Category: NSW State League

FNSW State League Rnd 7 Review

Round Seven of the Football NSW State League Futsal competition saw the nine Boomerangs teams make their way to Dural to take on the Parramatta Pumas across the nine age groups.

Some exceptional performances ensued (both team and individual), including Michelle Aurousseau’s four goal haul in the Open Women’s 16-3 thrashing of their opposition, which could easily have been the day’s highlight, however it was outshone by Zac Barbatano, who, on a day when NINE hat-tricks were recorded by Boomerangs players (that must be some kind of record), scored five goals on the day — across three age groups (12 boys (3), 14 boys (1) and 16 boys (1)).

Overall a great day full of positive results – and highlighting that the Boomerangs Club can compete strongly in the FNSW State League.

12 Boys

Boomerangs FS 6 -Parramatta Pumas 3

Prior to this round seven match, the youngest Parramatta team had won all six of their season games – and most by some considerable margin. It was pleasing then to see the positivity the young Boomer boys took into the match, which saw them take a 2-1 lead into half time. The first half showed glimpses of what would come in the second, but many of the opportunities presented were not converted by the boys. This was rectified though in the second half which saw them score a further four goals and concede just twice. The game also included two hat-tricks to kick off a big scoring day (Gagliardi and Barbatano), although it was a great team effort that allowed those two to get into shooting opportunities. The match also demonstrated some fantastic scrambling defence helping out goalkeeper Callum Foster, who again had a terrific game.

The race for the competition’s golden boot sees Luca Gagliardi in equal top spot overall with 15 goals and Zac Barbatano in third with 14.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 3rd

13 Girls

Boomerangs FS 1 -Parramatta Pumas 7

The 13 girls continue to improve week by week and were right in the match at half-time down only 3-1. Some lapses in concentration in the second half, and a lack of ‘killer instinct’ by the team means they were over run by a stronger and more determined Pumas girls team. The girls are definitely showing improved team work and high levels of individual skill, but lack some ‘fire in the belly’ that is most evident in the 12 and 14 Boys (and indeed the 15 and 17 girls). Wins are definitely on the way for the Boomers youngest girls, but it would appear finals futsal is out of reach for this current season.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 11th

14 Boys

Boomerangs FS 10 -Parramatta Pumas 4

The first half of this match was a tough and evenly contested affair with both teams doing well to convert the opportunities that came their way. The defensive efforts of both sides were strong (including from the Pumas keeper), leading to a match which could have gone anywhere after the Boomerangs boys took a 3-2 lead into half time. In a classic game of ‘two halves’, the second half saw a completely different state of affairs. After the Pumas scored quickly to get back to level pegging, the Boomers 14 boys went on a scoring rampage knocking in goal after goal. If it weren’t for a couple of consolation goals at the end for the Pumas, they might well have been embarrassed by the final scoreline. As it was a terrific game by the 14 boys and a solid result. Goals to Bill, Obst and Rodriguez (2 each) and singles to Falusi, Edwards and Gagliardi and Barbatano.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 6th

15 Girls

Boomerangs FS 2 -Parramatta Pumas 0

With goals flowing in the three earlier matches, it was a significant change of pace to watch the 15 girls fight out a close and low scoring encounter against their Puma opposition. A 1-0 lead at half-time thanks to a Meuronen goal, after some nice build up play, raised the confidence level and hopes for more in the second half. The second half though, was as tough and close as the first with both teams putting on a strong defensive showing. It was not until the final two minutes of the match when Perceval knocked in the second that a win could be chalked up. The goal by Alicia Meuronen raised her season total to seven putting her 7th on the competition’s race for the golden boot.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 5th

16 Boys

Boomerangs FS 3 -Parramatta Pumas 7

The 16 boys fought out a tough and close first half against their Puma opposition and went into the half-time break a goal down; 3-2. As the second half progressed though, it was evident that the shortage of 16 boys regular starters was beginning to show and although the lads put in a huge effort (as did the boys who played up), they struggled to maintain the intensity on a hot, humid and draining day. A superb effort by the lads who travelled up the highway to contribute; including Tully Keegan, David O’Gorman, Harry Williams and Deakin Jewell in goals. Goals to Keegan, Obst (playing up from the 14s) and Barbatano (playing up from the 12s).

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 9th

17 Girls

Boomerangs FS 13 -Parramatta Pumas 0

The 17 girls were never really tested in this complete domination of the Pumas opposition. The girls started the match cautiously, but when the standard of the opposition became obvious they worked as hard as they needed – much like they would in a training drill or scratch match. The first half return of five goals was solid enough, but when they came out for the second half, the girls were intent on boosting their goal difference. A further eight goals saw them home in a romp, 13-0 – with many of the goals on the back of some wonderful passing and movement. Hat-tricks to Corbett and Glover, doubles to Barbaro, Martens and Kravis and a single to Meuronen to add to her goal in the 15s. The girls did well to maintain their effort throughout the match and to see out the game in a positive fashion. In the golden boot race for the season, Rachel Corbett’s three took her to eight for the season, fourth behind Diaz from IFS.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 5th

Youth Men

Boomerangs FS 4 -Parramatta Pumas 1

The Youth Men were always going to be in for a tough match against this team that sat in sixth position on the ladder with three wins and three losses for the season. The Boomer lads started with good intent and worked their way into the first goal of the match. Soon after though, the dismissal of Nick Rathjen for his second yellow of the match, allowed a one man advantage to the Pumas which they capitalised on, though only just within the allotted two minutes. The second half saw the lads intent on breaking the deadlock and putting the Puma youth away – which they did with hard work and intensity. Three unanswered second half goals saw them run out victors 4-1. Two goals to Zeitlhofer and singles to Chris Smith and Rinaudo.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 2nd

Open Women

Boomerangs FS 16 -Parramatta Pumas 3

If the 17 girls game was a one sided romp, then this game belies description. Up 9-2 at the break converted to 16-3 at the finish. And the scoreline could have been bigger. The only downside to the match was conceding 3 goals. However, many of the 16 goals scored were crafted beautifully off the back of slick passing and movement off the ball. Definitely a lesson in how to play effective offense. Goal scorers were many; led by Captain Aurousseau (4), triples to Collins, Martens and Gurney, a double to Bucko and one to Corbett to add to her three in the 17s. Ominous signs for other women’s teams for the remainder of this season.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 1st

Open Men

Boomerangs FS 8 -Parramatta Pumas 1

The Men’s game was expected to be a tough one given that the Pumas had a decent record of 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 losses before this round and have been competitive in all the games they have played this season. For the Boomers though, a shortage of regular starters meant that only one regular starter (O’Dwyer) could start with keeper Ashley Collins. Five youth players also played up after their own tough match not 45 minutes earlier.

Excellent efforts all round though, including from stand-in Captain O’Dwyer saw him net quickly from the kick off and then twice more before the half-time break. With control of the game firmly within their grasp, the men rotated the bench more freely in the second half, and saw great contributions from all team members, including regular ‘benchers’ Davoren and Kristian Collins. Terrific contributions also from the youth players Zeitlhofer, Wilsener, Rinaudo and Chris Smith saw the last game of the day also go the way of the Boomers with a comprehensive 8-1 victory.

Current ladder position after seven rounds: 2nd

Seven wins and only two losses for the second week in a row for the club is exceptional (including 63 goals scored and 26 conceded and a massive nine players scoring hat-tricks). The challenge now is to build on this momentum and maintain the accrual of Club Championship points, as well as ensuring that as many teams as possible are in contention for finals.

The Club Championship after this round sees the club remain in sixth place in a congested ladder with now only 9 points (three wins) separating the top six clubs. After the top six though, there is a significant gap to 7th (37 points). The clubs in the best position are the ones that have already had their bye round, including South Coast Taipans and Eastern Suburbs Hakoah.

FNSW State League Rnd 6 Review

Round Six of the Football NSW State League Futsal competition saw the Mt Druitt Town Rangers make their way to mPowerdome to take on the nine age groups of the Boomerangs. For the home team, this was the third weekend in a row at home.

The 12 Boys kicked the day off at 12.30pm and it finished well into the evening with the Open Men’s division. Results for the day were as follows:

12 Boys

Boomerangs FS 12 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 2

After conceding the first goal of the match, the Boomers youngest team put the pedal-to-the-metal and peeled off eight wonderful goals in the first half to put the game to bed within the first 20 minute period. The comfortable margin allowed the entire bench to get good court time in the second half and saw a spread of goals across eight players with Barbatano netting 3, Gagliardi and Ashburner two each and a slew of single goal scorers. A dominant performance that they should repeat weekly!

The competition goal scoring ladder sees Luca Gagliardi in second spot overall with 12 goals and Zac Barbatano in third with 11.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 3rd

13 Girls

Boomerangs FS 0 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 1

The 13 girls are improving week by week and put in a solid performance in this match against the Town Rangers. a single goal deficit at half-time was enough to see the Rangers home with no further goals scored in a second half which saw end-to-end futsal. More wins are definitely on the way for the youngest girls.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 10th

14 Boys

Boomerangs FS 9 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 3

Much like the 12 boys, the 14s put in a strong effort in the first half to comfortably lead 4-1 at the break. The second half saw them continue their dominance, even though they almost allowed the Town Rangers a ‘sniff’ of victory. A flurry of goals near the end – including a nicely taken 10 metre pen by Falusi – saw the result blow out to a six goal win. The goals spread across seven team mates with Sava Brankovich and Benny Obst knocking in a double each. In the race for Golden Boot, Brankovich is equal fourth with eight goals to his name so far this season.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 7th

15 Girls

Boomerangs FS 4 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 0

With confidence gained by watching the earlier games, the 15 girls hit the court running and with great speed, skill and teamwork and managed to knock up a four goal to nil first half. Their legs must have tired somewhat though as the second half saw neither team trouble the scorer. The defensive work though was excellent and they snuffed out any chances of a resurgent Town Rangers team. Singles to Voigt, Meuronen, Galic and McLachlan.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 6th

16 Boys

Boomerangs FS 5 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 3

After a mixed season so far, the 16 boys had to work hard to gain the upper hand over a determined Town Rangers outfit and hit the break with a two goal advantage 4-2. The second half saw consolidation and more of a focus on defence to protect the lead. A goal a piece in the second half saw the lads run out victors 5-3 in a terrific all round effort. It was also pleasing to see Williams (2), Fabrizio (2) and O’Gorman score the goals to provide a variation of pathway to goal for the team. More of the same is required for the rest of the season.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 8th

17 Girls

Boomerangs FS 2 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 3

Like all the Boomers teams across this balmy Saturday at mPowerdome, they started the match with power and confidence. And in this case, this meant a 2-1 lead going into the break with goals from Barbaro (a lovely tight angle finish ‘nuttying’ one defender and going under the keeper) and Corbett. The second half though saw a resurgent Town Rangers lift their pace and intensity and apply pressure all over the court. So much so that they scored a further two goals to the Boomerangs girls none – resulting in a narrow loss for the girls. The single goal by Rachel Corbett taking her to equal sixth on the Golden Boot tally for the season on six goals.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 7th

Youth Men

Boomerangs FS 8 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 1

The Youth Men would agree that they rarely lifted out of training mode for this clash against the Rangers. Five unanswered goals in the first half and dominating possession meant that they could take their foot off the pedal for the second stanza. A further three goals in the second half and an own goal to register a single for the Rangers meant a final scoreline of 8-1. Doubles to Wilsener and Zeitlhofer and singles to Chris Smith, Rinaudo and Basser-Silk made up the eight goals scored. Nick Rathjen remains in equal sixth place in the race for the season’s Golden Boot.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 3rd

Open Women

Boomerangs FS 1 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 0

The first half of this match against a strong and determined Town Rangers team saw but a single goal… to the Boomerangs’ Olivia Gurney to see them take the one nil lead into the half-time break. The second half saw end to end futsal and a resurgent Town Rangers who looked the more likely team to bother the scorers in the second twenty. A solid defensive effort though, and a terrific effort in goals by Sophie Rolfe, saw the ladies play out for the narrowest of victories 1-0. The first half goal by Gurney lifted her to equal third on the goal scorers list for the season and only two goals shy of top place.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 2nd

Open Men

Boomerangs FS 12 – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 3

The win less Town Rangers’ men’s team were always going to struggle against a Boomerangs team choc-full of F-League experienced players. And struggle they did. A sublime performance by Cal Smith in front of goal saw him net a quintuple (that’s FIVE GOALS), to top off the six he scored the night before in the ACT Premier League competition. Some sublime passing and movement off the ball saw the Senior men’s team race away to a 7-2 half-time lead. The second half saw much of the same with the end scoreline of 12-3 fairly reflective of the match. The Town Rangers though, did perform bravely and were it not for a number of class saves by Ashley Colliuns between the sticks, they could well have had a few more. Aside from Cal Smith, goal scorers included Keir, Fulton and O’Dwyer (2 each) and a single to McLachlan.

Current ladder position after six rounds: 2nd

Seven wins and only two losses sees one of the most successful days in the history of the Club.

All teams are still in a position to earn finals spots with a solid (or improved) remaining six rounds, and the older age groups (and perhaps 12 boys) still in a position to claim top spot on their respective competition ladders.

The Club Championship after this round sees the club remain in sixth place in a congested ladder with a mere 14 points (five wins) separating those six clubs.

FNSW State League Rnd 5 Review

(Photo Credit: Roy Meuronen)

Round five of the Football NSW State League Futsal competition saw the South Coast Taipans make their way to mPowerdome to take on the nine age groups of the Boomerangs.

The day kicked off as usual around lunch time with the 12 boys and finished well into the evening with the Open Men’s division. Results for the day were as follows:

12 Boys

Boomerangs FS 5 – South Coast Tapians 6

Current ladder position after five rounds: 4th

13 Girls

Boomerangs FS 1 – South Coast Tapians 8

Current ladder position after five rounds: 10th

14 Boys

Boomerangs FS 1 – South Coast Tapians 3

Current ladder position after five rounds: 8th

15 Girls

Boomerangs FS 1 – South Coast Tapians 4

Current ladder position after five rounds: 7th

16 Boys

Boomerangs FS 4 – South Coast Tapians 3

Current ladder position after five rounds: 11th

17 Girls

Boomerangs FS 2- South Coast Tapians 2

Current ladder position after five rounds: 5th

Youth Men

Boomerangs FS 6 – South Coast Tapians 4

Current ladder position after five rounds: 3rd

Open Women

Boomerangs FS 4 – South Coast Tapians 1

Current ladder position after five rounds: 2nd

Open Men

Boomerangs FS 7 – South Coast Tapians 2

Current ladder position after five rounds: 3rd

Four wins, a draw and four losses split the day evenly between the Boomerangs and Taipans. All teams are still in a position to earn finals spots with a solid (or improved) remaining seven rounds, and the older age groups (and perhaps 12 boys) still in a position to claim top spot on their respective competition ladders.

The Club Championship after this round sees the club in sixth place having already played four of the five teams above on the ladder.

FNSW State League Rnd 4 Review

Round 4 of the FNSW State League competition saw the Boomerangs host the Raiders Futsal Club (from the Liverpool district in Sydney), at mPowerdome on Saturday November 1.

The day kicked off at 12.30pm with the 12 Boys and continued throughout the day with nine games of high quality futsal over an eight-hour period.

In an entertaining and surprisingly intense match to start the day’s proceedings, the 12 boys found themselves behind by a single goal at the break, 2-3. An exciting and dramatic second half saw the boys give it their all and raise the level of intensity in order to win the match. However, the single goal difference remained as the final whistle blew with the Raiders taking out the match 6-5. (Luka Gagliardi 3, Zach Barbatano 2)

At half-time in the 13 girls the Boomerangs youngest women looked to have turned around their recent form being down by the slenderest of margins 0-1 in a close and hard fought first 20. The second half saw the Raiders lift their intensity and work-rate to outplay the Boomer girls. The final whistle blew as scores sat at 0-4. A solid effort by the Boomerangs girls against a strong Raiders unit that has lost only once this season so far.

A significant lift in intensity and noise as the 14 boys enjoyed another close and intense match. With the Boomerangs again down by a solitary goal at the half-time break (0-1) continued intensity and better finishing was required in the second half. An enthralling second half was forthcoming and saw a solitary goal being scored by the Boomerangs 14s (Ryan Edwards) tying the match 1-1, which is where it remained when the final whistle blew. A great effort by both teams in an entertaining quality game.

The 15 girls match was an evenly contested affair and the two teams went into the half-time break at a goal a piece. The teams continued to trade blows throughout the second half, and with the final whistle about to blow, the teams had scored one each again in the second stanza. That’s when things went a little pear-shaped for the Boomer girls. An energetic piece of goal keeping by regular Eleni Haridemos saw her challenge for the ball on the edge of the ‘D’ and slide slightly over the line. A free kick was rightly awarded, however the official also saw fit to dismiss the custodian for a deliberate foul – a decision many of the home crowd thought a tad harsh. The resultant free kick taken against a stand-in keeper slammed into the back of the net to give the Raiders girls victory at the death, 3-2. (Alicia Meuronen, Ashlyn Garrity goals)

The 16 boys hit the court next and raised the level again – especially vocally with a vociferous keeper guarding the Raiders net. This, and the high level of physical intensity impacted on the Boomerangs 16s and they went into the half-time break down by three. The boys put in a more solid second half and held their own, but could not stop the Raiders from slotting home two more (and in the process racking up three yellow cards). At the other end, the physically intimidating keeper was very effective at stopping each shot that came his way. Final score Boomerangs 0-5 Raiders.

As is usually the case, the shift from 16 boys to 17 girls is a soothing one, as the girls got on with playing some sharp, slick futsal, with as much passion – but none of the testosterone – of the boys that preceded them on court! A fairly even contest that saw both teams head into the half-time break reasonably satisfied, but with the Boomerangs 17s up by the solitary goal, 1-0. The second half saw a lift in intensity and pressure applied and resulted in four goals being scored – two a piece, which had the Boomerangs 17 girls bringing home the first points of the day, victorious 3-2. (Goals to Alex Martens, Ruth Kravis and Hayley McLachlan)

The Youth Men hit the court at 5.30pm and ratcheted up the pace and intensity several notches. A fast and entertaining first 20 minutes saw the Boomer lads dominant, everywhere on the court bar the score sheet. The match remained goalless as the teams head into half-time. The second half saw the Boomer quality shine through, not only with the scoring of three goals, but also in the ability to keep a clean sheet at the defensive end. A comfortable 3-0 win. (Goals to Nick Rathjen 2, and Jake Wilsener)

The Women were up next, and looking for a hat-trick of wins to follow their first round loss to Sutherland. The first half saw the Boomer women throw everything they could at the Raiders goal, only to be denied on many occasions by the keeper, the woodwork, and inaccuracy. They did enough though to slot home two and concede a single to go into the break up by a single goal 2-1. The second half saw the Boomer women attempt to ply on the pressure and they once again had repeated shots on goal, only to hit the woodwork or make the Raiders shot blocker earn her keep. In the end, the women did enough to take the match 3-2, however the result could have been far more convincing with better shot conversion. (Olivia Gurney 2, Alex Martens 1)

The Men started their match against the Raiders with as close to a full roster we have seen all year — no youth were required to back up (aside from in goals). The lads looked to be cruising during the first half and went comfortably into the half-time break with a 2-0 lead. The second half energy and enthusiasm though came solely from the Raiders men as they lifted their intensity and energy levels in order to steal back the game. And steal it back they did, scoring four unanswered goals to take out the match 2-4. A spirited comeback by Raiders that saw them outplay the Boomerangs men comprehensively in the second half. (D Bennett, J O’Dwyer)

Photos of all nine matches can be found by clicking the PHOTOS tab in the menu bar above.

FNSW State League Rnd 3 Review

Round three of the 2014/2015 Football NSW State League saw the Boomerangs teams head up to the Sydney Hills district to face off against one of the strongest clubs in the State League, Sydney City Eagles. The Boomerangs club has had many lively encounters with the Eagles in years gone by, and this round proved no different.

The day started with an opportunity for the Academy boys to have a run against the Eagles Academy squad. A lively encounter providing the boys with a great opportunity to match it against some of the best young kids from Australia’s best performing futsal city. The boys acquitted themselves well and the experience will see them in good stead for competitive matches next year.

The 12 boys then got the competitive section of the day off to a flyer with another strong showing against their Eagles counterparts. The boys fought to a 2-1 lead as half-time approached, with a Barbatano special smashing into the back of the net just seconds before the half-time whistle making it 3-1. The second half was a closely fought encounter producing a goal each leaving the young Boomer boys with their third win on the trot 4-2.

With a couple of new players in the 13 girls team – including the keeper – it was expected that they might take a little time to get settled into the match. As it was the Eagles youngest girls took full advantage of this lack of cohesion early and were able to slot home 5 unanswered goals in the first half. The second half though saw great improvement from the Boomers 13 girls and saw them almost keep pace with their opposition to lose the half by a single goal 3-4. Not nearly enough done though to claw back the slow start, so another loss to the girls, but some sure signs that they are playing better together as a group. Next week should again show further improvement.

The 14 boys up next and it again provided a significant lift to the pace and physicality of the day. A tough first half saw the Eagles go into the break a goal to the good (1-2) due mainly to their shot stopper, who was putting in a man-of-the-match performance. The Boomerangs boys came out all guns blazing in the second period but were thwarted time and time again by the solid defence of the Eagles 14 boys. At the other end, some soft defensive errors let the Eagles net too often, with the final score 6-3 to the Eagles.

The Eagles 15 girls seemed inspired by the previous boys game and came out of the blocks fast. A three goal to one first half saw the Boomer girls needing to lift in the second half to get back into the game. And lift they did, matching it with their Eagles opposition across the court to see out the half with a goal each. Once again, a decent second half that could not erase the first half deficit. Boomerangs 2-4 Eagles.

In the 16 boys we were able to see a highly skilled, fast, team-oriented boys team from Sydney City that dominated all over the court and head into the half-time break with a 3-0 lead. The Boomerangs 16 boys couldn’t match in most aspects of the game and the Eagles needed a repeat of more of the same in the second half to go away with a comfortable win. However, a faster, more physical second half ensued as the Boomerangs 16 lifted their intensity in order to get back into the match. Several infringements and a couple of red cards saw the Eagles lose two players in the space of 20 seconds; an unfortunate turn of events given they were playing great futsal up until that time and needed to show off their skills. Regardless they still managed to finish off the game scoring two more goals and only allowing a single goal to the Boomer boys late in the match. A 1-5 loss not entirely satisfactory for the boys, but it is clear that the Eagles will be their come finals time if they stick to playing their quality futsal.

As is usually the case, the 17 girls game seemed so much more controlled and orderly…. An even game in the first half with end to end futsal that produced four terrific goals – two a piece. The second half saw much of the same, but neither team could hit the back of the net – due in part to some great defensive work by the shot-stoppers. A 2-2 final scoreline probably a fair reflection of the game.

The Youth men entered this match knowing they were up against a formidable team based on last season’s results. For probably the first time this season though, the Boomer lads played some scintillating futsal and managed to outplay their Eagles opposition across the court. A slender single goal lead saw the half-time whistle blow. The second half saw a much more determined Eagles youth come out to play, and even though the Boomer lads went 2-0 up on the back of a goal-of-the-year contender (a Rathjen ‘screamer’) there was a sense that an Eagles goal was not far off. And it wasn’t. At 1-2 down, the Eagles lifted intensity once again as the Boomerangs youth tried to hold on to their slender lead. The pressure cracked though with 5 minutes to play as the Eagles scored the equaliser. An intense final five minutes saw several opportunities to each team – which neither could convert. A final scoreline of 2-2 in a high quality match that was played in good spirit.

With the Women’s match up next it was hoped that the Boomerangs could start (albeit a bit late) their quest for more wins for the round. A dominant first half saw the ladies hit the benches 4-0 up and looking comfortable and assured. However, like the youth men’s match, the Eagles came out with far more intent and energy in the second half. Around half way through the second half the Eagles women lifted their work rate and slotted three quick goals in less than five minutes. The final five minutes of the match was once again intense and tight as the Boomer ladies looked to hold on to their solitary goal lead, and the Eagles looked for one to bring it back to par. Fortunately the Boomer women could hold out the surging Eagles to take the match 4-3.

The Men’s match capped off the day and thunder crackled through the Dural air as the men warmed upon for the match. Conditions had become cooler as the early heat and humidity had broken during the women’s match, making the conditions much more favourable for the players. The match was an evenly balanced affair – an arm wrestle where the spoils would go to the team that held their nerve and converted their chances. The men came in at the half-time break 1-2 down but full of confidence that they could overcome the deficit and bring the day home in a positive fashion. However, the best laid plans did not eventuate, and the hard working Eagles managed to keep a clean sheet in the second stanza and net another of their own. Boomerangs 1-3 Eagles.

Not the best day out for the Boomerangs – even against one of the strongest teams in the league. With only two wins and two draws, the club needs to do better in the remaining rounds of season 14/15.

*contrary to images circulated, the US President did not make a visit to Dural on Saturday evening (he was apparently seen at Valentine Park).

FNSW State League Rnd 2 Review

The second round of the 13/14 NSW State League was an away round to the new International Football School (IFS) Futsal Club on the Central Coast (Woy Woy).

The nine Boomerangs teams and their supporters and parents headed north with many taking the opportunity to stay the weekend in the lovely central coast region.

Whilst a relaxing mini-break may have been the order of the day for some, the players certainly turned up to put in exceptional efforts across all nine teams, recording seven wins, one draw and a solitary loss for the round. And while it may be early days for the IFS futsal program, they have a skilled set of (football) players and dedicated volunteers, and their futsal will surely improve as the season progresses.

The 12 boys kicked off proceedings at 1.00pm and again got the day off to the perfect start for the Boomerangs. A fairly even first half that saw neither team dominate; and the teams went to the break with the youngest Boomers taking a narrow 2-0 lead in a closely fought and fairly even encounter. After the break though – in what would become the pattern throughout the day – the Boomerangs lifted their game intensity and started to dominate the opposition across all facets of the game. The boys ran rampant in the second half running out winners 9-2. Another great effort by the youngest Boomerangs boys who will certainly provide a seriously challenging encounter for any other team this season. (Luca Gagliardi 3 goals)

The 13 girls needed a good performance this week after a disappointing loss in Round 1. The girls started a bit tentatively and by half-time they led 2-1 after a solid effort by all the girls all over the court – including the rotating goalkeepers. A fantastic second half though saw the girls, through sheer hard work and determination, wear down their IFS opponents to take out the match 7-3, including a flurry of late goals.

A fast and entertaining end-to-end first half of futsal saw the Boomerangs 14 boys get the better of IFS through the initial 20 minutes to lead 6-4 at halftime (with six different goal scorers). With the promise of more of the same in the second half the Boomerangs supporters were optimistic of a third straight win for the day. However, the IFS boys must have listened to their coach at half time, and lifted their intensity several notches. They improved all over the court, to not only stop the Boomerangs from hitting the back of the net in the second stanza, but to also be able to score three of their own – the final goal in the dying minutes of the match. A frantic non-stop second half saw the Boomerangs lads go down by a solitary goal 6-7.

The 15 girls, showing a great deal of poise and control (that perhaps the 14 boys could have used in their second half), and a mature level of skill and disciplined structure, completely dominated the IFS 15 girls, pummeling the back of the opposition net ten times in the first half to lead 10-0 at the half-time break. A fairly lacklustre (comparatively) second half followed, even with a further seven goals scored, saw the Boomerangs 15 girls take the match 15-2. A top shelf effort from the girls, but against a team that struggled throughout and had no answer to the structure, pace and passing of the Boomerangs girls. (Seven goal scorers for the Boomerangs with Ivana Galic netting four and Alicia Meuronen a hat-trick)

At half-time in the 16 boys, the Boomerangs boys found themselves down by two goals 0-2 as the strong and fast IFS lads worked over-time. In a second half that produced high-energy and intensity, the crowd had to wait till the dying moments for a goal to be scored when the Boomers converted a ten metre penalty (Chris Kazolis), and followed that up almost immediately with a second from some sensational at-speed passing completed by a tap in (Connor Bill) – one the IFS boys just could not defend against. Given the balance of the match throughout, a 2-2 draw was probably a good result for the 16 boys. Expect this IFS team to do well throughout the rest of the season.

The 17 girls match took on a similar feel to the previous girls match with the Boomerangs dominating the first half over a lacklustre IFS team. At half-time the 17 girls held a comfortable 8-1 lead. With the intensity taken out of the match, the second half produced a few more goals to see the young Boomerangs women take out the match 11-1. The match saw a five goal effort by Rachel Corbett and a triple to Alex Martens.

At the halfway mark of the Youth Men’s match the Boomerangs lads looking solidly in command but held only a a two goal advantage (2-0). Any thoughts that the IFS Youth would stage a come back were snuffed out when the Boomer lads hit the court after the break and turned up the intensity and speed to twelve. Led by the energetic Ben Basser-Silk (2 goals), the Boomerangs youth piled on goals early in the second half, putting on an exhibition in how to play futsal for the IFS novices, They netted an additional eight goals in the second half to take out the match 10-0, with all the field players who took the court scoring in what was a terrific team effort by the lads.

At half-time in the penultimate match of the day, the Boomerangs Women lead comfortably 6-1. The second half followed the script of several earlier matches with the women pulling away to a very convincing 11-2 victory. The match saw triples to Sabrina Spinapolice and Olivia Gurney and highlighted the strength of the younger age groups with the majority of the team on the day made up from 17 girls and Grace Basser-Silk from the 15 girls.

Like the Open Women, the Open Men travelled to the Central Coast with only three of their regular starters. However, the Youth men – after the great effort in their own match – were full of confidence and running and performed strongly. After conceding two goals in the first ten minutes and getting an early scare, the Boomerang men replied with four of their own in quick succession to lead by two as half-time approached. A late first half goal by IFS saw the lead back to one before a ten metre penalty was converted by Cal Smith on the half-time whistle to again provide a two goal buffer at the break (5-3). The second half again saw a Boomerangs team shift into gear and blow the opposition away, with an 11-4 victory over a very solid IFS men’s team (Cal Smith four goals).

A hugely successful day for the club on their first away trip of the season. Of the nine games, seven wins, a draw and a solitary, single-goal loss. On the score sheet it was total dominance by the Boomerangs with 82 (> nine per match) goals scored across the nine matches whilst conceding only 23 (2.5 per match).

Next week sees a much tougher road trip to Dural to take on Sydney City Eagles.

FNSW State League Rnd 1 Review

The 2014/2015 Football NSW State League futsal competition kicked off in great style on Saturday 11 October. After months of tireless hard work by a team of dedicated Boomerangs volunteers, all nine teams were kitted up in their new strips, well-drilled and motivated to perform against State League stalwarts Sutherland Futsal – a team which has performed consistently well for many years in the NSW futsal leagues.

With the new permanent home of mPowerdome ready for action, the day kicked off with the 12 boys and they lived up to their pre-season promise by totally dominating the travelling Sutherland team. After a slow start to the match, the boys went into the break with a comfortable 4-1 lead. The second half saw their confidence increase and the hard work of trainings paying off as they kicked into overdrive to net another six time to finish 10-2 victors. A tremendous game to start the day with great contributions from every player.

The 13 girls hit the court next, and some last minute withdrawals from the team – notably from the dedicated ‘keeper’ – had a noticeable impact. After matching it during the first half (down 0-1 at half-time) the Sutherland 13 girls powered away in the second; looking strong, organised and outplaying our tiring girls all over the court. This Sutherland team will be one to look out for at the business end of the season. The final score of 0-8 none too flattering for our girls, but they know they can build on that and they did show some glimpses of what they are capable of at times during the match.

The 14 boys were up next and after a tentative start where Sutherland ‘got out of the blocks’ the fastest, our boys kicked themselves into gear during the latter stages of the first half and led as the half-time whistle blew, 3-1. The second half was an evenly balanced affair with the Boomerangs slowly displaying their superiority. A couple of soft goals made the score a bit more flattering for the Sutherland boys as the Boomers 14s took the match 6-3 — never looking likely to lose.

The 15 girls hit the floor next and looked primed for a solid performance — and they delivered. A 2-0 lead at half-time converted into a 6-0 final score, the girls never looked troubled and have quality and depth to burn. This team should perform well this year (how’s that for some pressure…) and we look forward to their terrific, entertaining style of play throughout the season.

The 16 boys up next promised a great showing as the matches increase in intensity and in physicality. Our lads looked strong, but still learning to work well with each other. 0-2 down at half time, they came out wanting to play harder and faster, but the Sutherland team were more than a match. The second half saw our boys score a brace to Sutherland’s three seeing a final score of 2-5. ‘Better for the run’ would be an apt description for the 16 boys, and they should improve with every outing and will be more competitive as the season progresses – as they are a talented and skilful bunch.

17 Girls hit the court at 4.40pm to continue the second half of the day’s play. A much tighter, defensive games than those earlier saw the scores locked at 1-1 at the half-time break. As much as they tried, neither team could add to this scoreline or break the deadlock in the second half, seeing the final score remain 1-1. A tight and skilful match that pitted two evenly matched, if not a bit tentative, teams against each other.

The Youth Men were on the court next and both teams delivered as expected – a fast, furious and physical encounter with no holds barred (as most U19 youth men’s games are!). The Sutherland lads made first inroads by scoring the solitary goal of the first half. As is usually the case in these testosterone-fuelled games, the level of intensity lifted another notch in the second half as the Boomer boys fought back. A second half that saw six goals scored – three goals a piece – had the young Sutherland men take out the match with the narrowest of margins 4-3. A disappointing result for the Boomerangs Youth, who are expected to do well this season as they feature many players with recent F-League experience. However, on this occasion they could not overcome the Jordan Guerrero-led Sutherland. (Jordan is currently a member of the Australian men’s team – the Futsalroos).

The Open Women’s team were up next and played out a fascinating and close match against the Sutherland women. After much (goal-less) end-to-end futsal in the first half, the Sutherland women took advantage of the Boomerangs lapse of concentration in the last ninety seconds of that half slotting in two quick goals in what was a very even contest to that point. The ladies came out in the second half looking to atone for their earlier lapse, but could only manage to match Sutherland by scoring a single goal to match that of Sutherland (final score 1-3). A game that was there for the taking had it not been for the pre-half-time lapse in concentration.

The final match of the day was the Open Men which was always going to be an entertaining fixture. An end to end first half – with plenty of opportunities for both teams – saw the visitors up by a solitary goal 0-1. The Boomerangs must have heeded the Coach’s half-time team talk as they came out firing in the second half. Three goals across the second stanza from some wonderful passing movements and displayed skill ensured that the Sutherland men had little opportunity to win this one. Aside from their goal scoring ability, the men should be congratulated for a solid defensive effort by all players who took the court – including the return of Ryan Keir and the introduction of Tom McLachlan – both on the back of stellar outdoor seasons.

So a day which saw the honours split, four wins each and a draw, blows out the cobwebs and sets up the nine Boomerangs teams for more positive outcomes as the season progresses.

Photos of all the matches on the day can be found HERE.

Season Commences!

Boomerangs FS is competing in the Football NSW State League competition for season 14/15. The season, which runs from October to February, consists of six home and six away matches followed by finals. This is the sixth season that the Boomerangs are competing in the Football NSW Sydney futsal competition.

The competition consists of nine age groups including 12 boys, 13 girls, 14 boys, 15 girls, 16 boys, 17 girls, youth men (19), open age women and open age men.

Games kick off this weekend, October 11, at mPowerdome in Fadden against the Sutherland Futsal Club. Game times for this Saturday are:

U12 Boys 12.30pm
U13 Girls 1.20pm
U14 Boys 2.10pm
U15 Girls 3pm
U16 Boys 3.50pm
U17 Girls 4.40pm
Youth Men 5.30pm
Women’s 6.20pm
Men’s 7.10pm

Draws for subsequent weeks can be found on SPORTING PULSE.

Saturday 18 and 25 October are away rounds to Sydney and beyond, with three home games in a row to kick off November.

Come on down to mPowerdome on Saturday – watch a game or two, or come for the whole day – and see the highest level of futsal played in Canberra this summer.

Draw for 2014/2015 FNSW State League

The Draw for the Football NSW 2014/2015 State League has been finalised and can be found HERE.

The first Round is on October 11 — a home game against Sutherland.

There are thirteen rounds to the season and each club will be played once with one team per round having a bye.

The six HOME games will all be played this season at mPowerdome, commencing on October 11.

The six AWAY games are as follows:

Round 2: Saturday 18 October v International Football School (Central Coast)

Round 3: Saturday 25 October v Sydney City Eagles at Dural Sports and Leisure Centre

Round 7: Saturday 22 November v Parramatta Pumas at Dural Sports and Leisure Centre

Round 9: Saturday 6 December v West City Crusaders at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Stadium

Round 11: Saturday 20 December v Eastern Suburbs Hakoah at All Sorts Indoor Sports Alexandria

Round 13: Saturday 24 January v Western Wolves at Emerton Leisure Centre, Emerton.

Locations of the away stadiums, and starting times (they may vary from week to week), can be found by clicking the fixture link at Sporting Pulse. Car pooling is encouraged for the away games, as is providing support for games before and after your own. If any players (or parents) have difficulty in being available for any rounds, please advise your team manager or coach as early as possible so alternative arrangements can be made.

FNSW State League Trials

Boomerangs FS have been admitted to the Football NSW State League competition for season 14/15.

The season runs from October to February and consists of home and away rounds (followed by finals), with typically every second weekend travelling away to Sydney to compete.

This will be the fifth season that the Boomerangs will compete in the Football NSW Sydney futsal competition — Football NSW run the highest level competitions in Australia.

The competition consists of nine age groups including 12 boys, 13 girls, 14 boys, 15 girls, 16 boys, 17 girls, youth men (19), open age women and open age men. Note: the age groups for the girls have been altered from previous years.

Boomerangs will be holding trials for the upcoming season in early August at Stromlo High School in Warramanga.

Check this page HERE to see the squads as they are finalised.

The times/dates for the trials are as follows.

Sunday 27th July and Sunday 3rd August

13 Girls – 4-5 pm

12 Boys – 5-6 pm

15 Girls – 6-7 pm

14 Boys – 7-8 pm

Monday 28th July and Monday 4th August

17 Girls + Women – 6:30-7:30 pm

16 Boys + Youth – 7:30-8:30 pm

Open Men will be individually invited to attend pre-season training.

Please arrive 20 minutes before the trial start time with appropriate shoes and shin pads.

Both returning and NEW players are welcome to trial for this up coming season.

If you have any questions or queries, please hit us up on the CONTACT page.

Age Group	Birth Date
Youth Men (U19)	For players born on or after 1 January 1995
17 Girls	For players born on or after 1 January 1997
16 Boys	For players born on or after 1 January 1998
15 Girls	For players born on or after 1 January 1999
14 Boys	For players born on or after 1 January 2000
13 Girls	For players born on or after 1 January 2001
12 Boys	For players born on or after 1 January 2002