Tag: FIFA

Futsal handed its first international match calendar

(photo © Getty Images)

The following from FIFA. 

There can be no denying that futsal has enjoyed continuous and remarkable growth over the past decade. Solid proof of that trend comes in the form of increased numbers both of registered players and leagues now run under FIFA rules – factors that have had a direct impact on improved standards in both domestic and international competitions.

Further evidence of this leap in standards was on display at the last FIFA Futsal World Cup, arguably the most evenly matched edition to date, as well as the quantity of emerging nations making a splash in the discipline. In its quest to continue the sport’s evolution in the most organised way possible, the FIFA Executive Committee, at its meeting of 18 and 19 December 2014 in Marrakech, approved something that world football’s governing body has long sought: the first ever futsal international match calendar, which covers the period of 2016-2020.

“It’s like this, the global growth of futsal means that a unified calendar has become indispensable,” said Jaime Yarza, Event Manager for the FIFA Futsal World Cup, when speaking to FIFA.com. “Everyone involved in the sport – FIFA, the confederations, associations, leagues, clubs, players, sponsors, media – needs to be able to plan for the sporting season in advance. And being able to do that for the next two or three years is better than for just one.

“There are so many factors that meant that it [a unified calendar] was now essential,” continued Yarza. “You have to prepare budgets, define TV slots, confirm activities for sponsors, build loyalty among clubs’ fans by having well-structured seasons… There are so many benefits to having a unified calendar that it’s hard to explain them in just a few words.”

Javier Lozano, who twice coached Spain to FIFA Futsal World Cup glory and is currently the President of theLiga Española de Fútbol Sala, backed up Yarza’s views. “This calendar is a big help for our clubs and for futsal across the globe: finally we can make concrete plans,” he told FIFA.com. “Safeguarding clubs, players and international competitions is essential for taking this sport to the very highest level.”

Releasing players
The new calendar, whose opening cycle will include the next two FIFA Futsal World Cups, is based around players’ mandatory release to their national teams, depending on the various stages of international competition. “We’ve tried to take into account the interests of all parties. First of all, we’ve set aside 12-day windows for the final stages of the confederations’ senior national-team championships. Now confederations will be able to properly prepare both their competitions and specific sponsorship programs. It even makes choosing host nations easier,” added Yarza, in reference to events such as the UEFA Futsal EURO and the Copa America de Futsal.

In addition to the final stages of confederations’ championships and the FIFA Futsal World Cup, the calendar also includes two international windows, called Type I and Type II. “The first type lasts for ten days, during which national teams can play up to four friendly matches, but which can also be used to carry out fund-raising events or extended periods of preparation, for example for the World Cup,” explained Yarza. “The second type is for four days and allows no more than two matches. Again, it will be up to the associations to decide how they make use of the time.

“It’s taken a huge amount of work in terms of coordination, since it has required bringing together the interests of many parties,” admitted Yarza. “We’d like to thank everybody, the confederations, associations, leagues, clubs and players, for their understanding. We’ve tried to take into account the needs of all of the world’s regions.”

Though satisfied with the step taken, Yarza signed off by emphasising that the calendar remains a work in progress: “We’re pleased to say that this [calendar] has put the defence of the sport and its stars – the players – first. In any case, in the knowledge that nothing is perfect, in 2017 we will speak to all parties again to discuss if any changes are required.”

Sponsorship Opportunity

Boomerangs FS is on the lookout for a major sponsor for its 2017 F-League campaign. Boomerangs have a proud track record in the nation’s highest league.

There are many talented players in these two teams and a raft of young talent coming up through the junior ranks.  Indeed, three recent Boomerangs players – Angelo Konstantinou, Daniel Fulton and Cal Smith – have represented Australia (Futsalroos) at major international competitions including the World Cup. A further three men’s players have – at various times – been called into a larger Futsalroo training squad in the lead up to major competitions. There is not yet an FFA Women’s national team, however there are several Boomerangs women players who would be likely selections in an Australian FFA endorsed team.

The F-League however, is a significant cost burden to the club and requires the Boomerangs to raise over $30,000 to allow participation of both a men’s and women’s team in this elite Australian League.

Player registration fees for the 2016 season needed to be high to cover these costs – and all players were asked to find individual company sponsors to help cover the costs to participate (of roughly $900 per player per F-League season).

The opportunity therefore arises for a major sponsor to come on board to partner with the Boomerangs for the 2017 F-League season and beyond.

Shirt front sponsorship is available, as is significant exposure on all Boomerangs online properties (including this website, Facebook, and Twitter pages and our Google+ photo site). Visitor numbers are increasing significantly across all of those online channels. There is also online exposure through the match videos hosted online at the F-League YouTube channel.  Capital Football also helps to promote the Boomerangs in the F-League (and the FNSW Premier League). There may also be opportunities for logos to be included on our growing range of supporter wear, available from Joma Australia.

If you wish to speak with us about potential sponsorship opportunities, please hit us up on the contact page, or come along to a home game (FNSW Premier League) and speak with Kristian or Robert.

 

FFA Nationals 2014 – Results and Reports

The following reports are from Capital Football

OPEN MEN

NSW Thunder 1 (Jordan Mundell 16’) ACT 3 (Michael Reeve 22’, Daniel Bennett 24’, Trent Flanigan 40’)

The ACT retained their Open Men’s crown with a come from behind 3-1 win over NSW Thunder in a full blooded encounter in front of a large crowd at the AIS Arena. But they didn’t have it all their own way as the Thunder more than played their part in an excellent contest. Jarrod Basger was instrumental in the opening goal of the game as the Futsalroo international won the ball mid-court with a press and got away a shot under pressure that Angelo Konstantinou could only save with his heel. The ball ricocheted kindly for Jordan Mundell who arrived at the back post to slide into the empty net. ACT chances were few in the opening half with Stephen Domenici going closest, prodding a shot at goal that Andrew Haim saved superbly low down to his left. The reigning champions were a different outfit after the break and equalised in the 22nd minute as Michael Reeve was alert to a Daniel Bennett kick-in to slide the ball past Andrew Haim. And within two minutes they were in front. Bennett, who had earlier missed a sitter, made up for his error by beautifully finishing a long pass from Konstantinou past the advancing Haim. Needing to chase the match the Thunder used the fifth man ploy but was caught in the final seconds as a loose ball inside the ACT area was sent the length of the court into the empty goal by Captain Trent Flanigan to seal back-to-back titles.

GF MVP: Daniel BENNETT (ACT)

Player of Tournament: Robbie CATTANACH (ACT), Ross OSMAN (South Australia), Maxim AVRAM (Victoria)

OPEN WOMEN

NSW Lightning 1 (Dominique Caridad 2’) NSW Thunder 3 (Doris Osman 32’, Dmelza Howard 43’, Rachel Perrins 49’) – after extra-time

Goals in extra-time from Dmelza Howard and Rachel Perrins gave NSW Thunder a 3-1 extra-time win over NSW Lightning in the Open Women’s Grand Final. Lightning was out of the traps in a flash and stunned Thunder with an early strike. The Thunder was the architects of their own downfall, gifting possession to Dominique Caridad mid-way inside their own half. With no-one between her and the goal Caridad raced away and picked her spot, bludgeoning a right foot shot past Tani Rosekelly who stood no chance. Lightning, who has only conceded one goal all week prior to this game, slipped into defensive mode and threw their bodies in the way of everything that the Thunder could throw at them. When Thunder did break through the Lightning rear-guard Sarah Easthope was in no mood to be beaten and Lightning led by 1-0 at the interval. The pattern was set for the second half but the Thunder eventually found a way through. A deflection took the ball into the path of Doris Osman who made no mistake sweeping the ball past Dana Buttigieg and into the near post. Despite half-chances at both ends neither team could net a winner and the match headed into extra-time where Thunder emerged victorious.

GF MVP: Doris OSMAN (NSW Thunder)

Player of Tournament: Ashleigh PALOMBI (ACT), Shannon ADAMS (South Australia)

YOUTH MEN

NSW Thunder 4 (Jonathan Barzel 21’, Robert Ezekiel 27’, Pat Crane 29’, Daniel Fornito 40’) ACT 0

NSW Thunder was crowned Youth Men’s champions with a 4-0 win over the ACT at the AIS Arena but the final score-line certainly didn’t tell the full story of an exciting match. Whilst there can be no doubting that Thunder deserved the win, the ACT fought to the end but couldn’t find a way past a Thunder side who defended well. After a goal-less stalemate in the first twenty, it took the Thunder just seven seconds to take the lead, Jonathan Barzel pouncing on a loose pass to pick his spot past Zac Sorenson. The ACT looked for a way back but was caught by a superb second Thunder goal as Robert Ezekiel smashed home the second. And Thunder virtually sealed the result with a third moments later as Pat Crane picked off a pass and burst clear to score with a combination of pace, power and precision. As the ACT played fifth man for the majority of the final eight minutes a fourth seemed inevitable and Thunder put the icing on the cake with Daniel Fornito sealing the result with a brilliant fourth in the final seconds, chipping into the empty goal from distance.

GF MVP: Brian GRIFFIN-COLLS (NSW Thunder)

Player of Tournament: Brandon GAGE (Queensland Regional)

YOUTH WOMEN

NSW Lightning 3 (Rhianna Pollicina 20’, 30’, 33’) ACT 1 (Najwa Allen 3’)

A hat-trick from Rhianna Pollicina was the highlight of a wonderful all-round team performance from NSW Lightning who defeated CT 3-1 to win the Youth Women’s championship title. Najwa Allen drew first blood for the ACT after only three minutes, winning possession after a wayward Lightning pass and advancing on goal before hammering a right foot shot past Tahlor Thackray and into the corner. And the ACT was good for the advantage in the first half playing some excellent Futsal and denying Lightning any time on the ball. Lightning though could call upon player of the tournament Pollicina and she pulled her team level right on the half-time buzzer with a superb equaliser. With Tara Pender in stunning form after the break the Lightning dominated possession and territory and took the lead when Pollicina’s shot was too hot for Tahlia Davidson, who was otherwise faultless,. And Pollicina, the Golden Boot winner had a hat-trick three minutes later when Pender wriggled past a couple of markers and fed Pollicina who finished off the ACT.

GF MVP: Rhianna POLLICINA (NSW Lightning)

Player of Tournament: Rhianna POLLICINA (NSW Lightning)

AWD

NSW Thunder 1 (Rocco Musumeci 7’) ACT 2 (Adrian Araya 28’, Mark Olivieri 36’)

A stunning goal from Mark Olivieri crowned the ACT as AWD champions with a 2-1 win previously unbeaten NSW Thunder after a magnificent Grand Final at the AIS Arena. Olivieri struck with four minutes to play, picking up the ball mid-court and with a spin and twist of which Lionel Messi himself would have been proud, bursting away from his man, rounding another and finishing with a sensational clip over the advancing goalkeeper. ACT started well and went close on a number of occasions before Thunder broke to take the lead in the seventh minute, Rocco Musumeci found room in the ACT final third to swivel and send a powerful shot past Cameron Gudgeon. The ACT almost levelled straight away but Mark Olivieri was denied by a terrific low save from Thunder goalkeeper Nathan Whalen. They home team equalised in the second half when Adrian Araya picked his spot to bang home before Olivieri’s moment of magic. The ACT was also indebted to a top-draw display from their international goalkeeper Gudgeon who made a string of world-class saves to deny Thunder.

GF MVP: Rocco MUSUMECI (NSW Thunder)

Player of Tournament: Craig MUHLBOCK (NSW Lightning), Supreet SINGH (Tasmania)

BOYS’ UNDER-16

NSW Thunder 2 (Harry Griffin-Colls 1’, 43’) ACT 2 (Anthony Giorgi 28’, Adrian Macor 48’) – after extra-time, ACT wins 3-1 on penalties

The ACT upset the form book by defeating NSW Thunder 3-1 on penalties after the match had ended 2-2 after extra-time. George Kazolis was the hero, saving twice in the shoot-out, as the ACT triumphed. In what was anticipated to be a close match the Thunder came out of the blocks strongly and found themselves one to the good after only a minute’s play. Harry Griffin-Colls took advantage of some sleepiness in the ACT defence to find the target and beat Kazolis with a smart finish. That aside there was little to choose between the teams as Thunder struck the woodwork whilst the ACT saw a couple of promising openings come to naught. Kazolis was the busier of the ‘keepers again in the second half, saving point-blank from Michael Loupis. That was a crucial stop at the time as the ACT drew level within minutes as Brady Nixon supplied Anthony Giorgi with the easiest of finishes after drawing the goalkeeper which ultimately sent the match into extra-time where Griffin-Colls restored Thunder’s lead. That was wiped out by Adrian Macor with moments remaining to send the game to penalties.

GF MVP: George KAZOLIS (ACT)

Player of Tournament: Danyon LOUD (South Australia)

GIRLS’ UNDER-16

NSW Thunder 6 (Georgia Plessas 5’, 28’, Carla Trimboli 17’, 32’, Hannah Bacon 31’, Demi Koulizakis 37’) ACT 1 (Lorna Arkell 26’)

NSW Thunder finally had a championship to cheer at the eighth time of asking at the 2014 FFA National Futsal Championships after defeating ACT 6-1 in the Girls’ under-16 Grand Final. A stunning strike from Player of the Tournament Georgia Plessas kick-started the match in fine fashion as Thunder took the lead in the fifth minute. Picking the ball up half-way inside the ACT half, Plessas struck from range, the ball clipping the inside of the post on its way into the net. In a half that the Thunder dominated, they increased their lead three minutes before the half-time whistle when Carla Trimboli finished off a move that had the ACT chasing shadows with a competent finish. The ACT hit back early in the second half when Lorna Arkell scrambled the ball in from close range before Thunder restored their two-goal lead as Hannah Bacon found Plessas who hammered into the roof of the net. Further goals from Bacon, Plessas and Demi Koulizakis as the ACT visibly tired, completed the win for an excellent Thunder team.

GF MVP: Lorena BUGDEN (NSW Thunder)

Player of Tournament: Georgia PLESSAS (NSW Thunder)

BOYS’ UNDER-15

NSW Thunder 7 (Harrison Bagot 27’, 47’, Jacob Basden 29’, 35’, Jordan Pyne 32’, 44’, Anthony Haddad 37’) Queensland Metro 7 (Jacob Basden (og) 25’, Dallas Dack 26’, Jordan Dozzi 29’, 29’, 46’, Jordan Vieira 33’, Liam O’Bryan 44’) – after extra-time, Queensland Metro wins 5-4 on penalties

The two stand-out teams in the under-15 division met in an explosive Grand Final with Queensland Metro emerging victorious 5-4 on penalties after an epic struggle finished 7-7 after extra-time. Queensland’s Jordan Dozzi went closest to opening the scoring in an even first half rattling the post with a stunning long-range effort that left Thunder reeling. Thunder also struck woodwork themselves in an end-to-end battle that was score-less at half-time. That was but a prelude to an astonishing second spell that featured a bucket-load of goals, some incredible near misses, and everything that makes Futsal such a spectacular spectator sport. An own goal from Thunder’s Jacob Basden opened the scoring in the 25th minute before Dallas Dack made it 2-0 a minute later. A sequence of three goals in a minute left Queensland 4-2 ahead before Thunder started their comeback. Player of the Mach Jordan Dozzi netted a hat-trick for the victorious Queensland but it was goalkeeper Matthew Willshire who emerged the hero blasting the winning penalty high into the roof of the net at the second time of asking to cap a simply wonderful match.

GF MVP: Jordan DOZZI (Queensland Metro)

Player of Tournament: Jacob BASDEN (NSW Thunder)

GIRLS’ UNDER-14

NSW Thunder 1 (Georgia Koutzoumis 18’) South Australia 4 (Chelsie Dawber 5’, 16’, 28’, Grace Abbey 9’)

NSW Thunder’s miserable day continued in the Girl’s under-14 competition as South Australia stunned the ladder winners with an exhilarating 4-1 victory. Earlier in the week Thunder had emerged from a tight group match with a narrow 1-0 win so the favourites knew that they would be in for a tough clash but could hardly have expected the way that South Australia stormed out of the blocks to take a 2-0 lead inside the opening ten minutes. Chelsie Dawber opened the scoring in the fifth minute and Grace Abbey increased that to 2-0 four minutes later. Dawber, who would go on to claim a Grand Final hat-trick, had South Australia in dreamland on 16 minutes as she converted her second and her team’s third but Thunder weren’t about to roll over. A goal from Georgia Koutzoumis reduced the arrears before the break and gave the NSW team hope of a comeback. That glimmer was doused eight minutes after the resumption when Dawber bagged her treble with another calm and composed finish to seal the result.

GF MVP: Matilda CROMLEY (South Australia)

Player of Tournament: Emma GIBBON (Queensland Metro)

BOYS’ UNDER-14

NSW Thunder 2 (Dilan Kahale 18’, Marley Peterson 26’) Queensland Metro 3 (Joshua Nisbet 3’, Duncan Stewart 28’, Jordan Tucker 30’)

Queensland Metro continued the theme of upsets as they turned the tables on first placed NSW Thunder to win an absorbing Boy’s under-14 Final 3-2 in front of a large contingent of Queensland supporters. Metro took the lead in the match in the third minute as Joshua Nisbet found room to manoeuvre and fire home a cracking goal. It was a lead they were to hold until close to half-time when Thunder finally found a way past Player of the Match Angus Long in the Queensland Metro goal with Dilan Kahale equalising. At 1-1 the game could have gone either way and when Marley Peterson put Thunder in front in the 26th minute it appeared as if normal service had been resumed. Someone though forget to tell Queensland and their fighting spirit surfaced and within two minutes they were back on terms as Duncan Stewart levelled. Far from being happy just to be back in the match Queensland poured forward and Jordan Tucker gave them the initiative once again on the half-hour, and with Long in superlative form, they never looked back from there.

GF MVP: Angus Long (Queensland Metro)

Player of Tournament: Adem OR (Victoria)

BOYS’ UNDER-13

NSW Thunder 3 (Carlos De Oliviera 10’, Zachary Duncan 14’, Adrian Viggiani 34’) NSW Lightning 6 (Luke Okuda 6’, Tallon Zahra 9’, Patrick Scibilio 22’, 25’, 26’, 33’)

A four-minute hat-trick from Patrick Scibilio led underdogs NSW Lightning to a remarkable 6-3 victory over clear tournament favourites NSW Thunder in the Boy’s under-13 Grand Final at the AIS Arena. Scibilio, who ended the match with four goals, struck his treble at a crucial time as Lightning recovered from the disappointment of letting a two-goal lead slip to triumph. Early goals from Luke Okuda and Tallon Zahra gave Lightning a nice cushion but Thunder hit back with a brace of quick goals of their own as Carlos De Oliviera and Player of the Match Zachary Duncan bagged goals in quick succession. At 2-2 at half-time it was anyone’s game but Lightning turned it on its head with Scibilio’s hat-trick in the space of minutes. With Thunder pushing for a way back Scibilio hit his fourth goal only for Adrian Viggiani to pull one back straight away. Thunder pressed for an unlikely comeback but Lightning held on for a terrific win.

GF MVP: Carlos DE OLIVIERA (NSW Thunder)

Player of Tournament: Nick GOLLINSKI (Queensland Metro)

GIRLS’ UNDER-12

NSW Lightning 5 (Isabella Volkanovski 7’, 9’, Cortney Nevin 10’, Anastasia Grozdanov 30’, Lara Bosnich (og) 34’) NSW Thunder 2 (Georgia Usherwood 20’, Emily Dorahy 39’)

NSW Lightning completed a perfect week in the Girls under-12 tournament by winning the Grand Final in convincing fashion against a valiant NSW Thunder team. Lightning has certainly been this age group’s stand-out team and they showed it in the final showdown with a 5-2 victory over their peers in an exciting match. Lightning laid down their marker early on with Player of the Match Isabella Volkanovski netting twice in the space of two minutes. Courtney Nevin drilled in the third a minute later and Lightning was well on course. Georgia Usherwood pulled one back for Thunder just before half-time to give them a glimmer of hope but Lightning started the second half in a strong manner and increased their lead with a goal from Anastasia Grozdanov and an unfortunate own goal from Thunder’s Lara Bosnich. Emily Dorahy netted a consolation towards the end but Lightning was worthy champions.

GF MVP: Isabella VOLKANOVSKI (NSW Lightning)

Player of Tournament: Angelique HRISTODOULOU (NSW Thunder), Courtney NEVIN (NSW Lightning), Rebecca SNELL (Queensland Metro)

BOYS’ UNDER-12

NSW Thunder 2 (Angelo Kalamovokis 6’, Yousef Sawalha 8’) Queensland Metro 4 (Leum Walpole 15’, Ethan Wildermuth 19’, Jack Bolton 22’, Joshua Dearn 28’)

Queensland Metro caused the first surprise of the day as they claimed the Boy’s under-12 title with a 4-2 win over the favourites, NSW Thunder. And, whilst the final score may have been an upset considering their final positions on the ladder, the manner of Queensland’s victory certainly was not as they fully deserved to come away with the win. It wasn’t all plain sailing for Queensland who had to come from 2-0 down after the Thunder had got off to a brilliant start scoring twice in the first eight minutes. Angelo Kalamovokis and Yousef Sawalha netted early on to put Thunder in control but Queensland began their come back in the fifteenth minute as Leum Walpole reduced the deficit. Crucially they were level before the break as Ethan Wildermuth equalised close to the half-time whistle. Player of the match Jack Bolton gave Queensland the lead two minutes after the resumption and when Joshua Dearn made it four six minutes later, there was no way back for Thunder.

GF MVP: Jack BOLTON (Queensland Metro)

Player of Tournament: Stefan WILLNER (South Australia)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Round 6 PREVIEW v Phoenix

This weekend is the first of three consecutive away rounds to various parts of ‘Greater Sydney’ for the Boomerangs club.  Saturday 16 November sees nine matches against Phoenix Futsal at the Ryde Sport and Community Centre starting at 1.15pm.

Phoenix sit just below Boomerangs on the Club Championship table after five rounds – and much like the Boomerangs (and Enfield last weekend) have not had the start to the season they would have hoped for. After only eight wins from their first four rounds, Phoenix rose to the challenge last weekend against Dural Warriors, sharing the points by picking up four wins and a draw.  

This season, Phoenix’s best success to date have been with their 16 girls (3 wins and a draw) – with most of their other teams picking up no more than two wins from the five rounds to date. Their 12 girls and boys have only picked up one draw and no wins between them over the five competition rounds so far.

With the sublime form of the Boomerangs open men’s and women’s teams leading the way, the club is confident they can continue to improve their performances across all age groups and are looking to return home from Ryde late Saturday with better than half the points on offer from the nine games.

The games kick off at the later time of 1.15pm HERE.

Boys 12 — 1.15pm
Girls 12 — 2.00pm
Boys 14 — 2.45pm
Girls 14 — 3.30pm
Boys 16 — 4.15pm
Girls 16 — 5.00pm
Youth Men — 5.45pm
Open Women — 6.30pm
Open Men — 7.25pm

 

Round 5 v Enfield Rovers Review

Round 5 of the 2013/2014 Football NSW Futsal Premier League was played at home at the AIS against Enfield Rovers on Saturday 9 November.

The Boomerangs premier teams – the Open Men and Open Women – continue to impress and confirm their credentials as top of the table contenders in this 2013/2014 season. The Men remain unbeaten on four wins and a draw from their five games so far this season, ahead of both last year’s grand finalists, Inner West Magic and Dural Warriors. (And even though both these teams have a game in hand, the Boomerangs lead is four points over Magic and six over Dural). The Men’s goal difference after four games is also double that of their nearest competitor highlighting their current dominance.

The Boomerangs Women’s team sits in second place behind only the undefeated Campbelltown Quake. They are ahead of Enfield Rovers on goal difference alone after this weekend’s game, and a further two points ahead of Mascot Vipers.

And whilst it is still early days in both these competitions, both of these Boomerangs senior teams are looking the goods this year and are both teams that should now be feared by all others in the competition.

Venture below these top tier teams though, and most of the Boomerangs junior teams are not yet meeting the challenges thrown their way in this highly competitive top flight competition.

There are positive signs though, and this week, all the teams – barring perhaps the 12 boys – did look highly competitive against Enfield, and the return of three wins and two draws from the nine games played wasn’t too far below expectations – considering the quality of the highly skilled Rovers teams.

12 Boys

Boomerangs 2 – 8 Rovers

It is becoming apparent that although this playing group includes talented individuals and they are developing great teamwork, the intensity and physicality of this competition is testing them – it is not something they have encountered in local ACT competitions. After two wins from their first two games of the season, they have now suffered three defeats in a row. There is confidence in the group though that they can turn around these poor results and start getting back on the wining side of the ledger.

12 Girls

Boomerangs 1 – 4 Rovers

The 12 girls were never really in the hunt as Enfield dominated almost from the first whistle — they played harder and they ran faster. Contributions are coming from all the Boomerangs players, and it won’t be long before they register some wins for the club. It was though, a great effort by the Enfield girls, securing their first win for the season.

14 Boys

Boomerangs 2 – 1 Rovers

After a closely fought and very tight first half, the Boomerangs lifted from the first half single goal deficit to slot home two terrific goals themselves in the second stanza, whilst denying any opportunity for the Enfield boys to claw back any points. Inflicting Enfield 14s second only defeat for the season, showed real grit and determination by the Boomerangs boys, and hopefully this is a sign of things to come for this team.

14 Girls

Boomerangs 2 – 2 Rovers

With both these teams winless in the 13/14 season to date, each team would have been hoping for a bit of luck to secure that first win and a valuable three points for their club. As it was, a 2-2 draw was a good indication of the game and probably a worthy outcome. A good effort by both teams… a win for each of them is not that far away!

16 Boys

Boomerangs 0 – 2 Rovers

Another sound performance from this enigmatic Boomerangs team – a team with so much skill and potential, but little showing for it in terms of results. The Boomerang boys were in the game right till the very end, and it felt like one goal might well have turned the tide and opened the way for a few more. Alas, it was not to be. These boys need to lift – and especially at the defensive end – if they are to avoid the wooden spoon for season 2013/2014.

16 Girls

Boomerangs 2 – 2 Rovers

Another close tussle and fine battle between two evenly matched teams. The Boomerangs remain in sight of the top four, but there does need to be a conversion of the draws (three to date) into wins if they are to really make a play for a finals position this season. A hugely talented roster, seems to lack a killer punch and they continue to have a knack of leaking goals a critical moments in matches. Converting these draws to wins must be the goal for this team.

Youth Men

Boomerangs 4 – 5 Rovers

This was an eagerly awaited match up. The 16s Boomerangs defeated the 16s Rovers in last year’s Grand Final (after Enfield took the honours in both round matches), and as much of the make up of these two teams was derived from last year’s 16s teams, it looked like it was all set up to be a cracker of a game – renewing old rivalries.

Enfield though, were obviously still hurting from their shock grand final defeat of last season, as they came out all guns blazing and gave the Boomerangs Youth team a bath in the first half. Could the Boomerangs Youth overturn a 4-1 deficit? They thought they could, and the team’s intensity lifted several notches in the final 20 minutes. In the end though, it wasn’t quite enough and the Rovers boys did enough to stop the wall of Boomerangs forward pressure. A great game, and another classic fixture in this ongoing rivalry between these two sets of talented players.

Open Women

Boomerangs 3 – 1 Rovers

Unlike last weekend, the Boomerangs at home had a full contingent (almost) of players from which to call on. And in a classic case of ‘shoe is on the other foot’ the Enfield ladies team were short a few key players. It was no surprise then that the Boomerangs women handled this game with reasonable ease. They were certainly pushed at times, but the sense was that they had the game within their grasp the whole time – especially after an early goal scoring opportunity was converted. There is a tremendous positivity around this Boomerangs women’s team this year. The season together in the inaugural F-League has given them valuable playing time together under high pressure competition, and this has provided great benefit to their FNSW Premier League season. If they can keep a full contingent on court week after week, they will certainly be there at the end of the season.

Open Men

Boomerangs 7 – 4 Rovers

The Boomers men – much like the women – have benefited greatly from being together for a few years now – and notably including a few F-League seasons. The core of this team is starting to gel well, and to work together efficiently and effectively…. and at times, brilliantly. If they aren’t already, they should be one of the favourites for this year’s title…. but as with the women’s team, its a matter of keeping the core of the team available and on court week in week out – at home and away.

This game against Enfield was relatively comfortable for the boys, who were only hurt when they started to take the foot off the pedal. Some great individual performances and some slick passing and teamwork ensured they made easy work of a team that was light on a few experienced players.

 

All in all, a reasonable return from the nine matches played – however, the longer term goal is to return 4-5 wins a weekend from across the nine teams (plus a draw or two!) if the club is to remain competitive in the Premier League. There is more work to be done, but the Boomerangs are keen to take on the challenge and to get as many teams as possible playing in finals come the end of the season.

The Football NSW review of the weekend’s men’s matches can be found HERE.

The Club Championship table after Round 5 can be found HERE. (when it becomes available)

Round 5 PREVIEW v Enfield Rovers

This weekend sees the nine Boomerangs teams play the Enfield Rovers at home at the AIS.

The Rovers sit just above Boomerangs on the Club Championship table after four rounds – and like the Boomerangs have not had the start to the season they would have hoped for.

Last season Enfield made the finals (top four) in the 16 boys and girls, and their Open Women’s team. Boomerangs 16 boys defeated Enfield in the major semi final and Grand Final after being defeated twice during the home and away series. The Boomerangs Youth Men also made the semi finals last season over Enfield, on goal difference alone. The Rovers will be keen to atone for missing out at the Boomerangs expense!

This season, their best success over the four rounds to date have been with their 14 boys, 16 girls and Open Women. The Boomerangs have had solid starts from the 12 boys, 16 girls, and both Open Men’s and Women’s teams. There will be some tremendous match ups during the day.

The games are being played at the AIS (training halls) on Saturday 9th November and this is the last home match day for a while as the Boomerangs have three away weekends in a row to round out November. So come along and support your local team!

Boys 12 — 12.00pm
Girls 12 — 12.45pm
Boys 14 — 1.30pm
Girls 14 — 2.15pm
Boys 16 — 3.00pm
Girls 16 — 3.45pm
Youth Men — 4.30pm
Open Women — 5.15pm
Open Men — 6.10pm

 

Round 4 v Quake Review

Round 4 of the 2013/2014 Football NSW Futsal Premier League was played away in Campbelltown against Quake on an unseasonally hot day for early November. The shorter commute for the Boomerangs teams was certainly appreciated, however the reduced amount of travel time did not convert to better performances on the court.

In all age groups however (barring the youngest girls team) the Boomerangs teams were all involved in tight and fairly evenly contested match ups. The frustration was not being able to convert more of these close match ups into wins by slotting the ball into the net more frequently!

12 Boys

Boomerangs 0 – 3 Quake

For the second week in a row the 12 boys felt what it was like to be on the receiving end of a stronger, more physical team. This talented team certainly has the skills and the teamwork, but they will need to learn to ‘muscle up’ on bigger, more physical opponents if they are to win more games. The boys weren’t disgraced and there were solid performances all over the court, but try as they may, they couldn’t put one in the back of the net.

12 Girls

Boomerangs 3 – 12 Quake

The 12 girls were thoroughly outclassed and outplayed by a strong Quake unit. Having few substitutes and no regular keeper has really hurt this team so far this year. There are signs that there are some wins coming, but they need to perform more consistently, especially at the defensive end.

14 Boys

Boomerangs 1 – 2 Quake

A closely fought exciting tussle between two fairly evenly matched teams. There was nothing in this match right the way through, and it was a credit to the Quake boys that they continued the pressure and teamwork right until the final whistle. Attempting more shots on goal wouldn’t be a bad thing for the Boomerangs 14s – but credit must go to the Quake defence for not allowing any easy shots.  This Boomerangs boys team is building together nicely and we should expect some more positive results as the season progresses.

14 Girls

Boomerangs 2 – 4 Quake

A good effort by the Boomerangs 14 girls against a strong Quake team. And another close game where the difference may well have been the finishing ability of the Quake girls. Again, this 14 girls team will certainly improve as the season progresses and will earn their fair share of wins by season end.

16 Boys

Boomerangs 0 – 4 Quake

The Quake boys came out hard in the first half and put the Boomerangs boys to the sword with four goals in the first 20 minutes. The boys must have listened to the half-time talk though, as they certainly matched it up much better with the Quake boys in the second half. If they could have played this well in the first half, the result would certainly have been different. A learning experience for the boys, but they are showing that they will listen and put into practice the coaching staff’s wise words.

16 Girls

Boomerangs 2 – 2 Quake

A win gone begging. The 16 girls dominated this game for easily 75% of it. The Quake girls had a strong dose of self belief come their way late in the second half and started taking it to the young Boomerangs girls – who till that stage looked comfortable and had set up a nice two goal buffer. The first goal for the Quake in the second half certainly drove them on and it was probably good fortune for the Boomerang girls that it took them till the final minute to score the equaliser – so as not to give them time to score another! A missed opportunity to register a win for the 16 girls.

Youth Men

Boomerangs 2 – 1 Quake

Finally — this talented youth roster clicked and put in a massive effort. With speed, agility, team work and intensity of a quality that was often seen in the 2013 F-League, these boys worked hard to knock over a good Quake team, and to register their long awaited first win for the season. Much is expected of this squad and they will be able to take a deal of confidence from this win to kick their season along.

Open Women

Boomerangs 2 – 5 Quake

In a game that was always going to be tough for the Boomerangs women, the result probably surprised no one. Without three of their five starters in Aurouseau, Roche and Crittenden (and a couple of bench players also absent), this was always going to be an uphill battle against the form team in the women’s competition. The 16 girls that backed up for this game held their own, but the lack of experienced women really impacted on the team’s ability to score goals, and to defend their own goal. Not a pretty game to watch with much niggle and plenty of fouls. Let’s hope a full squad is available for the next time these teams match up to give a real indication of how they compare.

Open Men

Boomerangs 3 – 1 Quake

A tough, physical and intense encounter saw the Boomerangs men hold off a quality Quake unit. Goals were hard to come by and a 1-0 lead going into half time looked like it might be the final score. A second though, mid way through the second half forced the hand of Quake who then went with a ‘fifth man’ play. The Boomerangs men defended very well against this tactic and pressured well to make a couple of pass intercepts, one of which saw a long range goal with not long left on the clock.

This Boomerangs men’s team has come together really well this season and are playing consistently good futsal. At the beginning of the season, one of the dark horses for the premiership, but after four weeks and remaining unbeaten this team is quietly being talked about as genuine title contenders for 13/14.

The Football NSW review of the weekend’s men’s matches can be found HERE.

The Club Championship table after Round 4 can be found HERE.

Round 4 PREVIEW v Campbelltown Quake

This weekend sees the nine Boomerangs teams plus their supporters once again head up the Hume Highway to play the Quake on their home turf at Minto.

The Quake sit in fourth place on the Club Championship table after three rounds with 15 wins and 12 losses. (Boomerangs have 9 wins, 3 draws, 15 losses)

Last season Quake made the finals (top four) in the 12, 14 and 16 boys, as well as their Open Men and Women. As a club they finished the Club Championship in fourth position comfortably between Mascot and Phoenix.

This season, their best success over the three rounds to date have been with their 12 boys and girls, their 14 girls and their youth men (all with 2 wins/1 loss), and their 16 boys and open women (both with 3 straight wins) have been stand outs. Their three rounds to date have been against Mountain Majik, Phoenix and Enfield Rovers.

The games are being played at Minto Indoor Sports Stadium, Redfern St, Minto.

Boys 12 — 12.00pm
Girls 12 — 12.45pm
Boys 14 — 1.30pm
Girls 14 — 2.15pm
Boys 16 — 3.00pm
Girls 16 — 3.45pm
Youth Men — 4.30pm
Open Women — 5.15pm
Open Men — 6.10pm

 

Round 3 v Majik – Review

Round 3 of the 2013/2014 Football NSW Futsal Premier League was the second home game for the season for the Boomerangs – and the first at the AIS.

And it ended being not a day where Boomerangs showed their true form, or were at their best, in any of the age groups barring the 16 girls and open men. Just two wins from the nine games, and seven defeats.

The Majik, on the other hand, played exceptionally well, and it was clear to see that across all age groups they are definitely Premier League material. A combination of some great Super League teams of last season with some smart player acquisitions, has allowed them to transition to the Premier League level excellently. They will certainly not be in the Premier League just to make up the numbers this year.

12 Boys

Boomerangs 1 – 2 Mountain Majik

The 12 boys suffered their first loss of the season to a hard working Majik unit. The boys will need to lift to continue to win week in week out during this season. They certainly have the talent at their disposal to do it!

12 Girls

Boomerangs 0 – 6 Mountain Majik

Evidence that the younger Majik girls are a great team and will do well this year. The Boomerangs girls just weren’t quite up to that same level on Saturday.

14 Boys

Boomerangs 1 – 8 Mountain Majik

A solid defeat. The 14 boys need to lift all over the court if they are to remain competitive during the season – in the easy and the tough games.

14 Girls

Boomerangs 0 – 2 Mountain Majik

A good effort by the Boomerangs 14 girls against another strong Majik team. Although the Majik were never seriously threatened, the Boomerangs girls retained their defensive efforts and did not allow the score to embarrass them. A loss – but a good solid effort.

16 Boys

Boomerangs 1 – 9 Mountain Majik

A blow out. The boys need more time playing together to get the teamwork – and importantly the defensive work – happening.

16 Girls

Boomerangs 6 – 0 Mountain Majik

Wonderful effort from a full strength 16 girls brought a little sunshine to the middle of the day. This team will do OK this year whilst they maintain their strongest team playing week in week out.

Youth Men

Boomerangs 0 – 6 Mountain Majik

This team, comprising the best of last year’s Grand Final winning 16s and semi finalist youth team, are taking some time to adjust to the tougher, more physical and faster youth league. The young 17 and 18 year olds need to lift in their weekly challenge against other teams – some made up primarily of 19 year olds.

Open Women

Boomerangs 0 – 2 Mountain Majik

What can we say – the Majik women were just too good.  The Boomerangs women seemed to struggle to find a path to goal and rarely troubled the Majik keeper.

Open Men

Boomerangs 9 – 2 Mountain Majik

A nice way to end the day – the following match report from Dan De Nardi of Football NSW

Boomerangs topple Mountain

Boomerangs 9 (Daniel Bennett x2, Ryan Keir x2, Kristian Collins, Jason O’Dwyer, Callum Smith, Daniel Fulton, Michael Reeve) Mountain Majik 2 (Andrew Stevenson, Corey Bizco)

Boomerangs gave newcomers Mountain Majik a dusting at the AIS Training Halls on Saturday night, turning a tight 2-1 halftime edge into a 9-2 thumping to go top of the table.

Daniel Bennett and Kristian Collins elevated Boomerangs to a 2-1 halftime advantage before the home side cut loose in the second stanza – Bennett grabbing another, Ryan Keir bagging a double, and Jason O’Dwyer, Callum Smith, Daniel Fulton and Michael Reeve also adding their names to a congested scoresheet. Andrew Stevenson and Corey Bizco were Majik’s goalscorers.

Boomerangs remain undefeated and have put the pressure right on Dural and Inner West to perform on their return to league competition next week.

Boomerangs co-coach Kristian Collins called it a good win. “We made it harder for ourselves than we had to and it was only 2-1 at the break, so we changed a couple of things that really put it together in the second half,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to be still undefeated but we do have some tough games coming up, starting with Campbelltown next week who have been a real bogey side for us.”

Mountain coach Fabio Macerola was succinct. “We were in it at halftime, but we weren’t in it at fulltime,” he said.

“Actually it was a good eye opener for us as it shows how much we have to step up. Boomerangs were at a different level to our first two games – quicker, more physical, more quality players… but we still have half our side to come back so I’m not overly concerned.”

 

Club Championship
Club Played Wins Draws Loses GD Points
Mountain Majik 27 18 0 9 31 54
Inner West Magic 25 15 3 7 40 48
Mascot Vipers 25 14 4 7 31 46
Campbelltown Quake 27 15 0 12 18 45
Dural Warriors 25 9 5 11 -4 32
Enfield Rovers 27 10 1 16 -37 31
Boomerangs FS 27 9 3 15 -35 30
Phoenix Futsal 26 6 2 18 -44 20

 

Round 3 PREVIEW v Mountain Majik

This coming weekend sees the Boomerangs at home against newly promoted Mountain Majik.

The Majik blitzed all-comers in the NSW State League last season and duly earnt promotion to the Premier League. The last time these two clubs met was three years ago when both were in the Super League.

So far, in the two rounds played to date, the Majik have certainly been very impressive. After rounds against Quake and Enfield, the Majik sit in second place on the Championship table with 11 wins and seven losses from their 18 games over the first two weekends.

This trip to the nation’s capital though will likely be a stern test for this club.

Their 12 boys are one and one, but come up against a Boomerangs 12 boys in good form and playing some nice futsal. Their 12 girls have looked impressive with 2 straight wins and the Boomerang girls will need to be sharp to match it with them.

The Majik 14 boys have split their opening two games but have looked impressive in both these outings. The 14 girls are strong, like their 12s and have two straight wins to their name.

Both the 16 boys and 16 girls for the Majik have split their opening games and both these games against the Boomerangs teams will be close affairs.

The Boomerangs youth men will be looking to chalk up their first win, but will have a fight on their hands as the Majik youth have won both their close fought matches so far.

The Boomerangs women will be confident of a win over the Majik ladies who have yet to land a winning blow – but it may well be closer than we think.

The Boomerangs men – if they play with the same grit and determination as last week – but without the 5-goal lapse in concentration – should be able to better the men from the mountain: but no game is a certainty!

So the battle will be on, for the individual teams, as well as for club championship points. If Boomerangs teams are going to seriously challenge for finals, they need to step up and play some good futsal. And as a club, if it is to avoid the relegation concerns that were worrying in the last few rounds of last year, teams need to be able to find ways of winning matches and earning valuable club championship points.

Saturday’s games are at the AIS with the 12 boys kicking off proceedings at 12 noon. Open Womens and Mens from 5.15pm.

(photo courtesy of Campbelltown Quake – with thanks)