FOOTBALL  CLUB

NEWSLETTER No 9:   2009                                          June

UNI’S BIG FINISH TO FIRST HALF OF SEASON

Round nine of the IFA City Coast Credit Union District League saw all three Uni IFA teams at home for only the second time this season on a heavy Kooloobong pitch following the recent persistent rain. And what a successful day it turned out to be!

In first grade Uni welcomed their 2007/2008 grand final nemesis Berkeley Sports FC for a match which promised to bring out the best in an underperforming Uni outfit. The challenge to be the first team this season to take as much as a point off the competition leaders should have been enough to lift the side and from the kick-off it was apparent that this was going to be a memorable game for the good crowd in attendance. The game opened at a lively and competitive pace, keeping the officials alert. After an even first twenty minutes Uni was the first to score just on the half-hour, the outcome of a fine piece of clinical and quick passing which found Dave Boscoscuro on the end of it as he beat the opposition keeper well with a low left foot shot into the corner. Again the contest was even and competitive. A free-kick awarded to the visitors as the half came to a close was enough to have the scores at 1 goal each by HT.

The second period was no less dramatic. Each team had a player dismissed as the pressure proved too much for them to handle. With a ten-a-side game chances were bound to open up at both ends. The Uni defense kept its composure and concentration, while the opposition in its efforts to find a winner left itself exposed at the back. A through ball to substitute Pete Richardson saw the defender with a clear path to goal and the Uni faithful rose as one when his precisely placed chip floated over the GK and just under the crossbar to crease the net in the most perfect way with five minutes remaining.  2 – 1 Uni at the end and well deserved. No doubt the boys will be anticipating the return game at BSC in the last match before the finals.

In Youth Grade Uni confronted an evenly matched opponent with at least one very over aged player in their starting eleven. The side is showing they are up for the task and gave as good as they got and even when the visitors took the lead kept to their game plan. Persistent pressure was rewarded just on HT when a Uni player was adjudged to have been fouled and the ref pointed to the spot, allowing Johnno Cook to equalize for the home team. The second half was again evenly contested in both the physical and verbal sense as neither team was able to break the deadlock, each taking a point. It is encouraging for coach Nathan Broad to see how his players are showing more confidence as they now play to win for the full ninety minutes, and are not just satisfied with a draw. Well done to the youthies!

In Division one  the Uniressies started the second half of their league against Bellambi FC. After conceding an early goal, the team was rarely troubled by the opponent, and goals to  Richmond and Matt Harvey had them in front by HT. The second half was none the less convincing and apart from some tiredness and a lack of composure in front of goal, the score could have blown out against a pedestrian defense. As it was sub Nathan Broad came on and scored from a free kick (very soft!), and then again to give Uni an easy  4 – 1 victory.

In the Uni women’s teams the Hippos 1 had an 11 goals to nil walk over against Woonona 2, while the Hippos 2 side went down 0 – 4 to Woonona 1. The champion Hippos 1 side will play in the final of the State Cup v Cronulla at Parklea no 1 on Sunday 5^th July  at 2.15pm. Congratulations and Good Luck to the girls from all at UOWFC! This side has also qualified for the IWFA INFOCUS Association Cup final on 12^th July against Albion Park.

While little has been heard from the IAFA teams, they too are in the second half of their season. In Div1 the Uniwolves lie in 3^rd /11 teams with 25 points from 13 games; in Div2 the Unibombers are 7^th/12 with 20 pts from 13 games, and Uniathletic are 11^th/12 with 8 pts from 13 games; Div3 Uni6 are 7^th/12 with 16pts from 13 games; Masters2 Unigangrenes are 11^th/12 with 5 pts from 12 games.

From the Committee: Lindsay reports that the MID-SEASON FUNCTION has been set down for Friday 24^th July at the Master Builders. While it is appreciated that this may not suit teams playing on Saturday, this is the best date available as there are no Saturdays free at this time of year. We need to get a good rollup for a good night. You can go easy on the beer and go home early, and still have a good time!!

A reminder - Teams using Kooloobong Grounds are expected to put rubbish in the bins provided after games, as well put away the nets etc. A bit of a clean up saves a lot of work for other people. Thanks!

Congratulations to firstgrade captain Tor Preece who is currently leading the IFA CCCUDL best and fairest points score at the halfway mark. Go Tor!

While on the topic of Uni players who are going well, ex-Uni captain and now Tarrawanna captain Tim O’Brien is well up with the leaders in the Illawarra Mercury Premier League b&f points score at the half way point, while Uni 2007/2008 captain Rob Denmead is going well with the Fernhill club who are currently in second spot in the Premier League. Good to see these players doing well in the higher division. One day it is hoped talented players will not need to leave Uni to achieve their football ambitions.  

For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

NEWSLETTER No 8:   2009                                          June

Double header for Uni teams

Last weekend was a big one for the Uni teams with games on Saturday and Sunday keeping players busy.

Saturday saw the firsts and YG  up against Thirroul at Slacky Flat.

This is a unique environment for football with the pitch in the middle of a trotting/dog track, while the spectators sit in the stand over 50 metres away.

Anyhow the firsts started off  looking to score an early goal and they dominated the ball in the early part of the game without scoring. Thirroul came back into the match as the first half ended as anybodies game at 0 – 0.  Early in the second period Dan Baker had a one on one which the GK managed to block and then Paul Buchanan had a header skim the cross bar. In such a tight situation chances must be taken and Thirroul took the lead when Barass was beaten by a good shot into the top corner. As the gloom of a rainy, overcast afternoon settled in, Uni were unable to find an equalizer and were forced to leave with nothing to show for their efforts.

Youth grade also had a frustrating afternoon as they looked to achieve their first win of the season. The first half showed some positive signs for the team, and HT came with neither side registering a score. As the second half progressed, Uni started to knock the ball around well and pushed their more highly placed opponents. A goal against the run of play from a corner had the home side in front and signalled a Uni collapse. Two more goals and they were three down, before Johnno Cook scored after good work from Jack Parle. It ended with Uni 1 – 3 down.

The Division 1 team had a tough assignment away at Woonona. Thanks to goals from Richmond and a screamer from Bolty, they lead 2 – 0 at HT. Resolute defence saw them hold off the opponent and Raph did well to keep a clean sheet in the Uni goal. The boys were well satisfied to come away with a 2 – 0 win.

Sunday saw for the first time this season, all three IFA teams at Kooloobong. The first grade needed to win against Bellambi  and they started well when Bosco flicked his header past the hapless GK from a Tor cross. Not long after this ill-discipline saw a Bellambi player sent from the field. More drama was to follow when an opposition defender in attempting to thwart a Uni attacker, suffered a severe break to his leg. This resulted in a long delay while the ambulance people took him to hospital and put back the game by over 30 minutes. Despite a short HT break, the referee was forced to call the game off twenty minutes early due to bad light (Kooloobong’s lights are not up to match standard!), but not before Bellambi had equalized through a shot from outside the box, which just crept inside the post despite Barass’ full length dive. We wait for the IFA’s decision as to a replay.

Youth grade were looking to improve on the previous day’s performance, but went a goal down almost from the kick-off. To their credit they kept their heads up and were able to establish a lead by HT, thanks to goals by Toby and Alex, and lead 2 – 1. The second half was a rugged affair as both sides tried to get a result. Uni held out for a deserved first win of the season, the first of many to come.

The Division 1 side were confident of another win against Ruse after the previous result against Woonona. Possibly underestimating the opponent, they were behind after 3 minutes. Bolty again equalized with a screamer, before the team gave away two goals from set pieces aided by deflections. Matt Harvey pulled one back before HT. At 2 – 3 Uni were in the game and had chances to equalize before Ruse scored their fourth mid-way through the half. Uni dominated possession for the rest of the game but were unable to score and it ended 2 – 4 against.

Congratulations to the HIPPOS 1 team in defeating Woonona 2 –0 in the quarter-finals of the State Cup. They are now into the semis! The HIPPOS 2 team also recorded a good 4 – 1 win against Shellharbour 2 last Sunday in their IWFA Div 1 game.

From the Committee: Teams using Kooloobong Grounds are expected to put rubbish in the bins provided after games, as well as put away the nets etc. A bit of a clean up saves a lot of work for other people. Thanks!

 For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

                  FOOTBALL  CLUB

NEWSLETTER No 7:   2009                                          June

HIGHLIGHTS OF ROUND 6

Over the long weekend the Firsts and YG sides were scheduled to play Kiama away on Saturday and the catch up game against Bellambi on Monday at Kooloobong. However the wet spell closed down Kooloobong (again!!),so that Saturday was the only day’s football played.

 First grade took to the field in a more determined frame of mind than was the case against Helensburgh and their sense of purpose showed from the opening whistle. After the early exchanges were even, Dan Baker opened the scoring for Uni when he fired his shot through an unsuspecting defense following a quick free kick. Goes to show what a bit of creativity and quick thinking can do in this game! Uni held this lead at HT and the second period looked promising until a free kick conceded just outside the area from in front came off the cross bar, allowing an easy tap in by the opposing striker with the defense transfixed. At 1 – 1 the game was tight and yet it was Uni who had the best chances to go ahead as a one V one was pushed wide by Paul Buchanan and Dan B managed to shoot over the top with the goal at his mercy.   Bolty and Richmond came on to add an extra presence to Uni’s attack but the winner did not happen. Still a point at the Quarry looks fair on paper, although the reality could have been better.

 Youth Grade had one of those off days that come the way of most teams in a season every so often. Down 0 – 2 at HT and 0 – 5 at FT just about sums up their day. A massive improvement is expected away at Thirroul this weekend on Saturday and again on Sunday V Bellambi as the team goes about looking for their first win of the season.

Division One had a bye and will be looking to return to the winners list away to Woonona on Saturday.

 In the Amateur (IAFA) teams in Div 1 the Uni Wolves lie in 7^th place after 9 games on 13 points. In Div 2 the Uni Bombers are in 6^th place after 10 games on 16 points  and Uni Athletic are in 10^th place on 7 points after 10 games. In Div 3 Uni6 are in 7^th place with 12 points from 9 games. The Uni Gangrenes are still managing to get around in the Masters 2 comp and are currently in 12th spot with one win and 4 points from 10 games.

 In the IWFA comps Hippos 1 are leading after 6 games undefeated on 18 points in Div 1. In Div 2 the Hippos 2 are in 8^th place with 6 points from 6 games. The H1 team have a big State Cup game against local rivals Woonona in round 4 of this competition this Sunday 14^th June. Good luck to the girls!

 At the June monthly management meeting among the usual matters about fees and money (see Murray) discussion concerned the MID-SEASON FUNCTION which will go ahead. Each team must provide a committee member to organize this so that it will be a success and a good night for everyone.

Also there has been a request from an interested party re establishing a JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB under the banner of UOWFC. It was decided further details are required as to the exact nature of the request.

A canteen audit by the Wollongong Council has indicated that some minor work needs to be done to bring this facility up to standard. This will be undertaken as soon as possible by the club and possibly URAC.

 NOTE: FEES ARE NOW DUE—IFA players give money to Murray Doyle (treasurer); IWFA and IAFA players give money to their team organizer.

 For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

Postal address: C/- University of Wollongong Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Northfields Ave, Gwyneville NSW 2522

Email:  uwsc@hotmail.com

Quote

                  FOOTBALL  CLUB

 

NEWSLETTER No 6:   2009                                          June

 

HIGHLIGHTS OF ROUND 5

 

In heavy conditions the Uni Firsts and Youth Grade teams made the trip to Rex Jackson Oval at Helensburgh last Saturday. This again proved to be a tough assignment and both sides came away without points for their efforts.

 

The first grade team fell behind in the first half by conceding two goals in a dispirited display in which they were unable to compete with their opponent’s speed and use of the football. Uni’s cause was not helped with an injury to Bosco after twenty minutes which could have him out for several weeks. After coach Brod pointed out some relevant facts in his HT address, the players did pick up their game and Paul Buchs got  a goal back to make it 1 – 2. However a late goal to the home side determined the final outcome and at FT it was 1 – 3 down.

 

The story in YG was similar. Up against the competition leader, the boys were down 0 – 3 after 20 minutes courtesy of one of their over age players. Coach Nathan changed around the formation at HT and the second period was a better effort. A goal to Tim made it 1 – 3 before Helensburgh added the fourth late in the match.

 

Division 1 fell to their third defeat of the season at home against Thirroul. The game started off at an entertaining pace and Uni looked good early. Despite this the visitors scored first as the defense was found wanting under pressure. Uni’s reply was positive and Bolty finished off a good piece of play from a poor defensive clearance and then Flash’s long shot found its way to the back of the net to have Uni leading at HT. Again the Uni team dominated the ball early in the second half, only to see poor defensive marking and lack of application find them out. Two second half goals to Thirroul and it was all over in a game Uni should have got something from.

 

The Hippos 1 and 2 teams are still involved in their competitions although no details have been received. The IAFA sides also had a busy weekend, with Uni Athletic scoring a 4 – 2 victory over their comp leader, while the Uni 6 side were soundly defeated in their match. The Bombers had an interesting match against the Figtree amateurs team containing six former members of  Uni’s first/reserves from recent seasons.  It was a case of Uni V X – Uni.

The next club managers meeting will take place on Monday night 8^th June at 7.00 pm at the Builders and all interested members are welcome to attend.

 

NOTE: FEES ARE NOW DUE—IFA players give money to Murray Doyle (treasurer); IWFA and IAFA players give money to their team organizer.

 

 

 

  For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

 

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

Postal address: C/- University of Wollongong Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Northfields Ave, Gwyneville NSW 2522

Email:  uwsc@hotmail.com

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

                  FOOTBALL  CLUB

NEWSLETTER No 5:   2009                                          May

HIGHLIGHTS OF ROUND 3

First and youth grade were up against the Shell Cove sides in round 3 at Barrack Heights Oval last Saturday, and came away from a difficult location with a win in firsts and a draw in Youth grade.

In very windy conditions on a hard, bumpy surface the firsts did enough to deserve their 2 -0 result. In the first half the inclusion of Jacob Lackenby in his first full game back from injury provided the class and vision on the ball needed to achieve the control in midfield missing in earlier games. This along with Dan Baker finding his finishing ability from last season and a tighter defensive game in which Bosco was again prominent, were the key to the victory. The first goal was well put away by Dan in a typical sharp strike midway through the first period. The second resulted when Paul Buchanan rose well to score from the head and it was two up by HT. Although no further goals were added in the second period, the team held together well under the circumstances in a positive sign that the  concentration is improving. However as coach Brod admitted, there is plenty of room to improve in coming games.

The Youth grade boys maintained their unbeaten run with the third draw in as many matches. The Uni side took the lead with a fine individual effort from Tim Eldersley, before the opponent equalized before HT. Uni again took the lead through Anthonio, only to surrender it again to an unfortunate mix up in communication which lead to the ball bouncing over Jacob’s head into the net. The Cove then took the lead and defeat for Uni looked on the cards before Johnno finished off well to earn a point for his team. Coach Nathan was pleased with the manner in which his team fought back after going behind, yet would like to see the boys demonstrate the extra mental application needed to win matches they should have under their control.

The Division 1 team had a loss against Picton Rangers away on Saturday, going down 2 – 3 with goals by Aaron and Richmond. On Sunday they played a deferred game (see website for a report).

The Hippos 1 and Hippos 2 teams have scored good wins in the IWFA Div 1comp. The H1’s trounced Shellharbour 12-0 and are up against Sydney Uni in the State Cup, in what promises to be a tough encounter. The H2’s defeated Thirroul 4-1 and are forming into a more than useful team as the season progresses.

The IAFA sides are again keeping a low profile, but as far as the club knows are still active in their various comps.

NOTE: FEES ARE NOW DUE—IFA players give money to Murray Doyle (treasurer); IWFA and IAFA players give money to their team organizer.

For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

Postal address: C/- University of Wollongong Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Northfields Ave, Gwyneville NSW 2522

Email:  uwsc@hotmail.com

                  FOOTBALL  CLUB

NEWSLETTER No 4:   2009                                          May

HIGHLIGHTS OF ROUND 2

The first home game of the season for the main IFA teams welcomed Corrimal Rangers to Kooloobong on a perfect autumn day for football. Going on previous encounters between these clubs, Uni teams expected to end the day with maximum points without having to exert too much effort. As it turned out this could not have been further from the truth.

In first grade the initial half went according to the script as goals to Bosco (a screamer), Paul Buchanan and Dan Baker had the team 3 goals up by HT, and but for some careless finishing flattered the visitors. The second period showed what a fickle game football can be as the match turned around. Possibly complacent after the comfort of the first half, the Uni side lacked any sign of being able to finish off the opponent and allowed Corrimal to get back in. As Uni conceded mid-field and possession, Corrimal found themselves able to get in behind a ball-watching defense and threaten the Uni goal. Their first goal earned via a penalty awarded by a sympathetic referee, seemed to lift their effort and press the Uni side into their own half. The second came not too long after, with the defense badly caught out of position. At 2-3 it was game on and coach Brod hit the panic button, making several substitutions in an effort to add more energy into an attack which struggled to make any effect in the attacking third. At one point with all field subs used up, Barass had to come out of his goal to play up front and reserve GK Jacob went between the sticks. It ended with Uni in front, although hardly a convincing performance against the perennial District League strugglers. Uni face another lowly rated side next week away to Shell Cove and will need to be wary of a club chasing their first first-grade win since returning to IFA football.

The youth grade side is still looking for their first league win of 2009 and were expected to achieve this against Corrimal. Down by a goal  early on, Johnno Cook got them back on level terms by HT. Vegar promoted from the Division 1 side to play a striking role, was able to put the Uni boys back in front despite receiving a knock into the second half. As in the previous game the boys could not dominate their opponent and again conceded to make it 2-2 at FT. Two draws from two games is not a bad start, but the team needs to start picking up wins and three points on a regular basis to keep in touch with the leaders.

The Division 1 team made the road trip to Kiama and left with a solid 5 – 1 win, the highlight being a four goal performance from Aaron. Not a bad effort from a player who came off the bench in the first few games, before filling in as GK in the previous game against Kemblawarra (and keeping a clean sheet!) Could a first grade spot be on the cards? Having secured a spot in the top four with a game in hand the Div 1’s are going well. This weekend they again have a long road trip to Hume Oval, the home of Premier League club Picton Rangers, before backing up on Sunday against Fernhill at Kooloobong in a deferred game.

The women’s teams hippos 1 and hippos 2 met in the early game prior to the youth grade and an entertaining encounter saw the H1’s win 4 – 0 against a determined H2 team. It was pleasing to see the girls stay on to support the youthies and firsts, as their presence certainly added more colour to the day’s events.

The amateurs are still playing, but as yet there have been no details as to how they are going!

The club would like to see the Wolves, Bombers, U6 and Gangrenes keep it informed as they too are a part of the club.

For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

Postal address: C/- University of Wollongong Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Northfields Ave, Gwyneville NSW 2522

Email:  uwsc@hotmail.com

Quote

Results - 9/5/09

 

The results from the weekend were:

Firstgrade Vs Corrimal

Uni 3 - Corrimal 2

 

Youthgrade Vs Corrimal

Uni 2 - Corrimal 2

 

Resies Vs Kiama (@ kiama)

Uni 5 - Kiama 1

match report (written on beer coasters @ the builders by multiple reporters) - "Uni withstood a barrage of late kiama challenges (specifically from rambo) to run out comfortable winners. Some young lad from youthgrade stole the show. Have you heard about the word? the bird is the word. Matt harvey toiled hard in both halves for no reward. following a poor 1st half, a stiring 1/2 time speech from fill in manager Oscar gave the boys the lift they needed. Chris Dimoski made the best of a starting opportunity with a solid performance against a lack lustre attack. Jack had a good cameo to... (unreadable)......also Aaron scored 4 goals"

 

 

Hippos 1 vs Hippos 2 -

Hippos 1 won 3 - 0

                  FOOTBALL  CLUB

NEWSLETTER No 4:   2009                                          May

HIGHLIGHTS OF ROUND 2

The first home game of the season for the main IFA teams welcomed Corrimal Rangers to Kooloobong on a perfect autumn day for football. Going on previous encounters between these clubs, Uni teams expected to end the day with maximum points without having to exert too much effort. As it turned out this could not have been further from the truth.

In first grade the initial half went according to the script as goals to Bosco (a screamer), Paul Buchanan and Dan Baker had the team 3 goals up by HT, and but for some careless finishing flattered the visitors. The second period showed what a fickle game football can be as the match turned around. Possibly complacent after the comfort of the first half, the Uni side lacked any sign of being able to finish off the opponent and allowed Corrimal to get back in. As Uni conceded mid-field and possession, Corrimal found themselves able to get in behind a ball-watching defense and threaten the Uni goal. Their first goal earned via a penalty awarded by a sympathetic referee, seemed to lift their effort and press the Uni side into their own half. The second came not too long after, with the defense badly caught out of position. At 2-3 it was game on and coach Brod hit the panic button, making several substitutions in an effort to add more energy into an attack which struggled to make any effect in the attacking third. At one point with all field subs used up, Barass had to come out of his goal to play up front and reserve GK Jacob went between the sticks. It ended with Uni in front, although hardly a convincing performance against the perennial District League strugglers. Uni face another lowly rated side next week away to Shell Cove and will need to be wary of a club chasing their first first-grade win since returning to IFA football.

The youth grade side is still looking for their first league win of 2009 and were expected to achieve this against Corrimal. Down by a goal  early on, Johnno Cook got them back on level terms by HT. Vegar promoted from the Division 1 side to play a striking role, was able to put the Uni boys back in front despite receiving a knock into the second half. As in the previous game the boys could not dominate their opponent and again conceded to make it 2-2 at FT. Two draws from two games is not a bad start, but the team needs to start picking up wins and three points on a regular basis to keep in touch with the leaders.

The Division 1 team made the road trip to Kiama and left with a solid 5 – 1 win, the highlight being a four goal performance from Aaron. Not a bad effort from a player who came off the bench in the first few games, before filling in as GK in the previous game against Kemblawarra (and keeping a clean sheet!) Could a first grade spot be on the cards? Having secured a spot in the top four with a game in hand the Div 1’s are going well. This weekend they again have a long road trip to Hume Oval, the home of Premier League club Picton Rangers, before backing up on Sunday against Fernhill at Kooloobong in a deferred game.

The women’s teams hippos 1 and hippos 2 met in the early game prior to the youth grade and an entertaining encounter saw the H1’s win 4 – 0 against a determined H2 team. It was pleasing to see the girls stay on to support the youthies and firsts, as their presence certainly added more colour to the day’s events.

The amateurs are still playing, but as yet there have been no details as to how they are going!

The club would like to see the Wolves, Bombers, U6 and Gangrenes keep it informed as they too are a part of the club.

For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

Postal address: C/- University of Wollongong Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Northfields Ave, Gwyneville NSW 2522

Email:  uwsc@hotmail.com

                  FOOTBALL  CLUB

NEWSLETTER No 3:   2009                                          May

MIXED RESULTS FOR START OF SEASON

The Uni firsts and youth grade teams had a mixed start to the IFA ICU District League competitions away to Warilla Wanderers last Saturday (2^nd May).

In first grade the team went down by 3 – 0, in a scoreline which did not reflect the game. Uni went into the game with all three senior GK’s unavailable and had to draft Jay Digger between the sticks for his first game with the club. Jay had a good game and the teams problems came from other than its GK. For the most part in the first half Uni struggled to gain any control of the football and the opposition pressured their goal creating chances to open their account. Apart from a bright ten minute period in which the boys used the width of the park to get in crosses behind the defence, Uni were fortunate to go in 0 – 0 at HT. In the second half coach Brod brought on Chris Hobbs to add some penetration to the attack, but with the mid-field unable to dominate the ball there were few opportunities for the strikers to make an impression. Eventually the deadlock was broken midway through the half when the Uni defence was outdone by a slick  passing movement to open the scoring. Uni attempted to reply immediately and Tor had a firm shot touched around the goal by a diving keeper when a goal looked on. With time running out Uni pushed forward, leaving the back exposed. An unfortunate error minutes from time allowed the Wanderers in for their second goal and then the third was added almost on FT from a free kick just outside the box. For WW it was there first win in first grade since 2007 and once again Uni demonstrated its talent for compassion against less fortunate opposition. It is to be hoped that the same does not occur in this week’s first home game against another battler in Corrimal Rangers.

In youth grade the boys put in a determined effort to come away with a deserved point in the 2 – 2 result. In typical style the team took its time to switch on and went a goal down early. Johnno Cook showed his value up front to equalize with a quality strike before HT and it was all even at the break. Showing good composure in mid-field, the Uni side started to exert their authority and took the lead when Johnno headed in a corner with plenty of time remaining. WW then pushed hard and tested the Uni defense. Unfortunately this proved wanting and the team conceded a second goal when the defense was unable to clear its penalty area. For coach Nathan Broad there are promising signs, but work to do if the side is to pick up three points on a regular basis.

The Division 1  team overcame its heavy defeat against Bulli with a convincing 4 – 1 win against Kemblawarra at Kooloobong. The return of Greg “Flash”Giblett added strength to the defense and Uni took a second half lead through Richmond before the opponent equalized courtesy of a dubious penalty for hand ball. The lead was retaken when Daniel “Boony” Graham struck home a text book volley to have the crowd in raptures. A second goal to Richmond and a goal to new Norwegian signing Vegar finished out the game in a solid team performance which saw the return of club stalwart Bolty after his travels overseas. Next week the team is up against Kiama away.

Courtney reports that the hippos 1 team is up against Thrroul in the semi-final of the Association Cup. The girls have started the season with 3 convincing victories, the last being an 8 – 1 romp against Kemblawarra. On the 17^th May they face their old nemesis Sydney Uni in round 2 of the State Cup. Good Luck!

Shannon reports the hippos 2 girls have a win (4 – 1 V Helensburgh), a draw and a loss to start the season. Following the loss of several players the team is looking for replacements to bolster the squad.

In the amateur league teams Shannon reports the Bombers have recorded 3 wins, I draw and 2 losses, the highlight being a 4 – 1 win against Dapto which included 2 goals fron ex-YG player Paul Menke. Dimce reports the Gangrenes have 5 losses in 6 games, but a win in their last game. Ex Uni first grade coach Dan McGoldrick and first grader Tommy Athanasopoulos have joined the legends team for whom the greatest risk is injuries. Unfortunately no information has come through from the Wolves, Athletic or Uni6.

In social committee news it has been decided not to go ahead with a formal FA Cup night at the Builders this year. The committee is keen to put a big effort into a mid-season function at the club and details will become available later in the season.

For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

Postal address: C/- University of Wollongong Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Northfields Ave, Gwyneville NSW 2522

Email:  uwsc@hotmail.com

                  FOOTBALL  CLUB

NEWSLETTER No 2:   2009                                          April

PRE-SEASON ENDS FOR FIRST AND YOUTH GRADE

The long pre-season has finally come to an end for first grade and youth grade and the teams are ready for the league to begin next weekend.

This year the league involves sixteen games home and away with the team finishing on top in first grade eligible to apply for promotion to the Premier League. Youth grade will also be looking to win the league champions title in what promises to be a competitive season in the Illawarra Credit Union District League.

Uni’s main opposition in first grade will again be their grand final foes for the past two seasons in Berkeley and their matches will be tough encounters. The dark horse going on pre-season form appears to be Bellambi who have picked up some useful players from Premier League club Fernhill and will be a threat to all other clubs. Thirroul, Helensburgh, Kiama and relegated club Warilla Wanderers will all provide problems, especially at their home grounds. For new club Shell Cove and perennial strugglers Corrimal Rangers 2009 could be a long season, although no team should be underestimated, as with only sixteen games in the comp no team can afford to drop points to the lesser sides.

Coach Brod has used the pre-season to try different players in different roles with mixed results.

While the Bert Bampton qualifiers started positively with an away win against Highlands, wins and goals have been hard to come by in subsequent games. A tough night match against Wests Illawarra resulted in a 0-1 away defeat in which the boys played determined football without any luck against a resolute Wests defence. The final game required the team to defeat relegated PL side Coniston Lions to continue into the next phase of the BB Cup. After the first game at Kooloobong was washed out half-way into the second half with the scores at 1-1 via a deft Paul Buchanan deflection from a Grant Newman drive, the replay game played at Warilla Wanderers ground was a lack luster affair. Coach Brod put out an experimental side with players clearly in unfamiliar roles and it showed. Uni looked to have the measure of the opponent early but their lack of cohesion in mid-field and disorganization in defence started to show. An unnecessary penalty conceded with a clumsy challenge by striker turned centre-back Paul Buchanan had Uni down 0- 1 at HT. Poor marking and ball-watching leaked two more goals in the second period. The one bright spot for Uni was the well taken goal by Dan Baker to keep Uni in the game at 1 – 2, but to no avail. The team will need to settle into a combination so that established patterns of play are developed for the serious games ahead. The reliability of defender Tim Freestone and the experience of GK Craig Barass were missed and these players can add stability to the side in their quest for league success. The importance of Div 1 players may prove invaluable in the season and players such as Greg “Flash” Giblett, Alex Millwood and Michael Bolt could have an impact should the regular first graders fail to perform.

Youth grade completed their Youth Cup commitments with a solid 5 – 1 win against Coniston on a heavy Kooloobong pitch. All the goal action occurred in the second half as the Uni boys showed determination to come from a goal down. Tim Elsley, Henry Hudson and Antohnio Wahbt got the goals for Uni and coach Nathan Broad can looks forward to the start of the league with enthusiasm.

Good luck to the Firsts and Youthies as they start the league campaign away to Warilla Wanderers next Saturday (2^nd May).

The flying start to the season by the Division 0ne team came to an abrupt halt in their third round game away on the pristine surface of Bulli’s Balls Paddock. Down 0 – 3 at HT, things deteriorated in the second half and the score went to 0 – 6 before Oscar won a penalty and scored from the spot and Richmond showed what he can do when he chipped the keeper from a long way out. It ended 2 – 7 and coach Dave Watts will need to work hard at training to lift the boys. The absence of Flash was evident and his return will make a difference in the next match away to Kembawarra.

The amateur league teams (Bombers, Wolves, Uni6, Gangrenes) and womens teams (Hippos 1 and 2) have started their comps. Unfortunately as yet no reports have come through as to how they are going.

For all information on club events, scores, photos and news check out the Club’s website http//unisoccerclub.spaces.live.com

University of Wollongong Football Club Inc ; 

President - David Boscoscuro    ph: 0422417833

Secretary – Shannon Rickersey  ph: 0431757030

Postal address: C/- University of Wollongong Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Northfields Ave, Gwyneville NSW 2522

Email:  uwsc@hotmail.com