to be a dark day for all Knights fans everywhere.

 

[The Majestic]

The Game

First Half

The fans are cheering everything early on here, Glenorchy are finally at home, and the home fans are excited about the game. Josh Waight and Adam Garland are going to start this game off, Waight passes straight to Ashie who making her return here today, she passes to Cameron DeSalis and we are heading forward for the first time here for the Knights, Scott McKissack has the ball a pass to Blair Stevanovich a long shot and it';s saved by Bolton in the goals. Sydney FC are on the attacvk Tony Popovic with the ball he holds it up and he calls long a long pass hits Igor, but it's stolen on the breakaway is Josh Waight he passes to Ashie to Leung, Leung a long pass to Stevanovich he passes to Garland and Garland is offside. The clearing kick comes from the Sydney FC keeper but it falls at the feet of Ashie she passes along to Leung who holds it up before snapping the pass off to Garland who then passes to Blair Stevanovich he is on side and he puts it away! 1-nil[/i] There was no doubting that one Stevanovich managed to sneak it passed the keeper into the back of the net. Sydney kick off now, and they want this game on their own terms now they pass forward and it is collected by Petar Copic, he passes to Gilligan who in tern passes to Waight, we are going to play the waiting game here he catches Cameron DeSalis with a nice pass, he advances forward long range scot sails over the keepers head.


After all of this Ashie has a shot, and she misses just wide the keeper didn't need to worry as much about that shot we are nearing the 30th minute and Waight is on the breakaway here, the Sydney FC defenders have been caught napping and he scores. 2-Nil the Sydney FC fans are stunned that Waight was allowed to get through their defense and was allowed to score there. The bookmakers didn't tip this one, have you got your money on the Knights here now? You should. Sydney FC kick us off and they are thrusting forward, the Knights defenders are not giving them an inch, Sydney go out wide and now they have gon eback and a long range shot falls into the waiting arms of Tibesy. Ili Reland is on the end of the kick by Tibesy he passes it to McKissack who is then off and running he passes it straight to Waight who goes to pass to DeSalis but DeSalis has gotten offside here, freekick is awarded to Sydney FC it's quickly cleared by Bolton but the ball falls itjo the lap of Ashie who passes it to Leung, Leung centres it to Waight who then passes to Stevanovich he goes back to Waght and Waight is unchallenged for the first couple of metres he is in the bkx, he fires a rocket at the goalkeeper and that is in the back of the net as well that brings the Glenorchy fans to their feet if there was a roof here today that goal just blew it off. It's now 3-Nil and I think Sydney FC are gone here today they have not managed to get into this game so far.

2 minutes have been added on and Sydney FC kick off in the middle they try and move it forward but they are stopped in their tracks Adam Garland has the ball now and there goes the whistle there and the half is over the fans are cheering the side off the pitch. Glenorchy have had a good start to this game and their pre-season they have been dominating and the Glenorchy fans here are happy there are 47,618 here today and the majority are Glenorchy Knights supporters and we can tell they are happy with this the Sydney FC fans well we can see the dispair on their face.

Second Half

The Knights swung some changes Harding and Sandars came on the pitch, Harding being the local boy here in Glenorchy was given a good ovation onto the pitch he replaced Adam Garland who was looking tired and he had run all half. Sandars replaced McKissack who had been passing the ball a lot and managing to get the team into a scoring position. Sydney FC kicked off the half and they kept ahold of the ball before it was stolen by Copic he got it to Harding who sent it to Sandars, Sand managed to bet around his opponent and he has the ball now he passed it to Waight who holds it up just outside the box DeSalis gets the ball and he slams it home it's now 4-0 and Glenorchy you would think are now home, a lot of passing went on by Sydney FC lead to a turn over and Glenorchy got away and they again hit them on the breakaway they have been good Glenorchy they have made another change Leung looks buggered and he gets a clap by the fans and on comes Cody Bird who has been good in the Friendly Matches and has been getting himself into Offside trouble of latge.

Sydney FC kick it off, I think their fans have had enough of this game, the second half is only a few minutes old and I think they are heading home and they are going to hit the bars here in the South of Tasmania. Well back on the game and Sydney let off another shot on goal it lands in the arms of Tibesy who sends the ball back into play Ashie has it now she passes to Harding and Harding goes for a run no one comes to challenge him, he now has Popovic closing him down he passes to Waightm and Waight with a ball burster that flies over the bar, the ball has landed on the the upper deck here at Glenorchy Stadium some lucky kid has gotten himself a burnt football.

We get a new ball and the goalkeeper kicks the ball into play and we see the Sydney FC boys trying to get past a defense that are not letting up Reland takes the ball passes off to his cousin in Gilligan, Gilligan finds Harding who finds Waight. Waight is running with the ball it's the one two, Sandars to Waight has the ball now and he is unchallenged, Tony Popovic is closing in on Waight but Waight is making his way towards the keeper, and he shoots and scores! it's 5-nil Waight has scored his 3nd and this is his sixth goal in 2 games, and he is just on fire he leads the Glenorchy goal kicking tally and he has the most goals in a game so far for the Knights.

The ball is getting moved around Sydney FC are trying to not let Glenorchy ge the ball but Harding steals it and he has a long range shot and the keeper tips it over the bar, we have ourselves a corner. Harding fires the ball back into play but the header goes wide by Ashie and we have a goal kick, the keep launches the ball forward and Glenorchy get the ball but that's it the game is over the whistle blows and Glenorchy have won again.

The Knights have been too good for Sydney and will now play the Victory here and we will see how they go in that game, it will be their final game and they have not lost one can tge Knights go through the series undefeated? we shall see!

Post Match Analysis

Much like the Perth Glory game, Glenorchy were dominated from the first whistle until the last whistle of the game, no one gave them a chance and no one expected this, Glenorchy have the team that can take them all the way. If they can keep up the pace some of their players looked tired after the game and were looking tired before the game as well. Ashie and Scott Sandars were lacking match fitness there early as both were missing for most of the pre-season only to be thrown back into this game. Jason Leung ran himself into the ground, and McKissack was puffing a lot at the end when he was taken from the field and replaced. Glenorchy are also looking at possibly losing players overseas Harding is still considering his options he can go English Premier League, Spanish Premier League, or Serie A right now. Real Madrid are offering big contracts to him, and then you have Christian Shulse, Stephen Reese, the Gilligans, Jimmy Francis and Scott Sandars all attracting interest.

Back on the game Sydney FC were flat and I am disappointed in today's effort from them, they lacked a lot of the keys that make a good side, and I expect them to bounce back in their next game this was just a shocker from them from the first minute, and towards the end.

Key Man Watch (Sydney FC) Brendan Santalab: This was a game that can be forgotten for notn only him but the rest of the side they were shocking, and he made some errors that lead to Glenorchy getting on the breakaway and getting into a scoring position. He lacked any real imput into this game.

Key Man Watch (Glenorchy) Petar Copic: I can keep on saying this and it's still true he is a classy defender, and if he is not called up when it's World Cup Qualifying Time then there is no justice in the world he is a talented player and he is a strong defender for this club.






The Majestic added 1 Minutes and 42 Seconds later...

NSL Return?
By Leigh Adams

There is strong reports that a rebel National Soccer League is in the works, the plan is to take Australian football further then it has even been before.

The rumours of this will see the league expand past Australia with two New Zealand teams to be added.

While there are no yet confirmed teams it is expected a Hobart team, and a Launceston team will be involved and there will be at least 2 Victorian sides in the league.

It is believed this league will be financed by 4 powerful business men, one of which is Rupert Murdoch, who sees this as a big step forward for the sport in the country.

"This will be a massive step forward for the future of Australian football" nentions Murdoch "The expansion of the A-League into Tasmania has shown that the Australian public is starting to warm to this sport" Mudoch continues.

It is believed this push is to keep talented Australian players in the country after news has filtered through that Scott Sandars, Jimmy Francis, and another unnamed player has entertained a planned move overseas.

Harding has yet to confirm, not deny contract details but Real Madrid have been coming hard offering him 1.5million for him to leave Glenorchy.

Liverpool have expressed major interest in both Gilligan boys, wanting to get one, or both of them they have offered both close to $3million to leave and play there at Liverpool. Glenorchy has said they do not want to lose any of the players they have but it is getting hard for them at the moment to keep them with the big money on offer.

The NSL planned idea is to help clubs buy, and keep big named talent, and to pay them the same money they would get outside of Australia. There are fears that the NSL is looking to kill ther A-League.

There are rumours the Knights may leave the A-League and join the NSL league but no one at the Glenorchy Knights are talking. "We are not in the business to pass on rumours" Knights Chairman Bradley Santos mentions.

"We have an A-League season ahead of us, whatever happens with the NSL idea is between those who are putting it together." continued the Knights chairman.

VS

Pre-Match Analysis

Match Odds

Glenorchy: 9-1 Draw: 4-1 Melbourne Victory: 1-4(fav)

Key Man Watch (Glenorchy) Matthew Makepeace - Makepeace has become a favourite for some Glenorchy fans, his never give up attitude and his second efforts have made this attacking midifelder a player the fans love. I think he will be the key here for Glenorchy he will get in and get the ball out and should have a few shots on goal I wouldn't be surprised if he nails Glenorchy;s only goal today.

Key Man Watch (Melbourne Victory) Archie Thompson - Thompson is going to be a massive headache for the Glenorchy defense today, I feel if Glenorchy are to win they are going to need to shut down Thompson.


Line Ups

Glenorchy Subs

Match Preview

The Knights are again at home here against the Victory, the Knights have shown themselves to be unbeatable at this stage during the pre-season there has been little to no flaws in their game. They are now coming up with a strong unit that is The Melbourne Victory a team that will capitalise on any mistakes that creep into the Knights game today.

Predictions

I do not see this being a contest, as good as Glenorchy have been I feel that the Melbourne Victory should be able to put the Knights away. Glenorchy will have to defend as much as possible and hope that the Victory forwards do not score too many goals in today's game, because it could really work against the Knights' confidence if they reach this game and they are blown away.

Demons reveal Chairman
By Kate Wolfe

Hobart United Demons have today announced that John Clark, former Hobart Olympic Striker will lead the club as their chairman.

John Clark also joins Heath Pithouse Club Director, and Jackson Vearing General Manager in the boardroom for the Demons. The Demons have also expressed interest in gaining the signature of Gregory Donnelly as a board member for the club.

While the Demons have also been looking at a coach names that have come up have been Ryan Henley, Luke Millhouse, and Chris Stevenson.

Henley is said to be leading the charge at the moment with Chris Stevenson expected to get a gig as an assistant coach with the Demons. If the Demons do not sign either of them Glenorchy Kings may swoop on them.

While neither Hobart, nor Glenorchy has yet to sign any players, the formation of the board room has started to come along well, we may saee soon the first sign of the club coming together.

Launceston has yet to make any announcements regarding their plans of their team as yet, we may not hear much more on the club front.

Chris Bordin is also looking to join one of the clubs, the former Knights defender has spent the last 2 seasons playing in New Zealand and he is looking to come back and play for either Hobart, or Glenorchy.

 

[freddiw]

mate this is ridiculous 5-0 and 10-0 against sides in the same league. What have you done?