2017 Zone League 3 thread

[Jardelsimage]

As someone that is associated with a battling club I agree that more finals positions will lead to greater interest for new and struggling clubs. Its so hard to sign players for battling clubs, there is so much talent playing all age football that could easily be playing zone league football.

finally someone gets it.
I have said for years that the associations should be putting less into AA and push them into grade based sides, but its hard when directors and individual clubs aren't interested as there kids play AA and its about everyone winning a prize.
some clubs have 5+ AA and no grade sides, that needs to change.
its not hard to get two AA teams and rebadge them as ZPL3 side, don't need money to start, still don't have to train, still don't need to change what they do, except you kick off 1pm and 3pm guaranteed each week either on a Saturday or Sunday.
I must say AA in the last couple of years, I believe is getting weaker from what I've seen and Zone is growing stronger due to Northerns mismanagement of their comps IE: U/22 etc
How's this one to end, there will not be a 2HD soon, NPL will be 12 teams and 2HD will be gone, it will work the same as the real NRl, top grade then lower hunter. No promotion etc......so NRL, then Zone........

[ranger]

just because a club has a number of all age sides doesn't mean going into grade football will work. zone leagues not for everyone and associations can't push clubs into doing it.

you can have 20 blokes sign for an all age team, and know your going to play Saturday afternoons (albeit unknown time) or you can sign 30 blokes for zone league, get 5 injures, 5 blokes at work then your scraping to field 2 teams.

most blokes would rather varying time playing with mates and knowing they have to sit out on the odd occasion than getting smashed in zone league.

[ranger]

In saying associations can't push clubs into zone league, I'd love to see them assisting, encouraging and selling it to clubs as much as possible. Particularly as a pathway for large junior based clubs where under 18s turn into low grade all age teams the following year.

[anfield]

finally someone gets it.
I have said for years that the associations should be putting less into AA and push them into grade based sides, but its hard when directors and individual clubs aren't interested as there kids play AA and its about everyone winning a prize.
some clubs have 5+ AA and no grade sides, that needs to change.
its not hard to get two AA teams and rebadge them as ZPL3 side, don't need money to start, still don't have to train, still don't need to change what they do, except you kick off 1pm and 3pm guaranteed each week either on a Saturday or Sunday.
I must say AA in the last couple of years, I believe is getting weaker from what I've seen and Zone is growing stronger due to Northerns mismanagement of their comps IE: U/22 etc
How's this one to end, there will not be a 2HD soon, NPL will be 12 teams and 2HD will be gone, it will work the same as the real NRl, top grade then lower hunter. No promotion etc......so NRL, then Zone........

I think you will find it costs $1500 to enter zl3 squad.

[Cunning stunts]

Just heard Grandfinals for ZP3 is at Cooks square park Maitland Saturday 9th of September

[Cunning stunts]

so finals series placement would be as follows

(goes on first grade ladder where you play)
First leg semis
Saturday 26/8/2017 4th vs 1st
Sunday 27/8/2017 3rd vs 2nd

Second leg semis
Saturday 2/9/2017 2nd vs 3rd
Sunday 3/9/2017 1st vs 4th

then Grandfinals Saturday 9/9/2017 cook square park

[Charman]

Makes sense. Best ground by a mile.

[anfield]

so finals series placement would be as follows

(goes on first grade ladder where you play)
First leg semis
Saturday 26/8/2017 4th vs 1st
Sunday 27/8/2017 3rd vs 2nd

Second leg semis
Saturday 2/9/2017 2nd vs 3rd
Sunday 3/9/2017 1st vs 4th

then Grandfinals Saturday 9/9/2017 cook square park

Maitland obviously applied for it, any news on where the other zone league finals are at? Interesting to see what clubs applied for grand finals

[football_macigian23]

Maitland obviously applied for it, any news on where the other zone league finals are at? Interesting to see what clubs applied for grand finals

ZPL apparently to be held at Magic Park

[Charman]

Redhead v Maitland.
Res 0-3. Much improved effort by the lads.
1sts 1-0. Good win in a game where both sides had a few chances.

[E.J.S.C ZL]

Edgeworth vs Azzurri

1st Grade 8-1 Azzurri
2nd Grade 1-0 Azzurri.

[Cunning stunts]

Games this weekend
Mayfield vs Maitland Fc - Maitland Fc both grades
Dudley Vs Bolwarra - Bolwarra both grades big game in firsts here, I think Bolwarra will get the win in this one
Edgeworth Vs Medowie - Edgeworth both grades
Maitland Jnr Vs Hamilton - Hamilton both grades

[salmon]

Dudley vs. Bolwarra should be a belter. Have no idea about squad availabilities for both teams, but Dudley have been killing lately. If Bolwarra full strength though I'm picking them to steal it. Strongest team I've played against this year by a long way.

[E.J.S.C ZL]

Round 21 catch up last night
Edgeworth vs Mayfield

1st Grade 4-0 Edgeworth
2nd Grade 4-0 Edgeworth

[anfield]

Dudley vs. Bolwarra should be a belter. Have no idea about squad availabilities for both teams, but Dudley have been killing lately. If Bolwarra full strength though I'm picking them to steal it. Strongest team I've played against this year by a long way.

Should be a good game, Especially in the fight to finish 2nd or 3rd. Given Azzurri form all year everyone will want to avoid playing them straight away come the the finals if possible.

[Charman]

Redhead v Bolwarra.
Res 2-1
1st 1-2. Their gk pulled off 2 special saves. They were better than us today.

[Charman]

Wasn't going to say anything but I can't let it lie. F__k the appointment of refs. We had requested specifically for today after our last game in both teams best interests. We had 2 appointed, they didn't show up. Club ref for 1sts is a top bloke BUT a proper ref and Bolwarra finish with 10, maybe 9. Not making excuses just stating facts. They should've had 5 yellows and 1-2 reds. We all pay good coin to be in this comp and it is treated like a cash grab by Henry and his cronies. What a F--king joke. Refs at home this yr = 3 games, it's rd16. Bolwarra would not be in the same spot on the table if zl3 had refs for at least 1/2 our games. It's a god damn joke. Wake up carlin and henry. Get ur shit together.

[E.J.S.C ZL]

Edgeworth vs Medowie

1st Grade 3-2 Medowie
2nd Grade 5-0 Edgeworth

[Cunning stunts]

Maitland Jnr Vs Maitland Fc catch up game tomorrow
If Maitland Fc win first grade it will put them back up Into second. depending on results of Bolwarra and Hamiltons catch up game. is there any word on when there game is getting played?

[salmon]

Maitland Jnr Vs Maitland Fc catch up game tomorrow
If Maitland Fc win first grade it will put them back up Into second. depending on results of Bolwarra and Hamiltons catch up game. is there any word on when there game is getting played?

Azzurri can't host night games, so catch up would be in the spare weekend, the weekend before the final round.

[Swanky]

Azzurri can't host night games, so catch up would be in the spare weekend, the weekend before the final round.

Should have to forfeit home game or look for a ground with lights
To bad if it is a wet winter, you will have to play Saturday/Sunday double headers

[Charman]

Playing spare weekend will be a real bonus. No week off before the finals.

[salmon]

Should have to forfeit home game or look for a ground with lights
To bad if it is a wet winter, you will have to play Saturday/Sunday double headers

But that is the whole purpose of the spare weekend. It is deliberately placed there by Newcastle Football to allow for any washouts to be caught up....

[la bazzle]

Replay is on the 12/8 (no games).... Last round is on the 19/8.... whats the prob

[Cunning stunts]

Replay is on the 12/8 (no games).... Last round is on the 19/8.... whats the prob

makes perfect sense to me

[Charman]

Suppose only risk is if the spare weekend is a washout but August looks to be a dry month.

[MonkeyKplunk]

Should have to forfeit home game or look for a ground with lights
To bad if it is a wet winter, you will have to play Saturday/Sunday double headers

Not every ground in the 3 associations has lights you pillock.
And I'm sure if it was neccesary the Azzurri boys could find a ground with lighting.

Hell, if it comes to it, we'll host em in Mussy and enjoy some brews while watching them work some magic on Bolwarra

[Cunning stunts]

Games this weekend

Maitland FC Vs Medowie - Maitland both grades
Hamilton Vs Dudley - Hamilton Both grades a lost to Dudley in first grade all but seals them as 4th. ressies if a slight upset and Dudley win could make for interesting last few games for the 4th spot
Bolwarra Vs Mayfield - Bolwarrra both grades
Maitland Jnr Vs Edgworth - Maitland first - Edgy ressies

[the_butcher]

Should have to forfeit home game or look for a ground with lights
To bad if it is a wet winter, you will have to play Saturday/Sunday double headers

Who is this peanut? :rof:

[the_butcher]

Games this weekend

Maitland FC Vs Medowie - Maitland both grades
Hamilton Vs Dudley - Hamilton Both grades a lost to Dudley in first grade all but seals them as 4th. ressies if a slight upset and Dudley win could make for interesting last few games for the 4th spot
Bolwarra Vs Mayfield - Bolwarrra both grades
Maitland Jnr Vs Edgworth - Maitland first - Edgy ressies

Firsts: Medowie, Hamilton, Bolwarra, Edgeworth
Rez: Maitland, Hamilton, Bolwarra, Edgeworth

[anfield]

Games this weekend

Maitland FC Vs Medowie - Maitland both grades
Hamilton Vs Dudley - Hamilton Both grades a lost to Dudley in first grade all but seals them as 4th. ressies if a slight upset and Dudley win could make for interesting last few games for the 4th spot
Bolwarra Vs Mayfield - Bolwarrra both grades
Maitland Jnr Vs Edgworth - Maitland first - Edgy ressies

I think there may be a couple of upsets this week.

[Charman]

Redhead v a$$uri
Res 0-3
1st 2-9. Everything they touched went in. Too good. At least we get 2 more chances at them 😜

[Cunning stunts]

Maitland fc vs medowie
Maitland comfortable in both. I hope medowie first grade keeper isn't to bad
8-1 first I think ended up
10-0 ressies

[anfield]

Redhead v a$$uri
Res 0-3
1st 2-9. Everything they touched went in. Too good. At least we get 2 more chances at them 😜

Credit to azzuri they were excellent yesterday. 19 games, 19 wins can anybody stop them? In the last 6 weeks they have belted everyone, next week bolwarra have the chance to take points of them. They have been the team that have troubled them the most, they will probably take it to azzuri physically more then any other team.
In the last 4 years azzuri have been the best first grade team we have seen. Argenton were really good, but this years azzuri team are on another level.

[E.J.S.C ZL]

Edgeworth vs Maitland Jnrs

1st Grade 4-1 Edgeworth
2nd Grade 3-0 Edgeworth

[the_butcher]

So looks like semis will be the following:
Firsts:
Azzurri vs Dudley
Maitland vs Bolwarra

Rez:
Maitland vs Azzurri
Edgy vs Bolwarra

Anyone picking any upsets? I think the Maitland vs Bolwarra in firsts will be close as will the Edgy vs Bolwarra in rezzies.

[Cunning stunts]

So looks like semis will be the following:
Firsts:
Azzurri vs Dudley
Maitland vs Bolwarra

Rez:
Maitland vs Azzurri
Edgy vs Bolwarra

Anyone picking any upsets? I think the Maitland vs Bolwarra in firsts will be close as will the Edgy vs Bolwarra in rezzies.

I think all games will be tight except Azzurri and Dudley first grade I don't think Azzurri will lose in a two leg semi specially being undefeated and so strong all year

but no matter what sport or division or grade you play finals and grand finals are what most of us play for and look forward to. so all the best for everyone in the finals series this year.

[MonkeyKplunk]

Gunna be hard for Maitland splitting up the teams to two different grounds on a weekend.

[the_butcher]

I think all games will be tight except Azzurri and Dudley first grade I don't think Azzurri will lose in a two leg semi specially being undefeated and so strong all year

but no matter what sport or division or grade you play finals and grand finals are what most of us play for and look forward to. so all the best for everyone in the finals series this year.

I agree. Dudley were absolutely slaughtered last Saturday, hopefully they can make it a tighter affair come semis.


Gunna be hard for Maitland splitting up the teams to two different grounds on a weekend.

How does that work? Don't they play on two different days (Sat/Sun)?

[onlooker]

but no matter what sport or division or grade you play finals and grand finals are what most of us play for and look forward to. so all the best for everyone in the finals series this year.
This I can never understand, how on earth is winning a grand final seen as better then coming first?

If you finish 3rd and win the gf yeah great, but you still finished 3rd. And stay in this league. Top of the table at the end of the year is what it's all about finals are just an extra few games to finish the year off.

That's my humble opinion anyway.

[onlooker]

How does that work? Don't they play on two different days (Sat/Sun)?
1st V 4thin both grades will play one day at the first grade venue.
2nd V 3rd both grades will play the other day. If you play Saturday in week 1 you will play Sunday in week 2

[E.J.S.C ZL]

Week 1 should be
Saturday at Dudley
1st Grade
Dudley (H) vs Azzurri (A)
2nd Grade
Azzurri (H) vs Maitland (A)

Sunday at Bolwarra
1st Grade
Bolwarra (H) vs Maitland (A)
2nd Grade
Bolwarra (H) vs Edgeworth (A)

Week 2
Saturday at Maitland
1st Grade
Maitland (H) vs Bolwarra (A)
2nd Grade
Edgeworth (H) vs Bolwarra (A)

Sunday at Hamilton
1st Grade
Azzurri (H) vs Dudley (A)
2nd Grade
Maitland (H) vs Azzurri (A)

Azzurri getting a slight advantage in 2nd Grade with there Away game being played on there own ground.

[Jardelsimage]

This I can never understand, how on earth is winning a grand final seen as better then coming first?

If you finish 3rd and win the gf yeah great, but you still finished 3rd. And stay in this league. Top of the table at the end of the year is what it's all about finals are just an extra few games to finish the year off.

That's my humble opinion anyway.

GF's are a league thing, EPL 1st past the post is the way to go.......should can final series.

[Cunning stunts]

GF's are a league thing, EPL 1st past the post is the way to go.......should can final series.

I am all for winning the league and for promotion this is great for a club and congrats to Azzurri by far the better team all year and well deserved.
but finals are great and is another thing to aim for. this year is a great example if there was nothing to play for after first was decided then what's the point in turning up and having a real crack at winning the games if finals was taken away?

winning the league is big celebrations, but I feel finals and grand finals is just the way of Australian culture. I personally love finals its another thing to aim for throughout the year and lets be honest the celebration of winning one is great. plus the extra excuse to have a ridiculous amount of beer to celebrate or commiserate the year

just my thoughts

[onlooker]

I am all for winning the league and for promotion this is great for a club and congrats to Azzurri by far the better team all year and well deserved.
but finals are great and is another thing to aim for. this year is a great example if there was nothing to play for after first was decided then what's the point in turning up and having a real crack at winning the games if finals was taken away?

winning the league is big celebrations, but I feel finals and grand finals is just the way of Australian culture. I personally love finals its another thing to aim for throughout the year and lets be honest the celebration of winning one is great. plus the extra excuse to have a ridiculous amount of beer to celebrate or commiserate the year

just my thoughts

I agree with your points on why there needs to be a finals series. Because as you said unless there is some incentive to finish as high up the ladder as possible ( other then self satisfaction) you will see teams drop off and create a very weak opposition for teams still in the hunt for the top spot.

My only problem is when people try and put winning a gf as a higher achievement then winning comp. That's why 1st place are now known as premiers ( no longer minor premiers) and GF winners are known as just that GF winners.

Finals do need to stay for incentive reasons unless something else can be put in place but I can't see anything changing for that to happen.

[Cunning stunts]

I agree with your points on why there needs to be a finals series. Because as you said unless there is some incentive to finish as high up the ladder as possible ( other then self satisfaction) you will see teams drop off and create a very weak opposition for teams still in the hunt for the top spot.

My only problem is when people try and put winning a gf as a higher achievement then winning comp. That's why 1st place are now known as premiers ( no longer minor premiers) and GF winners are known as just that GF winners.

Finals do need to stay for incentive reasons unless something else can be put in place but I can't see anything changing for that to happen.


I agree finishing top spot and promotion is the biggest achievement you can get in these leagues. but outside that winning a grand final is huge achievement for most if not all teams and players and just a great day no matter how high or low of a grade you play to be a part off

[anfield]

Imagine if it was first past the post? Azzuri would have won everything six weeks ago, there would have been little interest in the remaining weeks. The last few weeks have seen a real battle for spots 2,3 & 4. With teams mainly wanting to come 2nd or 3rd to avoid azzuri.
Dudley were beaten well last weekend, its going to be a tough challenge but its still 11 on 11. Azzuri are incredibly strong across the park, their team could easily compete in ZL1 at minimum. Just out of interest, how big was the turnover of players from last year? They were good last year but this years team is on a different level.

[MonkeyKplunk]

Imagine if it was first past the post? Azzuri would have won everything six weeks ago, there would have been little interest in the remaining weeks. The last few weeks have seen a real battle for spots 2,3 & 4. With teams mainly wanting to come 2nd or 3rd to avoid azzuri.


There's always a reason to keep fighting till the end. Top of that list is the amount of money each club gets for their spot on the ladder at the end of the year.

[hawk]

I agree with your points on why there needs to be a finals series. Because as you said unless there is some incentive to finish as high up the ladder as possible ( other then self satisfaction) you will see teams drop off and create a very weak opposition for teams still in the hunt for the top spot.

My only problem is when people try and put winning a gf as a higher achievement then winning comp. That's why 1st place are now known as premiers ( no longer minor premiers) and GF winners are known as just that GF winners.

Most comps ive played 1st are Premiers and GF winners are champions. The party after GF win is the best by miles. 6 of 1 I guess

[salmon]

Most comps ive played 1st are Premiers and GF winners are champions. The party after GF win is the best by miles. 6 of 1 I guess

Personally I think the mentality is changing. All the talk on these forums is about promotion, not about grand finals. I think that is the ultimate goal for most teams these days.

Also having won promotion and a GF in 2010, the medals were "minor premiers" and "champions". However, having won promotion in 2013 but losing the GF I can confirm the medals we received were Gold and said "Premiers" and the medal that Charlestown received as GF winners was silver and said "Grand Final Winners" which indicates a changing mentality by the federation that promotion/1st past the post has greater significance.

That being said I would never begrudge a team going all out and celebrating a GF win, as these things don't come around every year and you have to enjoy the good times as they roll.

Also can confirm that the 3 day promotion bender that occurred a few weeks back was better than any Grand Final win I've experienced previously. But different clubs have different priorities, so can both sides of the coin.

[salmon]

Also results.

First Grade
Azzurri 1 - 1 Bolwarra
Reserve Grade
Azzurri 1 - 1 Bolwarra

As I have said before, Bolwarra by far strongest team we have come against this year.

[Cunning stunts]

does anyone have any idea if the Edgeworth and Maitland game on sunday going to be changed to Friday?

[E.J.S.C ZL]

does anyone have any idea if the Edgeworth and Maitland game on sunday going to be changed to Friday?

We did talk about that idea. We are going to leave it on the Sunday and play it on the back ground. The front ground is the only ground with lights but is rock hard and very little grass cover.

[Cunning stunts]

last round of the year, I don't think many teams have much to play for this weekend
only real change is Bolwarra and Maitland in first if Maitland win they finish second if Maitland lose and Bolwarra win they finish 2nd

Medowie Vs Bolwarra Bolwarra both grades
Edgeworth vs Maitland Maitland first - draw ressies
Mayfield vs Hamilton Hamilton both grades
Dudley vs Maitland Jnr Draw First Maitland ressies

[anfield]

last round of the year, I don't think many teams have much to play for this weekend
only real change is Bolwarra and Maitland in first if Maitland win they finish second if Maitland lose and Bolwarra win they finish 2nd

Medowie Vs Bolwarra Bolwarra both grades
Edgeworth vs Maitland Maitland first - draw ressies
Mayfield vs Hamilton Hamilton both grades
Dudley vs Maitland Jnr Draw First Maitland ressies

Im predicting a real bounce back from Dudley firsts after last starts embarrassing performance. At home they should be too strong for Maitland juniors.
The reserve grade will also be aiming to finish the season strong with a win.

[anfield]

Also results.

First Grade
Azzurri 1 - 1 Bolwarra
Reserve Grade
Azzurri 1 - 1 Bolwarra

As I have said before, Bolwarra by far strongest team we have come against this year.

Bolwarra have been the only team to really test azzurri. They probably compete more for the 90 minutes then the rest. Thats the challenge for Dudley and azzurri.

[riverboy]

Im predicting a real bounce back from Dudley firsts after last starts embarrassing performance. At home they should be too strong for Maitland juniors.
The reserve grade will also be aiming to finish the season strong with a win.
I agree, Dudley way too good for maitland jnrs.

[the_butcher]

Also can confirm that the 3 day promotion bender that occurred a few weeks back was better than any Grand Final win I've experienced previously. But different clubs have different priorities, so can both sides of the coin.

This :rof:

[salmon]

Weekend results?

First Grade
Mayfield 0 - 10 Azzurri
Reserve Grade
Mayfield 0 - 4 Azzurri

[Cunning stunts]

Edgeworth vs maitland fc
First
Edgy 2-3 Maitland
Ressies
Edgy 1-2 Maitland

[Charman]

Redhead v maitland j.
Res 1-2
1st 3-1. Only just good enough today.

[Cunning stunts]

Congrats to Hamilton winning the title in first and gaining promotion and a undefeated year by far the best team all year. and congrats to Maitland Fc in reserves going undefeated in the regular season.

Congrats to every team and club that has made the finals. with Hamilton, Maitland and Bolwarra getting both grades into the finals.

now it starts again for the finals series. what is the rules around qualifying and playing in different grades in finals series?

from what I know it will be. anyone else have any predictions?

Saturday at Dudley
First Dudley Vs Hamilton - Hamilton (0-5)
Ressies Hamilton Vs Maitland - Maitland (1-2)

Sunday at Bolwarra
First Bolwarra Vs Maitland - Draw (1-1)
Ressies Bolwarra Vs Edgie - Bolwarra (3-2)

[anfield]

Congrats to Hamilton winning the title in first and gaining promotion and a undefeated year by far the best team all year. and congrats to Maitland Fc in reserves going undefeated in the regular season.

Congrats to every team and club that has made the finals. with Hamilton, Maitland and Bolwarra getting both grades into the finals.

now it starts again for the finals series. what is the rules around qualifying and playing in different grades in finals series?

from what I know it will be. anyone else have any predictions?

Saturday at Dudley
First Dudley Vs Hamilton - Hamilton (0-5)
Ressies Hamilton Vs Maitland - Maitland (1-2)

Sunday at Bolwarra
First Bolwarra Vs Maitland - Draw (1-1)
Ressies Bolwarra Vs Edgie - Bolwarra (3-2)
Judging by these predictions it sounds like we (Dudley) wont waste our time turning up???

[DonPablo]

If you let forum predictions influence your decision to play, then go ahead, don't turn up. #idiota
I think 0-5 is kind. They scored 100 goals this year, including 13 past your lot. Two forfeits = 6-0. That might be your best case of avoiding a cricket score.

[Cunning stunts]

Judging by these predictions it sounds like we (Dudley) wont waste our time turning up???

I Wish everyone luck in the Semis, but going on Dudleys recent form and Hamiltons unreal season I find it hard to tip it any other way.

[anfield]

If you let forum predictions influence your decision to play, then go ahead, don't turn up. #idiota
I think 0-5 is kind. They scored 100 goals this year, including 13 past your lot. Two forfeits = 6-0. That might be your best case of avoiding a cricket score.

It was a joke. We will be there to compete and hopefully make it a real contest.

[anfield]

If you let forum predictions influence your decision to play, then go ahead, don't turn up. #idiota
I think 0-5 is kind. They scored 100 goals this year, including 13 past your lot. Two forfeits = 6-0. That might be your best case of avoiding a cricket score.

#idiota??? If the hat fits champ

[Cunning stunts]

now it starts again for the finals series. what is the rules around qualifying and playing in different grades in finals series?
for the likes of Bolwarra, Maitland and Hamilton

I know that you can't start both Semis (E.g if you played on the Satuday you can't play for the other grade on the Sunday Except for Goal Keepers)

I think it goes on what grade you are eligible to start in is where you have started 2/3 of you matches

is this correct?

[MonkeyKplunk]

now it starts again for the finals series. what is the rules around qualifying and playing in different grades in finals series?
for the likes of Bolwarra, Maitland and Hamilton

I know that you can't start both Semis (E.g if you played on the Satuday you can't play for the other grade on the Sunday Except for Goal Keepers)

I think it goes on what grade you are eligible to start in is where you have started 2/3 of you matches

is this correct?

Correct.
But if you have started both grades in 2/3 of the matches, then you can start both grades

[Jardelsimage]

Correct.
But if you have started both grades in 2/3 of the matches, then you can start both grades

sorry but I don't think that's correct. you can still only start one game in a final series.
the higher grade trumps the lower grade basically for qualification only.

[RANGER09]

You guys have 21 rounds , so if you start 14 of these in first grade then you cannot start in reserve grade , yet you can still come off the bench in reserve grade if required. Jardel is correct about only starting one grade per semi
Final, if your unsure contact Newcastle football who will confirm your qualification.
Only specialist positions such as goal keeper can start both grades but you require approval by NF prior to the finals starting

[pv4]

I didn't realise that Azzuri didn't win every single game. They'll be spewing with that one draw, in an odd comp that only had 3 draws over the entire season! That seems crazy low!

It looks like Bolwarra are the best shot at knocking Azzuri off their perch, if they can get past what seems to be a decent Maitland side in the process.

I'm always a big fan of hearing about the clubs which have all their grades in the finals. So well done to Azzuri, Bolwarra & Maitland for that effort. Really highlights the strength of those top clubs, and if someone bothers to put together the Club Championship it'll more than likely be as straightforward as it can be.

You'd be imagining once Azzuri go up that it'll be a pretty decent battle between Bolwarra & Maitland for promotion next year. The biggest shame of the comp imo is losing Azzuri's sponsored posts on the zl3 banter facebook page :rof:

[Cunning stunts]

I looked roughly at a club championship and it looks like this
Hamilton = 212
Maitland = 192
Bolwarra = 168
Edgeworth = 132
Dudley = 126

[salmon]

I didn't realise that Azzuri didn't win every single game. They'll be spewing with that one draw, in an odd comp that only had 3 draws over the entire season! That seems crazy low!


Think we reacted pretty well actually, banging in 10 goals the following week. It's a long season with 21 games so the chances that you might be flat at least a few of those games is pretty high. A 19 game winning streak, 20 wins overall, no losses, 101 goals and promotion. We are pretty happy with our work so far to be honest :rof:

[Alton]

Think we reacted pretty well actually, banging in 10 goals the following week. It's a long season with 21 games so the chances that you might be flat at least a few of those games is pretty high. A 19 game winning streak, 20 wins overall, no losses, 101 goals and promotion. We are pretty happy with our work so far to be honest :rof:

Sounds like they could jump a couple of grades!

[MonkeyKplunk]

Sounds like they could jump a couple of grades!

May as well.
Argy won't be going anywhere, and New Lambton would be the only ZL2 club to be able to field 3 teams for a promotion to ZL1

[Donk]

May as well.
Argy won't be going anywhere, and New Lambton would be the only ZL2 club to be able to field 3 teams for a promotion to ZL1

Argy have an all age side dnt they. That can become 3rd grade

[MonkeyKplunk]

Argy have an all age side dnt they. That can become 3rd grade

It's always a great dream, but doesn't always happen that way.

[pv4]

Think we reacted pretty well actually, banging in 10 goals the following week. It's a long season with 21 games so the chances that you might be flat at least a few of those games is pretty high. A 19 game winning streak, 20 wins overall, no losses, 101 goals and promotion. We are pretty happy with our work so far to be honest :rof:

No doubt a great effort from a great team, it is just that slight smear on a "nearly" perfect campaign!

Usually you hear about these teams that win every game etc and then lose the final in a one-off poor result - hopefully the draw during the season is Azzuri's only slip up!

And as usual with any team, particularly a promoted one, let's hope for Azzuri's sake they are able to keep their squad together and continue to build on it for several years. At this rate with this squad there's seemingly not a lot stopping them from climbing up several leagues in as many years.

If hypothetically Azzuri were to win ZL2 next year - do yall have enough numbers for a 3rd grade to make the jump to ZL1? Genuine question, I have zero idea (about almost everything in life, tbf).

I am super keen on seeing Azzuri v Simba next year, particularly at the Tafe. Should be absolute ripper games on and off the field!

[MonkeyKplunk]

No doubt a great effort from a great team, it is just that slight smear on a "nearly" perfect campaign!

Usually you hear about these teams that win every game etc and then lose the final in a one-off poor result - hopefully the draw during the season is Azzuri's only slip up!

And as usual with any team, particularly a promoted one, let's hope for Azzuri's sake they are able to keep their squad together and continue to build on it for several years. At this rate with this squad there's seemingly not a lot stopping them from climbing up several leagues in as many years.

If hypothetically Azzuri were to win ZL2 next year - do yall have enough numbers for a 3rd grade to make the jump to ZL1? Genuine question, I have zero idea (about almost everything in life, tbf).

I am super keen on seeing Azzuri v Simba next year, particularly at the Tafe. Should be absolute ripper games on and off the field!

I'm hoping the TAFE will be a far better field next year, otherwise no one should be playing on it

[Cunning stunts]

incase of a washout does it turn into a one off semi next week?

[Charman]

May as well.
Argy won't be going anywhere, and New Lambton would be the only ZL2 club to be able to field 3 teams for a promotion to ZL1

Are Argy the new Terrace of ZL2? I reckon they'll get a team together. Should poach Charlestown whole 3rd grade and get them on board!

[Charman]

Sounds like they could jump a couple of grades!

I think you will find that is their plan. They have a very strong AA set up also, wouldn't be hard to put a 3rd team together.

[onlooker]

What is happening with both Maitland teams next year? Hear that juniors aren't a certainty to stick around and I believe the seniors where trying to be set up at other clubs before they settled at the seniors!! Is staying there a stable thing or will they be forced to move on soon?

[pv4]

Can anyone confirm rumours of Azzuri's unbeaten streak coming to an end?

[Charman]

Semis 1v4
Ressies
Maitland 1, azzuri 1.
1st
Azzuri 1, Redhead 2.

[roundballsarebetter]

Can anyone confirm rumours of Azzuri's unbeaten streak coming to an end?

Looking forward to the facebook post on their page belittling their opponent ..... or does this only happen when they win

[pv4]

Looking forward to the facebook post on their page belittling their opponent ..... or does this only happen when they win

Chuck Yaya in the Yaris

[anfield]

If you let forum predictions influence your decision to play, then go ahead, don't turn up. #idiota
I think 0-5 is kind. They scored 100 goals this year, including 13 past your lot. Two forfeits = 6-0. That might be your best case of avoiding a cricket score.

It goes to show that if you play with a bit of spirit and heart results in football are possible given its 11 on 11. Dudley's performances of late weren't good enough and definitely wasn't a reflection of the team. But the boys put in a solid shift yesterday and realise the job is only half complete.

[Cunning stunts]

some big results on the weekend. but there is still another leg to play this weekend.

Saturday
First
Dudley 2 -1 Hamilton - think this can still go anyway.
ressies
Hamilton 1-1 Maitland - this game is also still up for the takings

Sunday
First
Bolwarra 3-0 Maitland - it will be really hard to come back from this. and turn around 3 goals
Bolwarra 0-3 Edgeworth - same as above its a big turn around if done. heard there was a fight in this game with no red cards? and then a push near the end and someone got sent off? anyone more details on this?

[riverboy]

some big results on the weekend. but there is still another leg to play this weekend.

Saturday
First
Dudley 2 -1 Hamilton - think this can still go anyway.
ressies
Hamilton 1-1 Maitland - this game is also still up for the takings

Sunday
First
Bolwarra 3-0 Maitland - it will be really hard to come back from this. and turn around 3 goals
Bolwarra 0-3 Edgeworth - same as above its a big turn around if done. heard there was a fight in this game with no red cards? and then a push near the end and someone got sent off? anyone more details on this?

Good to see the clubs that aren't seen as big clubs have success. Im referring to Bolwarra, Dudley and Edgeworth. Anyone that beats Azzurri is a champion team in my view.
Wow the biff, No cards??? Really? Sounds like an interesting second leg?

[E.J.S.C ZL]

heard there was a fight in this game with no red cards? and then a push near the end and someone got sent off? anyone more details on this?

Correct. Yellow cards for punches and Red card for pushing a player over.

[Cunning stunts]

Correct. Yellow cards for punches and Red card for pushing a player over.

that seems a bit steep

I hope the bloke only gets 1 week and gets back for the grandfinal if Edgeworth make it

[the_butcher]

Looking forward to the facebook post on their page belittling their opponent ..... or does this only happen when they win

Only half time, you'll have to wait until after the second half of the semi to see what those crazy cats get up to!

[the_butcher]

In reference to the previous page, Azzurri are one of the strongest clubs in Zone League. If the opportunity to jump to ID1's presented itself it would be taken with open arms. Azzurri has an enormous squad and have already fielded a dozen or so calls from players playing higher grades that want to come across next year. There would be absolutely no issue with being able to put together a third grade side.

[pv4]

In reference to the previous page, Azzurri are one of the strongest clubs in Zone League. If the opportunity to jump to ID1's presented itself it would be taken with open arms. Azzurri has an enormous squad and have already fielded a dozen or so calls from players playing higher grades that want to come across next year. There would be absolutely no issue with being able to put together a third grade side.

How does Azzuri fit in a dozen or so more players? With two grades already making finals, so both competitive, do some (read: a dozen, so the majority of reserve grade) of the lower players get pushed out of the club altogether?

[hawk]

How does Azzuri fit in a dozen or so more players? With two grades already making finals, so both competitive, do some (read: a dozen, so the majority of reserve grade) of the lower players get pushed out of the club altogether?

Therell be a 3rd grade so ressies go to 3rd, and the first 2 teams will be graded according to the new recruits.

And they'll need some to cover the many who party overseas. All aboard the party machine

[the_butcher]

How does Azzuri fit in a dozen or so more players? With two grades already making finals, so both competitive, do some (read: a dozen, so the majority of reserve grade) of the lower players get pushed out of the club altogether?

There is talk of creating another All Age team made up of some of the current rezzies plus some returning players from previous seasons. The idea being that this All Age team will become the 3rd grade team should we get promotion into ID1 in 2019. A lot of these guys will duel register as well to create a squad of about 40.

[riverboy]

Only half time, you'll have to wait until after the second half of the semi to see what those crazy cats get up to!

Im pretty sure azzurri LOST first leg, no half time but a completed match. Another match to follow

[Macca]

If Azzurri win the second leg and progress, will Dudley be as happy with their win as Azzurri would be with theirs?
Dumb comment.

ps. taking nothing away from Dudley's first leg result, a great effort to beat what is purportedly an excellent team.

[Cunning stunts]

what is everyone's thoughts on who will progress to the grandfinal?

First grade GF
Hamilton v Bolwarra
Ressies
Mailtand/Hamilton V Edgeworth

think Maitland and Hamilton in reserve grade is the main game that can go either way

think Hamilton will be way to strong in the second leg for Dudley
and the other two games a 3-0 lost is a big task to turn that around

[the_butcher]

what is everyone's thoughts on who will progress to the grandfinal?

First grade GF
Hamilton v Bolwarra
Ressies
Mailtand/Hamilton V Edgeworth

think Maitland and Hamilton in reserve grade is the main game that can go either way

think Hamilton will be way to strong in the second leg for Dudley
and the other two games a 3-0 lost is a big task to turn that around

Azzurri SHOULD get the result against Dudley and Bolwarra will be too strong again for the pies so Azzurri vs Bolwarra in the GF. They've been the two best teams all year (Azzurri head and shoulders above the rest).

Reserve Grade should be interesting. Maitland's reserve grade are probably better than their First Grade team. It will take something special for Azzurri to knock them off. I'm predicting a win for the pies to give us a Maitland vs Edgy grandfinal.

[pv4]

There is talk of creating another All Age team made up of some of the current rezzies plus some returning players from previous seasons. The idea being that this All Age team will become the 3rd grade team should we get promotion into ID1 in 2019. A lot of these guys will duel register as well to create a squad of about 40.

That sounds promising. Hopefully the dozen or so reserve graders won't feel pushed out in the interim. Good to see ambitious clubs!

[Pierre Essers]

Azzurri SHOULD get the result against Dudley and Bolwarra will be too strong again for the pies so Azzurri vs Bolwarra in the GF. They've been the two best teams all year (Azzurri head and shoulders above the rest).

Reserve Grade should be interesting. Maitland's reserve grade are probably better than their First Grade team. It will take something special for Azzurri to knock them off. I'm predicting a win for the pies to give us a Maitland vs Edgy grandfinal.

Is the rumour true about Azzurri seeking out people to fetch balls in the second half if Dudley start kicking it out.

$5 a ball is what i have heard on the street?

Nervous already??

[pv4]

Is the rumour true about Azzurri seeking out people to fetch balls in the second half if Dudley start kicking it out.

$5 a ball is what i have heard on the street?

Nervous already??

Not sure if true or not, but they've spent money on sillier things in the past (ie sponsored facebook posts).

It'd honestly be smart management from them if they were to have some form of plan in place for something like this. Call it sheep stations or whatever, but I'm sure if they don't at least consider it, maybe they could look back in hindsight and be pretty annoyed with themselves!

I've read in the past the EPL has a requirement that hosts must have a certain number of match balls minimum and it is common for the lower teams when playing the higher ones to have the bare minimum, as opposed to when they play games they think they can get a result in they put many more out so there is less chance of time wasting if need be. And I've read things like when a smaller team goes ahead against a big team that balls just seem to "go missing". And remember things like the ballboy for Swansea getting kicked by Eden Hazard.

If I personally was Dudley and was in the back end of the game and were up, I'd be punting it away. Without hesitation. Hell, Michael Bridges is STILL loved by a lot of people in Newy for his time wasting move!

Haven't a large amount of Azzuri been involved with Maitland in the past/currently? How many stories has there been over the years about teams punting the ball down the Windy Hill?

The main focus should be just win the game, sure, but it's not a completely outrageous a thought, really.

[anfield]

Is the rumour true about Azzurri seeking out people to fetch balls in the second half if Dudley start kicking it out.

$5 a ball is what i have heard on the street?

Nervous already??

Silly theory, game goes for 90 minutes not 5. Ive never heard of any team talking pre game about waisting time. Do what Dudley did, pay some ball boys a little cash, a couple of drinks and a feed, done.
Azzurri will always have these troubles playing at smith park, no fences, no grounds with lights, poor facilities.

[anfield]

As for the finals every game is still up for taking, 3-0 lead can easily be caught. Just ask wallsend a few years ago and new lambton also nearby got done after leading 4-0.

[Charman]

love finals football and the speculation around tactics. The only certainty is both teams will turn up with a game plan, one will work better than the others and that team will win.

[the_butcher]

Not sure if true or not, but they've spent money on sillier things in the past (ie sponsored facebook posts).

It'd honestly be smart management from them if they were to have some form of plan in place for something like this. Call it sheep stations or whatever, but I'm sure if they don't at least consider it, maybe they could look back in hindsight and be pretty annoyed with themselves!

I've read in the past the EPL has a requirement that hosts must have a certain number of match balls minimum and it is common for the lower teams when playing the higher ones to have the bare minimum, as opposed to when they play games they think they can get a result in they put many more out so there is less chance of time wasting if need be. And I've read things like when a smaller team goes ahead against a big team that balls just seem to "go missing". And remember things like the ballboy for Swansea getting kicked by Eden Hazard.

If I personally was Dudley and was in the back end of the game and were up, I'd be punting it away. Without hesitation. Hell, Michael Bridges is STILL loved by a lot of people in Newy for his time wasting move!

Haven't a large amount of Azzuri been involved with Maitland in the past/currently? How many stories has there been over the years about teams punting the ball down the Windy Hill?

The main focus should be just win the game, sure, but it's not a completely outrageous a thought, really.

There will be plenty of balls around, don't worry about that :rof: Maybe in the last few minutes it'd be a good tactic but losing possession for no reason early in the match would be silly to say the least as it won't waste any meaningful amount of time.

I've never heard about any one kicking the ball down Windy Hill on purpose...I'm sure it has happened but I've never heard it spoken about.

If you had anything to do with the club you would know a lot more money has been wasted on things much worse than a facebook post or a ball boy... I've heard you mention the facebook post a couple of times before, looks like it was money well spent!

[Charman]

So Bolwarra thru to GF 5-4 on aggregate (2-4, 3-0)

[Brown town]

Bolwarra 5-0 5-3agg
Maitland 4-2 bolwarra 5-4agg

[Charman]

1st. Azzuri 1-0, 93rd minute goal. 2-2 aggregate, azzuri through on away goals. Guess they will be posting on FB, maybe they will show a little grace, maybe not?

[pv4]

#carn

[Cunning stunts]

what a few cracker games on the weekend

Saturday
started with Bolwarra turning a 3-0 lost around to win 5-0 and to get through to the Gf 5-3 on aggregate. unfortunately for Edgeworth it seemed like you guys fell apart once your keeper went off injured and your reserve keeper came on

Maitland going down 5-4 on aggregate and credit to them fighting all the way to the end. thoroughly deserved win for Bolwarra in first grade. but was a exciting second half

Sunday
Maitland took a early 2-0 lead and it was a hard-fought game to the end. god only knows how that was a indirect free kick for the third (intentional back pass apparently) but was some strike to finish it off

credit to Dudley in the semis as the fought hard for the entire match only to concede a very late goal against a 10 man Azzuri and to be knocked out on away goal rule. credit to Azzuri though they deserve to be there for the splendid year

congrats to all the teams that have made the grand final specially Bolwarra for getting both grades into the grand final

I am sure it will be a awesome day up at cook square park with hopefully some cracker games to watch as well

[anfield]

Congratulations to all teams that made it to the grand final.
For us at Dudley that loss means the season is done. A very good season considering that we were in real danger of folding in January after losing nearly half the squad from last season.
To Azzuri well done, I thought we had you guys. I think they always had the belief they would get the goal. I will be backing them to get the job come Saturday, but bolwarra will be a good opponent. Should be a cracker.

Maitland should win the reserves, but its a final anything can happen.

[the_butcher]

1st. Azzuri 1-0, 93rd minute goal. 2-2 aggregate, azzuri through on away goals. Guess they will be posting on FB, maybe they will show a little grace, maybe not?

Its Azzurri's facebook page mate, I guess they'll do what they want.

Dudley were brilliant though I thought.

[the_butcher]

what a few cracker games on the weekend

Saturday
started with Bolwarra turning a 3-0 lost around to win 5-0 and to get through to the Gf 5-3 on aggregate. unfortunately for Edgeworth it seemed like you guys fell apart once your keeper went off injured and your reserve keeper came on


Edgy's coach had his wedding on so I know they were missing a lot of quality players which explains the result.

[ranger]

Edgy's coach had his wedding on so I know they were missing a lot of quality players which explains the result.
I think there was 2 different names on the team sheet in the second game. So missing 2.

[Cunning stunts]

what's everyone predictions for the Grand finals?

First Grade
Hamilton Vs Bolwarra - I am going to go with a tight one 2-2 after extra time and Hamilton on penalty's just to keep it interesting (if it goes to this I will be there but most likely not see or remember the penalty's)

Ressies
Maitland Vs Bolwarra - I am going to go with Maitland 3-2 in a end to end battle

[the_butcher]

I think there was 2 different names on the team sheet in the second game. So missing 2.

You studied the team sheets? :rof:

[ranger]

You studied the team sheets? :rof:

Nah, but after playing same team 5 times this year pretty easy to pick the players. They were missing the left back who's captain and the fat guy upfront.

[riverboy]

I think azzuri will win first grade but im going for bolwarra. Go bolwarra , only because they are playing azzuri.
In saying that some off the crap that bolwarra guys write on banter page is below the belt. Grow up, let your football do the talking. Its zl3 , no need for that cheap dribble

[the_butcher]

Nah, but after playing same team 5 times this year pretty easy to pick the players. They were missing the left back who's captain and the fat guy upfront.

What about Mitchy Morris?

[E.J.S.C ZL]

I think there was 2 different names on the team sheet in the second game. So missing 2.


Edgy's coach had his wedding on so I know they were missing a lot of quality players which explains the result.

We had 5 different guys in the starting line up to the weekend before. We had to start players who were struggling with injuries to give us a starting 11, 1 lasting 20 mins and the other till half time. The keeper getting injured 5 mins into the 2nd half and having to come off wasn't idea. No excuses these things happen in football, Bolwarra deserve there spot in the Grand Final, off the weekends game. All the best to them on the weekend.

Well done to all the teams who made the Grand Final's. Having 2 dominant Minor Premiers it's hard to go past them both. 1 team undefeated and the other 1 scoring 101 goals in 21 games. Bolwarra are no push overs in both Grades, so should be some cracking Grand Finals.

[hawk]

fking weddings. Should be banned

[ranger]

What about Mitchy Morris?

Think he was the one missing upfront. Although they had the good lanky midfielder so that might be him, sorry don't know specific names. Coaches wedding is an absolute killer but.

[Speedymetric]

Where and when is the GF?

[hawk]

Cooks Square Pk Mootland

[the_butcher]

fking weddings. Should be banned

Agree.

[Cunning stunts]

Where and when is the GF?

Cooks Square park Maitland
Ressie 12:15
First 2:30

[Cunning stunts]

getting closer to game day

should be good crowd with Bolwarra squad making it and being close to home, Hamilton also support in numbers and supply good banter and Maitland home ground so hopefully that brings out people who don't like to travel.

[the_butcher]

getting closer to game day

should be good crowd with Bolwarra squad making it and being close to home, Hamilton also support in numbers and supply good banter and Maitland home ground so hopefully that brings out people who don't like to travel.

Speaking of weddings, Azzurri coach has his wedding on so probably won't be many there. Heaps of the players are involved too so will probably be mostly a rezzies team playing. For most of the boys, the season finished two months ago when we sealed premiership/promotion.

[Charman]

Speaking of weddings, Azzurri coach has his wedding on so probably won't be many there. Heaps of the players are involved too so will probably be mostly a rezzies team playing. For most of the boys, the season finished two months ago when we sealed premiership/promotion.

Minor premiership / promotion was an awesome achievement, wish it were us and happy to state that. BUT what you are telling us here is you effectively are handing Bolwanka the GF and playing it down as though it doesn't matter? (season finished 2 months ago) Surely you would love to cap a stella season with the GF under your belt as the cherry on top. Am I misinterpreting?

[hawk]

mind games are on

[the_butcher]

Minor premiership / promotion was an awesome achievement, wish it were us and happy to state that. BUT what you are telling us here is you effectively are handing Bolwanka the GF and playing it down as though it doesn't matter? (season finished 2 months ago) Surely you would love to cap a stella season with the GF under your belt as the cherry on top. Am I misinterpreting?

Of course we'd like to win it but for us at the start of the season we said the goal was the premiership (grand final wasn't even mentioned). We won that and had our celebration then. It would be great to win this weekend but for many of us, our mate's wedding is way more important than a one off game that essentially means nothing in the bigger scheme of things.

[the_butcher]

mind games are on

No mind games mate, Spongy gets married 3pm on Saturday! Surprised you didn't get an invite

[pv4]

Spring weddings ffs

[pv4]

No mind games mate, Spongy gets married 3pm on Saturday! Surprised you didn't get an invite

Make it 3:15 and they can get married at half time on Windy Hill!

[riverboy]

Minor premiership / promotion was an awesome achievement, wish it were us and happy to state that. BUT what you are telling us here is you effectively are handing Bolwanka the GF and playing it down as though it doesn't matter? (season finished 2 months ago) Surely you would love to cap a stella season with the GF under your belt as the cherry on top. Am I misinterpreting?
Bolwanka? Little harsh

[Cunning stunts]

the celebrations on sunday afternoon after scoring a late winner didn't show that you guys don't care about the grandfinal that much

[Charman]

Not compared to some of their posts on banter page.

[the_butcher]

the celebrations on sunday afternoon after scoring a late winner didn't show that you guys don't care about the grandfinal that much

It was literally a last minute winner, would have been the same if it was a regular season game. But please do continue to tell us how we feel about things.

[the_butcher]

the celebrations on sunday afternoon after scoring a late winner didn't show that you guys don't care about the grandfinal that much

Also, did you see the celebrations when we wrapped up the premiership up at Cooks Square Park two months ago? Now that was a celebration. Followed it up by three days on the drink and the club hiring a rooftop venue for adult celebrations. In comparison, we (those that aren't at the wedding) have planned to go for a beer at our sponsor on Saturday evening. Like I said, we placed a much bigger emphasis on the premiership than the final.

[anfield]

the celebrations on sunday afternoon after scoring a late winner didn't show that you guys don't care about the grandfinal that much

I agree, all the substitutes ran onto the field. They celebrated more then most, It showed how important it was them. Good luck to them, Azzuri was clearly the best team this year.
They deserve to win tomorrow and I hope they do. Azzuri are a well run club and have set the bar too high for the rest of us this year. So all I can say is well done and good luck, no tall poppy syndrome from me.

[Cunning stunts]

Also, did you see the celebrations when we wrapped up the premiership up at Cooks Square Park two months ago? Now that was a celebration. Followed it up by three days on the drink and the club hiring a rooftop venue for adult celebrations. In comparison, we (those that aren't at the wedding) have planned to go for a beer at our sponsor on Saturday evening. Like I said, we placed a much bigger emphasis on the premiership than the final.

all for the celebration on the promotion and its a big thing. but to literally label the finals as nothing why on earth turn up then if it seems to mean nothing. In Australian Sport GF is also a big thing and a very enjoyable day and night/ silly Sunday or mad Mondays

and yes I was at cook square when you guys rapped It up (how could I forget you flogged us haha) and I still stand by that Sunday just gone was a bigger celebration at the time then that night. maybe not after but during and straight after it seemed bigger to me.

don't get me wrong, you guys deserve it and you guys did a great thing this year, but its a bit disappointing you guys flicking the grand final off as nothing. but each to there own I guess

[ranger]

all for the celebration on the promotion and its a big thing. but to literally label the finals as nothing why on earth turn up then if it seems to mean nothing. In Australian Sport GF is also a big thing and a very enjoyable day and night/ silly Sunday or mad Mondays

and yes I was at cook square when you guys rapped It up (how could I forget you flogged us haha) and I still stand by that Sunday just gone was a bigger celebration at the time then that night. maybe not after but during and straight after it seemed bigger to me.

don't get me wrong, you guys deserve it and you guys did a great thing this year, but its a bit disappointing you guys flicking the grand final off as nothing. but each to there own I guess

I'm sure all 60 players involved in the grand finals on Saturday will all turn up to win. It's the end of a long season for ZL3 (with the midweek games) and a fair achievement for all involved. All the best to all involved on the field on the wknd. I'm sure there will be plenty of celebration or commiseration drinks sunk come sat/sun./mon. Let's just hope the wind stays away.

[Cunning stunts]

agree if its windy it will be a killer on windy hill

[MonkeyKplunk]

Australians and grand finals...

[Giges]

If that's Azzurri's attitude they probably should have let Dudley go through last week.
I'm sure those boys would love to be playing in the big one tomorrow.

[the_butcher]

but to literally label the finals as nothing

Haha I LITERALLY didn't say that.

What I did say was that we placed a much bigger emphasis on the premiership than the final. I don't know why some are getting upset about that.

[pv4]

mostly a rezzies team playing.

The dozen or so rezzies that will be probably playing all age next year? Hopefully they enjoy the opportunity to fill in for the heap of 1st graders missing. And imagine the rezzies boys getting a win! What a story! Chuck Teta in the Tarago! Toot toot! #carn

[the_butcher]

The dozen or so rezzies that will be probably playing all age next year? Hopefully they enjoy the opportunity to fill in for the heap of 1st graders missing. And imagine the rezzies boys getting a win! What a story! Chuck Teta in the Tarago! Toot toot! #carn

Could be one of the great "against the odds" stories! Imagine the write up on the Azzurri page :rof: up the bllluuueeesss

[pv4]

Could be one of the great "against the odds" stories! Imagine the write up on the Azzurri page :rof: up the bllluuueeesss

Nothin' like a good underdawg story!

[Charman]

So I threw uncle Vaughn in the Voxhaul and headed up to Maitland's only worthy tourist attraction. 1st grade kick off and Azzuri borrowed a team from N.L Eagles AA E grade due to the fact they were missing at least 1 regular. Both clubs wear blue so why not? It took 20 secs before Bolwanka had to be reminded they were playing football not "footy" and they weren't quite sure about that. Bolwanka spread N.L open like a college girl on GGW and opened the scoring with a neat finish at 25mins. Bolwanka had to be reminded again before 1/2 time which code they were playing as a defender tried to catch a ball on the line. N.L pen, step up Peru after sucking a winny red to slot it home. 1-1 half time. 2nd half and N.L had plenty of possession only to show the patience of a certain Korean dictator and continue to turn over cheap ball in the rush to push forward, I suppose when you've scored more often then Scotty off Jordy Shore why not. Early goal ensued. It then went back and forth with yellow cards aplenty and after 76 minutes of injury time N.L were declared winners. Queue red card to the grub of the year, Bolwanka LB. you all know him, he's the fat f--k who is shit and would struggle to play ressies at Mayfield. After the whistle mind you. N.L 2-1 victors. Not bad for a team with 1 guy out.

[E.J.S.C ZL]

So I threw uncle Vaughn in the Voxhaul and headed up to Maitland's only worthy tourist attraction. 1st grade kick off and Azzuri borrowed a team from N.L Eagles AA E grade due to the fact they were missing at least 1 regular. Both clubs wear blue so why not? It took 20 secs before Bolwanka had to be reminded they were playing football not "footy" and they weren't quite sure about that. Bolwanka spread N.L open like a college girl on GGW and opened the scoring with a neat finish at 25mins. Bolwanka had to be reminded again before 1/2 time which code they were playing as a defender tried to catch a ball on the line. N.L pen, step up Peru after sucking a winny red to slot it home. 1-1 half time. 2nd half and N.L had plenty of possession only to show the patience of a certain Korean dictator and continue to turn over cheap ball in the rush to push forward, I suppose when you've scored more often then Scotty off Jordy Shore why not. Early goal ensued. It then went back and forth with yellow cards aplenty and after 76 minutes of injury time N.L were declared winners. Queue red card to the grub of the year, Bolwanka LB. you all know him, he's the fat f--k who is shit and would struggle to play ressies at Mayfield. After the whistle mind you. N.L 2-1 victors. Not bad for a team with 1 guy out.

With a write up like that, you will get a gig on Azzurri's Facebook page for sure. :grin:

[Charman]

Then and only then will my life be complete!

[pv4]

Congratulations to butchers rag tag bunch of future all age players. They'll use this story as further inspiration when they make the movie about Leicester winning the EPL #carn

[pv4]

With a write up like that, you will get a gig on Azzurri's Facebook page for sure. :grin:

I wonder if the media manager reads the foz..

[outsider]

Anyone heard about the player who got a yellow card in reserve grade and a yellow card in first grade last weekend and played in a grand final?

[hawk]

wow

[anfield]

Anyone heard about the player who got a yellow card in reserve grade and a yellow card in first grade last weekend and played in a grand final?

Surely not??

[pv4]

Anyone heard about the player who got a yellow card in reserve grade and a yellow card in first grade last weekend and played in a grand final?

Chuck Yaya in the Yaris, get out of here!

Serious note - is that against the rules? I genuinely don't know. Is it a 2 yellow card accumulation suspension for finals, or is 2 yellows on the same day over different grades considered a red? I genuinely don't know if this is scandalous or not.

But if it is scandalous, I'm sure Azzuri won't mind too much if the medals are taken back. They've had a hell of a few months long #promotionparty

[Jardelsimage]

Chuck Yaya in the Yaris, get out of here!

Serious note - is that against the rules? I genuinely don't know. Is it a 2 yellow card accumulation suspension for finals, or is 2 yellows on the same day over different grades considered a red? I genuinely don't know if this is scandalous or not.

But if it is scandalous, I'm sure Azzuri won't mind too much if the medals are taken back. They've had a hell of a few months long #promotionparty

two cards is two cards, should not have played if this is correct.

[the_butcher]

Anyone heard about the player who got a yellow card in reserve grade and a yellow card in first grade last weekend and played in a grand final?

lol, want to see last week's team sheets from both grades?

[pv4]

lol, want to see last week's team sheets from both grades?

I think most people do tbh, not just for this card thing but also so we can see the list of the Reserve Grade legends whom stepped up to the First Grade Final and against all odds won!

[the_butcher]

I think most people do tbh, not just for this card thing but also so we can see the list of the Reserve Grade legends whom stepped up to the First Grade Final and against all odds won!

:rof::rof::rof:

[the_butcher]

So I threw uncle Vaughn in the Voxhaul and headed up to Maitland's only worthy tourist attraction. 1st grade kick off and Azzuri borrowed a team from N.L Eagles AA E grade due to the fact they were missing at least 1 regular. Both clubs wear blue so why not? It took 20 secs before Bolwanka had to be reminded they were playing football not "footy" and they weren't quite sure about that. Bolwanka spread N.L open like a college girl on GGW and opened the scoring with a neat finish at 25mins. Bolwanka had to be reminded again before 1/2 time which code they were playing as a defender tried to catch a ball on the line. N.L pen, step up Peru after sucking a winny red to slot it home. 1-1 half time. 2nd half and N.L had plenty of possession only to show the patience of a certain Korean dictator and continue to turn over cheap ball in the rush to push forward, I suppose when you've scored more often then Scotty off Jordy Shore why not. Early goal ensued. It then went back and forth with yellow cards aplenty and after 76 minutes of injury time N.L were declared winners. Queue red card to the grub of the year, Bolwanka LB. you all know him, he's the fat f--k who is shit and would struggle to play ressies at Mayfield. After the whistle mind you. N.L 2-1 victors. Not bad for a team with 1 guy out.

Please contact Hamilton Azzurri FB page ASAP to receive employment paperwork

[E.J.S.C ZL]

So I threw uncle Vaughn in the Voxhaul and headed up to Maitland's only worthy tourist attraction. 1st grade kick off and Azzuri borrowed a team from N.L Eagles AA E grade due to the fact they were missing at least 1 regular. Both clubs wear blue so why not? It took 20 secs before Bolwanka had to be reminded they were playing football not "footy" and they weren't quite sure about that. Bolwanka spread N.L open like a college girl on GGW and opened the scoring with a neat finish at 25mins. Bolwanka had to be reminded again before 1/2 time which code they were playing as a defender tried to catch a ball on the line. N.L pen, step up Peru after sucking a winny red to slot it home. 1-1 half time. 2nd half and N.L had plenty of possession only to show the patience of a certain Korean dictator and continue to turn over cheap ball in the rush to push forward, I suppose when you've scored more often then Scotty off Jordy Shore why not. Early goal ensued. It then went back and forth with yellow cards aplenty and after 76 minutes of injury time N.L were declared winners. Queue red card to the grub of the year, Bolwanka LB. you all know him, he's the fat f--k who is shit and would struggle to play ressies at Mayfield. After the whistle mind you. N.L 2-1 victors. Not bad for a team with 1 guy out.


With a write up like that, you will get a gig on Azzurri's Facebook page for sure. :grin:


Please contact Hamilton Azzurri FB page ASAP to receive employment paperwork

Called it :yay:

[anfield]

Congratulations to both azzuri and maitland on their respective wins.

First grade final was a stop/start game with lots of fouls and cards. Azzuri were the better team and deserved their win. Although bolwarra nearly equalised at the end.

[anfield]

Any word on next year from Maitland junior's and maitland seniors on them going around again?
Also medowie, who struggled to field two grades this year.

[MonkeyKplunk]

Any word on next year from Maitland junior's and maitland seniors on them going around again?
Also medowie, who struggled to field two grades this year.

Medowie have unfortunately have struggled to field 2 grades for the last few seasons.
Sad times for a club that used to be consistently strong.

[riverboy]

Any word on next year from Maitland junior's and maitland seniors on them going around again?
Also medowie, who struggled to field two grades this year.

My guess,
Next year will be
Uni
Maitland snrs
Bolwarra
Dudley
Edgeworth
Maitland juniors
Mayfield
You would think at least one new team

[Passtheballmate]

Medowie have unfortunately have struggled to field 2 grades for the last few seasons.
Sad times for a club that used to be consistently strong.

You'll find the reason why is because majority of their descent players ended up going over to play for Raymond Terrace. And are enjoying their time by the looks of it with another GF win.

[MonkeyKplunk]

My guess,
Next year will be
Uni
Maitland snrs
Bolwarra
Dudley
Edgeworth
Maitland juniors
Mayfield
You would think at least one new team

I think you guys will see Medowie continue on still, even with a lack of players.

[anfield]

You'll find the reason why is because majority of their descent players ended up going over to play for Raymond Terrace. And are enjoying their time by the looks of it with another GF win.
I hope medowie hang around. With a full team they are decent, Good bunch of guys too. Unless players are too good for zl3 or zl2 they should be staying to help out their club.

I think swapping clubs sometimes is the easy way out. Players should show loyalty through the good times and the bad. At the end of the day someone will finish first and someone will finish last.

[Jonty]

Up the Joons

[DonPablo]

Mi amigos in the know told me azzurris won the golden boot in reggies by default. Homer would be proud. De. Fault.

[the_butcher]

Mi amigos in the know told me azzurris won the golden boot in reggies by default. Homer would be proud. De. Fault.

Apparently all the trophies Azzurri picked up were won by default. Newcastle Football handed them over before a ball was kicked as they knew it was inevitable.

Also, Azzurri only won the comp by like 50 points because during one of their games the referee gave them a throw-in when it should have been given the other way. Neeeeeeeeeeexxxxxttttttt.

[the_butcher]

My guess,
Next year will be
Uni
Maitland snrs
Bolwarra
Dudley
Edgeworth
Maitland juniors
Mayfield
You would think at least one new team

West Wallsend are coming on board but it is pretty much made up of a lot of the Edgy boys from this season... I wonder what that will mean for Edgy? Any one know if they will enter a team again in 2018? I'd say they'll need a lot of new players.

[MonkeyKplunk]

West Wallsend are coming on board but it is pretty much made up of a lot of the Edgy boys from this season... I wonder what that will mean for Edgy? Any one know if they will enter a team again in 2018? I'd say they'll need a lot of new players.

Once again though, there has to BE a spot for them.
Y'all are assuming Medowie aren't going to register a team for 2018, but if they do they have first crack at the spot as they played in the comp this year, regardless of finishing position/squad depth.

If West Wallsend were to put in a team as well, then there would be a bye in the comp, which isn't favoured by anyone running competitions.
Although on the other side of the fence, it would turn ZL3 back into a 10 team comp which is much more structured.

[ranger]

Once again though, there has to BE a spot for them.
Y'all are assuming Medowie aren't going to register a team for 2018, but if they do they have first crack at the spot as they played in the comp this year, regardless of finishing position/squad depth.

If West Wallsend were to put in a team as well, then there would be a bye in the comp, which isn't favoured by anyone running competitions.
Although on the other side of the fence, it would turn ZL3 back into a 10 team comp which is much more structured.


They won't ever turn a club away from registering for zone league 3. Regardless of numbers of teams already registered. Competition administrators are there to run a growing game. Not limit numbers so it's easy for them to run.

I can't see 10 teams turning up to create a ZL4 so they'll always take new teams into ZL3.

It'll be good to play on Westy pitch over edgeworths, feel sorry for those guys having to play on it all year this season.

[riverboy]

They won't ever turn a club away from registering for zone league 3. Regardless of numbers of teams already registered. Competition administrators are there to run a growing game. Not limit numbers so it's easy for them to run.

I can't see 10 teams turning up to create a ZL4 so they'll always take new teams into ZL3.

It'll be good to play on Westy pitch over edgeworths, feel sorry for those guys having to play on it all year this season.

Is it west wallsend snrs or jnrs? Hopefully the seniors. Edgeworth ground is crap, maybe they need to look at playing there zone league somewhere else?

[onlooker]

Is it west wallsend snrs or jnrs? Hopefully the seniors. Edgeworth ground is crap, maybe they need to look at playing there zone league somewhere else?
I believe it's the juniors, there could be a reshuffle with teams due to the possibility of Bero ZL1 not getting numbers for a team due to a number of players leaving. So I think no matter what west Wallsend will be accepted

[Swanky]

I've never known a team to never be accepted
I'm pretty sure a few years back ZL3 was going to be 12 team Comp till a few late pull outs before the season started

[Charman]

I've never known a team to never be accepted
I'm pretty sure a few years back ZL3 was going to be 12 team Comp till a few late pull outs before the season started

They will put as many teams into ZL3 as apply, there will be no hesitation on 12.

[onlooker]

Any word on next year from Maitland junior's and maitland seniors on them going around again.

Have heard both Maitland teams will be going around next year.

[anfield]

Have heard both Maitland teams will be going around next year.

That is great news if correct, It would be great to get to 10 teams. Association will take as many teams as possible

[Imyourhero]

So is Azzuri going up to ZL2 or they happy to win 10-0 each week?

[riverboy]

Just had a look at newysports and went back through last couple of weeks. I noticed west wallsend jnrs had trials listed on there. I wouldn't expect a new team at west wallsend to get many interested?I would have thought they would take who they get? I wouldn't think they would be able to attract any decent players?

[Imyourhero]

You've probably got a group of lads keen to setup a team but not enough of them alone to fill 1sts + ressies. So hold trials and scrape together the extra few players

[Charman]

So is Azzuri going up to ZL2 or they happy to win 10-0 each week?

Azzuri will apply for higher than ZL2. Whether that happens is another story. They definitely won't be on ZL3 next year.

[Imyourhero]

Azzuri will apply for higher than ZL2. Whether that happens is another story. They definitely won't be on ZL3 next year.

Thats good, could definetly compete in ZPL imho

[riverboy]

West Wallsend are coming on board but it is pretty much made up of a lot of the Edgy boys from this season... I wonder what that will mean for Edgy? Any one know if they will enter a team again in 2018? I'd say they'll need a lot of new players.
One of our guys just sent us a link to west wallsend zl3 Facebook. Looks like they are trying to copy Azzurri's Facebook. Thats probably where the comparisons stop. Promoting signings that nobody has heard off??? Good to see the attendance at trials, but are those signings edgeworth zl3 or edgeworth all age guys? Because ive never seen them.

If they are all edgeworth zl3 guys its hard to see them getting a team or is it just edgeworth rebadged as west wallsend 'Westies'

[the_butcher]

One of our guys just sent us a link to west wallsend zl3 Facebook. Looks like they are trying to copy Azzurri's Facebook. Thats probably where the comparisons stop. Promoting signings that nobody has heard off??? Good to see the attendance at trials, but are those signings edgeworth zl3 or edgeworth all age guys? Because ive never seen them.

If they are all edgeworth zl3 guys its hard to see them getting a team or is it just edgeworth rebadged as west wallsend 'Westies'

I'd say Westie will be made up of mostly the Edgy ID3 2017 team plus whoever else they can pick up.

[TheBlueBell]

I'd say Westie will be made up of mostly the Edgy ID3 2017 team plus whoever else they can pick up.

To hear it straight from the horses mouth, we had 52 people at our trials and we cut our squads down to 32, in which a lot of the old edgy boys did not get in a select few did however this West Wallsend team is a mixture of teams from Toronto stags, to west lakes even new lambton eagles players it’s a whole new squad for both first grade and second grade for next year and have a lot of quality throughout both teams I think our boys will surprise a lot of people next year and open a lot of eyes! Keen as for 2018

[the_butcher]

To hear it straight from the horses mouth, we had 52 people at our trials and we cut our squads down to 32, in which a lot of the old edgy boys did not get in a select few did however this West Wallsend team is a mixture of teams from Toronto stags, to west lakes even new lambton eagles players it’s a whole new squad for both first grade and second grade for next year and have a lot of quality throughout both teams I think our boys will surprise a lot of people next year and open a lot of eyes! Keen as for 2018

Sounds good. Won't surprise me, Blue Bells are favourites to win the comp in my eyes.

[Cunning stunts]

Maitland FC have sent in paper work again
any news on who else has?

[Donk]

1495

[TheBlueBell]

Has anybody got any trials lined up as off yet ? We have 1 against azzurri looking for a couple more before ffa cup

[riverboy]

Has anybody got any trials lined up as off yet ? We have 1 against azzurri looking for a couple more before ffa cup

Is this a serious question? Its early November, get a life. There is more to life then football

[Donk]

Is this a serious question? Its early November, get a life. There is more to life then football
We have pretty much organised our whole preseason

[Imyourhero]

I think it's great to see clubs getting more involved and organised earlier, isn't the ultimate goal to increase professionalism, passion and commitment to the game across all levels of football?

[onlooker]

There is more to life then football
This sir is where you are mistaken!!

[Wilso8948]

Is this a serious question? Its early November, get a life. There is more to life then football

This probably sheds light as to why Mayf have been rooted to the bottom of ZL3 for the past 80 years

[rawr.]

If you knew me personally I think you would agree that I most certainly do have a life outside of football that keeps me ridiculously busy. What I'm more getting at is that you shouldn't begrudge a side for wanting to better themselves. There's no substitute for hardwork/training and all I seem to read from you is shitbagging other clubs when yours has failed year after year

Mayfield start their preseason in January which seems to indicate hardwork/training... a bit confused why a club that loses half its squad each year gets constantly bagged out, yet keeps applying each year, recruiting new players, and never give up?

[the_butcher]

This probably sheds light as to why Mayf have been rooted to the bottom of ZL3 for the past 80 years

:rof::rof::rof:

[anfield]

Dudley Redhead United Zone League 3 Squad will be have a kick next Thursday (December 14) at Liles oval Redhead from 6.15. New players welcome as we will be looking to new players to add to last years squad. For Further details send me a private msg