As promised this match lived up to expectations. It was a tense and tight affair with both teams looking for the edge over the other. We had goals, actions and even a little controversy.

Earlier in the afternoon we saw the reserves continue with their improvement and notched up an emphatic 4 –1 win. Opening the scoring was debutant and Football Superstar finalist from Mount Gambier, Cameron Hart. Welcome to the Warriors, Cameron. The reserves gelled well all game and got away to a 2 goal lead in quick time before a long range effort from Werribee brought them back into the game, however the Warriors held firm and patiently built up their attacks for the remainder of the game to slot two more and take them to mid table.

In the seniors game it was almost a mirror image of the reserves first half. The Warriors came out and were stringing the passes together and finding space. D’Antino and Tabak were providing the Werribee wide players a headache and getting the balls into the danger spots. Saric and Cervinksi were showing great leadership and maintaining possession. It wasn’t long before the pressure broke the Werribee defence and their inability to clear a cross from Tabak was pounced on by Demo. The ball seemed to take an eternity to drop over the line, in a desperate attempt the Werribee keeper and defender tried to dive into the goal to dig it out in but the referee saw that the ball crossed the line and 1 – 0 to the Warriors.

That wasn’t enough though. The Warriors sensed the occasion and felt that they could do more. Hard running by Kuna and Zadworny saw the Werribee defence make a second crucial mistake, Kuna running into the box from a counter which was started by Zadworny saw the Werribee defender bundle Kuna over for a clear penalty. Captain Saric stood up to the spot and drilled it in low and hard to give the Warriors a 2 nil lead. This sparked Werribee into action though and the Warriors were facing a challenge now. A few minutes later the Warriors defence gifted a goal to Werribee. Between the keeper and the back three nothing was called on a speculative ball and as a result former Melb Knight Joe Spiteri found himself on the scorers sheet. The remainder of the half saw a see-sawing of build ups which didn’t result in much and the half drew to an end at 2 –1.

In the second half we witnessed an arm wrestle of a contest. Both teams had patches of a few minutes of dominance and with better finishing more goals could have fallen. Zilic was tested a few times but wasn’t about to let another one get through as easy as the first. Adrian Cervinski, belying his 36 years of age was holding firm in midfield with solid support of Patti, Chris Tabak and Zadworny. In the dying minutes the well-organised defence of Davey, Arthey and Saric was tested and Werribee almost pinched another goal but inaccuracy let them down. The Warriors finishing the game on top of the ladder with a small buffer of 4 points between them and four other teams on 20 points. Next Saturday the Warriors head to Williamstown. Last time they met, the Warriors managed to notch up over 15 shots on target without the elusive goal, we’re sure Vinko will have that on the Warriors minds to ensure no lapses in concentration cost their push for promotion.

 

Courtesy:  Geelong Advertiser 

Author:  Bradley Green

North Geelong Warriors eked out a crucial 1-0 victory over promotion rival Altona East Phoenix, thanks to Matthew Demo's winner.

Demo pounced 10 minutes into the second half after Phoenix failed to deal with goalkeeper Daniel Zilic's long punt downfield.

Warriors failed to find any kind of rhythm in the first period, with its scrappy, dis-jointed play highlighting the absence of key midfielders Mijo Trupkovic and the departed Ante Deak.

Phoenix dominated possession for long periods of the first half, with Warriors grateful to Zilic for keeping the scores level at half time.

The experienced keeper blocked a stunning volley from Pan Meletis with the game barely five minutes old and repeated the trick shortly before halftime.

With Warriors over-run in midfield, veteran striker Adrian Cervinski was switched to the centre of the park in the second half.

The move allowed Robert Zadworney, who endured a frustrating first period, to push further forward, with impressive results.

Zadworney's corner was headed across goal by Jonathan Davey to Cervinski, whose overhead kick was met by an equally outrageous scissor kick by Kuna, only for the ball to go agonisingly wide.

With Phoenix pushing forward, Zadworney nearly sealed the game himself after being put clear by John Patti. With just the goalkeeper to beat, Zadworney narrowly missed the target.

Warriors are now a point clear at the top of State League 2.

"I had words with the players at halftime and we turned it around in the second half," Warriors coach Vinko Buljubasic said.

After one week off due to the season break the Warriors ventured up the highway to table topping Brunswick City.  Brunswick has been able to get results from tough games so the day’s encounter was always going to be tough and the added icy and wet conditions added to the atmosphere.

Firstly the reserves got things under way and pressed hard all day for a well deserved 4 – 0 win which will fill the confidence of the boys heading into a home game this coming weekend against another tough opponent in Altona East.  The goals came from A Tabak, D Vodopic x 2 and A Palmieri. Well done lads.

The seniors game was a tentative start but North was pressing early.  Robert Zadworny was lurking as the one most likely and he was causing the Brunswick defence some problems.  Half way through the first half, keeper Zilic launched a long ball which cleared the Brunswick defence, with Zadworny approaching the defender, he did enough to cause some panic and the defender cleared back towards his keeper but overhit the ball and it resulted in an own goal.

As has been the case all year, whenever the Warriors score they go hunting for more.  Only a few minutes passed and Zadworny found himself in a one on one and he finished by shooting over the top of the oncoming keeper to double the difference.  This momentum didn’t relent for most of the first half. Zadworny and Demo both had opportunities to increase the lead further with several prime opportunities.  However the first half came to an end with momentum definitely swaying the Warrior’s way, it was only a matter of whether they would come out in the 2nd half with the same attitude.

The 2nd half got under way and the Warriors were keeping up the pressure.  Brunswick were unable to penetrate enough to cause too much panic to the resolute Warriors defence and the newly formed midfield including Chris Tabak and John Patti were doing a great job linking with Cervinski, Zadworny and Demo.  The opportunities in front of goal kept presenting but the finishing let them down.  Regardless the Warriors did enough to regain top spot and can now look forward to Saturday’s clash vs Altona East at Elcho Park.  An interesting fact for the supporters to note is, that in every game the Warriors have scored this season they have won.

In a game that seemed destined for a nil all draw due to the inability of either team to put the final touches together, North Geelong can consider itself very unlucky to not have gained at least a point out of the weekend’s fixture.

The first half didn’t offer too many clear-cut chances for either team.  Although, as is becoming the trend, North Geelong continues to be the enforcer and enjoyed the greater share of possession however, it wasn’t able to convert that into chances.

Tom Gavran enjoyed his return to the first team, replacing captain Mijo Trupkovic who is out for a few weeks for his upcoming nuptials and he performed admirably.  Gavran was winning possession and distributing but the chances were not coming.  Grgo Saric and Adrian Cervinksi were also offering leadership and as the half wore on it seemed the momentum was swinging and the wide play of Zel Vranjic was coming into play but, time ran out and the teams went in a halftime at 0-0.

The second half started much the same as the first did. North Geelong took a little while to get going and as soon as they were looking the goods, Thomastown capitalised on a diagonal pass which caught North Geelong’s midfield square and up the pitch, a ball which the defence attempted to catch Thomastown offside but, the linesman’s flag stayed down and the cross was pushed past Zilic to give the visitors the lead.

The Warriors responded with immediate pressure and you felt like the tide was turning, Gavran, Siketa and Vranjic were getting time on the ball and finding the gaps, but Thomastown were not letting go of three points that easily and gave Demo and Cervinksi no room. Zadworny found himself in gaps as he tends to do but the finish wasn’t there on the day.  

Soon after North Geelong received a penalty and the experienced Cervinksi was lining up for what everyone took for granted would be a goal, unfortunately, the keeper had his measure and saved well.  That was the story of the day, a lot of dominance but chances gone begging.  The game ended 0 – 1 to Thomastown and the league is now congested with 6 teams separated by 3 points.

Next week is a catch up round and North Geelong has no game, it’s next match is against league leader Brunswick City away on the 13^th June. The next home match is against Altona East on June 20^th.

This Sunday is North Geelong’s monthly club lunch, come and relax and chat with friends with a beautiful 3-course lunch. Call Josip on 0424 145 552 or George on 0438 043 029 for bookings.

Author: Bradley Green

Courtesy: Geelong advertiser

SOCCEROOS coach Pim Verbeek said Geelong youngster Matthew Spiranovic is in the running to fill the central defender's position along side captain Lucas Neill in the side's upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Spiranovic was yesterday named in a 30-man Socceroos squad for the matches against Qatar (Doha, June 7), Bahrain (Sydney, June 10) and Japan (MCG, June 17).

Australia only needs one point to secure qualification for next year's World Cup in South Africa.

The German-based Spiranovic will fly to Dubai next week to join the rest of the squad for a training camp.

Verbeek said Spiranovic, 20, had completely recovered from a serious ankle injury he suffered in an awkward training tackle last November - just days before he was to fly to Bahrain for an earlier World Cup qualifier - and was eager to be part of the squad.

"I flew to Germany last Sunday and saw him play in the (FC Nuremberg) reserves team and he's 100 per cent fit," Verbeek told The Geelong Advertiser from The Netherlands last night.

"He's had a long break and he looks very fit and sharp and he said he's had enough of a holiday with his injury and he's wants to be a part of the Socceroos squad.

"I think it's a great experience for players of that age to be in the group."

Spiranovic made his Socceroos' debut in a friendly against Ghana in May before playing China in a June dead-rubber World Cup qualifier.

The 193cm stopper also played all three games in the Olyroos' Beijing Olympics campaign.

Verbeek said Spiranovic was among a number of players he had in mind for the central defenders position.

"I have some ideas, but in football, two weeks before the game, I have to wait until the final day to know exactly," Verbeek said.

Spiranovic is also a nominee for the inaugural Harry Kewell Medal as Australia's top under-23 player.

Verbeek said if Australia secures a place in next year's World Cup, the next 12 months would be important for players like Spiranovic.

"I like to give young players the opportunity to train with the big boys, so they can learn from them and also show themselves," Verbeek said.

"In the next year, a lot can happen and then they have to be ready. So at this time of the year it's better for them to be part of this selection rather than sitting on the beach."

Derbies are a tense and torrid affair and this one was no different.  It had goals, end to action, mistakes, skills and atmosphere.  

The day took on a serious note before the commencement of each match, as the club received news that morning that one of it’s much loved and dedicated foundation members Mr Stipe Tabak passed away after a battle with illness.  From the North Geelong Soccer Club we wish to extend our deepest condolences to the Tabak family and although Stipe was not there in body, we feel his presence here.  May he rest in peace.

A great day for local soccer, as the teams from Under 6 to Under 15 took part in North Geelong Warriors v Geelong Rangers matches throughout the day and you could see they were excited to be there on the big stage. 

The atmosphere changed tune at 1pm as you could sense the importance of the occasion beginning to take hold on the pitch.  Reserves action was in full swing, the Warriors were showing grit and determination.  They put in a massive team effort and kept their opponents at bay all day.  Midfield pressure and clinical finishing resulted in their second win in a row as well as their second clean sheet in a row.  Goals to Mark Alic, Tommy Gavran and 2 to Marinko Pausak gave the Warriors an emphatic 4 nil victory and a sign to the club that they are as serious about the season as their senior team peers.

That brought on the seniors.  You could feel the mood swing from anxious anticipation to nervous tension.  Both teams looking to take out the victory.  Warriors to consolidate top spot and keep the pressure on those looking to take top spot off them, Rangers to edge closer and return to the winners list.  

The match didn’t disappoint, both teams had patches of domination where they could have taken the lead.  Rangers were pressuring the passing game of the Warriors and the Warriors were stretching the Rangers defence.  Early opportunities fell to both sides.  Troy Hardy and James Blackburn had shots brilliantly saved by Zilic while Cervinski and Zadworny missed time shots just passed the bar.  However the first half drew to a close with the scores at 0 –0 and lots to look forward to.   

 It was Rangers who came out of blocks harder in the second half and looked to settle early.  They were threading balls long into gaps and getting the ball into the box for their target man Hardy.  They got their reward when Hardy with the ball at his feet, tapped it once and unleashed to notch up the lead.  This woke the Warriors into action and they responded two minutes later from great ball by Cervinski who found Robert Zadworny to put the game back in the balance.

The pressure kept ebbing and flowing from both teams and Rangers were unlucky to not be up another couple of goals if it wasn’t for keeper Zilic who was brilliant all day.

With 10 minutes to go, a through ball found Cervinksi running onto it, to fortunately slip the ball past the advancing Marinovic in goals.  With time still left to equalise the Rangers went at it and had several chances, the stumbling block for them was their finishing and the Warriors custodian in goals Daniel Zilic.  The referee’s whistle bought the match to an end and another Warriors victory to keep them settled in top spot.

It was always going to be tough being a derby match, it was never going to be a blow out, whether the better team won on the day is debatable, but the ability to stand firm in a tough hitout will reinforce to the Warriors that they have the self belief to march on and keep winning.

IT’S TIME. The match we’ve all been waiting for this year. This Saturday 16th May

What a day we have for you.  All matches including juniors are NORTH GEELONG WARRIORS vs Geelong Rangers.  It all starts at 11am with Under 12s and Under 15s GRFA teams.  Followed by the Reserves at 1pm and the big match with the Seniors at 3pm. 

Could we add anymore to this, you bet.  Let’s not forget our youngest competitors.  Half time of the senior game will see NORTH GEELONG WARRIORS vs Geelong Rangers Under 6s. 

No matter what kind of weather we have NORTH GEELONG WARRIORS will provide an all day extravaganza of fun.  Plenty of undercover seating and standing room, you can enjoy the warm hospitality of our kitchen and bar service and we’ve also included a jumping castle in the clubrooms.

The big match itself promises to be a memorable one.  You can always count on these two teams to provide their fans plenty to cheer about.

NORTH GEELONG WARRIORS have had a good couple of weeks scoring nine goals, whilst Rangers will be looking for a return to form after letting 7 goals get through, in the last 2 weeks.   Both teams contain players and coaching staff who have played or been a part of each others set up at some point in time so we look forward to seeing the teams pushing each other to get the best out of each other.   One thing for sure is friendships will be put aside as the teams do battle to get one up on each other.

We have invited the Rangers supporters to feel free to use the service, so if you see someone walking towards a pick up point, kindly ask the driver to stop and let them on.  Pick ups run from 12:30pm to 2pm and start at THE AUSTRALIAN CROATIAN ASSOCIATION - SEPARATION ST BELL PARK, then to Hedgeley Rd and pick up is between Manooka and Nicole Crt, next is STEVE NAJDA’S CELLARBRATIONS on Anakie Rd and lastly THE CROATIAN COMMUNITY CENTRE on Cnr Cox and Mathews Rds Corio.  Return trips after the match commence at 5:30pm

North Geelong Warriors run a corporate box on match days and it is available to anyone not just businesses.  If you would like a catered afternoon, you might be celebrating or would just like the comfort of your spot to watch the Warriors do their thing, well we’ve got the answer.  It can cater for up to 10 people with food and drinks, so please see the committee for details.  We are giving supporters an opportunity to win an afternoon in the Corporate Box for 6 people.  Tickets will be on sale at the ground and at THE AUSTRALIAN CROATIAN ASSOCIATION - SEPARATION ST BELL PARK, The winner and 5 friends will enjoy a pre game platter, a range of soft drinks, wines, beers and mixed drinks and a half time lunch.

Thank you to our volunteers and helpers at the club. Every little bit helps and we appreciate you offering your time for the club. If you are able to offer an hour or two here and there throughout the year let us know we definitely need the help.

Every 1st Sunday of the month you and your family and friends can come along to our club lunches and have 3 course meal, Soup, Sarma (cabbage rolls) spit roast and fried meats with salads. $15 for adults to 12 year olds, $10 for 12 to 6 yr olds and children under 6 years are free. There are no games scheduled this weekend so take the time to catch up with family and friends with the comfort a great meal. Please call Josip on 0424 145 552 or George on 0438 043 029 for bookings.

COME ON WARRIORS!!

Thank you, from the committee at North Geelong Soccer Club

North Geelong put in a team effort to come from behind to beat Westgate 6 - 2. Goals came from five different scorers in what surely goes down as one of the great matches at Elcho Park, not only because of the amount of goals but also for in the manner it what achieved.

The first 15 minutes were sluggish and Westgate looked more likely to score. Initial lead up play wasn’t working as it did the previous week and mistakes were creeping in.  It was a mistake that led to the first goal, where Westgate pressured Saric and Arthey to turn the ball over in their own defensive third as they were pushing up the ground. Westgate pounced and sent a long pass into the box to which keeper Zilic would have normally met.   The Westgate striker was on hand to head the ball towards Zilic and he didn’t hold on, as a result eh ball bobbled into the goal.

However to the Warriors credit they responded perfectly. Being a goal down sparked them into gear and it brought on wave after wave of attack. Soon after Saric dashing through the midfield connected passes with three different players to find the ball abck at his feet and slotted it past the keeper. The attack kept coming but the referee’s whistle brought an end to the half.

The second half saw the Warriors take off where they left off. The teamwork was a beautiful sight to see and the fans could see that the boys on the park were looking for more.  They weren’t disappointed. A long ball clearance by Westgate, found Trupkovic and he headed down toward the running Zadworny, his link up with Demo found him in the box to inflict his own damage on the score board.  The next 25 mins were a lesson in football for the Westgate team. Next on the scoresheet was Cervinski, who battled hard and contributed to many of the lead up pieces to get a reward of his own. He was on hand in the box to stab in a typical strikers goal pouncing on a loose ball. 

So consistent was the Warriors lead up play that they had defenders join in the attack.  Jonathan Davey surged forward to meet a cross in the 6 yard box and barrelled in a goal that will no doubt endear him to the North Geelong faithful for a long time to come.  If that wasn’t enough the next goal was surely a pleasure to see.  From the last line of defence to the goal, no Westgate player touched the ball. Saric found Trupkovic for a quick pass to each other and released D’Antino who weaved past the defence, his cut back pass into the 16 yard box was met perfectly by Cervinksi who slammed it into the top corner. 

You could forgive the Warriors for letting back a bit as they were caught by a speculative cross which everyone except the referee thought was offside.  None the less Westgate swooped onto it to slot in their second but, the Warriors weren’t done yet either.  Palmieri did exactly what every coach wants from their subs and got involved and contributed. His goal and North’s 6th sealed a famous win. 

A win which we dedicate to a club favourite, one of North Geelong Warriors founding members, Stipe Tabak who has been battling illness in recent time.  Stipe was in attendance with his sons to watch the big occasion and after the final whistle, the players, coaches and board members went over to his direction to applaud a man who has proudly worked, toiled and supported our proud club.

See you next Saturday at Elcho Park for the big derby between North Geelong Warriors and Geelong Rangers.