Socceroos facing early depth test

Updated May 28, 2012 12:51:02

Goalkeeper Adam Federici and midfielder Chris Herd have withdrawn from the Socceroos squad with injuries ahead of next month's World Cup qualifiers.

Back-up goalkeeper Federici, whose club Reading recently won promotion to the English Premier League, has an undisclosed injury and has been replaced by German-based goalkeeper Mitchell Langerak.

Herd, who plays for Aston Villa in the EPL, will not be replaced at this stage, FFA said.

Australia will play Denmark in a friendly in Copenhagen on June 2 as a warm-up to its Asian qualifiers against Oman in Muscat on June 8 and Japan in Brisbane on June 12.

Club commitments will also prevent midfielder Carl Valeri and striker Josh Kennedy being available for the Denmark friendly, with both players joining the squad in Oman.

Valeri has been given permission to play for his Italian club US Sassuolo in the Serie B promotion play-off matches against Sampdoria on May 30 and June 2.

Kennedy will travel to Muscat following his AFC Champions League match for Nagoya Grampus against Adelaide United in Adelaide on Tuesday.

The FFA said Dutch-based midfielder Brett Holman was also in doubt for the Denmark match as he awaits the birth of his second child.

AFP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, australia

First posted May 28, 2012 12:40:16

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Perry's choice: professionalism and women's sport

Naomi Woodley

Updated May 31, 2012 17:10:12

Ellyse Perry is an incredibly inspiring figure. Her feats in representing Australia at both football and cricket are worthy of the highest praise.

Her goal in the 2011 Women's World Cup was one of the best of the tournament, and should be on highlight reels for years to come. Her determination and talent is, and should continue to be, an inspiration for girls and young women around the country for years to come.

Perry should be given the opportunity to continue to play both sports if she wishes to do so. But unlike Gerard Whateley, I also believe Canberra United should be given the opportunity to make its club the most professional organisation it can.

I went to all bar one of CU's home games in the past season, and I watched every W-league game broadcast by the ABC. I was among the 2,500 fans who saw our club secure its first championship, with a nail-biting win over a talented Brisbane Roar side, as the sun beat down at McKellar Park in January. Like all sports fans, I want my team to continue to be the very best it can be.

Like many Canberra United fans, I know a significant factor in CU's success this year was the drafting of Czech coach Jitka Klimkova, and the professional attitude she brought to the club. I know Capital Football has worked hard to entice her back for another season and that in return she's demanding a more professional outfit.

It's not "dismal", "selfish" or "unimaginative", as Whateley says. It's professional. Would it be dismal if an AFL club ruled out a player because they weren't willing to live in the club's home city or attend every training session? Or an A-league club? I suspect not. Why should the standard be any different for women's sport?

The next W-League season will hopefully feature two sides based in Sydney, with the new Western Sydney franchise promising to field a women's team. If Perry was to play for a Sydney-based club, it's more feasible that she would be able to attend all training sessions, and continue with her cricket commitments. If so, good luck to her, and the club. I have no doubt she would continue to excel at both, and the club would have gained a recognisable talent, which can only help to strengthen the league as a whole.

Canberra United recruited Perry when the Central Coast Mariners were not willing to let her continue with both sports. With a championship to defend, it's well within its rights to decide it needs a full commitment from all its players.

Remember, Perry ruled herself out of Canberra's semi-final in favour of a cricket match. I'm sure it was a heartbreaking choice, and she did so knowing she would be unlikely to be selected for the final. But it was her choice, and now the club is asking her to choose again.

As the club itself has stated, this has been an issue for some time. While it may have come as a surprise to some, it's not a surprise to those of us who followed the 2011-12 season closely.

Yes, Capital Football's Heather Reid could have expressed the ultimatum with a little more eloquence, but the request is not unreasonable. Canberra United and Jitka Klimkova should not be criticised for their decision.

Canberra United shouldn't be asked to "reconsider its place in the grand scheme of Australian sport". It should be congratulated for aiming to set new standards for this semi-professional league, just as Ellyse Perry should be congratulated for her incredible achievements on the football and cricket pitch. 

To Whateley and all the others who have expressed outrage, I admire your passion, but don't forget the dozens of other women playing for Canberra and the other clubs in the W-league. They deserve your support too, regardless of whether they excel at one sport, or two. And if you do all feel so passionately about this, I hope I'll see you at a W-league game next season.

Naomi Woodley is a Canberra-based journalist for the ABC. You can follow her on Twitter.

Tags: soccer, women

First posted May 30, 2012 15:34:57

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Hazard to sign with Chelsea

Updated May 29, 2012 07:53:39

Highly-regarded Belgian international midfielder Eden Hazard has opted to join European champions Chelsea ahead of Manchester City and Manchester United.

"I am signing for the Champions League winner," Hazard, 21, said on his Twitter feed (@hazardeden10).

Hazard, named the best player in France's Ligue 1 player in the last two seasons, had been expected to join either Premier League champions Manchester City or runners-up Manchester United after he said he would choose between the two.

The gifted playmaker, capped 27 times by Belgium, led Lille to the French title in 2011 and scored 20 goals this season, including a hat-trick in his farewell game, as it finished third to qualify for next season's Champions League play-off.

He announced in October that he would leave Lille at the end of the season.

Hazard made his league debut for Lille as a 16-year-old and quickly had scouts flocking to the club's Metropole stadium.

His performances earned the Ligue 1's top prospect award for successive seasons, before he secured the full accolade in the last two campaigns.

With tremendous pace and an eye for goal, Hazard prefers to play on the left flank and his penetrating runs and tight ball control are a menace to any defence.

Chelsea won the Champions League for the first time this month, adding to their FA Cup final success.

The London side endured a disappointing league campaign, however, finishing sixth after sacking manager Andre Villas-Boas in March.

Former player Roberto Di Matteo took interim charge and guided the team to an unexpected Champions League final win over Bayern Munich, which secured their spot in the competition next season.

Reuters

Tags: english-premier, soccer, sport, belgium, england, united-kingdom

First posted May 29, 2012 07:53:39

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Sports Gambling - What's the Big Deal?

Perry looking for new W-League club

Updated May 30, 2012 20:49:21

Dual international Ellyse Perry has all but parted ways with Canberra United following its ultimatum to choose soccer over cricket, confirming she is looking for a new W-League club to call home.

Perry, 21, issued a joint statement with Canberra United on Wednesday that was not explicit but effectively extinguished any last hopes she might re-sign for a fourth season with the W-League 2011-12 defending champions.

"I still want to pursue my goals of playing both cricket and football at the highest possible level and as such I feel it is important for me to explore avenues which enable me to do so," she said, while the club added it would help her look.

"I thank Canberra United and its wonderful community for all their great support over the last three seasons and I wish everyone involved at the club the very best for the future and in defending the W-League title."

Perry was a notable omission from the Canberra premiership side during its 3-2 victory over Brisbane Roar in January, which came after she missed several games in the lead-up to the grand final because of her cricketing commitments.

Canberra United chief executive Heather Reid defended issuing the ultimatum which ordered Perry to quit cricket and commit full-time to the three months of the W-League season.

She said she backed coach Jitka Klimkova's new philosophy about all players putting in the same amount of effort and being treated equally.

"There's not some rules for some players and other rules for other players," Reid said.

"They are a team and to allow one individual to come in and out of that team - that environment does have its challenges and impacts on morale.

"There was a feeling of being let down."

Reid admitted the situation was tough, but said Perry's popularity and celebrity was not enough to earn her special privileges.

"I'm being personally criticised for scoring an own-goal or shooting the team in the foot," she said.

"But ... this is about increasing professionalism in women's sport, even if we're not paid in professional terms.

"You wouldn't have this same situation in rugby league where they allow a rugby union player to come in and out of the squad.

"It demonstrates some leadership and if I was a bloke, they'd probably say it takes some balls."

All up, Perry missed six of Canberra's 12 games during the 2011/12 season - her third with the club.

The Sydneysider, who is also studying a degree in economics and social sciences, has several options, but the first would be to sound out Sydney FC and assess whether it will be more accommodating with her cricket schedule.

Reid was disappointed in the way the issue snowballed, arguing the ultimatum did not mean Perry would be lost to soccer.

"Ellyse is a fantastic ambassador and an absolute gem," she said.

"There will be other clubs."

AAP

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, canberra-2600, act, australia

First posted May 30, 2012 20:49:21

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PM weighs into Italian match-fixing scandal

Updated May 30, 2012 07:34:55

Prime minister Mario Monti has suggested that professional soccer in Italy should be suspended for two or three years, following a match-fixing scandal that has so far seen 19 people arrested.

The Italian soccer federation and several clubs rejected the idea, which Mr Monti said he was making "as a fan".

The widening scandal has seen a number of top players arrested, and the coach of this season's title-winning club, Juventus, placed under investigation.

In the latest phase of an operation which began last year, police placed Juventus coach Antonio Conte under investigation on Monday over allegations relating to a 2011 match between his previous club Siena, and Novara.

They also arrested Stefano Mauri, captain of Lazio, one of the two big clubs in Rome, and raided the Italian national team's training base at Coverciano after placing Italy defender Domenico Criscito under investigation.

"It's particularly sad when a world which should be an expression of the highest values - sport, youth, competition, fairness - turns out to be a mass of foul play, falsehood and demagoguery," Mr Monti said.

"This isn't a government proposal, but I wonder if it wouldn't be a good idea to suspend the game for two or three years."

The idea is unlikely to gain much traction in Italy, a country which is both obsessed by soccer and inured to an apparently endless series of financial, political and sexual scandals in recent years.

"I understand and share the bitterness of prime minister Monti," Italian soccer federation president Giancarlo Abete said.

"But to stop the championship would mean humiliating all of football, penalising the majority who work honestly and it would also mean the loss of thousands of jobs.

"It is not the solution."

Mr Monti's suggestion underscores the growing disgust over an affair which has shone a harsh light on the pervasive corruption at many levels of Italian society.

"It's so easy for the great majority of citizens to see the origin of all Italy's problems in politics," Mr Monti said.

"It's a big mistake."

ABC/Reuters

Tags: italy, soccer, sport, crime, world-politics, italy

First posted May 30, 2012 05:59:43

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Perry given ultimatum by W-League club

Updated May 30, 2012 07:59:53

W-League champions Canberra United have told dual international Ellyse Perry she needs to commit full-time to the club over cricket or find another team.

Perry represents Australia in both football and cricket, often juggling the two during the W-League season.

But Canberra United chief executive Heather Reid says the club needs the 21-year-old to be all in or nothing.

"We have basically given Ellyse an ultimatum," she told Grandstand.

"Ellyse needs to choose whether she wants to be a full-time Canberra United player and commit to training every day like everyone else does.

"Or if she still wants to try and mix her cricket commitment with football, then perhaps she will need to find another club.

"The pressure is really just coming form Canberra United and in particular [coach] Jitka Klimkova, who is trying to build a much more professional football culture and she needs players to be fully committed to football."

Perry, who has represented both the Matildas at the 2011 women's football World Cup in Germany and the Southern Stars in the 2009 cricket World Cup, said she respected the club's position but thinks it is still feasible to play both sports at the highest level.

"With Jitka coming on board, and the wonderful success the club achieved last year, I certainly respect her position and the philosophy and direction she wants to take the club in," Perry said.

"That doesn't quite fit in with my situation.

"I was open to that being a possibility and given that is has happened, that is just the way it is."

Perry said she has not put a time frame on committing to one sport.

"Something I have to make sure is that I still love every moment of it, and at the moment I do," she said.

"I get a huge thrill out of playing both cricket and soccer.

"I certainly still feel it is feasible to play both."

Reid said Perry could find another club to continue her double act, most likely the W-League's new western Sydney franchise.

Perry, who lives in Sydney, said it is still to early to think about that, especially after she was recently selected in a Matildas squad ahead of two matches against New Zealand in June.

She will also take part in a Southern Stars cricket tour in September.

"I haven't really thought that far ahead in terms of the W-League season. It is still quite a way down the track," she said.

"I know they haven't even set competition dates yet, and playing rosters haven't even been looked at yet."

Cricket Australia spokesman Peter Young said CA would continue to support Perry's ambition to play both soccer and cricket.

"Ellyse Perry is a wonderful role model to young girls interested in either or both cricket and soccer," Young said on Twitter.

Tags: cricket, sport, soccer, canberra-2600, act, australia

First posted May 29, 2012 13:51:07

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England win overshadowed by Barry injury

Updated May 27, 2012 11:28:06

England won its first match under new coach Roy Hodgson beating Norway 1-0 but Gareth Barry may miss Euro 2012 after limping off with a groin injury.

Ashley Young scored the only goal in Oslo after nine minutes to give England its first win over Norway for 32 years in Hodgson's first game since taking over from Fabio Capello.

Barry replaced skipper Steven Gerrard at half-time, but was then taken off himself midway through the second period at the Ullevaal Stadium.

"Barry worries me. We need to get the injury scanned. We don't have much time left and if it is serious then we will need to think about it," said Hodgson.

"It's a groin injury that he felt during the course of the game. We'll have to get that scanned and see how it is. I'm not prepared to say it's serious at the moment.

"All I'm going to say is that it's going to demand our attention and as you all know, we don't have a lot of time if the scan shows that there is something more than minor."

The deadline for squads to be announced for the tournament is Tuesday.

Elsewhere, Germany and the Netherlands, two of the sides widely-tipped as potential European Championship winners, suffered worrying friendly international defeats on Saturday.

Germany slumped to a shock 5-3 defeat in Switzerland while the Dutch were booed off in Amsterdam after surrendering a one-goal lead to lose 2-1 against Bulgaria.

Defending European and world champions Spain, however, showed off their impressive strength in depth when a second-string side defeated Serbia 2-0.

Germany, who rested their eight-strong Bayern Munich contingent, suffered their first loss to Switzerland, who failed to qualify for Euro 2012, since 1956.

Germany-based Swiss striker Eren Derdiyok grabbed a hat-trick in Basel.

Joachim Loew's Germany qualified for Euro 2012 without losing a match, but they have now lost two friendlies in succession having been defeated 2-1 by France in February.

Their last friendly will be against Israel on May 31 before embarking on their Euro campaign against Portugal, Netherlands and Denmark in Group B.

Robin van Persie had given the Dutch a 45th-minute lead but Bulgaria levelled four minutes into the second half with an Ivelin Popov penalty after a handball by Rafael van der Vaart.

Striker Ilijan Mizanski hit the winner in the second minute of injury time on a counter-attack.

Adrian and Cazorla, from the penalty spot, where on target for reigning champions Spain who seem likely to be without the services of Athletic Bilbao captain Andoni Iraola.

Marca report on their website that Iraola is "practically ruled out of a place in Vicente Del Bosque's final Spain squad" after Athletic's medical staff "advised against Iraola taking part in the European Championship."

Ireland produced a dominating performance in beating Bosnia & Herzegovina 1-0 thanks to a header from substitute striker Shane Long.

AFP

Tags: sport, soccer, england, netherlands, germany, spain, norway, switzerland, bulgaria, serbia, ireland, bosnia-and-herzegovina

First posted May 27, 2012 09:19:18

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Reds advance to final eight

Updated May 30, 2012 07:53:36

Defender Jon McKain scored as Adelaide United downed Japan's Nagoya Grampus 1-0 on Tuesday night to advance into the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League.

McKain's lucky opening half goal ensured Adelaide moved into the final eight of the lucrative Asian competition, just weeks after failing to reach the finals of the domestic A-League.

"The boys are absolutely over the moon," defensive midfielder Iain Fyfe told Grandstand after the win.

"It's understandbly so. Everyone's buzzing and the coaches are happy and we're happy that we got over this stage and we can move into the final eight and take it as far as we can.

"The boys did terrific tonight - they were first-class all over the field.

"Our defence was excellent and our boys up front held it up for us well, Bruce [Djite] in particular was excellent."

McKain scored in the 41st minute of the knockout Hindmarsh Stadium fixture through good fortune more than good planning.

A Dario Vidosic curler bobbled in the box, with Nagoya defenders scrambling for control, when the ball deflected towards McKain near the goal line.

The defender, who was deposed midseason as Adelaide captain in favour of Eugene Galekovic, appeared to luckily shin the ball, with little control, over the line to delight the 9,758-strong Adelaide crowd.

The breakthrough came after an earlier miracle save by Galekovic denied the highly-rated J-League outfit an opener.

The Adelaide skipper appeared to be beaten by a header from Josh Kennedy in the 33rd minute when the Socceroo striker found a slither of space a metre out.

His header was angled into goal only for Galekovic to thrust out his left glove, which was behind his diving body when he deflected the ball from danger.

Galekovic, who kept four clean sheets as Adelaide topped its group in the rich Asian competition, produced another reflex top shelf save in the 63rd minute to maintain Adelaide's lead.

"Eugene's a freak, he's like a cat," midfielder Zenon Caravella told Grandstand.

"He's amazing, he's got amazing reflexes and he saved us many many times throughout the season and again tonight.

"He did extremely well for us so we're very lucky to have someone like Eugene with us."

With less than 10 minutes of regular time to play, Reds midfielder Fabian Barbiero blew a gilt-edged chance to double Adelaide's advantage when he chipped over the bar with only the 'keeper to beat.

And striker Sergio van Dijk belted a 20-metre blast into the crossbar in the 87th minute.

Adelaide, superbly served by left winger Iain Ramsay and playmaker Vidosic, booked a quarter-final berth against an as-yet undetermined opponent.

Fyfe said he felt his stint with South Korean outfit Busan IPark in 2011 gave him a good grounding in the Asian game.

"I enjoyed my time over in Korea, it was great," he said.

"I had a great year and made a lot of good friends and enjoyed my football over there, but it was time to come back here.

"I like to think I took a little bit of the experience of being in Asia to the team here."

The Reds will now have a break until July 9 for their quarter-final fixture.

In the other quarter-final played, Uzbek outfit Bunyodkor stunned former winners Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma 1-0 thanks to a 52nd minute penalty converted by defender Hayrulla Karimov.

The demise of Seongnam, the 2010 winners, leaves just one South Korean club still in the competition in the shape of Ulsan Hyundai, who play J-League champions Kashiwa Reysol on Wednesday.

Wednesday's other match features Italian World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi, who will try to lead his new Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande into the quarter-finals against FC Tokyo in just his third game in charge.

Last week three Saudi teams reached the quarter-finals - two-time winners Al Ittihad, Al Hilal and Al Ahli - along with Sepahan of Iran.

Adelaide United: 1 (J McKain 41')

Nagoya Grampus: 0

ABC/AAP/AFP

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, adelaide-5000, sa, australia, japan

First posted May 29, 2012 22:01:56

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Sports Betting Champ Review - Is the 97% Winning Streak Just Kidding?

England loses Barry for Euro

Updated May 29, 2012 09:08:32

England midfielder Gareth Barry has been ruled out of Euro 2012 after sustaining a tear to his lower abdomen during his team's 1-0 friendly victory over Norway.

Everton's Phil Jagielka has been called up as his replacement, the Football Association confirmed.

"I am very disappointed to lose Gareth, not only was he a member of my original 23-man squad but he has featured prominently in the England team over the last few years," said manager Roy Hodgson.

"I know how much he wanted to be part of the tournament but I'm sure he will still have a part to play with England after the Euros.

"I wish him a speedy recovery."

Barry's place was in doubt after he lasted less than half an hour of a second-half appearance in Saturday's friendly win over Norway in Oslo.

After the game Hodgson said he may have to trust Barry to let him know exactly how bad the injury was.

It is not thought that was necessary, though, with scans indicating there was no way the Manchester City man was going to be fit to play any meaningful role in Poland and Ukraine this summer.

Jagielka had been tipped to come in and strengthen Hodgson's defensive options.

The Everton man produced an excellent performance in Norway alongside Joleon Lescott - a pairing that kept Spain out in November and are now pressurising Chelsea duo John Terry and Gary Cahill.

They will report for duty at England's Watford base on Tuesday, along with the remainder of Hodgson's 23-man squad.

That number will include Danny Welbeck and Glen Johnson, who had been doubts with ankle and toe injuries respectively.

However, it seems those problems have cleared up, along with Scott Parker's Achilles injury, and the FA are anticipating having to make no further changes when they submit their official squad to UEFA at 11am on Tuesday (local time).

AFP

Tags: euro, soccer, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted May 29, 2012 09:08:32

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Rodgers poised to claim Liverpool job

Updated May 31, 2012 06:54:23

Swansea City coach Brendan Rodgers is poised to be appointed Liverpool manager after being offered the job by the Anfield club, Swansea said in a statement.

"Following on from discussions with Liverpool's owners, Brendan has informed us that he would like to take up their offer to manage Liverpool," Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins said on the club's website.

Swansea said discussions were still ongoing with Liverpool's American owners over compensation for Northern Irishman Rodgers, who guided the Welsh side to a respectable 11th-place finish in the Premier League last season, their first campaign at the highest level since 1983.

"At the moment we are currently in talks with the owners to agree compensation. We are trying to finalise that within the next 24 hours," added Jenkins.

"Although we are very disappointed to lose such a talented, young British manager, we didn't wish to stand in his way. We will always remain good friends and we thank him for his hard work and passion at this football club over the past two years."

Liverpool has been searching for a replacement for Anfield great Kenny Dalglish, whose second spell in charge ended after he was dismissed following the club's eighth place finish in the Premier League, their worst for almost 20 years.

Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez, who also had a spell at Swansea manager in 2007-2009, also held talks with Liverpool but Wigan chairman Dave Whelan told Sky Sports News that the Spaniard would remain in charge.

"He moves into the second year of the deal previously agreed," Whelan said.

The 39-year-old Northern Irishman is believed to have spoken to Liverpool officials on Wednesday and the BBC reports the Merseyside giants are ready to pay between 4-5 million pounds in compensation to Swansea to secure his services.

Rodgers is regarded as one of the Premier League's brightest young managers after retaining Swansea's Premier League status on a relatively meagre budget just one season after securing promotion from the Championship.

If Rodgers does get the job, it will complete a remarkable rise following his sacking as Reading boss just three years ago.

Since then Rodgers, who regards Jose Mourinho as his mentor after working as the Portuguese coach's reserve-team boss at Chelsea, has completely rehabilitated his reputation.

Swansea's eye-catching style of play earned a standing ovation from Liverpool fans after a 0-0 draw at Anfield in November and Rodgers also masterminded a 1-0 win over the Reds on the final day of the season, as well as beating Manchester City and Arsenal at the Liberty Stadium.

He would take over a Liverpool squad at a low ebb after finishing 17 points away from the Champions League spots that principal owner John Henry had targeted at the start of the season.

The Reds did win the League Cup under Dalglish, but their season ended with a lacklustre 2-1 defeat in the FA Cup final against Chelsea and the new boss will be charged with reinvigorating team sorely in need of an infusion of creativity and pace.

Reuters

Tags: english-premier, soccer, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted May 31, 2012 06:54:23

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Blatter calls for alternative to shootouts

Updated May 26, 2012 09:15:30

FIFA President Sepp Blatter has called on Germany's World Cup winner Franz Beckenbauer and a panel of experts to try to come up with an alternative to penalty shootouts to settle drawn matches.

Blatter was speaking to delegates at the FIFA Congress on Friday less than a week after Chelsea beat Bayern Munich on penalties to win the Champions League final.

"Football can be a tragedy when you go to penalty kicks. Football is a team game, when it goes to one against one football loses its essence," Blatter said.

"Perhaps Franz Beckenbauer, with his Football 2014 group, can show us a solution, perhaps not today but in the future."

Beckenbauer, who won the World Cup with Germany as both a player and manager was among the delegates at the congress, was not immediately available for comment but his views are well known on the matter.

The German has said he would rather have penalties than either a golden or silver goal which were used briefly to determine matches.

Blatter has been calling for reforms to the game for a while and this is not the first time he has said he wanted to see penalty shootouts replaced.

But the fact he made the comment in his speech to delegates underlines his desire for the Football Committee to take some action on the issue.

Dozens of high profile finals, including the 1994 and 2006 World Cup finals, European Championships and Champions League finals have all been decided on penalties since they were introduced in their modern format in 1970.

Reuters

Tags: sport, soccer, brazil

First posted May 26, 2012 09:15:30

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Barca give Guardiola perfect send-off

Updated May 26, 2012 12:39:05

Barcelona gave coach Pep Guardiola the perfect send off, beating Athletic Bilbao 3-0 to win the Copa del Rey on the coach's last match in charge after four memorable seasons in the Catalan hot seat.

Lionel Messi, with his 73rd of the season, and a Pedro Rodriguez double got the goals inside the first half an hour to finish off the Basque side and deliver Guardiola his 14th and final trophy at the club.

Guardiola leaves the side he played for with three Spanish leagues, two Champions Leagues, two FIFA World Club Cups, two UEFA Supercups, three Spanish Supercups and two Spanish Cup victories as coach.

"Winning 14 titles in four years is very difficult and we are very satisfied," a beaming Guardiola told a news conference afterwards."

"This has been the best year, in which we have made the most progress tactically. During the first few years it was all energy and fireworks. I watch matches from our first season and we made more mistakes."

The win was a repeat of Guardiola's first title in the 2008-09 final when the Catalans ran out 4-1 victors over Bilbao.

Guardiola has never lost to Athletic in his four seasons, winning ten out of 15 clashes between the two sides who boast the most Spanish Cup victories, Barca making it 26 with this win to Bilbao's 23 titles.

Guardiola, with Dani Alves and Carles Puyol injured, decided to start with a four man defence including the youngster Martin Montoya at right-back.

He also made the decision to give Pedro a final chance to play himself into the Spanish squad for Euro 2012 and the forward grabbed it with both feet.

Bilbao got an early warning of what to expect when Messi went straight into a mazy run from kick-off before shooting just wide.

Within three minutes of the start Barca were ahead.

When a leg from centre-half Amorebieta diverted a goal bound Pedro shot wide, the same player latched onto a loose ball to fire home from the resulting corner.

Athletic recovered from the shock and started to enjoy some possession but Barca continued to have their chances.

On 15 minutes Messi had a left footed curling shot tipped over the bar from Bilbao stopper Gorka Iraizoz and three minutes later Xavi Hernandez shot just high.

It was therefore no surprise when Messi doubled the lead on 21 minutes, the little Argentinian taking one touch to control a slide-rule pass from Andres Iniesta before slamming home from close range.

Four minutes later and Pedro made it three to end all doubts of where the cup would be heading.

Gerard Pique played a long searching pass to Xavi on the edge of the area who cleverly laid it back for the Tenerife-born player to side foot home his second.

Bilbao continued to battle and within a minute of conceding the third Markel Susaeta brought the first save at the other end from Jose Pinto, who has replaced Victor Valdes all season in goal for Barca in domestic cup games.

The Basques had further chances to reduce the margin.

On 28 minutes referee David Fernandez waved away what appeared to be a clear penalty after Pique had pulled down Fernando Llorente and Iker Muniain had a wide shot blocked at the near-post on the stroke of half-time.

Backed by their impressive fans who refused to be silenced by the scoreline, they continued to look for a way back in the second period.

Ibai Gomez, Inigo Perez and Jon Aurtenetxe all had chances but they failed to score in a final for the second time this season following their 3-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Europa League.

At the other end Gorka denied Messi another goal after another scintillating run as Barca were content to run down the clock and saviour the occasion.

Guardiola continued to wring every ounce of effort out of his side from the sideline in the last moments of his glittering reign.

In contrast to Barca's trophy laden recent history it is 28 years since Athletic Bilbao last won a title.

After losing their second final by the same scoreline, their long suffering support left the stadium wondering when the next title will arrive.

AFP

Tags: sport, soccer, spain

First posted May 26, 2012 08:36:25

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Cooper signs with Jets

Updated May 25, 2012 11:49:07

Mitch Cooper has become the third former Gold Coast United player to join Newcastle Jets, who have also signed veteran Michael Bridges for another year.

Cooper, 17, was at the centre of controversy last year when his appointment as captain on his debut precipitated the sacking of Miron Bleiberg.

The attacking midfielder joins Josh Brillante and Josh Brown in having moved south of the Tweed River over the off-season and he knows coach Gary van Egmond from his time at the Australian Institute of Sport.

"Hopefully I can be an exciting player for the fans and work as a bit of a playmaker as well," Cooper said.

"I just want to do my best whatever position Gary wants me to play, hopefully I can fulfil that role and be happy just to be here."

Bridges, who announced his retirement a year ago only to return in November, will play for a fourth season with the Jets.

The 32-year-old forward, whose persistent injury problems hindered a certain international career with England, expects to play a key role on and off the pitch at Hunter Stadium.

"I'll be taking on the same role I have been since I arrived here on day one," Bridges said.

"I always wanted to be a leader on and off the park, but also to influence the young boys, take a few of them under my wing and help them along the way.

"What we've seen in the last few weeks we've got a lot of young kids who have come in and they've been sensational.

"We've only seen them the last few days but they've brought this enthusiasm and that rubs off on us older boys and it gives you a new lease of life and hopefully they can learn things off us in other parts of the field as well."

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First posted May 25, 2012 11:45:15

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Martinez in Liverpool talks

Updated May 25, 2012 09:04:17

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has flown to Miami for talks with Liverpool's owners about the vacant manager's position at Anfield.

Martinez's current employer, Wigan owner Dave Whelan, revealed the news on Thursday evening.

"Roberto is in Miami today and you can only assume what he's gone there for," Whelan told BBC Sport.

"He is honest and up front and I expect to hear from him in the next 48 hours.

"He is out in the Caribbean so it's only two hours to Miami from there.

"If he decides to go, which I hope he doesn't, I've got to replace him as soon as possible."

Martinez, 38, left Swansea City to take over at Wigan, a club he made over 200 appearances for, in 2009 and has been widely praised for keeping the modest Lancashire club in the Premier League.

Wigan stayed in the top flight this season after wins over Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle United in their final eight games helped them to a respectable 15th in the league - seven points clear of relegation and just nine adrift of The Reds.

However, Whelan has repeatedly insisted he would allow Martinez to leave for a "big club" and last week said "they don't come any bigger than Liverpool".

Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers and Ajax supremo Frank De Boer have both rejected the opportunity to speak to the 18-time league champions who sacked Kenny Dalglish following a disappointing eight-place Premier League finish in 2011/12.

The Liverpool owners, Fenway Sports Group, have so far resisted fan pressure on Merseyside to speak to another Spaniard, 2005 Champions League-winning manager Rafa Benitez.

AFP/ABC

Tags: sport, soccer, england

First posted May 25, 2012 07:32:55

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Bolton extends stay at Heart

Updated May 25, 2012 16:43:55

Veteran goalkeeper Clint Bolton has re-signed with Melbourne Heart for another year.

The 36-year-old shot-stopper, second on the all-time national league appearances list with 467 matches, enjoyed a fine 2011/12 season between the posts as the Heart made their maiden finals series.

Bolton was also selected in the PFA's A-League team of the season after keeping seven clean sheets.

"I'm looking forward to the next stage of the Heart's evolution. I really want to be a huge part of John Aloisi's first big step as a head coach and make sure he has all the support we can give him as a playing group," Bolton said.

"It's important the club keeps progressing and a lot of that hard work has been done behind the scenes, but ultimately as a team, we need to keep moving forward and do better than we did last season.

"The way we bowed out of the finals in Perth will definitely act as a motivation for the entire squad to improve and I'm eagerly anticipating the challenge ahead."

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, melbourne-3000, vic, australia

First posted May 25, 2012 16:43:55

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QPR's Barton hit with further eight-game ban

Updated May 24, 2012 08:00:10

Queens Park Rangers midfielder Joey Barton will serve a 12-game ban after he was suspended for a further eight matches on Wednesday having been found guilty of violent conduct, the Football Assocation (FA) said in a statement.

He was also fined 75,000 pounds ($120,650).

Barton was sent off for elbowing Manchester City's Carlos Tevez and then kicked Sergio Aguero in QPR's final Premier League game of the season on May 13.

Barton accepted the charge of violent conduct against Aguero but denied the same charge against City defender Vincent Kompany, who he appeared to try and head-butt before being escorted off the pitch.

An Independent Regulatory Commission found Barton guilty of both charges and he will serve the eight-game ban consecutively with the four-match suspension he received for the sending-off, the FA said in a statement on their website.

"Following Barton's dismissal in the 54th minute of the match, there followed two incidents involving Manchester City's Sergio Aguero and Vincent Kompany.

"As Barton had already been dismissed, both of these incidents fell outside the jurisdiction of the referee.

"Barton accepted the charge of violent conduct against Aguero but denied the second breach of violent conduct against Kompany.

"The independent regulatory commission, however, found this second charge proved."

The chairman commission Brian Jones slammed Barton for his actions.

"There are rules of conduct that should be adhered to, and such behaviour tarnishes the image of football in this country, particularly as this match was the pinnacle of the domestic season and watched by millions around the globe," he said.

Barton, 29, who has a long history of trouble on and off the field, had said on Twitter on the day of his sending-off that he had not lost his head, but that a team-mate "suggested I should try to take one of theirs with me."

He later expressed remorse but maintained he had been hard done by.

"Can do nothing but apologise to the players and the fans. Still don't think its a sending off."

QPR lost the game against City but remained in the Premier League by one point.

In May 2008 Barton was sentenced to six months' imprisonment for common assault and affray during an incident in Liverpool.

Reuters

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First posted May 24, 2012 07:56:03

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Mariners re-sign Rogic, Zwaanswijk

Updated May 24, 2012 16:28:03

Central Coast has tied down two of its most influential players with the re-signing of young star Tomas Rogic and veteran defender Patrick Zwaanswijk.

Both Rogic, a talented, young attacking midfielder, and the 37-year-old Zwaanswijk, one of the most reliable central defenders in the A-League, both signed on until the end of the 2013 Asian Champions League group stage.

Rogic was a target for many rival A-League clubs after rocketing on to the scene last season.

Coach Graham Arnold labelled the 19-year-old's retention as a coup for the Mariners as they seek an elusive first title.

"Tomas is one of the brightest prospects in Australian football, a player who could have an outstanding career if developed properly," Arnold said.

"Tommy believed staying at the Mariners was the best thing for his personal development and with a full preseason we believe he will be a key player for us next season."

Rogic revealed Arnold, who turned down a lucrative offer to become coach of Sydney FC, was a big factor in his decision to stay in Gosford.

"A little bit of loyalty can go a long way in football, and hopefully I've shown that (loyalty)," Rogic said.

"I'm pretty grateful to have the other offers that I received [but] I guess I was leaning towards the Mariners because 'Arnie's' here and they gave me a chance in the first place.

"I just thought it was the best decision for my football career at this point in time and a decision that will give me the best chance to develop as a player."

As well as his stable partnership with skipper Alex Wilkinson at the back, Zwaanswijk has scored seven goals in 29 appearances for Central Coast.

"Patrick wanted to play another season and we wanted Patrick to remain a Mariner," Arnold added.

"He has proven in his two seasons in Australia so far that he is one of the best foreign players ever to play in the country.

"We know and expect Patrick will give us the same level of performance next season as he has in the past two years at the club."

The experienced Dutchman said he is both physically and mentally ready for another A-League season.

"It only took two meetings between myself and the club to reach an agreement for next season, which shows you the kind of person I am and the way the club is," he said.

"As soon as I told my wife and kids they were jumping in the air."

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, gosford-2250, nsw, australia

First posted May 24, 2012 16:28:03

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Fabio joins Sky Blues

Updated May 24, 2012 11:40:47

Sydney FC has signed former Melbourne Victory full-back Fabio on a two-year deal.

The Brazilian - whose full name is Fabio Alves Macedo - is new coach Ian Crook's second signing after former Iraqi international Ali Abbas joined at the start of the week.

The pacy left-sided defender made 23 appearances for the Victory and joins Sydney FC after a successful four-day trial.

"I am very happy to be signing for Sydney FC," Fabio said.

"It's a great opportunity for me and I'm going to repay the belief the coach Ian Crook has shown in me."

The much-travelled defender said he was looking forward to playing in front of Sydney's passionate supporters.

"I know that Sydney FC have a great fan base, especially the Cove, and I want to show them I am 110 per cent committed to the club," Fabio said.

"I hope to help Sydney FC win the A-League championship and I can see we are building a squad capable of doing that."

Crook has made no secret of his desire to sign technically proficient players and said the addition of Fabio would strengthen the Sky Blues' defence.

"I think he will improve the team and the squad and that's all that matters right now," Crook said.

"He's technically very good and good on the ball which fits into our possession based game remit.

Crook also touched on the Victory's decision to cut the Brazilian defender loose.

"He feels as though he has a point to prove, so he has a lot of hunger as well," Crook said.

Tags: sport, soccer, a-league, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted May 24, 2012 11:40:47

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Coolen, Reds go to mediation

Updated May 22, 2012 14:40:31

Adelaide United has agreed to go to mediation with its former coach Rini Coolen over a contract dispute.

Coolen was demoted to the position of youth coach last December, 18 months into his four-year contract.

He quit the club and launched proceedings in the South Australian District Court, claiming he is owed a $370,000 salary for each season remaining on his contract, as well as other benefits.

Lawyers for the club told the court it was entitled to require Coolen to undertake other duties under his contract as it was he who chose to leave after his demotion.

Coolen has requested that the matter be expedited because he may be forced to leave the country under the terms of his employment visa.

The parties have agreed to try mediation before the matter returns to court in July.

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First posted May 22, 2012 14:34:50

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Drogba tells team-mates he is off: report

Updated May 22, 2012 08:00:05

Ivory Coast great Didier Drogba has told his Chelsea team-mates he is leaving the newly-crowned Champions League winners because he does not fancy spending time on the substitutes bench, a French football magazine has reported.

The 34-year-old - who scored the late equaliser and then the decisive penalty in the shootout win over German side Bayern Munich on Sunday (AEST) - is quoted by France Football as saying he burst into tears when he told the rest of the squad during their open top bus parade with the trophy the following day.

"We (he and his team-mates) will not be together next season," the magazine cited Drogba as saying.

"As I have decided to leave, I wanted to tell them to their faces.

"Only that I couldn't do it. They made me break down.

"Even if it has been three years that I have said I wanted to leave, I found it hard to admit that it was finished with me and the club.

"Especially that I had no great desire for this end.

"But I don't envisage sitting on the bench watching others play at a time when the club is looking at putting together a new team.

"So there we go, I am readying myself for a great leap into the unknown.

"It will be another adventure," added Drogba, who is out of contract having been at the club since 2004 after joining from Marseille.

English media have linked the Ivorian target man - scorer of 55 goals in his 84 international appearances - with Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua, where his former Chelsea team-mate Nicolas Anelka is player-coach.

AFP

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First posted May 22, 2012 07:53:33

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Milicic joins close mate Popovic at Western Sydney

Updated May 22, 2012 13:22:53

Former Melbourne Heart assistant coach Ante Milicic has left the club to link up with close friend Tony Popovic in western Sydney.

Milicic was widely expected to take over as head coach at the Heart following the departure of Dutchman John van' t Schip.

But with youth team coach John Aloisi promoted to the job instead, Milicic has returned to his home town to work alongside Popovic at the A-League's newest franchise.

Heart chief executive Scott Munn paid tribute to Milicic - who was one of the founding members of the club's coaching staff.

"Ante had a substantial role in the establishment of our playing roster and implementation of the playing style and philosophy which is now our trademark," Munn said.

"While obviously disappointed to see Ante leave, we understand the significance of the opportunity which presented itself in helping establish a team in his home town."

Popovic was named coach of the new western Sydney club last week after quitting his job as assistant coach at English Championship side Crystal Palace.

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First posted May 22, 2012 13:22:53

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Axed Coolen takes Adelaide United to court

Updated May 22, 2012 16:49:16

Dutch soccer coach Rini Coolen fears deportation from Australia while pursuing court action against the A-League club which replaced him, Adelaide United.

Lawyers for Coolen claim United misled the Dutchman, who was dumped as Adelaide's head coach last December - 18 months into a four-year contract worth $1.1 million.

Coolen's lawyers appeared in the South Australian District Court on Tuesday, arguing Adelaide United breached the Dutchman's contract.

But the club says Coolen was not sacked but merely redeployed to a junior development role, which he opted not to perform.

Coolen's lawyer, Andrew Short, said the redeployment was untenable and Coolen was seeking damages over his contract.

Coolen remained in Australia on a visa sponsored by Adelaide United and his living situation was endangered by losing his job, Mr Short told the court.

"It places at risk his ability to stay in the country," he said.

After being removed as coach, Coolen lodged a claim against United under Football Federation Australia's grievance resolution regulations.

But the FFA's appeal committee ruled the case can't go through the grievance process.

The ruling prompted Coolen to go to the district court's civil jurisdiction, seeking damages.

Lawyers for Coolen and United on Tuesday agreed to mediation meetings, with the court setting a settlement conference for July.

AAP

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First posted May 22, 2012 16:49:16

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Abbas joins Sky Blues on two-year deal

Updated May 21, 2012 18:05:22

Ian Crook has made his first signing as Sydney FC boss, bringing former Newcastle midfielder Ali Abbas to the club on a two-year contract.

The left-sided winger promises to give balance to the Blues who lacked natural width this season.

Abbas had been a regular with United for the past three seasons but was released at the end of the 2012 campaign.

"I believe Ali is a fantastic addition to the squad and will have a big impact on the team," Crook said in a statement.

"He has great endurance and is very quick. He is also naturally left-footed which is something we've been missing on the left wing recently.

"I think we have done well to have beaten off competition from other clubs for his signature and he will prove to be a very exciting signing for the Sydney FC fans."

Abbas is hopeful the new era under the former Norwich midfielder will see Sydney challenge for the A-League in 2012/13.

"It is exciting for me to be moving to one of the biggest clubs in Australia, which already has a history of success in the A-League," Abbas said.

"Now I'm ready to focus on training for next season, and help the team challenge for another title."

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted May 21, 2012 17:39:15

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Chelsea parades cup through London

Updated May 21, 2012 06:33:21

Tens of thousands of Chelsea fans have given their team a heroes' welcome as they made an open-top bus parade through their west London home after their Champions League win over Bayern Munich.

Blue-clad fans lined the streets and roared their delight as the hero of the penalty shoot-out victory, Didier Drogba, held the trophy aloft, flanked by captain John Terry, who was suspended for the final in Munich.

The bus was emblazoned with a banner proclaiming "Champions of Europe" and Drogba, who scored the decisive spot-kick in the penalty shoot-out, milked the cheers of the crowd.

Fans cheered, hung from lampposts and sounded horns as the bus passed along the route.

Midfielder Frank Lampard, who was the captain in the final, told the crowd: "We've been here a long time waiting to win this thing and it was the most amazing night of all of our careers.

"And we're just so pleased to come back here and celebrate with all our fans. You've been amazing.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you. The best club in the world - easy."

It was the first time that Chelsea won Europe's biggest club prize, fulfilling the ambition of their oligarch owner Roman Abramovich, who has pumped hundreds of millions of pounds into the club.

The Russian owner and interim manager Roberto di Matteo were both onboard as the bus made its way through the streets of south-west London.

Drogba, 34, could be on his way out of Stamford Bridge after a hugely successful eight-year stay, but he was met with chants of "We want you to stay" by grateful fans lining the route.

The Ivory Coast striker responded by grabbing the microphone and leading the crowd in a rendition of We Are The Champions.

It was a double celebration for the night's other hero, goalkeeper Petr Cech, who turned 30 on Sunday.

The Czech shot-stopper, who saved two penalties during the encounter, was serenaded with a chorus of Happy Birthday.

Fans also indulged in the quirky ritual of throwing celery at the players; a tradition that began in the late 1980s when the club's supporters started throwing sticks in the air while chanting bawdy lyrics.

AFP

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First posted May 21, 2012 06:11:22

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Postecoglou's Victory fall to Olympiakos

Updated May 19, 2012 22:59:22

New Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou's reign has started forgettably as Greek heavyweight Olympiakos cruised to a 4-1 win at Docklands on Saturday night.

Socceroo Archie Thompson was the home side's lone scorer, from a first-half penalty, in the friendly match.

It was Postecoglou's first game since leading Brisbane Roar to a second straight A-League championship in April, four days before being confirmed as the Victory's new boss.

Boasting five Greek internationals tuning up for the upcoming Euro 2012, along with Swedish international Olof Mellberg, Olympiakos were far too classy for the depleted A-League outfit.

The Victory fielded a mostly youthful squad, having recently cut the likes of Carlos Hernandez, Grant Brebner and Ante Covic, while skipper Adrian Leijer, star Harry Kewell and goalkeeper Tando Velaphi were all missing.

Inexperienced goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas faced an unenviable task early, as the talented visitors treated the Victory defence with contempt.

Olympiakos scored three goals in the first 25 minutes, to David Fuster and Ioannis Fetfatzidis, along with a Petar Franjic own-goal.

The lead could have been much greater, three shots missing narrowly and the visitors victims of a doubtful offside call, all within the first 10 minutes.

The attacking showcase delighted the many Olympiakos fans among the 16,879 spectators.

Thompson salvaged some Victory pride from the spot in the 29th minute, having been brought down after a nice through-ball from veteran strike partner Danny Allsopp.

Some threatening runs from Thompson, auditioning for a Socceroos berth in June's World Cup qualifiers, were among the few Victory highlights, although fleet-footed ex-Gold Coast signing Adama Traore had the odd nice moment.

Olympiakos eased up, making eight second-half substitutions, with Fuster chipping in his second in the dying minutes.

Postecoglou said with preseason training not due to start until mid-June and more players still to be signed, he could not read much into the match.

But he said at least much of the Victory squad had now experienced his coaching style.

"It's of no use to me. I think it helps the players a little bit, because they've had a little bit of a taste of what we're going to do and how we're going to play," Postecoglou said.

"Hopefully when we come back into the first day of preseason we're already a step ahead."

AAP

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First posted May 19, 2012 22:59:22

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West Ham wins Premier League promotion

Updated May 20, 2012 06:54:35

West Ham United beat Blackpool 2-1 in a typically tense and scrappy Championship play-off final thanks to an 87th-minute goal from Ricardo Vaz Te which put the Hammers back in the Premier League.

Ian Holloway's Blackpool had much the better of the opening exchanges, with Matt Phillips missing two chances, but it was the London side who took the lead after Carlton Cole deftly controlled Matt Taylor's pass and slotted the ball past Matt Gilks in the 34th minute.

Thomas Ince, son of former West Ham midfielder Paul and booed by the Hammers fans, equalised for Blackpool after getting on the end of a cross-field pass and squeezing past Winston Reid to guide the ball into the net.

Blackpool had the momentum, was keeping possession and soaking up West Ham pressure although it did have an escape when Gilks turned a fine Kevin Nolan volley on to the bar.

Stephen Dobbie, who won the play-off final last year with Swansea City, missed a great chance to put Blackpool ahead when he scuffed a shot wide with only Robert Green to beat.

However, with extra time looming Cole got in the way of Gilks and the loose ball fell to Vaz Te, who lashed the ball into the roof of the net to send the West Ham fans wild.

"Blackpool were equally as good as us today. But, our finishing power in the end, it's about taking your chances," WesHam manager Sam Allardyce told Sky Sports.

"No more so than in a game like today. There were lots of chances for both teams and we've managed to swing it just at the death. Funnily enough it's 49 games and it's the first time we've won a game in the last few minutes all season."

Both sides were relegated from the Premier League last season and West Ham, with former Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers boss Sam Allardyce in charge had been favourites for automatic promotion.

Allardyce suffered criticism from West Ham fans during the season and they were pipped to the top two slots by Reading and Southampton, forcing them into the play-offs where they knocked out Cardiff City in the semi-finals.

"It was very difficult at the start to turn the club around with the relegation problem that we've had, but we've turned it around we came good right at the very end," Allardyce said.

Reuters

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First posted May 20, 2012 05:57:18

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Postecoglou backs Thompson for Socceroos duty

Updated May 20, 2012 18:07:36

Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou feels Archie Thompson is ready to play a big part in the Socceroos' final stage of World Cup qualifying.

Thompson and Victory team-mate Harry Kewell were the only A-League representatives in a 26-man squad named by Holger Osieck last week for June's qualifiers against Oman and Japan.

With the Victory's A-League season having ended in March, there were concerns over the pair's match fitness.

But while Kewell is on leave, Postecoglou said Thompson proved his readiness in Saturday night's 4-1 friendly defeat against powerful Greek club Olympiakos at Docklands.

Thompson scored the Victory's sole goal from a penalty he earned himself.

"He looked sharp," Postecoglou said.

"We wanted to keep him out there for 90 minutes and he ran the game out pretty well, he still ran pretty hard at the end.

"When he got in behind them he caused them problems and got his (penalty) and maybe could have had one more, in terms of opportunities.

"He feels pretty good at the end of the game, so should he be required, I'm sure if there were any doubts about his fitness they'd be dispelled."

Thompson's form was a rare highlight for a mostly inexperienced Victory outfit, who were thoroughly outclassed in Postecoglou's first game in charge.

It was the ex-Brisbane mentor's first match since guiding the Roar to their second straight A-League championship in April.

The margin could have been much greater, the visitors narrowly missing several early chances and subbing off a host of internationals in the second half.

But Postecoglou was pleased his side kept trying to play the style he wanted.

He said it would have made more sense to play the game in July, when the Victory's preseason was underway and they had completed their squad.

"The timing of this one's a little bit out of kilter, to be honest," he said.

AAP

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First posted May 20, 2012 14:56:26

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Drogba leads Chelsea to Champions League glory

Updated May 20, 2012 11:43:13

Didier Drogba was the hero as Chelsea shattered Bayern Munich's Champions League dream with victory in a nail-biting penalty shoot-out at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Drogba stepped up to slot home the winning penalty for Chelsea after earlier saving his side with an equalising goal two minutes from time to cancel out what looked like a winner from Thomas Muller as the match finished at 1-1.

It was an agonising defeat for Bayern, who saw midfield maestro Bastian Schweinsteiger miss with their final kick to give Drogba the opportunity to score the penalty to clinch the shoot-out 4-3.

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech also saved brilliantly from Ivica Ovic to get Chelsea back into the shoot-out after Juan Mata had missed the Premier League side's opening effort.

Cech had earlier saved a Bayern penalty from Arjen Robben in the first period of extra-time as the English side defied the odds once more.

Drogba's winning spot-kick was a fairytale ending for the 34-year-old Ivorian striker, who had been sent off in the final minutes of Chelsea's Champions League final defeat in Moscow four years ago to Manchester United on penalties.

"We have been doing this for years and years. There is a great spirit at the club, we never give up until the end," said Drogba.

"Today was just amazing. Even if they had scored their penalty in extra-time, Juan Mata said we can get another goal. We all believed."

Full-back Ashley Cole added: "We should have lost the game with the amount of chances they had."

"After we lost in Napoli (last 16 first leg), we thought if we can beat them at home then we have the luck and we can win the tournament.

"Even when Robben missed the penalty, we still thought we had time to get another goal and with Petr Cech in goal, we knew we could do it."

The win capped a rollercoaster season for Chelsea, whose campaign has been transformed since Roberto Di Matteo was appointed as interim manager in March following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas.

Di Matteo has guided the club to a Champions League and FA Cup double in the space of a fortnight and is now favourite to land the job on a full-time basis.

"It's what we have wanted and what the owner wanted and Robbie has been superb. We have won the FA Cup and Champions League and he can't do anymore than that," said club captain John Terry, who was suspended for the final.

"It was do-or-die, win the competition or we would not have been in it next year and that was enough to motivate us."

Goal-keeper Cech added: "I think Roberto has done enough to get the job but now it's up to the board to decide."

"When we lost the penalty shoot-out against Manchester United in Moscow maybe it was not meant to be our moment. But as a player you hope you will have the same opportunity to play the final."

Skipper Frank Lampard also lauded Di Matteo who has to wait to see if he will become the permanent coach.

"He's the one we wanted, he's been brilliant. We cannot ask for anymore for what he has done," said Lampard.

"Once we got back into the game, there was a feeling that it would come for us. It wasn't beautiful and we had to dig in. We were a bit mix-and-match, but we got the result."

The loss left Bayern gutted as their dream of lifting their fifth European title before their own fans at their home ground ended in agony.

The Bavarian giants have now lost two of the last three Champions League finals following their 2-0 defeat at the hands of Jose Mourinho-coached Inter Milan in Madrid in 2010.

It was also their second final defeat in seven days after being hammered 5-2 by rivals Dortmund in the German Cup final.

"We missed too many chances," admitted Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes.

"We played well over all and had the majority of possession.

"But we didn't know how to exploit our many opportunities and you have to use them or you will be punished."

A match Bayern had dominated went to penalties after a frenetic finish to normal time, with Muller heading Bayern into the lead seven minutes from time only for Drogba to equalise for Chelsea in the 88th minute.

A dramatic start to extra-time then saw Bayern's former Chelsea winger Robben miss a penalty - saved by Cech - after Drogba had needlessly brought down Franck Ribery in the area.

For much of the match a Bayern victory had looked the likeliest outcome, with the Bundesliga giants revelling in the raucous support of their home fans but wasting a plethora of chances.

The Germans finally found the back of the net when Schweinsteiger's lovely cross from the left found Muller, whose back post header into the ground beat Cech at his near post.

But Drogba levelled the contest with a terrific near post header from Chelsea's first corner just five minutes later.

"I believe a lot in destiny. It was written a long time ago. This team is amazing and I dedicate this cup to all the managers and players we had before," Drogba said.

"(My equaliser) changed the game. Life is fantastic."

Chelsea: 1 (D Drogba 88')

Bayern Munich: 1 (T Muller 83')

Chelsea wins 4-3 on penalties

AFP/Reuters

Tags: champions-league, soccer, sport, english-premier, germany, england, united-kingdom

First posted May 20, 2012 08:04:22

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Sport Medicine Physicians Salaries Analysed - Field Where You Can Earn Plenty

Dumped Owen determined to play on

Updated May 18, 2012 09:39:45

Former England forward Michael Owen said he hoped to continue playing top-level soccer after being told by Manchester United his contract was not being renewed.

"I don't think I have lost the ability to score goals or play at a high level," Owen, who has endured a frustrating three years at United because of injury, told Sky Sports.

"I certainly feel as if I can still play at the top level so we will wait to see where that is. If it's not in the Premier League it may be further afield.

"I don't think the Championship (second division) would be an option, to be totally honest."

The 32-year-old former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Newcastle United striker, who last played in a competitive Manchester United game in November.

"The manager informed me after our testimonial match on Tuesday that the club would not be offering me a new contract," Owen wrote on Twitter.

"I have loved every minute of the three years I have spent at such a fantastic club," added Owen, who was named European Footballer of the Year in 2001.

Owen signed from Newcastle on a free transfer in 2009 and went on to score 17 goals in 52 appearances, winning the 2011 Premier League title - his first English championship medal.

His most notable United strike was an injury-time winner in the Manchester derby three years ago but City got the upper hand this term as they pipped their rivals to the title.

Reuters

Tags: english-premier, soccer, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted May 18, 2012 09:39:45

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Coolen prepares to tackle Reds in court

Loukas Founten

Updated May 18, 2012 18:11:42

Former Adelaide United coach Rini Coolen has launched legal proceedings against the club in the South Australian District Court, claiming his four-year contract was breached.

Coolen was dumped as senior coach in December, 18 months into a four-year contract.

The Dutchman was asked to see out his contract as head of the club's youth development but quit days later and lodged a grievance procedure with the Football Federation Australia (FFA).

But the FFA's Appeal Committee has since decided it cannot handle the matter.

Coolen filed court documents on Wednesday and has requested an urgent hearing.

He claims the clubs owes him $370,000 for each season remaining on his contract as well as a $25,000 bonus for helping the Reds secure a spot in the Asian Champions League.

Coolen says two days before he was demoted he was told by a club representative he had lost the board's confidence and was asked to resign, with the club offering to pay him his entitlements until April this year.

But Coolen declined, saying he wanted to continue in the role.

He also claims the club misled him during contract negotiations in January 2011.

He says his manager John Grimaud received an email from CEO Glenn Elliott, claiming that "we are here for the long term and want Rini with us" and "our word is our bond. We are not people who lose six games and then try to execute the coach."

Coolen says on the strength of that advice, he decided to remain Adelaide rather than accept a higher paying position in Japan.

Coolen was replaced by John Kosmina after a disappointing start to last season.

The matter is due in court next Tuesday and the club is yet to file a defence.

Tags: a-league, soccer, courts-and-trials, adelaide-5000, sa

First posted May 18, 2012 13:46:25

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Glory sign defender Thwaite

Updated May 18, 2012 17:30:23

Perth Glory have snapped up one of the A-League's most sought-after defenders, Michael Thwaite, on a two-year deal.

Thwaite is a six-time Socceroo and considered one of the competition's best central defenders.

He has represented Australia at three levels and previously enjoyed a five-year stint in Europe playing in Romania, Poland and Norway.

The 29-year-old returned to the A-League in 2008 on loan at Melbourne Victory, before spending the past three seasons with the Gold Coast.

Glory coach Ian Ferguson said the signing was a massive boost for the club.

"It's a fantastic coup to bring a quality player like Michael across to Western Australia," he said.

"I am delighted, Michael is a leader and a winner.

"He's very comfortable in possession, he can switch the play, breaks the lines also can drive through the middle.

"Michael has been one of the league's better players for the last three seasons."

Thwaite said he was happy to have his future sorted after the demise of the Gold Coast.

"I'm relieved to finally know where I am heading," he said.

"Within the Perth Glory squad I have previously played with eight or so of the boys and that was a big factor in my decision.

"I also spent two years together with the captain Jacob in Poland so it's nice to have these combinations."

AAP

Tags: sport, soccer, a-league, perth-6000, robina-4226

First posted May 18, 2012 17:30:23

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Reds end group stage on top

Updated May 17, 2012 11:49:03

Adelaide United will host its Asian Champions League round of 16 fixture after posting a 2-0 away victory over Gamba Osaka on Wednesday night.

Substitute Sergio van Dijk's strike and an Akihiro Sato own goal in the second half sealed a deserved victory for the visitors, who will be Australia's sole representative in the knockout stages.

The prize that awaits the triumphant Reds is a clash with Japanese outfit Nagoya Grampus at Hindmarsh Stadium on May 29.

The J-League side - home to Socceroo Josh Kennedy - put the Central Coast Mariners to the sword on Tuesday night and will present the Reds with a formidable challenge.

However, with travel considerations making home advantage particularly beneficial in Asia, the Reds will fancy being able to maintain their stunning Champions League form.

Unable to qualify for the next round Gamba made nine changes to the side that played in the domestic J-League at the weekend, resting a host of key players including club linchpin Yasuhito Endo.

Adelaide coach John Kosmina kept faith in the side that earned a point at home against Uzbek side Bunyodkor two weeks ago, with Iain Fyfe making his first start of the campaign in the absence of injured utility Osama Malik.

Livewire midfielder Iain Ramsay was at the core of much that was good about Adelaide in an attacking sense, particularly early on.

At the other end, Nigel Boogaard made a few telling interventions to keep the hosts at bay.

The recently re-signed Adelaide defender showed a timely touch to deny Gamba on three occasions in the first half, while goalkeeper Eugene Galekovic was forced into a sharp save on the stroke of half-time.

Van Dijk's introduction proved pivotal.

Full-back Daniel Mullen produced a measured cross from the right that was expertly glanced home by the Dutchman in the 67th minute - his first goal of the campaign.

The match sealer came with just three minutes to play after van Dijk was denied his second by a fingertip save from Gamba shot stopper Yosuke Fujigawa.

From the resultant Vidosic corner, Gamba striker Sato turned the ball into his own net at the near post, capping a forgettable night for the hosts but an equally memorable one for Adelaide.

"It's a great achievement, personally I'm really proud of the team," Kosmina said.

"If you look at how we finished the A-League season, we were playing some decent football but it was like we couldn't win a thing.

"The boys, to their credit, have really put their heads down and worked at trying to get something out of this.

"Now we've got everything to look forward to. We've got a game at home in two weeks' time against a very good side, Nagoya, they're going to be tough.

"But, the home ground advantage will put the odds in our favour."

Adelaide United: 2 (S van Dijk 67', A Sato 87' (og))

Gamba Osaka: 0

AAP

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, japan, adelaide-5000, sa, australia

First posted May 16, 2012 22:04:26

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King Kenny dethroned as Liverpool boss

Updated May 17, 2012 06:40:47

Kenny Dalglish has been sacked as manager of Liverpool in a dramatic move by the club's owners following a disappointing Premier League campaign.

The 61-year-old Scot, who had returned for a second stint as manager at Anfield in January last year, paid the price for a dismal season which saw Liverpool finish 37 points behind champions Manchester City.

The Merseyside club's American owners the Fenway Sports Group (FSG) had given Dalglish more than 100 million pounds to spend in the transfer market since he took over from the sacked Roy Hodgson in 2011.

But expensive signings such as Andy Carroll, Stewart Downing, Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam have largely flopped, with Liverpool's eighth place finish its worst season-ending position for nearly two decades.

"Fenway Sports Group and Liverpool Football Club announce that Kenny Dalglish is to leave his post today as manager after having his contract terminated," a joint statement said.

"After a careful and deliberative review of the season the club came to the decision that a change was appropriate.

"It is not a decision that was reached lightly or hastily.

"The search for a new manager will begin immediately."

Liverpool legend Dalglish said in a statement he was "honoured and privileged" to have been given the opportunity to manage the club for a second time.

"I greatly appreciate the work that Steve (Clarke), Kevin (Keen), the players and all of the staff put in during my time and feel proud that we delivered the club's first trophy in six years, winning the (League) Cup, and came close to a second trophy in the FA Cup final," he said.

"Of course I am disappointed with results in the league but I would not have swapped the League Cup win for anything as I know how much it meant to our fans and the club to be back winning trophies.

"I said when first approached about coming back as manager that I would always be of help if I can at any time and that offer remains the same.

"Finally, I want to put on record my heartfelt gratitude to Liverpool's fans, who have always given me and the club their unwavering support.

"Without them neither the club nor I would have achieved anything."

Dalglish remains an iconic figure amongst Liverpool's supporters following an association with the club that straddles five decades.

He was a key figure in the club's 1970s and 1980s glory years, a spell that saw him win eight league titles as player and manager between 1979 and 1990, as well as three European Cups in 1978, 1981 and 1984.

Dalglish is also revered for leading Liverpool through the dark days following the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, attending many of the funerals of the 96 fans who perished in the tragedy, including four in one day.

But his second spell at Anfield was less harmonious, and he suffered a critical mauling for his handling of the Luis Suarez racism affair this season.

Dalglish's steadfast support of the Uruguayan striker, who had been found guilty by an independent FA tribunal of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra, was widely perceived as a public relations disaster.

AFP

Tags: english-premier, soccer, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted May 17, 2012 06:40:47

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West Sydney to sign Popovic

Updated May 15, 2012 16:04:26

Tony Popovic has quit English club Crystal Palace and is poised to join the A-League's new western Sydney side as its foundation manager on a five-year deal, according to reports.

Crystal Palace co-chairman Steve Parish confirmed to English newspaper the South London Press on Monday that former Socceroo Popovic had decided to leave the club, where he is the assistant coach, to head up the western Sydney franchise.

"I've had a conversation with him last night and they have offered him a five-year deal to go," Parish said.

"We're trying to sort out the details."

A five-year deal would be the longest offered to a coach in the A-League.

An announcement is expected this week confirming Popovic's appointment at western Sydney with former Melbourne Heart assistant Ante Milicic also likely to be confirmed as deputy coach at the new club.

Popovic was also courted by Sydney FC, which on Monday promoted its youth league boss Ian Crook to the head coaching role.

The western Sydney franchise is also set to announce a team name with a series of public forums settling on Athletic, Wanderers, Strikers, Wolves and Rangers as the leading contenders with the team colours tipped to be red, black and white.

AAP

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, blacktown-2148, nsw, australia

First posted May 15, 2012 16:04:26

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Roar finish Asian tilt without win

Updated May 16, 2012 22:24:11

Brisbane Roar signed off on their Asian Champions League campaign with a 1-1 draw against Chinese side Beijing Guoan on Wednesday night.

Although neither side could progress past the group stage based on the outcome of the match, it was still an exciting and fiery encounter in front of a crowd of 5,615 at Lang Park.

A combined total of five yellow cards were handed out during the clash.

It was the Roar who were first to find their rhythm, with Besart Berisha opening the scoring in the 15th minute after some classy lead-up play from Mitch Nichols and Kofi Danning.

Danning was in the thick of the action for the next 10 minutes, being a key figure in three more goal-scoring opportunities.

But the Roar wasted their attacking moments, and were made to rue their lack of execution when Beijing midfielder Li Hanbo levelled the scores with a powerful right-foot strike in the 34th minute.

The Roar were once again the dominant side in the second half, spending the majority of the latter stages of the match laying siege to the Beijing goal.

But a strong defensive effort from Beijing, led by ably by goalkeeper Bai Xiaolei, ensured that the scores remained locked up at fulltime.

Beijing coach Jaime Moreira Pacheco heaped praise on Bai's performance between the posts.

"Whenever we needed him he did (deliver) in his best way," he said.

"The way he performed during the match also represents our team's soul."

Brisbane coach Rado Vidosic also paid credit to Beijing's defence in stifling so many of the Roar's attacking opportunities late in the game.

"They had eight, nine, sometimes 10 players in front of the goal, and although we penetrated quite a few times both on the left and right hand sides, unfortunately because the state of the pitch or a lack of concentration we didn't really finish those opportunities," Vidosic said.

Brisbane Roar: 1 (B Berisha 15')

Beijing Guoan: 1 (L Hanbo 34')

AAP

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia, china

First posted May 16, 2012 21:28:48

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Osieck defends Kewell, Thompson selection

Updated May 16, 2012 09:29:48

Socceroos coach Holger Osieck has been forced to defend his selection of Harry Kewell and Archie Thompson for next month's friendly against Denmark and following World Cup qualifiers against Oman and Japan, after admitting match fitness was a concern.

The Melbourne Victory team-mates have not played a competitive fixture in almost two months after their A-League campaign ended in the final round of the regular season on March 24.

But while Osieck, who on Tuesday named an extended 26-man squad for the upcoming matches, admitted the duo - the only A-League representatives named - may not make the final cut he was adamant they deserved a shot to prove their fitness.

Osieck said he had a "very intense chat" with former Liverpool star Kewell.

"He is aware of the situation and he knows my point," Osieck said.

"He is training with a personal trainer and I will definitely give him the opportunity to show whether it is good enough or not.

"Looking back at (the final match of the previous stage of World Cup qualification in February against) Saudi Arabia, he had a decent game and whenever he plays for the team, since I've been in charge, he does a job.

"So why should I not give him the opportunity to show that he is in a good state to play?

"Harry still has a lot of potential, we can't argue that."

Osieck said he will be relying on assistant Socceroos coach Aurelio Vidmar to monitor Thompson's performance in Victory's friendly against Greek club Olympiakos on Saturday before deciding if he will make the final team.

"In his last game against Saudi, when he came on, we were 2-1 down and he changed the picture completely," Osieck recalled of Thompson.

"As coach you should never forget what the good players have done and at least give them the opportunity.

"But the fact that these two guys are on the list doesn't really mean that they will be included in the final selection."

Chris Herd is the only new face in the squad with Osieck saying he was delighted to finally have the West Australian, who plays for Aston Villa, fit after he was unavailable for February's fixture against Saudi Arabia due to injury.

Tim Cahill, Brett Holman and Matt McKay are among those who also missed the Saudi Arabia clash through injury or unavailability to be recalled.

Josh Kennedy was included despite being ruled out of his Japanese club Nagoya Grampus' Asian Champions League clash with the Central Coast Mariners on Tuesday night due to a back injury, with Osieck saying he was waiting on a report from his club's medical team to know the extent of the injury.

Sydney FC marquee pair Nicky Carle and Brett Emerton were not named - Carle has been dropped from the last squad, while Emerton is recovering from ankle surgery.

The Socceroos take on Denmark in Copenhagen on June 2 before kicking off their World Cup Asian fourth-round qualifying campaign against Oman in Muscat on June 8 and Japan in Brisbane four days later.

The Socceroos can book a spot in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil with a top-two finish in Group B which also includes Iraq and Jordan.

Osieck will reduce the squad to 23 players prior to the qualifier against Oman.

Australia:

Mark Bresciano, Alex Brosque, Tim Cahill, David Carney, Nathan Coe (GK), Adam Federici (GK), Chris Herd, Brett Holman, Mile Jedinak, Joshua Kennedy, Harry Kewell, Neil Kilkenny, Robbie Kruse, Matt McKay, Mark Milligan, Lucas Neill, Jade North, Sasa Ognenovski, Nikita Rukavytsya, Mark Schwarzer (GK), Matt Spiranovic, Archie Thompson, Carl Valeri, Luke Wilkshire, Rhys Williams, Michael Zullo.

AAP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, australia, melbourne-3000, vic

First posted May 16, 2012 09:29:48

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