10.05.13 - Swan United v Canning City – Preview

After last week’s second half fight back at Mandurah City, United are back at Francis Street this week when they take on league leaders Canning City (3pm)

New United coach Damian Scali will be missing on Saturday, as the 35-year-old is getting married to his fiancé Julie, and Matt Debarro will be charge, and he’s looking forward to the challenge of taking on the undefeated Canning, despite a number of injuries within the squad. “We have a few players out this week, so it will be a test of our depth, but I’m confident in the players and our plan will be good enough to get a result, as shown in the second half last week, we can turn it on,” explained Debarro.

“We have worked hard this week on the track to better the players understanding of their roles within the system we’re implementing, and I know they will be even stronger this week.”

The assistant coach is well aware of the strength of Canning and is looking forward to the challenge. “They are a strong, experienced team and they have clearly shown that early in the season, but we are looking to turn around the last home result in the league,” said Debarro.

“I wish all the best to former United defender Rory Moutett, but not that much, and I’d personally would like to send my congratulations to Damian on his wedding day, and I hope we can give him three points as a present.”  

Moutett has had two spells at Francis Street, and is looking forward to the game and catching up with a few old mate. “It's a big day for me coming back to the club where I spent 10 senior years, and it's important for me to play well. My time at Francis Street has given me many fond memories and I'm looking forward to seeing all the same old faces on the sidelines,” said Mouttet.

“It's going to be a tough game, as all of the Swan V Canning games that I have played in have been highly competitive and full of drama. Swan had a great comeback last week and will draw some confidence from that. They have several players that can do damage to the opposition.

“For us it’s important to get the three points. We worked very, very hard during the preseason and are a close knit unit. We are fit and are starting to play some good football at the moment. We are a confident side and have showed great character in all of our previous four outings so will be looking for more of the same this weekend.

Wedding Bells ring for new United Coach

New Swan United Coach Damian Scali won’t have football on his mind tomorrow when he marries his fiancée Julie at St Kieran’s Catholic Church, Tuart Hill, with a 2.30pm kick off, sorry service!!!!

From everyone at Francis Street congratulations to you both and we hope the team can give you a present with three points tomorrow against Canning City.

04.05.13 - United hit back to take a point

It was always going to be a tough fixture for United to win, as they haven't picked up points in Mandurah for over five years, but with the excitement of newly appointed head coach Damien Scali, chances were better than ever.

United started positively in the first ten minutes controlling play, creating opportunity and dominating possession, on the 11th minute a cut across the box was sent just over the bar by Tom Black.

But it was Mandurah that went ahead after 12 minutes, Craig Tone turned inside the 18-yard box to find the feet of Matt Stares, who cut the ball back for Graeme Matthews to stroke in from six-yards, giving new keeper Simon Madaschi no chance. It didn’t take long for Matthews to post another, the striker poking into the bottom corner after Tone’s searching free-kick went to feet inside the area.

United were struggling, and started slipping in to old habits, losing shape, not keeping the ball, and trying to force opportunity rather than create, and they soon paid for it with Mandurah slotting a third. Danny Dyson heading home Tone’s Corner, and it got worse for United at the break with skipper Trent Wood limping off with an ankle injury.

The second half began with a bang for United, and two minutes in they pulled one back. Luke Colli blasting the ball into the bottom left corner of the net from the edge of the box.

United were now dominating and on 70 minutes it was 2-3. Colli was given far too much space 20-yards from goal and his shot flew past Mandurah keeper Matt Hamnett.

Mandurah were rattled and United were in firm control, creating opportunities from all angles but the equaliser couldn't be found, until the 80th minute. Spiro Nenadic shot from 25-yards shot flew into the top corner of the net, much to the delight of the travelling United supporters.

United pressed late for the winner but Mandurah hung on, but new United coach Damian Scali was happy with his sides fight back. “We had a few words at half time and I told the players, not lose faith in what they are doing, and to stick to the plan,” said Scali.

“The boys really took this on board and dominated the second half. Despite Mandurah’s position on the ladder it was a decent result as it is the first point in five years we have picked up in this fixture.”

Mandurah Coach Billy Russell was left frustrated with the result. “It was a great first half from our boys and an awful second half,” Russell told footballwa.net. He also struggles to reason with his team’s lack of consistency. “I have never been in this position before – it is really strange to get your head.”
Mandurah City – GK Matt Hamnett, 2 Adam Evans, 3 Liam Hurst, 4 Daniel Dyson, 5 Tom Straker, 6 Matt Stares, 9 Craig Tone, 10 Graeme Matthews, 11 Alex Randell, 13 Marlan Ramirez, 15 Craig Young
Subs – RGK Conner Power, 8 Michael Grigo, 12 Lloyd Johnston, 14 Brent Mayhew
Swan United – GK Simon Madaschi, 2 Spiro Nenadic, 3 Michael Italiano, 4 Terry Monastra, 5 Chris Marshall, 6 Simon Falcone, 7 Luke Colli, 8 Nic Tatasciore, 9 Trent Wood, 10 Tom Black, 11 Justin Skowron 
Subs – RGK Andrew Healy, 12 Mark Miraudo, 13 Owen Curtis, 14 Seb DeCotter
Referee – Matt Southern

03.05.13 - Mandurah City v Swan United – Preview

A new chapter in the Swan United story begins tomorrow, when new head coach Damian Scali takes control of his first game in charge of the club when the Black and Whites visit the Hyundai Stadium to take on Mandurah City (3pm)

It’s a difficult first up assignment for the coach but he’s been happy with his players’ attitude in training since he’s been in charge and is hoping for a good result on Saturday. “This week training has been really vibrant and upbeat,” said Scali.

“It was always difficult as a player down there at Mandurah, and I’m sure it will be the same on Saturday. Our players are very much looking forward to getting on with the football and putting the last league defeat behind them.”

In team news Veo Human will miss this week with a hamstring injury, while keeper Jordan Howell will be out with an ankle injury. The goalkeeping crisis at the club has been eased with the signed of Simon Madaschi from Perth Royals, and he’s happy to be at the club. “I’ve always had respect for Damian Scali as a player and President Cos Coniglio is a top bloke, so I’m happy to help the club out, after losing both their keepers with long term injuries,” said Madaschi. 

“I’m really looking forward to it, there are a lot of lads at the club who I’ve played with before, and hopefully my experience will help them gain promotion.”

Spirits are high in the Mandurah City camp ahead of the game. “The last two games have shown we are on the improve,” said coach Billy Russell, whose side defeated UWA-Nedlands in the Cup round. “We have changed a couple of things in our structure – we have a lot of experience missing at the moment – and the players seem more comfortable with how we are now set-up. Swan will be a tough game just like all of them, but we have to put points on the board soon so we have to be work hard to get a result.”

Damian Scali is the new Coach at Francis Street

Swan United have appointed former striker Damian Scali as their new coach. He replaces Mick Skowron who stepped down as coach last week, and the committee have also appointed Matt DeBarro has his assistant.

Scali was in the dugout with Matt Debarro last week, when they beat Melville City 5-3 in the cup, and President Cos Coniglio is delighted with the appointment. “Damian is Swan through and through, and were delighted he has agreed to take over the senior coaching role,” said Coniglio

“Damian has a lot on his plate at the moment with his work commitments but we’re sure he and Matt are the right pair to take us forward. Damian was a fantastic player for our club, and we are sure he will give us 100% and his experience in the game will stabilize the club and take us were we want to be.”

Scali is looking forward to the challenge. "It's a very exciting time and fantastic opportunity to be coaching Swan for 2013, explained Scali.

"I'm very much looking forward to the job and the challenge that it brings, and I'm really pleased to have Matt Debarro as assistant and can't wait for Saturday and our trip to Mandurah."

United at home in Cool Ridge Cup Second Round

Swan United has been drawn at home against Sunday Premier League club Joondalup United in the second round of the Cool Ridge Cup.

The draw was made on Thursday at the Football West headquarters in Maylands, and United’s assistant Coach Matt Debarro is looking forward to the game and is aware the cup is great leveller. “I guess any team you draw at this stage of the competition will present a tough game, and we certainly won’t be taking them lightly,” said Debarro.

“The cup is a great leveller and we respect them as a team and a club and we anticipate they will come at us hard, and we all know a team with nothing to lose is tough to beat. So we will prepare as best we can and hopefully be better on the day and progress into the next round.”

The game will be played at Francis Street on Monday 3rd June with a 3pm kick off.

The full draw is: Armadale v Inglewood United – Alfred Skeet Oval, Floreat Athena v Sorrento – E&D Litis Stadium, Bayswater City v Gosnells City – Frank Drago Reserve, Quinns FC v Rockingham City – Gumbalton Park, Mandurah City v Maddington – Hyunadi Stadium, Stirling Lions v ECU Joondalup – Macedonia Park, Western Knights v Ashfield – Nash Field, Swan United v Joondalup United – Francis Street

27.04.13 - United too strong for Melville

Swan United moved into the second round of the Football West Cool Ridge Cup after a hard fought 5-3 win against Division Two side Melville City at Len Shearer Reserve on Saturday.

A double to Tom Black and Mark Maurado and a single to skipper Trent Wood were enough for United, although the home side hit back in the second half with two stunning strikes. “I was happy with the boy’s effort today,” said assistant coach Matt Debarro (Right). “We played some good passing football, but leaked goals at the back which was disappointing. That can be put down to the lack of fitness and getting players back behind the ball quickly when losing possession. But it was a step in the right direction with a short preparation for Damian (Scali) and I and I’m real proud of them.”

The black and whites were on the offensive early with wide pair Geneveo Human and Mark Miraudo causing a good few problems with their pace.   Unfortunately Human was forced out after 12 minutes with a hamstring strain, however, Swan were not to be thrown off course. 

Within minutes of entering the action Black lashed into the net after receiving a cutback from Justin Skowron.   One became two shortly after as Justin Skowron cut the ball across the 18-yard box for Miraudo to send past the goalkeeper.   And the game looked to be over when Miraudo’s crisp strike into the bottom corner from the edge of the area made for a three-nil lead at the break.

Melville needed a goal as soon as possible after the turnaround and David Palin delivered with a deflected strike that beat Jordan Howell.   Black was having none of it and after latching on to Luke Colli’s through ball restored Swan’s two-goal advantage. 

A stunning volley by Palin kept the hosts faint comeback hop alive, and when Blake Readwin tapped in a few minutes later after Ashley Savage’s drive came back off the crossbar Melville were back in the hunt. 

But a sublime piece of skill in the 85th minute by Wood secured Swan’s place in the next round, the livewire attacker slicing his way between four opponents before blasting into the net from 25-metres .
Cool Ridge Cup First Round
Melville City 3 (Palin 2, Readwin)
Swan United 5 (Black 2, Miraudo 2, Wood)
@ Len Shearer Reserve

Swan United – GK Jordan HOWELL, 2 Michael ITALIANO, 3 Luke COLLI, 4 Terry MONASTRA, 5 Chris MARSHALL, 6 Spiro NENADIC, 7 Genaveo HUMAN, 8 Mark MIRAUDO, 9 Trent WOOD, 10 Nic TATASCIORE, 11 Justin SKOWRON - Subs – RGK Andrew HEALY, 12 Simon FALCONE, 13 Tom BLACK, 14 Seb DECOTTER, 15 Simon WILLIAMS

Melville City – GK Elliot DUNCAN, 2 Ryan RUSSELL, 3 Lasse JENSEN, 5 Daniel BROWN, 7 Sasa SLANVJEVIC, 9 David PALIN, 10 Aaron BAHADDRI, 11 Blake READWIN, 13 Jack HALDANE, 14 David WILSON, 19 Sasa GOJIC - Subs – RGK Mark BENTLEY, 20 Ashley SAVAGE, 23 John BRENNAN, 37 Lucas PICKERING,. 40 Stephen FORDE
Referee – Shuo Chen

25.04.13 - United Part Company with Skowron

It’s been a difficult month for Swan United, with the on-going Morley Windmills saga still in the back ground, but there has been unrest, which has been brewing in the camp and today the club decided to Part Company with head Coach Mick Skowron.

United President Cos Coniglio said the decision was difficult but is in the best interest of the club. “It was a very difficult decision, and we thank Mick for his work during his two years at the club,” said Coniglio.

“It’s been brought to the attention of the committee that a number of players were unhappy with certain aspects, of training, match day’s and the overall dis-harmony in the squad and we believe a change of coach would help sort these problems out.

“With that in mind we spoke to Mick today to tell him the situation and we’re now in the search for a replacement. It’s never an easy situation, but we believe the decision we have made is the right one and the person who comes in will get us back on the direction we are all hoping to achieve.”  

United skipper Trent Wood although disappointed with the decision, he just wants to get on with the football. “I know a few players weren't particularly happy with our shape and formation, but were willing to play whatever system Mick set out for us,” said Wood.

“A few supporters and committee members have also commented on our style of play and believe it wasn't the best. I believe Micks intentions were good, but the club has probably made the decision at the right time as the season is still fresh, and myself and the players are just concentrating on playing decent football, starting on Saturday at Melville in the cup.”

25.04.13 - United head to Melville in Cup First Round

It’s a been a tumultuous week at Francis Street, but the football goes on and United are in action on Saturday in the First Round of the Football West Cool Ridge Cup, when they travel to Len Shearer Reserve to take on Division Two side Melville City (3pm)

After the departure of Mick Skowron, Matt Debarro has taken the last training session, while the search goes on for a replacement coach, and believes the club are looking to bounce back from last week’s lose against Shamrock Rovers. “Even after the disappointing result last week from the boys, I’m confident that we can get a result at Melville,” said Debarro.

“It’s a hard week for me with Mick’s departure but the football goes on we’re really looking forward to the game and we all know what we are capable of and the players will be going out to prove that on Saturday.”

Melville has had a disappointing start to the season but everyone knows the cup is a great leveller and United will have to be on their toes. “All at the club are excited to be facing Swan in the cup, and hopefully we can put on a good show at Len Shearer in front of our home supporters,” said Melville City Coach Dan Evans.

“Last year we had a good run getting to the quarters, but obviously this year we have had a poor start to the league and we are looking for something to get us going.

“We are a young side and Swan is a good club but on our day we can be very competitive and in a cup game we can play without fear as we have nothing to lose when playing a Division One side.”

The game kicks off at 3pm, while the Reserves are also in action against Melville with a kick off of 12.45pm

19.04.13 - United to consider appeal of Morley decision

Swan United  are closely reviewing details of the incident with an eye on appealing the Football West decision to replay the State League Division One game against Morley Windmills, in which Simon Falcone was sent off after he was substituted in the 57th minute. United went on to win the game 2-1 but Football West on request had decided an error by referee Trent Fleskens during the incident was  incorrect and they have declared the game void.

United club officials were disappointed that they were not consulted on the incident and they have only taken one side of the story. United assistant Coach Matt Debarro was in the thick of the action and had a good view on what actually happened. “It was, I must admit, a heated exchange between Simon, the referee and his assistant. Mick (Skowron), who had called the substitution, could see it flaring up and decided to bring Simon off,” explained Debarro.

“We made the substitution and Simon was replaced by Nic Tatasciore, but once this occurred the referee’s assistant grabbed Simon by the arm and pulled him back on to the pitch and asked Nic to step back off the pitch.
“Well me and Mick were troubled by this, and as Simon left the field the referee then came over and issued a second yellow card to Simon. The sub had been made and both officials had already written the substitution in their book, making it official and Simon had left the field of play.”

The club believes therefore the referees decision to allow the substitution that had ALREADY taken place and been made official correct and to not reduce Swan to 10 men was correct interpretation.

Matt Continues. “We had a decision like this in the Night Series competition when Nic (Tatasciore) was sent off, and even Bayswater coach Chris Coyne believed it was harsh, and we even had the referees inspector who was going to support our appeal, but we were informed that Football West would not go against their referee’s decision on the night, so why now,” said Debarro.

“The substitution had been made, players exited and entered the field of play, one of our players was man handled, which is a Football West regulation that has been broken by its own representative, why are we the ones to be punished. All around the world, referees make wrong decisions, and we know no one is perfect, but this goes against its own by law stating in simple terms the referee’s decision is final. “

19.04.13 - Swan United v Shamrock Rovers – Preview

Swan United are back home on Saturday when former Coach John O’Reilly brings his new club Shamrock Rovers to Francis Street in week 3 of the All Flags First Division (3pm)

United won a hard fought game at Morley last week, and will look to keep their 100% record in take and Coach Mick Skowron is expecting another tough encounter. “We've had a good start to the season with 3 wins against 3 good teams including a win against Wanneroo City in the Cup, but we will have to step up this week if we want to come away with the points against Shamrock,” said Skowron.

“It will be John’s first visit as an opposing coach so I'm expecting The Rovers to put in a big effort for him. They had a good win against Mandurah first up but went down to Canning City last week so they'll be looking to bounce back with a win today. After a tough battle against Morley last week we're expecting much the same today.”
In team news Nic Tatasciore and Veo Human are available for selection, but Simon Falcone (suspension) and Christian Lopez (Injured) will be missing.

There have been significant changes made to Shamrock by O’Reilly, who has balanced a lengthy list of outs with some quality signings. Strike partners Ciaran Byrne and Dan Corbett will benefit enormously from Will Pender’s supply, while Irish imports Jeff Flood and Shane Cassidy anchor a very intimidating defensive unit.

They head to Francis Street after winning the opening game of the season 3-0 on the road at Mandurah, before a 2-0 home defeat against Canning City in week 2 – Get down and support the Black and Whites!!

Keeper a Hit at United

New Swan United keeper Matt Battigelli has joined from Dianella White Eagles and has settled in at Francis Street, despite hitting his head on the goal post last week at Morley. “I’m loving life as a Swan player, the club have made me really welcome and the lads are great,” said Battigelli.
“There were a few twists and turns down the road, but I’m glad the road led to Francis Street.”

The 25-year-old had four great seasons at Dianella and the decision to leave was hard. “Yes I spent four years at Dianella Reserve, two of them as captain, so leaving the club was tough,” explained Battigelli.

“I had a lot of mates their and the respect that was shown to me I will never forget. I did find I was getting complacent being the number one for so long and some poor performances followed, so that’s why I thought it was time to move on.”

The talented keeper almost joined Premier League side ECU Joondalup in the pre-season but things didn’t work out. “I found going to Joondalup in pre-season then coming to Swan has lit a new fire in me and now i want to show the swan faithful that I’m still one of the best keepers in the league,” said Battigelli.

“I was very close to signing for ECU in pre-season; in fact everyone thought I had. But i got injured just before the night series and was out for six weeks. The injury carried into the start of the premier state league and i didn’t want to be on a bench for 12 weeks, so here I’m a Swan boy.”

The Swan custodian had a number of injuries last season, but he said ‘Fingers crossed’ they are all behind him – well apart from the odd head butt of the goal post!!! “I found last year I had the more injuries then in my whole career. I had muscle and ligament injuries for the first time which took me a while to get over but I’m over them and 100 per cent ready and focused for this year,” said Battigelli.

United have a completely new squad for the new season but the keeper believes they are gelling well together. “We got a great bunch of lads down here at the moment which has made the transition for myself so easy and it feels like we have been playing together for years,” said Battigelli.
“We have gelled together pretty quick and I genuinely believe that with the quality and camaraderie we have at the club we will be pushing for the top spots in all grades come the end of the season.”

It’s been a great start to the season with three wins from three starts, and Battigelli believes they can continue on with it. “We're unbeaten at the moment, but I feel we still got a lot we need to improve on. We have let teams get back into games where we really should have killed them off. Once we get more consistency and play for the full 90 I really don’t see any team that can match us,” explained Battigelli.

“It’s pretty clear that Mick (Skowron) wants us to be an exciting, attacking team. We work a great deal on forward play and finishing drills and ten goals in four games is evidence in that. I think realistically top 5 is our expectation but I personally feel we can go a couple rungs higher.”

Like father like son for Skowron

New Swan United midfielder Adam Skowron has settled in well under the guidance of his father Mick and after a stint in the American college Soccer system is back and rearing to go for United. “So far things at Swan are great. We’ve had a solid preseason and a great start to the season. The team is looking better and better as the weeks go on and I’m as fit as I’ve ever been and feeling better every week” explained Skowron.

His time in the USA has been beneficial in his development as a player and he enjoyed it greatly. “The time I spent in America playing soccer for the Peninsula College Pirates were amazing. I got to spend two years playing and living with a great bunch of guys from all over America and the world as well as working with Head Coach Andrew Chapman and his top class coaching staff, which have helped me grow as a player,” explained Skowron. (Above in action in the US)
“I’ve got to say the highlights for myself was winning the colleges first every NWAACC title, two west division titles and to them follow that up the following year going undefeated until a disappointing loss in the semi-finals, but that’s football as they say.”

The 22-year-old has been delighted the way the side have started the season and believes they can only get better with everyone behind the club and what they want to achieve. “Everyone has been getting along great, the entire squad form the under18’s all the way up to our first team are all very close and encourage and support each other and its great to see,” said Skowron.

“It’s very much like one big family. Although our senior squad is completely new this year most of have played together before but as I said we are a very close group and I think that’s contributed a lot to the start we have had.”

A perfect start to the season for the Black and Whites and Skowron believes all the hard work in the pre-season is now paying off. “Yes, it’s been a great start to the year, and that win against Wanneroo was a great way to gain momentum going into the start of league games especially because Wanneroo are predicted to finish in the top 2 this year,” said Skowron.

“UWA was a tough team but I thought we played well and fought all the way to the end so it was great to come away with 3 points, likewise the Morley game. Having come away with two wins from two tough matches against top table teams, well the players and coaching staff couldn’t be happier, but we still have a lot of work ahead of us.”

It’s always difficult to play in a team where your father is the Coach, but Adam is enjoying it. “I think to have my old man as the coach is great.  He has coached me for most of my junior career so it’s nothing new for me. He has worked hard all pre-season shaping the team to get us where we are now,” said Skowron.

“All the players have a lot of respect for him and we all work hard for him. He has a lot of knowledge when it comes to the game and I take full advantage of that whenever I can and so do all the other boys. Matt Debarro is great to work for, I’ve known him for about five year, since playing with him at Balcatta and really respect him for the insight and knowledge of the game that he brings.

“Matt and my Dad as I’ve said are very well respected get along well with the players and I think when you’ve got that in your coaches it’s easy to go out on the weekend and work your ass off to get the result, not only for yourself and your teammates but also for your coaches who put in so much hard work on and off the field to get you there.”

13.04.13 - United win at Morley

Swan United continued their good start to the season with a 2-1 win against Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve on Saturday afternoon.

Simon Falcone gave United the lead in the first half before former United midfielder, Andy O’Neil levelled before half time. The loss of keeper Matt Battigelli with concussion mid-way through the half did hinder United, but Luke Colli scored the winner on 70 minutes. Senior Coach Mick Skowron was delighted with the battling display from his side.

It was United who opened the brighter, but they failed to take their early chances, and Morley began to get into the game.  O’Neill was a constant threat, and former United midfielder Scott Campbell was finding room in the middle of the park and causing problems, while former United keeper Daniel Agudelo was in great form. But there was little he could do on 27 minutes when United hit the front.

A poor clearance from defence fell to Trent Wood in the middle of the park. He played the ball to Mark Miraudo on the left, his first time ball sent Falcone clear, and rounded Agudelo and fired home to give United the lead. The lead only lasted only two minutes, a mix up at the back gave O’Neill time and he finished low past Battigelli from eight-yards. Both sides had further chances before the break but it was all-square at half time and all to play for.

It was an explosive start to the second half, with goal scorer Falcone receiving a yellow card from referee Trent Fleskins. He was immediately subbed by coach Mick Skowron, but kept on at the referee and he was given a second yellow card on the bench, and was sent off. Then moment’s later United keeper Battigelli saved low at his near post, and collided with the post. After a lengthy stoppage the keeper was taken off the field with concussion and was replaced by Jordan Howell. Morley was getting on top, but United were defending well, with Chris Marshall and Justin Skowron outstanding. United were hitting on the counter attack and on 70 minutes they retook the lead.

A corner by Morley was well claimed by Howell, and his quick long clearance sent Luke Colli racing clear. He held off the final defender before rounded Agudelo and firing home into an empty net, much to the delight of the travelling supporters. Christian Lopez was introduced on 75 minutes, for his first senior game since a serious knee injury two years ago, and after showing his pace and causing the Morley defence problems he went off with hamstring tightness near the end of the game. Morley pressed late but United held on to move joint top of the table with Canning City and Dianella White Eagles.

In other games Danny Kavcic's under 18's maintained the 100% league form with a 3-2 win at Morley, goals to Kevin Tran, Blair Kaputin and Brennan Borzecki, while Chris Bates' reserves side won for the first time in the league this season , also winning 3-2, with goals from Genaveo Human, Simon Williams and Seb Secotter.

Swan United – GK Matt Battigelli, 2 Spiro Nenadic, 3 Luke Colli, 4 Adam Skowron, 5 Chris Marshall, 6 Justin Skowron, 7 Simon Falcone, 8 Mick Italiano, 9 Trent Wood, 10 Tom Black, 11 Mark Miraudo
Subs RGK Jordan Howell, 12 Nic Tataciore, 13 Terry Monastra, 14 Veo Human, 15 Christian Lopez 

12.04.13 - Morley Windmills v Swan United Preview

After last week’s good 3-2 win against newly promoted UWA Nedlands, United hit the road this week, when they take on Morley Windmills at Wotton Reserve (3pm)

New defender Spiro Nenadic was in good form last week and he was pleased to start the season with all three points. “Yes it was a great win last week, against a new team to the league, and we didn’t know too much about them. But I thought we really deserved the win,” said Nenadic.

“We’ve had a number of pundits doubting us this season due to the youth in side, so it was pleasing to win the opener and show them we will be competitive this season,”

United beat Morley in the Night Series and Nenadic is expecting another tough game against them on Saturday. “It will be a tough game but one we are all looking forward too,” said Nenadic.

“I believe Morley will come at us hard with a point to prove after the night series game, but I’m confident we will leave with a good result.”

Morley were beaten last week at Canning City but Coach Jason van Rooy is expecting them to bounce back this week. “With all the work done off the field to get the club into a great position, it’s now important we get our season going on the pitch,” Van Rooy told footballwa.net.

“We let last week’s game slip against Canning City and we can’t afford to do the same against Swan. The lads have been working hard on the type of football we want to play and I believe we have a great opportunity to secure our first win for the season.”
Get down and support the Black and Whites – Kick off is 3pm

12.04.13 - Human joins United

After three seasons at Premier League side Balcatta Veo Human has made the move to Swan United for the 2013 Division One season.

The striker has fitted in well at Francis Street and is looking forward to the season. “The team has been playing well, and has managed first up wins in the cup and league which is pleasing,” said Human. “The standard of training has been very good with everybody trying to warrant their place in the team. Also everybody has been great and welcoming down at the club, not only the players and coaches but also committee members which has made for a smooth transition.”

He enjoyed his time at Balcatta but thought a change of environment was required this season. “I really enjoyed my time down at Grindleford Reserve, and it was tough decision to leave because there's a really good bunch of players down there,” explained Human.
“There were a number of factors for the move but the main one was the departure of Michael Roki and Pete Vatistas, and I just stopped enjoying it, and guess it felt right for a change.”

United won last week, without Human, who was away on holiday, but he’s been really happy how the new squad is gelling. “The team is coming together quite well, and naturally with such a young group of guys comes plenty of enthusiasm which has been reflected in our performances so far I think,” said Human.
“There are a fair few players in the team who have played together at previous clubs also including myself which has helped the team gel a bit easier.”

He made his debut for the club in the 3-1 win against Wanneroo City in the Cup and he was delighted with the performance. “We played very well against Wanneroo, we've got a very young squad with a lot of pace and I felt we all clicked used every ounce of if to our advantage. For me personally I felt comfortable because I have played with a number of the lads at Perth and Balcatta,” explained Human.

The striker has also been impressed with the coaching staff at Francis Street and he believes they will surprise a few teams this season. “I really like what I've seen from Mick (Skowon) so far he wants us to play free flowing football, and is very attack orientated which is exactly what I like. I've played with Matt (DeBarro) back in 06 at Perth in the under 18s even back then he was a leader both on and off the field, I’m looking forward to working with the both of them” explained Human.

“I don't see why with the talent we have got, and the free flowing, attacking football the coaches are trying to get us to play and hoping we stay injury free, we can’t go on to win the league.”

United head to Morley Windmills this weekend and Human is looking forward to it. “This week’s game should be interesting, I played a pre-season friendly against Morley while at Balcatta and they seemed pretty organised quiet physical and direct not a bad side, so to see them loose first game up came as a bit of a surprise to me. So I'm sure they'll be fired up for the game, hopefully I can have a decent performance and get my first goal for the black and whites,” he said.

06.04.13 - United edge out UWA to take the points

Swan United opened their 2013 All Flags Division One campaign with a hard fought 3-2 win against newly promoted UWA Nedlands at Francis Street on Saturday afternoon.

A first half double from Mark Miraudo and a second strike from Justin Skowron were enough for Mick Skowron’s side, but goals to Steve Purton and Rory Feely made it interesting late, but United held on and skipper Trent Wood was delighted with the win.
“We pressured them straight from the whistle and defended well from the front which was pleasing,” said Wood. “Luke Colli's pace caused problems for UWA and Mark (Miraudo) had two great finishes early into the game. We haven't been switched on after half time for the last couple of games, and have allowed teams to get on top of us, which is something we need to change. Overall it was a great effort by the lads, and a well-deserved victory.”

It didn’t take long for Swan to take the lead in this game. In less than 10 minutes Miraudo had smashed two very well finished goals into the net and it set the tone for a half completely dominated by the Swans, and some fantastic football down the left side, as together Luke Colli and Miraudo dominated down the wing causing a lot of trouble for the new boys in the league.
The first goal Colli carried the ball forward and put through Mirauado, who finished clinically into the far corner of the net. It was 2-0 moments later, Justin Skowron won the ball at right midfield and hit a long diagonal ball to Colli on the left, he ran forward and cut the ball back to Miraudo who again drove the ball into the far corner.

With solid first half performances from Miraudo, Colli, Wood, and Justin Skowron, Swan never looked threatened in the first half barring one opportunity mid-way in the half but keeper Matt Battigelli was up to the challenge pulling of a fine save.
The second half saw a change in control and just 5 minutes in UWA had struck one back after a poor clearance fell to UWA left winger Purton and with a lack of shape and no cover he was able to storm through one on one and bury the ball in the bottom corner.

The pressure was on Swan now as UWA pressed for a second, however on the 60th minute, a break in midfield by Wood found space and played a ball into the box but UWA keeper Duncan Lissiman missed his kick and Justin Skowron run through to an open net and slot the ball home to give the Swans there two goal lead again.

However once again it was short lived as just 10 minutes later UWA struck a second time, as a shot from the edge of the box was parried down by Matt Battigelli and with no Swans defender following up to clear UWA striker Feely was able to cut the lead back to one goal as he smashed the ball home.

The game was played out with UWA pressing hard and Swans lack of shape and failure to keep possession allowed the Uni boys opportunity to find the equaliser, a yellow card was issued to Wood from a challenge on the wing which was evident of the build-up of pressure felt by Swan as UWA kept pressing.
However Swan held on for the win and the three points leaving UWA ruing on some missed opportunities to tie the game. It was a solid first performance for UWA who showed some positive signs to their credit, and another win for Swan but barely.

The reserves were beaten 2-0 by UWA, but the under 18's won an eleven goal thriller 6-5 against UWA. Goals to Zane Loh, Sheran D'Silva, Callum Burton, Blair Kaputin, Reegan Borzecki and Jordon Rossetto

Swan United – GK Matt Battigelli, 2 Spiro Nenadic, 3 Luke Colli, 4 Adam Skowron, 5 Chris Marshall, 6 Justin Skowron, 7 Simon Falcone, 8 Mick Italiano, 9 Trent Wood, 10 Tom Black, 11 Mark Miraudo
Subs RGK Jordan Howell, 12 Terry Monastra, 13 Seb De Cotter, 14 Matt Beyer, 15 Fraser Burt
UWA Nedlands – GK Duncan Lissiman, 3 Mat Chapman, 4 Tom Sellars, 5 Dan Wolfe, 6 David Mudd, 7 Steve Purton, 8 Roberto Lujan, 9 Kyle King, 10 Aaron Barnett, 11 Rory Feely
16 Chris Yates
Subs – RGK Ranjeet Sekhon, 2 Jack Ryecroft, 12 Manuel Arapis, 14 Harry Mudd, 17 Johanes Tadesse

05.04.13 - Swan United v UWA Nedlands – Preview

Swan United open their All Flags Division One season on Saturday when they entertain newly promoted UWA Nedlands at Francis Street (3pm) “After easily taking out the Division 2 title last year UWA will be looking to establish themselves as a challenger for the Division one title this year and will no doubt looking for a good start to the season. As such, we won’t be taking them lightly and are approaching the game with a lot of caution,” said United coach Mick Skowron.

“The boys are looking forward to the first game of the league season. With a short break after Monday’s game and UWA not being involved in the preliminary round of the Cup, UWA will come into the game in a much fresher state so this will make the game an even bigger challenge for us. On the plus side we have Terry Monastra returning from suspension but will be without striker Veo Human who is currently overseas.”

The coach was delighted with the cup win against Wanneroo and hopes they can continue on with it on Saturday. “On Monday we were very happy to come away with a win in the Preliminary round of the Cup against a very strong and experienced Wanneroo City line up. It was a very good performance by all the players especially newcomer Mat Battigelli (left) in goal who kept us in the game in the first half with three world class saves. We need to concentrate for the whole 90 minutes and play to the game plan and I’m sure we will take the three points,” explained Skowron.

Newly promoted UWA are very much the dark horse in the league. The club from the western suburbs stormed their way to the Division Two championship last year, amassing a staggering 88 goals and losing just once over 24 regular season games, and for the new campaign they have much the same set of players of board. James Plowman and Rory Feely are sure to score a bagful of goals, captain Steve Purton and former Swan Roberto Lujan provide inspiration through midfield with Tom Sellers and newcomer Lee McKay at the heart of an impressive defensive line. – Get along and support the Black and Whites!!!!!

05.04.13 - United travel to Melville in First round of the Cup

The reward for the 3-1 win against Wanneroo City in the Preliminary round of the Football West Cool Ridge Cup is a trip to Division Two side Meville City in the first round. The draw was made this morning at Football West headquarters and coach Mick Skowron is looking forward to the April 27th cup tie. “We’re happy to draw Melville City in the first round of the cup especially after getting past very tough opposition in Wanneroo in the Preliminary round,” said Skowron.

“Although a Division 2 side, we won’t be taking them lightly as they will be one of the main challengers for promotion in their division. By then our side will have four games behind us and hopefully getting to the level we want to be playing at so we should be more confident going into the game than we were against Wanneroo. Melville will have plenty to prove against a side in the division above them so I’m expecting a very tough and exciting encounter.”

The full draw is - Ashfield SC v BB United, Canning City SC             v Joondalup United,  Perth SC v  ECU Joondalup,  Floreat Athena v Cockburn City, Bayswater City v Shamrock Rovers,  Balcatta v Armadale,  Quinns FC v Subiaco, Mandurah City v UWA-Nedlands,  Inglewood United v Dianella White Eagles, Joondalup City v Maddington White City,  Olympic Kingsway v Gosnells City,  Melville City v Swan United, Stirling Lions v Bunbury Forum Force, Western Knights v Fremantle Croatia,  Sorrento v Gwelup Croatia,  Southern Spirit v Rockingham City FC – Games to be played Saturday April 27th.

01.04.13 - United beat ten-man Wanneroo in Cup

Swan United moved into the 1st round of the Coolridge Cup, after a 3-1 win against a ten man Wanneroo City in the Preliminary round at Francis Street on Monday afternoon. Wanneroo went down to ten men two minutes into the second half, and United midfielder Michael Italiano opened the scoring two minutes later. Scott Bushby levelled with a stunning long-range volley moments later, but further goals to Spiro Nenadic and Tommy Black gave the home side the win.

“We had a game plan today and to the lads credit they stuck to it and we got the win,” Swan United Coach Mike Skowron said. “All over the park was good from us today. It was hot conditions but we ran the game out well, and the players that came on played there part too, which is pleasing.”

It was even opening in hot conditions and the first chance fell to the home side. A quick free kick from Luke Colli on 13 minutes caught Wanneroo napping, but Trent Wood’s shot from the edge of the penalty area flashed just wide. The visitors were dominating the middle of the park and went close themselves seven minutes later. Bushby picked out Stuart Montgomery on the right; he cut inside Colli but new United keeper Matt Battigelli saved well. It was end-to-end football and on 25 minutes new United striker Veo Human (above) was sent clear by Wood, but Wanneroo keeper Kevin Miller narrowed the angle well and he fired wide.

With half time looming the visitors began to take control and after some great work down the right by Josh Booysen, he crossed to Bushby who fired wide from 12-yards. Wanneroo were well on top and Montgomery and Bushby combined moments later, but Battigelli was out quick to deny Bushby. On the stroke of half time Montgomery beat two United defenders on the right and his cross picked out Booysen, who looked certain to score, but Battigelli spread himself well to superbly block the strikers shot.

The second half was only two minutes old when Wanneroo went down to ten men. Human sent an inch perfect ball into the path of Mark Miraudo (left) who raced clear but he was brought down on the edge of the penalty by Callum Trayner and referee Mathew Cheeseman had no other option but to send the big defender off. United made their one advantage count two minutes later. Wood found space down the left and his cross was headed on by Chris Marshall and Michael Italiano fired home from six-yards.

Their lead lasted only three minutes, a clearance from keeper Battigelli went to Bushby, 35-yards from goal. The former ECU Joondalup midfielder hit it first time on the volley and it flew into an empty net, for one of the goals of the season. United hit back again on the hour. A corner from Miraudo found Italiano, whose header crashed off the crossbar and Nenadic was quickest to react to score from close-range. Wanneroo continued to press forward and on 65 minutes Booysen was sent clear by Montgomery, his shot beat Battigelli but Marshall was alert to clear the ball of the line.

The decisive third goal for United on 79 minutes made the game safe. Colli outmuscled Garin Collins on the left, his cross was fired home by second half substitute Thomas Black from eight-yards.

United skipper Trent Wood, who has missed most of the re-season due to injury, was delighted with the performance from his side. “We moved the ball around well today, which we’ve been working on in training. We have a great deal of pace up front and we used it to our advantage today,” Wood said. “We’ve brought some new players to the club and they all performed well today in the debuts for the club which bodes well for the up-coming season. I’ve struggled with injury over the past month but it was good to get a good 80 minutes in today.”

Swan United 3 (Italiano 49’, Nenadic 59’, Black 79’)
Wanneroo City 1 (Bushby 52’)
Monday 1st April, 2013
Francis Street, Middle Swan
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Attendance – 150 (Approx)
Referee: Mathew Cheeseman
Assistants – Matt Southern and Nico Hoyle
Swan United – GK Matt BATTIGELLI, 2 Spiro NENADIC, 3 Luke COLLI (15 Matthew BEYER 84’), 4 Adam SKOWRON, 5 Chris MARSHALL, 6 Justin SKOWRON, 7 Simon FALCONE (12 Thomas BLACK 70’), 8 Michael ITALIANO, 9 Trent WOOD (13 Seb DECOTTER 84’), 10 Veo HUMAN, 11 Mark MIRAUDO
Subs not Used – RGK Jordan HOWELL, 14 Simon WILLIAMS
Yellow Cards – Falcone 63’
Wanneroo City – GK Kevin MILLER, 5 Rowdy YATES (15 Luke PALMATEER 84’), 22 Anthony JONES, 79 Callum TRAYNER, 87 Chris PUGH, 14 Guy McDONALD (20 Jordan MILLER 84’), 44 Glen THOMAS (72 Jordan DODD 74’), 57 Scott BUSHBY, 34 Josh BOOYSEN, 10 Stuart MONTGOMERY, 63 Garin COLLINS
Subs not Used – RGK Ramiro NEUER
Yellow Cards – Bushby 21’, Collins 80’
Red Cards – Trayner 47’

Reserves win but 18’s go down in Cup

Swan United reserves also moved into the first round of the Cool Ridge Cup after a 3-2 win against Wanneroo City at Francis Street on Monday. A brace from Christian Lopez and Owen Curtis’ goal gave Chris Bates’ side a hard fought win. “The boys were fantastic today; we kept possession well and ran the game out, so yes I’m very pleased with the performance. We have a good bunch of lads with a great attitude so it bodes well for the season ahead,” said Bates.

“It was great to get Christian (Lopez) back and he was fantastic for us today. It’s still early days for him he slowly working his way back into the game after a serious injury, but he’s looking good, which is good news for Mick and the first team.”

Unfortunately the under 18’s were beaten 9-2 by Wanneroo City. An undermanned side, with six squad players on holiday, meant there were no substitutes on the bench, so it was always going to be a struggle for DannyKavic’s side. Michael Hagos and Callum Burton were on the scoresheet but Hagos was then sent off and Justin Howell was carried off with a knee injury, and they finished with only eight players on the pitch at the final whistle.

29.03.13 - Let the season begin

Swan United officially start their 2013 season when they take on fellow Division One side Wanneroo City in the first round of the Coolridge Cup at Francis Street on Monday afternoon (3pm).

Coach Mick Skowron is looking forward to the new season but knows Monday will be a tough game. “The summer has seen a major rebuilding program at with only Trent Wood retained from last year’s original squad. It has been a difficult time trying to put together a new squad and this was further compounded by the number of injuries sustained during the pre-season,” explained Skowron.

“To top that off, Terry Monastra and Nic Tatasciore are both serving 1 and 2 game suspensions so it is unlikely that we will see our preferred line up on the park until at least round 2 of the league season bearing no further injuries. With most players back in full training for the past 2 weeks including a few new additions, the atmosphere around the club has been very exciting and positive with all three teams looking forward to the start of competitive games.”

“To come up against Wanneroo who will be one of the favourites for the league title in our first game will be a big test for us but will give us a good indication of where the team is at.”

Wanneroo Coach David Tough is expecting a tough game at Francis Street. "I don't think we could have drawn a harder assignment then Swan United away. It will be the tie of the round and were very excited to get the real season started,” said Tough.
“There has been a longer break in between the night series and the season for real this year which has been hard to manage but has given us more time to work with our new players.”

New Reserve coach Chris Bates (Left) has been pleased with his squad. “The squad has been working hard during the preseason .Rebuilding a team has shown me what great talent we now have at the club and for the future development throughout the ranks. The effort from players, coaches and the committee towards making this a reality will lead us into a good season ahead. With a senior management team in place of Fraser Burt, Alec Stanojevic, Luke Wood and Danny Degasperis to guide the younger lads through from the 18’s,”said Bates.

Under 18’s coach Danny Kavcic (Right) believes his young squad has had a good pre-season. “We have added several new faces to our squad and they have had a good solid pre-season and have put together what we hope is a competitive team.  Congratulations to our leadership group which was announced last week at our Shirt Presentation, Captain Reegan Borzecki and Co Vice Captains Jack Goard and Jordon Rossetto,” said Kavcic.

The only other all-Division One fixture brings together Morley Windmills and Rockingham City at Wotton Reserve. Sunday League side Hamersley Rovers will be out to upset Gosnells City at Hartfield Park, likewise North Perth United who are away to Western Knights. Mandurah City has a tricky home game against Fremantle United, while Ashfield are expected to get the better of South Perth United. Division Two rivals Forrestfield United and Kingsway Olympic meet at Hartfield Park. Kingsley welcomes Maddington White City to Chichester Park, and Subiaco AFC journey north to Whitford City. All games start at 3.00pm on Monday.

15.03.12 - Swan United Club News

Swan United are in pre-season action this weekend when they visit Nash Field to take on Western Knights. The under 18's and Reserves will play on Saturday (18's - 11am, Reserves 1pm) while the first team will play on Sunday at 11am.

Saturday State League Teams have a few spots left to finalise our squads please contact
Mick Skowron 0417 938 493
Matt DeBarro 0481 278 187
or email
swanunitedfc@hotmail.com

Swan United Junior’s require 12, 13 and 14 year olds players to fill the squads for season 2013.
For further information contact Jenny Hill 0412 948 292

22.02.13 - Swan United Supporters - Football needs you.

Whether your interest is entirely based around watching your child kick a ball, participating on a social or semi-professional basis or extends to a deep passion for a local or overseas team, you stand to benefit from the bid to build a Home of Football.

By backing the push for funding, you will be sending a clear message that the most-played team sport in Western Australia has a collective voice that deserves to be heard.

A centre of training excellence, small competition venue, community facilities and administrative headquarters will deliver improvements in every area of football, and to every one of the hundreds of thousands of people it already touches in this state.

This is not about building a house for Football West. It is about building a home for football.
Our campaign for a Home of Football has generated international interest and thousands of messages of support.

Football fans throughout the world have watched the “For Football’s Sake” online video and letters have already been sent to political leaders asking them to consider funding a project that will benefit everyone associated with the game.

English Premier League legend Robbie Fowler, Perth-born Liverpool goalkeeper Brad Jones and Germany-based former Perth Glory striker Nikita Rukavytsya have joined the thousands of fans who are backing our funding push.

The video, featuring WA football greats including Stan Lazaridis, Bobby Despotovski and Jamie Harnwell and AFL champion Glen Jakovich, had some people wondering about the use of the “f” word – that’s “f” for football - to promote the campaign.

Since Football West does not condone the use of foul language, expletives were not used in the short video presentation and the subsequent promotional material.

The “For Football’s Sake” video was released to draw attention to the plight to build a Home of Football, and at no point did we intend to offend members of the Football Family or wider community and hope you will continue to support our campaign by completing our letter to political leaders at www.homeoffootball.com.au.

Check out the video on the following link - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1agfATYdnQ

United teams in pre-season action

United continue their preparation for the new season with all three teams with games in the next two weeks.  This Saturday morning (23.02.13) the Under 18’s and Reserves have games against Floreat Athena at Swan View Park, the 18’s at 9.00 and Reserves at 11.00.

The first team is having a break again this week but will be back in action next week with all 3 teams playing ECU Joondalup again at Swan View Park 18’s at 9.00, reserves at 11.00 and first team at 1.00. “We will be looking at replacements for Chris Atkinson who has returned to England so the pre-season games take on more significance for us,” explained Skowron.

“Unfortunately the players that we were expecting to challenge for Chris’s spot are unavailable with Christian Lopez unlikely to feature in any preseason games as he continues to make a comeback from ACL surgery and Owen Curtis is returning from a broken ankle.

“Owen was looking really good but took a couple of bad knocks on the ankle against Morley and has just resumed training.  There are a few other players we will look at and hopefully we’ll find a short term solution.”

18.02.13 - 2013 ALL FLAGS STATE LEAGUE FIXTURES RELEASED

Football West, has announced the 2013 All Flags State Division One season will kick off on Saturday, April 6. Swan United has been given a home start when they entertain newly promoted UWA Nedlands at Francis Street, and they visit Morley Windmills in round two.  Newly appointed United coach Mick Skowron is looking forward to the season ahead. “We are fairly happy with the fixtures but we need to have a good start to the season and these first two games are very important,” said Skowron.

“UWA are an unknown for us. I saw them in the night series against Perth and they are a very tall and strong side and held their own against Perth for most of the game. Getting a new team first up could go against us but hopefully I’ve gauged enough from their game against Perth to have us well enough prepared.  We had a 2-1 win over Morley in the night series but both teams had players missing so it will be a different game next time round.

“Although last year Morley didn’t have many wins they were unlucky to lose a lot of games by a single goal. They have recruited well and will be looking to challenge for promotion and I’m sure a lot of those unlucky losses will be wins this season. Both games will be tough encounters and could go either way but hopefully we can come away with a couple of wins.”

Click link for full fixture list - http://members.iinet.net.au/~jacob/wasoccer/2013fd/ergebnis.htm#aktuell

13.02.13 - Under 18's players wanted!!!

Swan United under 18's Saturday State League Team are looking to bolster their squad for the up-coming Division One State League season. They require the services of 3 outfield players and one goalkeeper to compliment the current Squad

Please attend training this Thursday (14 Feb) at Midland Oval, Morrison Road, Midland commencing at 6:30pm til 8.30pm for assessment, this will continue on same time and place the following week on Tuesday and Thursday

For further information please contact
Mick Skowron 0417 938 493 or Danny Kavcic 0427 388 148
or you can email swanunitedfc@hotmail.com

10.02.13 - Bayswater too good for United (By Nathan Drudi)

Swan United bowed out of the Football West Night Series after a 6-1 defeat against Premier League side Bayswater City at Wotton Reserve on Sunday evening. United coach Mick Skowron said the errors that his team made were costly. “Unfortunately we made a few mistakes, things we talked about before the game and we gave them two goals very quickly.”
“We did alright, with 10 men they didn’t score, when we got the second red card, things changed.”

New Bayswater City coach and former Socceroo Chris Coyne was disappointed with sides performance especially when United were reduced to nine men for the final 25 minutes of the match. “I am not going to lie, I think we could have scored another five or six and that is not being disrespectful to Swan, but I was not happy with the performance”, he said.
“The lads know it is not acceptable and they’re a bit disappointed that they didn’t do better.”

For the second time in as many weeks, Bayswater conceded the first goal of the match from a set piece. Mark Miraudo was awarded a free kick on the edge of the box and curled it in to the penalty area, and after a mix up between Bayswater defenders and goal keeper Clint Davis, Michael Italiano was on hand to fire home from close-range. .

It was a dream start for the black and whites but Bayswater hit moments later. Former Perth Glory midfielder Todd Howarth equalised just one minute, before limping off late in the second half with a hamstring injury.

Gustavo Catarcione put Bayswater ahead just after the drinks break with a phenomenal piece of skill. United were already starting to crack and just after the half hour mark, a lazy tackle from Terry Monastra earned him a red card and Steve Burton stepped up and slotted home the penalty.

After half time United were very competitive creating a number of chances, however the game soon turned when Nicholas Tatasciore was sent off and Swan were down to nine players.

In the following six minutes, Bayswater opened the floodgates and rammed three goals past 18 year-old Connor Anderson. Coyne said he was not happy with the way the team played. “Everything we worked on during the week did not come into fruition and we didn’t have the application.  I am not one for making excuses but the heat was tough.” Bayswater now progress through to the knockout stages.

Swan United 1 (Italiano ’13) Bayswater City 6 (Howarth ’14, Catarcione ’24, Burton ‘36(P),’70, Farrell ’72, Catalano ’76)
Date: February 10, 2013
Venue: Wotton Reserve, Embleton
Crowd: Approx. 150
Kick-off: 5.00pm
Referee: David Bruce
Assistants: Tim Mikevic and Paul Baxter
Swan United: GK Connor ANDERSON.2. Spiro NENADIC, 3. Luke COLLI, 4. Adam SKOWRON, 5. Christopher ATKINSON, 6. Justin SKOWRON, 7. Nicholas TATASCIORE, (8. Alec STANOJEVIC ’77), (9. Sebastian DECOTTER ’77), 10. Mark MIRAUDO, 12. Simon FALCONE, (14. David PAONE ’77), 15. Terry MONASTRA, 16. Michael ITALIANO,
Subs not used: 11. Cameron ANDERSON, 23. Jordan HOWELL
Yellow cards: Christopher ATKINSON ’26
Red cards: Terry MONASTRA ’36, Nicholas TATASCIORE ‘67
Bayswater City: 1. Clint DAVIES, 2. Andy REALE, 4. John WEARNEY, 5. Trent KAY, 6. Todd HOWARTH, (7. Ross COSGRAVE ’59), 9. Brian FARRELL, 10. Damien CATALANO, 11. Gustavo CATARCIONE, 12. Steve BURTON, 14. Larry MILLER, (16. Dhour CHOL ’45), (18. Thomas GOODING ’54), 20. Patrick QUINN.
Subs not used: 17. Hassan AL YASSIR, 21. Fraser GREENWOOD
Yellow cards: John KEARNEY ’34, Todd HOWARTH ‘44
Red cards: Nil

02.02.13 - Super Atkinson sees off Quinns (by Kelechi Osunwa)

Swan United put the disappointment of the loss of keeper Jordan Howell after only half-an-hour to beat Division Two side Quinns FC 4-0 in week two of the Football West Night Series at Wotton Park on Sunday evening.

The Swan custodian was carried off after a clash and was replaced by youngster Connor Anderson, but the hero on the night for the black and whites was English striker Chris Atkinson. He made it 11 games on the bounce with a goal as he lifted Mick Skowron’s men to victory

Atkinson spoke after the match about the team performance and his rich vein of form. “We started pretty slow, but once we got into it in the second half it looked a lot better,” he said.

“We’re still a new team and we’ve been pushing it (scoring goals) in training and I hope it continues for the rest of the season,” Atkinson added.

Two instinctive goals against the run of play from Atkinson in the first half were enough to conceal the fact that neither team had any real cutting edge or any real sequences of dominance. 

Atkinson finished past a helpless Daniel McAinvy for his first after being found in acres of space following a marauding box to box run by Luke Colli.

His second goal came from extraordinary circumstances. A long clearance from keeper Connor Anderson’s allowed Atkinson to skip clear of the Quinns back four and have the simplest of finishes.

Speaking about the first half, Mick Skowron said his troops didn’t follow his orders. “I wasn’t happy, we just gave the ball away too often, the instruction was before the game to string the passes together – but we’d string two passes and then send a 50/50 ball.”

His opposing manager John Evans blamed silly mistakes and a lack of concentration for conceding twice in the first half. “It was silly mistakes again, the first half we had a free-kick just outside their 18-yard box, they broke early and we obviously didn’t have the cover at the back,” he said.

“It was just down to concentration, we have some new players who haven’t played with each other before. But it’s good for us, it’s a training session and I’m happy with the attitude of the boys.”

Swans started the second half with far greater impetus and it wasn’t long before Atkinson had his third. Nicholas Tatasciore collected the ball in midfield before dribbling past several Quinns players to find Luke Colli on the left. Colli’s precise cross was taken with aplomb and proved to be the move of the match.

A fourth was added moments later as a shell-shocked Quinns defence failed to clear their lines and gave Mark Miraudo a goal his hard work deserved. 

The win sees Swans go into next weekend’s game against Bayswater equal on points with Swans needing a win to progress. Mick Skowron is relishing the chance to play against Bayswater next week.

“We saw them a bit last week, but I will have a look at them tonight to see how they go against stronger opposition, and we’ve got a few plans up or sleeves to get a result but we’ll see how we go,” he said.

Quinns 0 Swan United 4 (Christopher ATKINSON 27’, 35’, 51’, Mark MIRAUDO 53’)
Saturday 2 Febuary 2013
Wotton Reserve, Embleton
Local kick-off: 6pm
Referee: Tom Gravovic
Assistant referees: Tony Chorley, Brian McDonald
Crowd: Appx 200
Quinns FC:  GK Daniel MCAINVY, 7 Arran MAPLESTONE, 8 Jake BENNION-SMITH, 2 Tom CANN, 4 Louis HUGHES (18 Cameron BOOSEN 45’), 5 Shane MCTAGGART, 10 Rudy COETZER, 14 Gregg PELLOW, 12 Billy ANDREWS, 11 Ryan PELLOW (John MCNEIL 31’), 6 Gareth DAVIES ( 9 Tom EVANS 71’)
Substitutes not used:  RGK Anthony COCHRANE
Yellow Cards: Jake BENNION-SMITH 72’
Swan United:  GK Jordan HOWELL, (RGK Connor ANDERSON 34’), 2 Spiro NENADIC,3 Luke COLLI, 4 Adam SKOWRON, 15 Terry MONASTRA, 6 Justin SKOWRON, 7 Nicholas TATASCIORE, 14 David PAONE, 12 Simon FALCONE, 5 Christopher ATKINSON (16 Michael ITALIANO 66’), 10 Mark MIRAUDO (9 Sebastian DeCOTTER 66’)
Substitutes not used:  13 Fraser BURT, 11 Cameron ANDERSON
Yellow Cards: Nil

01.02.13 - United v Quinns FC – Preview

It’s week two of the Football West Night Series and United take on Division two side Quinns FC on Saturday afternoon at Wotton Reserve )6pm)

A good first up win for the black and whites with Luke Colli and Chris Atkinson on target in the 2-1 win against Morley Windmills. Owen Curtis misses the game, but he was happy with the side’s performance against Morley and is expecting more of the same on Saturday night. “The response from the boys after the game on Friday was nothing short of extremely positive. We were happy that we controlled most of the game and got the goals we deserved after long periods of dominant play,” said Curtis.

“It’s unfortunate I’m away this weekend, but the lads saw the Quinns result, but still regard them as another opponent, and know they will want to put last week’s 9-0 defeat against Bayswater City behind them. Mick (Skowron) has had the lads working well this week and they will go out with the same mentality and level heads that saw us go away with the three points last week.”

Get down and support the lads – Kick off is 6pm – Admission is free

25.01.13 - United open Night Series with a win

Swan United and Morley-Windmills showed what the Night Series is all about in a fiery encounter at Wotton Reserve. (By Kelechi Osunwa)

United overcame an early penalty to come from a goal behind and snatch a win from their Division One rivals, with a delightful finish from Christopher Atkinson proving to be the difference between the two teams.

Jason Van Rooy of Morley and Mick Skowron of Swans both spoke confidently before kick-off despite each echoing that 2013 could be a year of rebuilding for each club.

“We approach it (this game) with a lot of confidence, it’s rebuilding for us, and we want to achieve little goals one game at a time and that’s what we’re looking at doing tonight; we want to see what the players can do in a competitive hit-out against a competitive team,” said Morley coach Van Rooy.

The game took a frantic pace from the first whistle as tackles were flying in thick and fast and a couple half chances fell to Swans winger Owen Curtis who headed two efforts wide of the target.

An already heated atmosphere became more hostile as referee Matt Southern pointed to the spot following what looked like handball from Swans defender Adam Skowron.

While debate continued from the sidelines, Morley striker David Houston stepped up and buried the penalty in the bottom right corner.

The first half petered off with both sides failing to create any clear cut chances.

Swans levelled three minutes into the second half with the words coach Skowron ringing in their ears.

“We were all over them in the first (half), and most of the game was played in their half, it was just the final third and getting that good ball in,” he said.

That good ball came when a counter-attack found Falcone in acres of space and he picked out the onrushing Luke Colli who slotted home confidently.  The defender provided a finish any striker would be proud of.

The goal spurred Swans on and they were unlucky not to take the lead in the 50th minute after Tatasciore beat two players before seeing his left-footed effort crash off the crossbar.

The winning goal would eventually come in the 65th minute after Atkinson, Swans player of the year last season, created a yard of space on his left before curling his shot home to send the travelling support into raptures.

United failed to put the game away as a mixture off superb goalkeeping and poor finishing kept the game level. 

The Swans were almost made to rue a host of chances as the final moments saw Morley have three chances cleared off the line by some last-ditch United defending.

“We always like to make it interesting,” said Skowron about his side failing to grab a third and put the game beyond doubt.

Morley-Windmills 1 (David HOUSTON 13’)
Swan United 2 (Luke COLLI 48’, Christopher ATKINSON 65’)
Friday 25 January 2013
Wotton Reserve, Embleton
Local kick-off: 8:30pm
Referee: Matt Southern
Assistant referees: Scott Ferguson and Alex Best
Crowd: Appx 150
Morley-Windmills: 1 Daniel AGUDELO (gk), 2. Niall MURPHY, 3. Chris DENNIS, 13. Sasha CVIJEBIC, 17. Scott CAMPBELL (18. Michael LACAVA 75’), 6. Adam PYGRUM, 11. Robbie FTYNOGIANNIS. 14, Chris BRADLEY, 9. Luke O’NEILL (8. Blaz RADOVANOVIC 56’), 10. David HOUSTON, 4. Brandon DA SILVA (5. James MCPHAIL 53’)
Substitutes not used: 12. Michael DUDEK, 16 Keith NOLAN
Yellow Cards: Nial MURPHY 21’, Chris BRADLEY 90+4’
Red Cards: Nil
Swan United:  18. Connor ANDERSON, Anthony COCHRANE (gk), 2. Spiro NENEDIC, 3. Luke COLLI, 4. Adam SKOWRON, 15. Terry MONASTRA, 6. Justin SKOWRON, 7. Nicholas TATASCIORE, 14. David PAONE, 12. Simon FALCONE (9 Sebastian DeCOTTER 64’), 5. Christopher ATKINSON (17. Fraser BURT 83’), 11. Owen CURTIS (10. Cameron ANDERSON 46’)
Substitutes not used:  8. Alec STANOJEVIC, 23. Ahmed TERCH
Yellow Cards: Daniel FALCONE 58’
Red Cards: Nil

25.01.13 – United v Morley Windmills Preview

Swan United opens their 2013 Night Series campaign with a trip to Wotton Reserve to take on fellow Division One side Morley Windmills tonight (8.30pm)

United coach is looking forward to the game but will be without a number of players. “Excluding a number of hiccups the team has started to take some shape over the past week and we feel we will have a very competitive line-up despite the fact that we will be without a number of players,” said Skowron.

“As we are building a team from scratch we have only been playing intra club games to allow all players the opportunity to play alongside each other in an effort to find a line-up we are happy with. Friday night's game will be our first competitive game so we have nothing to gauge expectations on. All I can say is that all the players are keen to impress and will be putting in a 100% effort."

In team news Trent Wood (injured), Jordan Howell (injured), Chris Marshall (Europe), Mark Miraudo (Melbourne), Mick Italiano (Melbourne) and Christian Lopez (injured) will all miss.

Morley Coach Jason van Rooy is hoping for a winning start against United. “Swan has always been a competitive team and since we have a couple of ex-swan lads at Morley I think the boys are looking forward to having their first real competitive hit out tonight,” said van Rooy, who will give club debuts to new signings to former United duo Daniel Agudelo, David McNally, also Sasa Cvijetic, Brandon DaSilva, Keith Nolan and Blaz Radovanovic.

23.01.13 – United Junior Trail dates

Swan United FC are holding final Trials for their 13 – 16 year old First teams.

13 Div 2 and 15 Premier will be held Monday 4th and Monday 11th February

14 Div 2 and 16 Div 3 will be held Friday 8th and Friday 15th February.

All trials will be held at Midland Oval, Morrison Road, Midland from 6pm Sharp to 7.30pm.  Please arrive 15 minutes early for Registration.

For further information please contact Jenny Hill 0412 948 292 or Penny Borzecki 0413 017 555.

20.01.13 - Young Swans prepare to spread their wings

Swan United go into the new First Division season with a new look squad after a big clear out of players during the off season. Coach Mick Skowron has seen a number of his senior players retire or leave the club but is looking forward to the challenge of turning the young group into a tight unit. “We have retained only one experienced player from last year, with Trent Wood committing for the new season,” said Skowron.

“John and Rob Monterosso, Aaron Colli and Miki Vujacic are with Premier League teams whilst Daniel Agudelo and Dave McNally are at Morley and Rory Mouttet has joined Canning City. Tommy Shepherd and Dom Ando have retired, Lucas Whitehouse and Rory Hollingham haven't returned, Chi Noda has returned to Japan and Chris Atkinson has returned to England. Michael Tronchin will be working up north and Brendan Knox continues to work overseas, which has made a big hole in our squad.”

A good end to season 2012 impressed Skowron, and he was delighted with some of the younger players who stepped up. “We finished last season with six reserves players in the starting line up and we have had quite a few young players join the club who will be more than adequate replacements for those who have left. Jordan Howell, Connor Anderson, Chris Marshall, Terry Monastra, Fraser Burt, Simon Falcone, Luke Colli, Mick Italiano, Tom Black, Mark Miraudo, Cameron Anderson, Owen Curtis and Seb DeCotter have all had some first team experience all remain at the club,” explained Skowron.

The squad is into pre-season training and Skowron has been happy with the new signings in the squad and has welcomed back a few old faces. “Striker Christian Lopez returns after being out for the past two seasons due to knee surgery, David Paone returns after two years working in Europe, Justin Skowron returns from Perth and Niall Hughes returns after a year away from the game. We have also secured the services of Nic Tatasciore from ECU Joondalup, Spiro Nenedic from Dianella White Eagles and Adam Skowron, who has spent two successful years at Peninsula College in the US where the team won back-to-back West Division titles as well as their first ever College Championship,” said Skowron.

“With the oldest player in the current squad being 25 years of age we have a very young squad which has been training very well and is full of enthusiasm. All spots are up for grabs so competition for starting spots is high.”

10.12.12 -United drawn in Group F for 2013 Night Series

Swan United has been drawn in group F along with Premier League Bayswater City, Morley Windmills and Quinns FC. United coach Mike Skowron is looking forward to the games and has been delighted with the pre-season to-date. “The draw for the night series is ok. Being 2012 Premier Division League Winners, Bayswater was probably the toughest premier team to draw but we'll see how we go,” said Skowron. (right)

“It would be good to get wins against Morley and Quinns and then play off with Bayswater for a quarter final spot.  Our last game against Morley was a close one with us getting over the line with a 1-0 win, so that should be a close game as well. I'm sure Quinns will be looking to cause an upset so we'll have to be wary of them.”

“We started training last week and moral is high and the boys are really motivated to perform well. We've lost a number of experienced players from last year and the oldest player we have in our current squad is 25 so there's a lot of enthusiasm which you would expect from a young squad. All spots are up for grabs so competition for starting spots is high. We're looking forward to next year and hopefully getting a few wins in the night series.”

The latest version of the popular pre-season tournament will again feature 32 teams, with 31 All Flags State League teams and MySolar Sunday Premier League winners Joondalup United included. The Football West National Training Centre will not take part.

Eight venues will host the group stages with Armadale’s Alfred Skeet Reserve, Mandurah’s Hyundai Stadium, Cockburn’s Dalmatinac Park, Stirling’s Macedonia Park, Floreat’s E&D Litis Stadium, Morley’s Wotton Reserve, Inglewood’s Intiga Stadium and Perth’s BGC Stadium all taking part.

Football West Chief Executive Peter Hugg says next year’s instalment will live up to the hype.

“Everyone can’t wait for the local action to begin again after a brilliant 2012 season,” said Hugg.

“This tournament is a great opportunity for teams to get match-fit for the regular season and it is a great chance for fans to see some of the new faces around their clubs.

“We saw plenty of local rivalries formed in the season just gone, and they are only going to get bigger and better with how the fixtures have panned out.

“Our Competitions team have been working very hard to make the eight groups as even as possible based on geographic location and results, so we look forward to seeing more upsets like last season as everyone chases Perth SC for the Football West Night Series crown.”

All the action begins on Friday 25 January, 2013, and the details regarding finals will be released in due course.

Group F
Round 1 Quinns FC Bayswater City SC Wotton Reserve - 25 January 2013 - 6.30pm
Round 1 Morley-Windmills SC Swan United FC Wotton Reserve - 25 January 2013 - 8.30pm
Round 2 Swan United FC Quinns FC Wotton Reserve - 2 February 2013 - 6pm
Round 2 Bayswater City SC Morley-Windmills SC Wotton Reserve - 2 February 2013 - 8pm
Round 3 Swan United FC Bayswater City SC Wotton Reserve - 10 February 2013 - 5pm
Round 3 Morley-Windmills SC Quinns FC Wotton Reserve - 10 February 2013 - 7pm

Click here for all the group stage fixtures.

01.11.12 – Swan United appoint Skowron has head Coach for 2013

Swan United has shown their faith in caretaker coach Mick Skowron by appointing him the position on a permanent basis. It’s a worthy reward for Skowron, who stepped into the role in August following the departure of John O’Reilly to guide the club to fifth on the final standings. “I’m very happy to be appointed as head coach,” commented Skowron, who under Swan won four and drew one of their final seven games. “I’ve worked very hard for a long time and it’s great to finally get the opportunity to coach at this level.”

Skowran faced several hurdles in taking over the reins mid-season. “It was a challenge to instill my way of playing onto the players in a short period of time,” he explained. “Having success with the Reserves made the transition a bit easier but the (first team) players initially weren’t too sure with my ideas. I kept things fairly simple and the changes came off in a positive way in the first few games so it didn’t take long for the players to lift. And with that the atmosphere around the club improved and things really took off.”

Competition in the second tier will be intense next year with Western Knights, Mandurah City, Ashfield and Wanneroo City all expected to be in the mix for promotion. “The standard of the league is fairly high now and to string a number of wins together will be very difficult,” said Skowron. “The way we finished the season I think we could be confident of causing a few upsets and finishing in a top four position. We have very good depth which we had to use in the last few games given the number of injuries we sustained in the last three games.”

Skowron sees little reason to make wholesale changes to his squad. “Six players who started against Cockburn (on the last day of the season) were playing reserves prior to me taking over the first team and all performed admirably, so I won’t be looking to make many changes,” he said. “With an average age of less than 23 we have a very young squad and this will probably reduce with about five under 21 year olds who were previously with the club indicating that they would like to return. These players will offset the few losses we will have.”

A strong team spirit and a continuing development of youth will ultimately bring success to Swan. “I respect the players and in turn the players have shown me respect, and I think this had a lot to do with the way the team stepped up,” Skowron said. “I have faith in the players we have so I won’t be looking for experienced players to come into the squad. We want the young players we have to want to play for the club because they feel part of it and in return we want to show loyalty to them and I think with this success will come.”

Meanwhile United are pleased to announce that Chris Bates will be the Coach of Reserves team for 2013. Along with their Senior Coach and Danny Kavcic our 18's Coach, Swan would like to officially welcome Chris to the Club and look forward to working with him in 2013 and beyond.
For further details on our Reserves Squad please contact Chris on 0407 724 761 or email chrisbates007@hotmail.com

30.10.12 – Atkinson takes out United’s ‘Player of the Year 2012’

Winning Swan United’s top award is the icing on the cake of a superb season for English import Chris Atkinson. The hard-working defender was honoured with the black and whites Fairest and Best award at the annual presentation ceremony ahead of midfielder Aaron Colli.

Veteran Rory Mouttet picked up the Swan Perpetual Trophy and for the second time in as many years John Monterosso received the Golden Boot. The Young Player of the Year was awarded to Fraser Burt, and the Jimmy Jamieson Award to Bob Hatten.

Chris Marshall was named Fairest and Best in the Reserves with Jake DeRa runner-up, and the Golden Boot recipient was Ben Hasler. The under-18 awards went to Matt McNee (Fairest and Best), David Panaia (Runner-up Fairest and Best) and Connor Anderson (Golden Boot).

30.9.12 – United go down in seven goal thriller

The crowd at Dalmatinac Park were treated to a seven-goal thriller in which Cockburn City scored twice in the final few minutes to grab a 4-3 win over Swan United.

An attacking outlook by the black and whites had them in control early with Trent Wood forcing a good save out of Dejan Aleksic. Eventually Cockburn found their rhythm to take a 16th minute lead through Devon Gibson, who applied a close-range finish after a tidy exchange with Nick Carroll.

Unperturbed, Swan held their focus to draw level on the half hour when Aaron Colli’s centre was lashed in from 15-metres by Chris Atkinson. Paul Natale and Paul Lloyd had chances to send Cockburn in to the break with the lead but neither was able to better the goalkeeper.

Chances came and went at both ends of the park after the interval before Marc Anthony converted a 64th minute penalty, awarded for Terry Monastra’s soft foul on Ian McMurray. Swan was not to be denied and fourteen minutes later Rob Monterosso banged an equaliser into the bottom corner after Aleksic pushed away a shot from Colli. Only a couple of more minutes passed before Monterosso slotted in from close-range to give Swan the lead.

Stung into action, Cockburn hit back four minutes later with Ian Stack delivering a low centre which Harry O’Brien tapped in. McMurray decided who would take out the points in the final minute by turning in Lloyd’s low free-kick into a crowded goalmouth.

22.9.12 – United made to work for the three points

Swan United extended their unbeaten run to five games with a 4-2 come-from-behind defeat of Fremantle Spirit at Francis Street. It took the black and whites only three minutes to open their account through Chris Atkinson’s shot from 20-metres.

Atkinson should have further added to Swan’s lead but sent his close-range strike straight at goalkeeper Elhoussaine Atekhis. That miss was punished on 17 minutes when Sean Treacey equalised with a long-range shot. The game could have been over by the break had Swan been able to make more of a slew of chances that came the way of John Monterosso, Luke Colli and Mark Miraudo.

It appeared this wasn’t going to be Swan’s day as Mick Italiano and John Monterosso squandered further chances in the second half. So it was against the run of play that Fremantle edged in front via a converted penalty awarded for handball by Danny Clapham. The home side finally got the goal they were after on 71 minutes with Brendan Knox levelling at close-range.

Four minutes later John Monterosso cut the ball back for substitute Trent Wood to make it three-two. John Monterosso then twice fired wide of the target before netting his second goal a minute from the end of regulation time. The three points gained keep Swan in fifth spot, ahead of Shamrock Rovers on goal difference.

15.9.12 – United fly away with all three points

Chris Atkinson put away his fourth goal in three weeks to lead Swan United to a 1-0 victory away at Dianella White Eagles. The game had barely started when the hosts were dealt their first blow, goalkeeper Matt Battigelli stretchered from the field with a quadriceps injury.

Despite the setback, Dianella enjoyed the better of early play but rarely looked like breaking through. Swan slowly came into the game and on 22 minutes Chihuro Noda nodded into the net only to be ruled offside. Mark Miraudo chipped onto the crossbar, and just before the break Atkinson lifted over after being played through.

Swan picked up after the break where they left off and on 52 minutes Michael Italiano played in John Monterosso whose cutback was slotted in by Atkinson. Five minutes later Atkinson could have doubled the black and whites lead but blasted high at close-range.

Luke Colli pulled wide of the target when faced with only the ‘keeper to beat, the a few minutes later a Rob Monterosso thunderbolt flashed past the post. Dianella were hitting on the counterattack but opened up very few holes in the Swan defence, and on those occasions they did find a way through Jordan Howell was positioned to save.

8.9.12 – All square against Ashfield

Swan United and Ashfield came away with a point each after finished deadlocked at 2-2 at Francis Street. The home team could not have wished for a better start with Chris Atkinson netting at close-range courtesy of a Brendan Knox corner after only three minutes.

In a game of few clear cut chances Ashfield nabbed a 26th minute equaliser when former Swan defender Mark Donnelly headed into Jordan Howell’s net during a goalmouth scramble resulting from Rueben Tristao’s cross.

Swan finished the half well but had two strong penalty shouts waved away by the referee before Atkinson’s shot was halted literally on the line by Perkins.

The second half opened with both teams on the attack. Ten minutes in it was Ashfield that got the rewards with an unmarked Karl O’Reilly firing in at the back post after meeting a Branimir Mikulic cross. The game threatened to boil following an altercation between Karl Tate and Trent Wood, the latter on the receiving end of a late tackle from behind not long after.

With eleven minutes left defensive error allowed Simon Falcone to release fellow substitute John Monterosso to slot past the goalkeeper and bring the sides level. Ashfield were denied a late winner by Howell, who courageously dived at the feet of Tristao to smother his opponents shot.

01.09.12 – United too strong for Shamrock

A sensational second half has seen Swan United overturned a half-time deficit to beat Shamrock Rovers 4-1 at Ashfield Reserve. Chris Atkinson scored twice with captain Rob Monterosso and Brendan Knox also on the scoresheet to earn United their tenth win of the campaign. “Our squad depth was tested today and this result will give the club a lot of confidence going forward,” said Swan’s caretaker coach Mick Skowron. “Chris had an excellent game, scoring two goals and setting up another, and Jordan Howell was very good in only his third first team game of the season.”

The afternoon started positively enough for Shamrock with Brian Farrell punished an error in the opposing defence to strike into Howell’s net after only nine minutes. It looked as though it would be only a matter of time before the hosts had the ball in the net for a second time but despite some promising build-up play delivery into the final third was lacking quality. As the half drew to a close Aaron Colli brought Swan back into the game, the midfielder’s drive from the centre of the park leading to several scoring opportunities, each of which went unconverted.

Swan picked up after the break when they left off and on 66 minutes Knox brought the teams level by rising unchallenged to head in an Atkinson cross. Six minutes later Rob Monterosso unleashed a low drive from 14-metres which flashed into Philip Shiel’s net to put the black and whites in front. Shamrock were on the ropes, and Atkinson landed another blow by applying a tidy finish from just outside the 18-yard box. Atkinson completed a remarkable eleven minute spell by netting at close-range after being put through by Colli. Mark Miraudo was within inches of scoring Swan a fifth goal with his 85th minute strike rattle the crossbar.