Broomes Home of Soccer

Gday there members and soccer fanatics, just to let you know we have a home of soccer room at the Roey Hotel where games are played on the big screen for us, whether it be A-League, EPL or any other game that is on. This room is up the stairs right hand side of the Pearlers Bar. I have been calling it The Liga Bar, seems rather appropiate but is their someone out there to call it different? So send in your name for Broomes Home of Soccer and the committee will decide by the indoor season, which happens to start scratch matches Feb 2nd, so get a team going. There is a few members heading down to The Liga Bar to watch the Melb Victory V Melb Heart derby on saturday afternoon, so if ya keen get down there.

Nancy Girls and Broome City are Champions

Broome City claimed their first B Liga title in a thrilling penalty shoot out win against a courageous Pearl Coast Pirates. City eventually won a game for the ages 4-3 on penalties after the sides were level at 3-3 at full time.
Broome City had careered into the final playing some fantastic football and started the final at a frenetic pace. Ryan Thorpe blasted home the first before the majority of the capacity crowd had found their seats. The experienced Andy Baker began to gain control of the midfield for the Pirates and the game became a hard, tough battle, with neither defence giving anything away. Just before the interval some terrific team passing saw Steve Rath presented with a simple tap in and at 2-0 Broome City appeared to have done enough.
The pulsating Richard Brunger urged his Pirates on at the break, but it was City’s Jono Falconer, who looked the most likely to provide another goal. Chances were rare for both teams, but when Andrew Sutherland failed to clear Pirates pounced through a long throw from Andy Baker. Vinny Bellotti was on hand to bundle the ball home. With midfield dynamo Thorpe struggling with injury Pirates began to get on top. But when Falconer was fouled Brendan Hunt blasted a free kick low into the bottom corner to send the City faithful wild. At 3-1 all but those in black thought the game was over and the title secure.
Suddenly City resorted to panicked clearances to the sideline allowing Pirates to fire long throws into the box and use their tall timber to advantage. The pressure mounted and in an amazing finish Ken Goatley tapped in a corner and young gun Matty Sheridan blasted low to complete a wonderful comeback. At 3-3 and with penalties to come the momentum had shifted dramatically, and a record third title in four years seemed in the offing for the men in black.
The game was but the entrée however, the main dish was about to be served. Bellotti slotted the first penalty comfortably to give Pirates their first lead of the night. Young star, Narravatte blasted over to increase the City nerves. Gallichan was ice cool as was man of the match Brendan Hunt who slotted City onto the score sheet. The game turned again when Sheridan missed. Sutherland scored and City were back in it again at 2-2. Baker eased Pirates nerves with a typical calm finish, but an exhausted Thorpe had his shot saved by Colwell. Pirates were one kick from the trophy. Up stepped captain Brunger who couldn’t deliver and City had a lifeline. Facundo showed some latin flair and nerves of steel to slot cooly. The shoot out was into sudden death. Up stepped one of the most experienced players in BSA history, Ken Goatley. On any other day a penalty kick would be like a walk in the park to the big man. But this was not any ordinary day. His shot cannoned off the post and the noise reverberated round the Father McMahon Field. It was left to John Musekiwa, adorned in purple boots, to finally seal the victory. His deft chip into the top corner was the perfect way to end a momentous game and give Broome City their first B Liga title.


Nancy Girls are the inaugural B Liga Women’s Champions.
The red and whites showed true championship qualities to overcome valiant Shamrocks 5-1.
The result was just rewards for a professional and disciplined team performance. Whilst Nancy Girls strike force of Jess Richards and Alissa Byron regularly steal the headlines it was a miserly defence that built the platform for the win.
Tara Bilston and Julia Marley were brilliant denying Shamrocks superstar striker Frazer Armstrong a chance to shine. When Armstrong did break free Nancy Kennedy was heroic in the goals denying Shamrocks any chance of getting back into the game.
Both sides made nervous starts, but Shamrocks had the better of the early possession and made their intentions known, with Jannah Lott making her presence felt with some physical challenges. Lexi Tang Wei made some trademark one-shoed dashing runs down the left, but Nancy Girls held strong.
Byron and Armstrong both had half chances to put their side in front, but it was hard working midfielder Rosie Stark who pounced with an opportunistic strike to give Nancy Girls the lead at the break.
The goal must have given the team confidence. They started the second half positively, and Jess Richards fired home a second from a long throw to give her side some breathing space. But Shamrocks had earned their place in the final and were not about to give up. Back they came with greater determination; for once Armstrong was able to break free but sprayed her shot wide. Seconds later she turned provider laying on an inch perfect pass for Tiffany Labuc to score. Suddenly, at 2-1, it was game on with Shamrock’s pushing forward at every opportunity. Once again Bilston and Marley were up to the task, and when Byron blasted a half chance into the roof of the net Nancy Girls had one hand on the trophy. Armstrong and Melena Cole-Manolis each had opportunities to bring Shamrock’s back into it again, but it wasn’t to be.
Byron completed a brilliant hat trick to seal the game and make history by becoming the first ever women’s team to lift the trophy, and deservedly so.
B Liga Awards 2010



B Liga 2010
Emerging Talent
ANGELA PETHICK
TROY HUNTER

B Liga 2010
Golden Boot

Alyssa Byron
Frank Britton and Jamie Lane

Referee of the Year
RUSSELL DEIKS

Captain’s Awards

Broome Heart – Rebecca Adcock
Nancy Girls - Alissa Byron
Shamrocks – Lexie Tang Wei
Troppos - Angela Pethick

Pearl Coat Pirates – Matty Sheridan
Hagan’s Heroes - Mike Dawson
Racing Guantanamo – Rob Viskovich
NDFC - Marty Hayes
Broome City - Jamie Lane

El Presidente Award (volunteer of the year)
Gaz Vickery


B Liga 2010
Player of the Year

Lexi Tang Wei
Frank Britton

FINALS PLAYER OF THE MATCH
Tara Bilston
Brendan Hunt.

CHAMPIONS

Women’s champions – Nancy Girls
Men’s champions – Broome City


By Mike Doyle- El Presidente

FINALS

Our Grand Finalists have been decided,

Mens : Broome City V Pearl Coast Pirates
Womens: Nancy Girls V Shamrocks

Wishing the Finalists all the best this coming Wednesday night, all members are encouraged to come down and give support to the teams and the Broome Soccer Assosiation. See you down there for a great night of soccer entertainment.

Premiership Heats up in Title Race!

B-Liga MENS

PEARL COAST PIRATES 14
BROOME CITY 13
RACING GUANTANAMO 9
HAGANS HEROES 6
NDFC 1

With 2 games remaining the B-liga is buzzing this week after league leaders Pearl Coast Pirates went down to Racing Guantanamo 2-0 and NDFC had their first win by beating Hagans Hereos 5-3 in a high scoring encounter.

It will be a top of the table clash this Wednesday night between the Pirates still 1 point clear and City who now have the chance to gain first position. In the other game this week, can Racing cement 3rd against Hagans, the action heats up at BRAC "soooooo be there!"

Rubbish!

Just a note to all players and spectators that a small minority of people have left their rubbish on the ground upon completion of last nights games, please leave the ground the way you found it, there is a bin provided so please use it. Thank you.

B-Liga Table

League Table Snapshot
Team
Points
Pearl Coast Pirates
14
Broome City
13
Hagan's Heroes
6
Racing Guantanamo
6
NDFC
-2
*NDFC docked 3 points for failing to provide linesmen in round 4.

B-Liga

Hello, just a reminder that the B-Liga restarts this Wednesday night the 13th of October so check your fixtures for times and also if you are referees, finals are just around the corner and the ever popular season ending wind-up. See you there.

Great Night on Wednesday

What an awesome night of soccer we had on Wednesday, with Racing Guantanamo doing well to hold Broome City to a 3-0 scoreline, and Pearl Coast narrowly avoiding a shock upset defeat against NDFC, 3-2.

See you all in 2 weeks!

B-Liga Fixtures Now Available

The B-Liga fixtures for the men's and ladies' competitions are available here:

https://sites.google.com/site/tuenightsoccer/coming-up/b-ligafixtureshere

Could all players arrive at least 20 minutes before their game to sort out registration, match day fees and help set up goals etc. Your help in this matter would be much appreciated.

Start of Season Notes

From the desk of the President, Mr Mike Doyle:

Registration

Just wanted to reiterate that all registration is required to be paid prior to 6pm on August 18^th. You can download the form via the www.broomesoccer.com site and contact me re a time to arrange payment prior to August 18 if you wish.

If there is anyone who has not registered. Ie completed the form and paid their money they will not be allowed to play. We have communicated this from the first night and teams have had sufficient time to discuss issues and organise. If there are members of your team yet to pay, then I suggest you speak to them ASAP.

Fixtures

The fixtures will be released shortly and will be accessible via the website.

As mentioned time slots will be 6.15pm and 7.45pm with one women’s game and one men’s game running concurrently.

Juniors Program Starts With a Bang

There wasn't a vuvuzela in sight, nor a complaint about how the ball flew at altitude, but clearly the 2010 FIFA World Cup has had an effect on the psyche of the youth of Broome.

On Wednesday 21st July, a record 157 children aged 5-12, registered for the Broome Soccer Association's Small Sided Games program.

This is the fourth year that the program has been run by the Association, and interest is clearly on the rise.

BSA president Mike Doyle said that the program has only grown in popularity since its inception.

"It is an unbelievable turnout," he said. "Clearly we have had a boost from the interest in the World Cup, but it also shows that the game is growing here in the Kimberley."

In fact, this surge in numbers has left the Association clamouring for help from anyone interested in lending a hand.

"If you have any knowledge of soccer, or just want to help grow the game, we'd love to have you," Doyle said.

If anyone would like to lend a hand, contact Mike Doyle on 0488 063 639, or get down to Father McMahon Field on Wednesday at 4pm.

B-Liga Rumours Start to Circulate

With the Broome Soccer Association's B-Liga Outdoor Championship due to begin in just over four week's time, the BSA's own Mike Doyle takes a look at the latest rumours surrounding the teams.

______

Richard ‘the pulsator’ Brunger has lost the bulk of the pulsating Pearl Coast Pirates squad and is looking to a blend of experience and more experience this year to make himself look much quicker than he is. The Pirates have spent the majority of their money insuring Brunger’s lucky hat so it may be a period of consolidation for the club. However Brunger’s coaching and wheeling and dealing can not be underestimated – indeed he has been pulsating to say the least - winning the B Liga in his first attempt then finishing second in the Broomedesliga despite critics questioning the seriousness of the playing kit.

Three time bridesmaids – Hagan’s Heroes – appear determined to win their first ever B Liga trophy in 2010. After three consecutive runner’s up medals the Heroes will spend big in order to set fire to the afterburners this season.

New manager Allan Meikle has moved quickly to secure the signature of Broomedesliga star and new biggest name in Broome Soccer, Dawie Van Rensburg. The undisclosed sum is reported to be a B Liga record and Meikle has hinted there is more big name signings to come including a member of the English World Cup Squad and a man with a vuvuzela.

The playing future of Broome City’s entire team has been thrown into doubt. Many of the players have gone into hiding and are not speaking to the media. The pressures of the LNG gas hub, Broome North, and cost of living has forced Broome City to seriously consider their future. Stalwart and club hard man Jon Galichan sparked controversy by playing under PCC Brunger during the Broomedesliga and his exit could turn on the floodgates. Rumours of a Colombian take over from Dorian Facundo are building, but just who will take the field for the men in navy remains to be seen.

NDFC have kept very quiet over the off season. Perineal winners of everything the side will again look to dominate, but rumours of a change of name are rife. Ninety - five time championship winner JJ Murray has been sent to South Africa to scour some tournament currently happening for talent. The Broome Police Professional English Footballer Exchange (BPPEFE) has seen the side strengthened considerably despite many thinking this was impossible. The contract and indeed playing future of BSA legend Jimmy Asimacopoulos continues to be a topic of hot debate, but with names like Messi, Ronaldo, Fallon and Dos Santos bandied about NDFC will be tough to beat, regardless of his signature.

Racing Guantanmo has been banned from the transfer market for irregularities.

IN OTHER NEWS

BSA el president Mike Doyle is said to be furious with the now former Socceroos manager Pim Verbeek. Doyle is set for meetings with FFA after no B Liga players were included in the world cup squad despite the league enjoying its best ever season in 2010.

Junior Coaching Course

Football West will be running a coaching course for all volunteers interested in coaching junior soccer. Details are as followed:

Football West Small Sided Games Coaching Course

Father McMahon Sports Field,

4pm – 5pm

Wednesday June 23^rd.

Learn the basic coaching techniques of the game and help teach our future BSA stars.

Conducted by Football West Development Officer Willie Devlin.

For details contact Mike Doyle 0488 063639 or 9191 3439.

Juniors Helpers Required

The Broome Soccer Association is set for a big year this year with regards to our junior program. With interest expected to peak after the World Cup, we are painfully aware that we are underequipped in terms of people-power to deal with this.

Our juniors program is set to start on Wednesday 21st July at 3:30pm and continue for approximately 8-9 weeks. The sessions will run for approximately one hour.

We are putting out a call to all interested parents who would like to put up their hand to volunteer an hour or so of their time each week to help with the following tasks:

1. Someone to stay with the trailer and act to : assist with first aid if required ; direct kids / parents with queries ; help locate gear from trailer as required by age group leaders etc

2. A reserve or two who can help fill in when coaches are away.

3. Grant Applications - look for opportunities for sponsorship to help subsidise cost (juniors ran at a considerable loss for the Association in 2010)

4. Training of Coaches

6. Preparation - pumping up of junior balls / checking whether "goals" are still usable (or whether we just use cones)

7. Pick up of equipment / trailer each week

8. Set up different junior areas from 3.30pm

9. Help pack up

10. Washing bibs

As you can see, there are several jobs which the existing committee cannot realistically complete by themselves. If we cannot get enough volunteers, we may have to run the juniors program in a smaller capacity, or possibly not at all.

If you would like to volunteer and help us out, please contact Tim Gray at tim.gray1@det.wa.edu.au

Presentation Night a Success - Full List of Winners

The Broome Soccer Association Broomedesliga presentation night was held last Friday at Murphy's Irish Pub.

The following awards were presented on the night:

Captain’s Awards

Black Magic – Emma O’Mally

Tighty Whiteys - Carolyn Newman

Nancy Girls – Jessica Richards

Shamrocks – Megan Neervooct

Troppos – Naomi Vandeweem

Cardiff City – Selwyn Taylor

Jiminies – Mark Colwell

Hobbits FC – Dawie VanRensburg

SANGA – Emmanuel Navarette

Sporting Guantanamo - Seby Parisiliti

Racing Guantanamo – Ben Jones

Travelling Royals – Matty Tarbotton

UN Barbarians – Fortune

Emerging Talent:

Selwyn Taylor (Cardiff City), Zoe Bilston (Nancy Girls)

Golden Boot:

Sasha Mitchell (17 goals - Nancy Girls), Luke Turner (33 Goals - Sporting Guantanamo)

Player of the Year:

Melena Cole-Manolis (Shamrocks), Luke Turner (Sporting Guantanamo)

Champions:

Troppos (Women's), UN Barbarians (Men's)

Broomedesliga Grand Final: UN Barbarians Unite to Claim Title

By Mike Doyle

UN Barbarians turned on the style to win the Broomedesliga title 7-4 on Wednesday night. Travelling Royals came into the finals full of confidence having destroyed a talented Racing Gauntanamo side the previous week. With a victory over the Barbarians and the absence of their opponents powerhouse skipper Alan Armstrong the Royals had every hope of causing an upset.

Indeed an upset looked on the cards early with the ever improving Jono Falconer giving the Royals an early lead. UN Barbarians were rattled and with Venter and Tarbotton’s physical approach reaping rewards the final quickly lived up to the hype. The strong tackling and passionate midfield battles had the crowd on the edge of their seat, but it was the returning Jimmy Asimacopoulos who found the net with a low drive to draw the sides level. The goal settled the Barbarians and their next was a perfect example of the team ethic that has seen them prove so lethal. Media superstar Drasko Jankovic chased down a seemingly hopeless long ball and produced a pin point cross for acting captain Fortune to head home and when JJ Murray powered home shortly before the half the UN Barbarians had the title within their grasp.

Amir Hammad added a fourth for the Barbarians, which sparked the Royals into life. Under pulsating captain Richard Brunger the Royals are a tough nut to keep tied down. Vini Belotti gave the side hope with a well taken goal and another cracker from Falconer ensured the Barbarians had to fight the game to the last. Like the champions they are the Barbarians did so, Geoff Peck and Jankovic netted for the champions-in-waiting before Asimacopoulos scored again. The hard working Stainton managed a consolation for Royals, but there was no doubt the title was heading to the UN. In the highest quality final in Broomedesliga history not only the Barbarians, but futsal itself was the winner.

Hat Trick Hero Gives Troppos Inaugural Title

By Mike Doyle

Troppos won the inaugural Broomedesliga women’s title defeating a valiant Shamrocks 4-0 in front of a packed BRAC stadium on Wednesday night.

Tropppos had too much firepower for Shamrocks with Karen Salkilld scoring a hat trick in a devastating second half performance.

The result could have been quite different however had Shamrocks taken their chances in the first half. The girls in green had met every challenge coming into the final and were undaunted by their much vaunted opponents. Melena Cole-Manolis and captain Kath Dabrowska controlled the midfield and created plenty of headaches for their opponents. Indeed Troppos had Cindy Watterson to thank for keeping them in the game. The Troppos shot-stopper continued her impressive form in goals by producing a number of fine saves, including denying young gun Lexi Tang-Wei. Despite having the better of the game, the sides went into the break level.

It was a different Troppos who came out for the second half. Salkilld and Naomi Vandeweem were in more determined form and they began to take control of the game. It was a touch of misfortune in the form of a ricochet own goal that eased Troppos nerves and from there Salkilld took over with three powerful finishes to give Troppos a deserved title.

Shamrocks did have chances to close the game, but once again were denied by Watterson. Shamrocks deserved their grand final place and were worthy opponents, but Troppos have been the best side in the league all season and on the biggest stage won the title to prove it.

The women’s competition has developed rapidly to the point were every game was hugely competitive. With the inaugural outdoor season set to commence on July 21^st one of the closest competitions in BSA history could be the result.

Finals Action Tonight

The Broomedesliga wraps up the season tonight in what should be a cracking final between UN Barbarians and the Travelling Royals at 7pm.

Both teams have lost only once this season, and the match should be an absolute cracker.

In the women's competition, Troppos take on the Shamrocks at 6pm, with the Shamrocks having a massive challenge ahead of them if they are to knock off the strong premiers.

In the other match of the night, Jiminies FC take on Cardiff City to determine who will walk away with the wooden spoon, also at 6pm.

The official presentation night will take place at Murphy's Irish Pub on Friday 28th May at 7pm.

Broomedesliga Round Nine: The Road to the Final

A place in the Broome Soccer Association Broomedesliga Grand Final was on the line on Wednesday night as Racing Guantanamo met the Travelling Royals in the semi-finals of the competition.

The Royals had reached the match on the back of a great regular season campaign, losing only once, ironically to Guantanamo.

The match began with a cagey start, both sides concentrating on the defensive aspects of their game and neither wanting to give away an early goal.

With both teams worried about going down early, chances were few and far between as stubborn defences on both sides broke down any attacks coming through.

The Royals’ Ken Goatley was particularly impressive at the back, portraying a sense of calm to soak up pressure from Guantanamo’s Raiko Kiudmaa, who was kept relatively quiet by the stalwart Royals defender.

Before the end of the first half however, the Royals struck with a great counter-attack to put Guantanamo on the back foot.

If the first half was relatively even, the second half couldn’t have been more different, with Guantanamo looking nervous and making schoolboy errors that resulted in some cheap goals against them.

The Royals were starting to get into the scoring mood, and pressed higher up the park to force Guantanamo into their own half more often than not.

Jon Gallichan worked hard in the Royals’ midfield to pressure the Guantanamo defence, and netted a hattrick to aid his team in their quest for the final.

With the final score of 6-1, the Travelling Royals claimed their place in the Grand Final against UN Barbarians next week, while Guantanamo take pride in knowing they went farther in the competition than any other time in their history.

In the other match of the round, last year’s champions Sanga managed to avoid the embarrassment of the wooden spoon by dispatching Jimnies FC.

Sanga had to wait until penalties though to see off their plucky rivals as both teams took part in a very spirited match which could have gone either way.

Jimnies will now take on Cardiff City next week in a curtain-raiser to the Grand Final to see who will pick up the dubious title of 2010 Wooden Spooners.

W-Broomedesliga Results & Grand Final Preview

By Mike Doyle

Tighty Whiteys 0 Shamrocks 2

Captain courageous Kath Dabrowska and Melena Cole-Manolis scored crucial goals to continue the fairy tale finals series for the Shamrocks. Tighties pushed Shamrocks all the way, but the twinkle toes of Melena Cole-Manolis up front and the Scottish grit of Erin McDermott was enough to keep the Tighties scoreless. It was a professional performance from the girls in green who are improving every week, and played a perfect counter attacking game.

Alisha and Rachael Gabb worked hard for Tighty Whiteys who missed their talismanic skipper, Monique Kelly on loan to Tasmania United. The team should be proud of their season; finishing second after a slow start was a super effort and with a year under the belt should be competitive come the outdoor version.

The question now is will the luck be with the Shamrocks yet again come Wednesday evening? Only a fool would bet against them. The team are gelling at the right end of the season; so not only does their hair look fantastic but the blend of youth and experience is proving formidable. Two finals wins in succession have the side full of confidence and eager to continue their fine form. This amazing run began when a lucky Alsatian was tied to the BSA whiteboard. They will face their biggest test on Wednesday and rumours are already circling the Biggest Name in Broome Soccer will be in their corner too. If he is tied to a whiteboard anything is possible for the sentimental favourites.

Troppos 3 Nancy Girls 3

Troppos win 4-3 on pens

In one of the greatest games ever played on the slippery slopes of BRAC indoors Troppos booked their place in the grandest of finals. A dramatic penalty shoot out which ended 4-3 had everything – penalties, shoot outs, disputed goals and a victor. (and we don’t mean the one visiting from Bulgaria) Even WKFL premiership players Brett Salkilld and Vernon Dann were in attendance as a record crowd watched one of the most physical contests in the history of the Broomedesliga - women’s version.

League superstars Alissa Byron and Karen Salkilld played out their own mini battle. Salkilld gaining the upper hand with the opener, but Byron scored one of her own to keep the teams level at the break.

Naomi Vandeweem put Troppos back into the lead in a pulsating second half, but Nancy Girls came back again once again through young gun Zoe Bilston to send the game to penalties. The shoot out was a thriller but Troppos held their nerve and sneaked through, but only just.

Nancy Girls have now experienced the highs and lows after successive penalty shoot outs, but will be better for the experience. Under the administrative brilliance of Nancy Kennedy a major signing or two would not be a surprise, but on another day the team could beat anyone with the squad they have. Troppos normally do, but will need to be at their best come Wednesday. The week off may have affected their performance, but with a finals game behind them and their growing band of fans they will be favourites for the final. They have a wealth of talent, plenty of experience and some really nice shirts. There is no doubt the minor premiers will be looking to end the season in style and have the ability to do so.

Fixtures for Semi Finals

The fixtures for the semi finals are as follows, please click on the image for a larger resolution.

Broomedesliga Round Eight: Finals Series Starts With a Bang

The UN Barbarians re-asserted their dominance of the Broome Soccer Association’s Broomedesliga competition on Wednesday night, as the first finals round saw another series of shock results.

The Barbarians took on the Travelling Royals for the second time in as many weeks, with the Royals claiming bragging rights in their first encounter, knocking off the Barbarians unbeaten streak.

The rematch was a passionate affair, with both sides looking to make an impact early.

Alan Armstrong was again at the centre of an iron Barbarians’ midfield, and he managed to control the play and turn the match in their favour.

The Barbarians put on a footballing lesson, ending the match 3-0, and giving us the first match of the season were one team has failed to score any goals.

In the other top match of the round, it was another Guantanamo Derby, as Racing and Sporting went head-to-head once again.

Racing got off to the better start, and soon had Sporting on the back foot.

Racing’s Martin Kessler again proved that he is one of the best players in the league combining excellent team play with individual brilliance.

By the end of the match, a sturdy Racing defence had managed to curb Sporting’s attack, while providing excellent through balls for their own forwards to counter with, ending the score 7-1.

At the bottom end, the play-offs for the wooden spoon proved to be entertaining affairs, with the crowds providing a great atmosphere.

Hobbits FC took on Sanga in a play-off for fifth place, with the men from the Shire looking surprisingly potent as they tried to end their season on a high.

Allan Meikle took on the Hobbits’ coach’s role, alternating between a place in the stands and coming down to the touchline to scream commands at his men.

With the fiery Scotsman controlling the tactical side of the game, the Hobbits looked dangerous, and managed to score some important goals, including a stunner from Molefi Nong who rounded four players before slotting it home.

Sanga captain Shane Bilston tried to inspire his men with a desperate goal just before half time, but the Shiremen were too strong, and finished the match 11-4.

The final play-off match was a nail biter between Jiminies and Cardiff FC.

Both teams had come into the play-offs on the back of some disappointing results, but this night, both upped their game to a whole other level.

Matt and Chris Harris were on song for Cardiff, while Tong Klahan again produced the goods for Jiminies.

At the end of a close game, Jiminies edged home 4-3.

Going into the next round of finals, Racing Guantanamo take on Travelling Royals for a place in the Grand Final, while Jiminies take on Sanga to see who will face Cardiff City for the wooden spoon.

Hobbits Get the Horn

By Allan Meikle

Women and children fear not, Viagra was not involved in this game. The horn referred to was courtesy of the South African contingent in the crowd warming up for the World Cup.

What a spectacle they witnessed tonight. It may not have been Viagra but something got the boys exited tonight and that was goal after goal after goal. No you have not tuned into the wrong reporters script we are talking about the lowly Hobbits who played a blinder of a game tonight..11 – 4 was the final result in this demolition of a good Sanga team and a win worthy of the championship.

If only these same players had been there for previous games it could have been a battle for the top not the bottom.

The Hobbits again were short of players through illness, suspicious travel and feigned injury (Misfit Meikle’s performance as the “injured party” was still on display tonight as he hobbled about on the sideline trying to remember what side to limp on). It may have been his un-understandable Scottish comments being thrown at the team that forced the play, but most probably was just his absence from the defence, but something worked tonight and worked well.

Young Jon Gallichan in goal “on loan” in the first half and then the well seasoned Selwyn Taylor “another loan player” in goal in the second, both turned in very professional performances and were responsible between them for the low score by the Sanga team who must have been aghast at the amount of brilliant goalkeeping they encountered and must have been shell shocked at the end of this game..

The team tonight, “the dream team’ consisted of Invincible Ian, Big Ben, Back Heel Molefi , You Watt and Paper Doyley.

Paper played through the pain barrier tonight and apart from the face pulling every time he kicked the ball you would never have guessed at the bout of gout causing the pain. Face pulling similar to having sex he was heard to comment (no we don’t get it either and don’t want to!) Perhaps Viagra did have a part to play in tonight’s game after all! Doyley played like the consummate professional he is setting up many chances and scoring several from long range.

“You Watt’ again played the hard man in defence and midfield playing a sublime game setting up many goals, tackling hard when needed and scoring as well. Hell everyone scored!

Invincible Ian had many thunder shots at goal and played one of his best games tonight as did Big Ben including a few noses rather than headers. The two big men combined well with many a goal scored between them as the ball flew past the Hapless Sanga keeper tearing into the net. Again, football poetry in motion, a delight to behold.

Now to Molefi the “Back Heel King” who in recent weeks has had some astounding misses whilst trying to show to the world the South African Skills he has brought to this sun burnt country and gained him the nickname. Tonight he was forbade to do anything like that “None o’yer fancy fitba here ok” Misfit was heard to instruct at the start of the game (well we think that’s what he said…Jimmy!).

Molefi was doing so well, until Paper tried to emulate him, then the gloves were off and the fitba patter flowed freely. Best example of this being the “Kings” weaving through around 4 players (5 aside football, remember) before scoring. The concrete walls at BRAC shook like a mini earthquake to the sound of the horns following this one man show!

A brilliant performance from the Hobbit boys tonight indeed the sort of game that even the most cynical Hobbit fans would find hard to fault.

Next please!!

Round One Finals Fixtures

The fixtures below are for this Wednesday. Click on the image to see a larger version.

Broomedesliga Round Seven: Competition Blown Wide Open

Bookmakers hastily closed all bets on the Broome Soccer Association’s Broomedesliga competition last night as the finals series was blown wide open with a series of shocking results.

UN Barbarians, who up until Wednesday night had been undefeated and looked set for a definite place in the grand final, succumbed to a steadfast Travelling Royals side 9-7.

With this win, the Royals went equal top of the table with the Barbarians, confounding critics who had hadn’t even considered them to be a blip on the radar.

Jon Falconer was again the driving force behind the Royals, while Geoff Peck once more looked unstoppable in front of goal for the Barbarians, netting four.

The other match of the round saw the much-hyped Guantanamo Derby between Racing and Sporting.

If Sporting were able to win, they would garner a spot in the finals, while if Racing won, they would cement second spot on the ladder.

Adding to the importance of the fixture was the appearance of legendary goalkeeper Francois Kruger, who made his return to play his final match for the club.

The match was a fast-paced affair, with both teams going all out to secure the win, but in the end it was Sporting Guantanamo, helped by star player Thank U-Ten who secured the win 7-5.

Elsewhere, Hobbits FC went down to Jiminies FC 9-8, a result that gained Jiminies their first ever Broomedesliga win.

Mat Aristei in goals was inspiring for Jiminies, and his performance meant that his team were lifted off the foot of the table for the first time since Round One.

The final match saw Sanga pick up all three points as a result of a forfeit by Cardiff City.

With the regular season now over, all attention now turns to the finals series, which has been turned upside down as a result of the shock results on Wednesday night.

In the first round of the finals series, UN Barbarians will take on Travelling Royals, and Sporting and Racing Guantanamo will again meet to try and book a place in the Grand Final, while at the bottom, Sanga will battle Hobbits FC and Jiminies will clash with Cardiff City as they attempt to avoid the ignominy of the wooden spoon.

Old Twinkle Toes on Form, but Not Much Else Goes Right For Luckless Hobbits

By Allan Meikle

It was meant to be the night of nights when everything fell together for the luckless Hobbits, a full squad, no injuries and a demolition of the opposition.

It was with this conviction that the many Hobbit fans turned up last night to watch a spectacle indeed, the flags ready to be unfurled, the Champaign on ice everything set for the Night of Nights.

So what went wrong?

All season the Hobbits have had to make do with last minute make shift teams, often borrowing from others just to make up the numbers. Tonight was no different with several of the critical main characters for this performance simply not showing up, leaving it to the understudies. An array of non match fit and under skilled reserves all of whom fit the veteran category to fill in once again.

The result could be foreseen by any blind man attending this travesty!

It could have been oh so different if old twinkle toes had found his goal scoring form earlier! Paper Doyleys goal scoring form has never been in dispute, having been responsible for his brief spell with Barcelona at the start of the season, but even old twinkle toes himself has been critical of his goal scoring form of late, so it was with great delight that the Hobbit fans saw the return to form last night of the leagues star striker (earlier in the game would have been better, but its back for sure).

So what of the game? Well the end result was 8 -9. The hobbits had a spell of self destruction midway through the first half when the relentless and very on form Jiminies cut through the Hobbits like a knife through butter. Even the return of what some say is the best Goalkeeper Broome has, namely Golden Golding AND his “gloves’ could not stop the goals from piling up behind him. His back was noticeable aching from bending down so often and so quickly to pick the ball up out of the back of the net after this brief spell.

When the Hobbits finally pulled themselves together and kept position things did change and a miraculous comeback almost came to fruition.

It’s a hard one to call, as all the Hobbits played fairly well and at times the passing was sublime but the fact remains that critical player did not turn out again. Big Ben was sorely needed up front and Mr Watts skills in midfield and in front of goal would have changed the score line for sure.

Ah but it’s a funny old game is it not as they say. Tonight was far from being funny!!

Fishnet Dawie (it seems fishnet stockings and garter belts have been found in his locker) turned in another great performance and played better than last week, as happens each week as this “young” talent finds his feet and develops strong skills in defence. Macca again played well in defence and in goal; Golden Golding not only wore “the gloves” for a while but played a crucial part in the recovery scoring as well. “Young “Nifty the Shifty played well, agreed, but he needs to simplify his goal attempts. Back healed goals are all well and good but when the situation arises quantity is more important than quality.

Finally What of Misfit Meikle, well at least he managed a whole game without scoring an own goal , so a vast improvement there but late in the game he must have had enough of the torture as he limped off again feigning injury with an injured, nay suspected broken, toe supposedly suffered during a HARD tackle. Didn’t we hear the same story a few weeks ago!

A travesty of the game indeed that this is supposed to be the leagues “best player”!!! A warranted academy award performance perhaps, but not a lot of football there.

So it’s into the Finals next week. The long suffering fans will be hoping that finally the Hobbits can field a full strength team for once and see the machine in action as it was intended by God, snuffing out the opposition in a tidal wave of sublime skilled football!

“It is a dream I have.”

Broomedesliga Fixture Amendment

Fixtures have been amended for tomorrow night. Click image to see larger resolution:

Broomedesliga Round Six: Barbarians Go Solo At Top

When the unstoppable force meets the immovable object, something has to give – or so the saying goes.

And so it was on Wednesday, when the unbeaten UN Barbarians met the undefeated Racing Guantanamo in Round Six of the Broome Soccer Association Broomedesliga.

With both teams boasting a one hundred percent win rate, the winner of the match would finally claim top spot on the league table for themselves.

With Alan Armstrong marshalling the Barbarians well, and Guantanamo’s Reno Kurg hitting top form, the match took on an energetic feel, with chances at both ends flowing freely.

In the end, it was a wonder goal from Fortune Nlanhla from deep inside his own half that bagged the win for the Barbarians, and ending the scoreline 8-7.

Eager to make their own headlines, Internet favourites Hobbits FC took on Cardiff City, as they set out to make amends for their embarrassing loss last week.

James Watt returned for the Hobbits, making his mark with four goals, while Selwyn Taylor looked in good form for City, scoring a hat-trick.

When the dust settled at the end of a long, hard-fought match, Hobbits gained the victory, their first of the season, 15-7.

Elsewhere, Sporting Guantanamo looked to firm up their hold on fourth spot, and a place in the finals, taking on last season’s champions Sanga.

It was a slow, lacklustre Guantanamo side however, and they were punished early, with Lawrence Elsoy playing a good game for the Sanga side.

The Mighty Orange looked tired, but managed to come back in the second half, scoring five.

It was a case of too little, too late though as Sanga sealed the win 9-7.

In the final match of the round, Jiminies FC battled the Travelling Royals.

Jon Falconer played well for the Royals as they pushed for their place in the finals, and they managed the win, ending the score 9-5.

With only one normal round of the season until the finals, all teams are pushing hard to make the top four. UN Barbarians and Racing Guantanamo have already sealed their place, but Sporting Guantanamo, Travelling Royals and Sanga all have a chance, and it will come down to next week to see who will be there.

Victorious Hobbits Leave Crowd Speechless...

By Allan Meikle

...well this author speechless anyway..

The hobbits actually won a game and in some style it must be said. The score ended up being 15 – 7 or so I am told. I am not actually sure as tears of joy were spilling down my tear soaked cheeks as the reality of it all started to sink in.

Cardiff City could not have expected the torrent of football that was about to hit them as the old Hobbit boys limped onto the pitch and assembled in their usual shambolic heap ready for the kick off.

All those long suffering fans who have been so vocal of late were strangely silent as they contemplated what they were watching. Strange days indeed!

Oh how they will lament the fact that a full team has yet to actually play. Yes yet again players decided not to turn up. Ian Chester and Big Ben Holden both used the excuse that they had to set up the Expo! (A note from your mothers is required because we don’t believe you!) and Miscreant Molefi simply didn’t arrive.

Never the less the players that did attend performed well indeed. Dangerous Dawie not only played well in defence but was seen in attack as well and even the lack lustre Meikle was seen to have shots at goal. Well when we say shots they were more like deflected prods really, but inspiring to see none the less. Mark Golden Boy Golding again was a no show but his gloves did turn up and it became obvious that it’s the gloves not the player that are the star as Andy Goram McDonald in goal played a blinder!

Jim Morris again played out of his skin and was vastly improved now his fitness levels are returning to normal and he acclimatises to Broome again.

A competition seems to be developing between Watt and Meikle as to who can score the most and best own goals and tonight it was James Watt who won with a tremendous shot that McDonald had no chance with.

Paper Doyleys contribution to the game seemed to be his continued skipping around the pitch like a school girl complaining that he had missed another shot. To be fair he may skip around like a wee girl but he set up and executed many shots at goal like the experienced payer that he is!

One other point worth mentioning was that Ten-pack-a-day Dangerous Dawies’ nicotine addiction appears to be being replaced by his fervour for the game.

Strange days indeed!

This win may mean the Hobbits fail to even win the wooden spoon but bodes well for the next competition.

Man of the match award must go to Dangerous Dawie, who now he has shrugged his impulsive desire to rugby tackle has developed into an all round player.

“Bring it on” , Paper Doyley was heard to cry after the game .

Broomedesliga Round Five: Championship Favourites Crash Again

Broome Soccer Association Broomedesliga title favourites Hobbits FC crashed hard again against a rampant Travelling Royals side, as league pundits were left wondering exactly who could have anointed them as contenders on a recent Internet poll.

The men from the Shire evidently seemed to believe the hype, with a number not even showing up to the game, leaving captain Allan Meikle scrounging for players five minutes before the game.

The Royals were ruthless, even without captain Richard Brunger, who was ruled out with a broken coccyx, putting a whopping 13 goals past the hapless Hobbits, who were left floundering for much of the game.

Dawie Van Rensburg showed his sublime skills for the Shire men, but it was ultimately in vain as Matty Tarbotton compounded the misery for the Hobbits, netting a hat-trick to finalise the scoreline at 13-1.

UN Barbarians continued their unbeaten season with a 17-6 defeat of last season’s champions, Sanga.

Sanga started the match under-strength, but rallied under captain Shane Bilston, who inspired his team to match the Barbarians on a number of occasions, but with Alan Armstrong and Geoff Peck in great form, it was not to be.

The league’s other unbeaten side, Racing Guantanamo, continued to confound critics with another win, keeping pace with the Barbarians at the top.

They met Jiminies FC, who welcomed back Jamie Lane to their side after a few weeks out.

Despite some excellent passages of play from Brazilian player Mark, who netted a hat-trick, Jiminies were unable to stop the Mighty Orange from notching up another win, finishing the match 18-4.

In the last match of the round, Sporting Guantanamo took all 3 points as a result of a forfeit by young guns Cardiff City.

With only two rounds of the normal season left to play, Hobbits FC and Jiminies FC are both locked together at the foot of the table on zero points, while at the top, it could come down to next week’s blockbuster match between the two unbeaten teams of the league, Racing Guantanamo and UN Barbarians.

W-Broomedesliga Results

By Erin McDermott

The Women's opening match after the Easter break proved to be a fast-paced, action filled forty minutes with the two favourite teams in the competition going head to head. The Troppos looked a bit shaky at the start with only four team members showing up for the match. Luckily newcomer Jess Downie agreed to stand in for the Blues. Black Magic put away an early goal from Karli Orazi in the opening seconds, soon followed by a goal each from Kali Owens and Emma O'Mally. The Troppos seemed to flounder with the absence of Captain Karen Salkilld and their stand in player but 10 minutes into the first half they seemed to find their feet putting pressure on the opposition with a Troppos corner and a near miss from Sasha Mitchell. Increased Blue possession allowed Black Magic few chances with Troppos Bec Morgan and Downie slipping through a goal each. In the final seconds Owens netted a second for Black Magic bringing an exciting second half to a close with a score of 4-2, in favour of the Blacks.

There was no messing about in the second half as the Troppos brought their A-game with Mandela Yu scoring an early goal for the Blues. Mitchell followed soon after bringing the score to 4 all. Black Magic played well but Troppos kept applying the pressure giving them little room to manoeuvre on the field. Mitchell netted another two for a hat trick bringing the final score to Troppos 6 - Black Magic 4. Best players were Black Magic's Karli Orazi and Kali Owens and newcomer Jess Downie for the Troppos.

Tighty Whiteys fought back from last weeks defeat beating Nancy Girls 3-1 with Zoe Bulston, Alyssa Byron (Nancy Girls) and Sarah Eastbury voted the best players. The Shamrocks managed to end their three game losing streak with a 7-4 win over a tired Troppos team playing their second game of the night. Best players were Naomi and Alex Quigley for the Troppos and Megan for the Shamrocks.