2022 Zone Premier League thread

[The Hacker]

so why does it matter who i coach, never hid that, most know who i am.

My 1st grade more than likely will not be in the finals, a hundred results need to go our way, just like zonals wont be.

To me its all about keep the comps consistent, across the grades and across the divisions, in the end i didn't like his idea, some might i don't, its a forum for christ sake.

Agreed we don’t have to like every idea thrown up. I like the different ideas thrown up some are good some not so good. But when there is an idea thrown up that people don’t love we are quick to rip in. If there is an idea usually it’s made cause people care about the comp. I’d be worried if there was no ideas being thrown up cause then that means no one gives a stuff like the division above.

Now back to football. Are all games on today

[Zonal Marking]

Agreed we don’t have to like every idea thrown up. I like the different ideas thrown up some are good some not so good. But when there is an idea thrown up that people don’t love we are quick to rip in. If there is an idea usually it’s made cause people care about the comp. I’d be worried if there was no ideas being thrown up cause then that means no one gives a stuff like the division above.

Now back to football. Are all games on today

Completely agree with this. It’s a forum for crying out loud. Different ideas should be thrown around and not automatically met with responses such as ‘worst idea I’ve ever heard’ or the word ‘dumbest’ being thrown in the mix. Especially when that is clearly an over exaggerated response anyway. I expect there is zero to nil chance I will ever receive an apology from a particular poster and that’s fine. I just hope they learn to at least be more open in listening to other posters ideas and not be so aggressive in dismissing them in the future.

Bring on the football. Surely this late in the season all games are on? We haven’t had that much rain.

[Nou Camp]

Cooks Hill vs Suns
1st 0-6 (ht 0-3)
Res 4-0
3rds 1-4
Firsts wrap up the title!!!

[Incognito mosquito]

Cardiff v Westlakes

3rds 6-1
Res 6-0
1st 4-0

Was a tough day for us. All 3 games played in good spirits with a little bit of heat in Ressies at times but nothing silly which is never a bad thing.

Well done Cardiff thanks for the day

[WWFC25]

Cooks Hill vs Suns
1st 0-6 (ht 0-3)
Res 4-0
3rds 1-4
Firsts wrap up the title!!!

Congratulations to Suns on wrapping up the Premiership. A solid sqaud across all grades and a first grade that were just more consistent across the year.

See yas next week to do the double over you for the season 😎

[FairPlay2022]

Warners will drop off back end of the season. You wait

This aged well…

[terry]

1st Suns Dudley Mayfield Wbay or Azzurri. Cardiff overhyped

so did this. spot on dude

[gtg]

Congrats to the suns. Expected them to win it and they did.

Great to see we can finally finish a season for the first time in a while too.

Bring on finals.

[Jardelsimage]

ok so azzurri in 1st are the only side that can still slip in, all depends on the orange tiger v green tiger next week and then they have to win both there games
reggies is set
3rds similar to 1st with Azzurri having the games in hand to maybe sneak in, as long as results go there way.

[Hotline]

Interestingly, the green tigers posted they had locked in finals in 1sts. I thought I'd missed something as they are only 5 points clear of azzuri??

[tenschooners]

Interestingly, the green tigers posted they had locked in finals in 1sts. I thought I'd missed something as they are only 5 points clear of azzuri??

Their post says locked in for reserves.

[Kicktheball]

Their post says locked in for reserves.

Cardiff can do azzuri a favor in firsts by taking down mayfield this weekend!

Ressies top 4 confirmed, mayfield v Cardiff this Saturday determines 3rd and 4th.

Semi finals grounds will be both Dudley and Suns by the looks of things

[FairPlay2022]

Bit surprised to hear Kotara gave Dudley a bit of a pasting yesterday? Dudley missing a few players or just checked out til finals footy starts?

[Kingofthemiddle]

What’s the predictions for winners and score of each grade in the gf?

[FlatScreen]

Suns V Dudley is always juicy! But with all this WB beef, both have become mouth-watering. Suns win
Ressies - WB V Dudley, Which team will be able to stack? That's who wins
Thirds - Dudley are just leaps and bounds better, but more than likely will be stretched with depth. Dudley

I missed like 9 weeks of the season following, so I could be well off the mark.

[Zonal Marking]

Suns V Dudley is always juicy! But with all this WB beef, both have become mouth-watering. Suns win
Ressies - WB V Dudley, Which team will be able to stack? That's who wins
Thirds - Dudley are just leaps and bounds better, but more than likely will be stretched with depth. Dudley

I missed like 9 weeks of the season following, so I could be well off the mark.

I think you’re pretty spot on FS. Suns vs Dudley is probably the biggest grudge match in Newcastle football but the couple of times I’ve seen Wbay this season they have looked very dangerous. Not as consistent as the top two though but then that doesn’t really matter in finals footy does it? Watch Mayfield ruin all predictions by beating the Suns now though :rof:

Ressies will probably be Wbay vs Dudley and whichever team has their first grade team in the GF will have slightly less of an advantage. I’d put Cardiff down as a dark horse though provided they confirm their finals place.

Thirds Dudley vs Cardiff. Will be a good game but I expect Dudley to eventually get the win.

[FlatScreen]

I think you’re pretty spot on FS. Suns vs Dudley is probably the biggest grudge match in Newcastle football but the couple of times I’ve seen Wbay this season they have looked very dangerous. Not as consistent as the top two though but then that doesn’t really matter in finals footy does it? Watch Mayfield ruin all predictions by beating the Suns now though :rof:

Ressies will probably be Wbay vs Dudley and whichever team has their first grade team in the GF will have slightly less of an advantage. I’d put Cardiff down as a dark horse though provided they confirm their finals place.

Thirds Dudley vs Cardiff. Will be a good game but I expect Dudley to eventually get the win.

Yeah, you're spot on, I have been wrong too many years now! WB did well against Dudley I think. And Mayfield might finally break their Finals curse! But their track record doesn't paint a pretty picture.

[4-4-f*cking-2]

If Mayfield’s 3rds can sneak in this weekend with a win over Cardiff, I wouldn’t be surprised if they cause some upset in the finals. They’re finding their feet at the right end of the season, impressive to see for such a young side.

As for Ressies, I think Warners bay - Dudley would a great final. Bay hard to beat but Dudley might give them a run.

Firsts I think is anyones game come finals.

[Hunter403]

So, which ZPL clubs will apply for NL1?

[Villians]

So, which ZPL clubs will apply for NL1?

More a chance of NL1 clubs now applying for Zone than the other way around..

[The Hacker]

So, which ZPL clubs will apply for NL1?

I truly think no club will want to go up. I could be wrong

[The Hacker]

Weather doesn’t look promising. Is the plan to play rain,hail or shine

[WWFC25]

Weather doesn’t look promising. Is the plan to play rain,hail or shine

Unless it is obviously dangerous to players Westlakes vs Suns will be playing in any conditions and testing out the traction of our boots.

May also use both fields to ensure 1sts get a decent surface to play on.

[Jardelsimage]

I hear Swansea have given Azzurri the points for 3rds and reggies already, is this true?

[The Hacker]

I hear Swansea have given Azzurri the points for 3rds and reggies already, is this true?

That’s a joke. Azzurri have dragged the chain and scheduled the bottom 2 teams last knowing quiet well they have zero to play for so one of them might do this especially in the lower grades. Should of played midweek earlier like the other teams

[mge61]

That’s a joke. Azzurri have dragged the chain and scheduled the bottom 2 teams last knowing quiet well they have zero to play for so one of them might do this especially in the lower grades. Should of played midweek earlier like the other teams

If only you knew.

[FairPlay2022]

That’s a joke. Azzurri have dragged the chain and scheduled the bottom 2 teams last knowing quiet well they have zero to play for so one of them might do this especially in the lower grades. Should of played midweek earlier like the other teams

I’m not sure where Azzurri are sitting in 3rd grade and whether an easy 3 points benefits them but in first grade Swansea need to win to remain in the comp next season. So I’d hardly call that having zero to play for!

[Lofty]

Surely no games getting on today anyway? And if so, the games will go down as draws. Can’t have every game being washed out and then one game forfeited.

[Lofty]

If finals were on this weekend as scheduled, would anyone have actually gotten on? Myer park is a lake now.

[The Hacker]

Surely no games getting on today anyway? And if so, the games will go down as draws. Can’t have every game being washed out and then one game forfeited.

Agreed you can have a washout out in firsts and 2 forfeits in lower grades

[WWFC25]

Cats vs Suns OFF

Using both fields to spread the damage was a great idea until both of them turned into massive water slides :(

[Parochial Supporter]

Surely no games getting on today anyway? And if so, the games will go down as draws. Can’t have every game being washed out and then one game forfeited.

As they forfeited yesterday apparently result will stand

[HAFC_ZL]

ThatÂ’s a joke. Azzurri have dragged the chain and scheduled the bottom 2 teams last knowing quiet well they have zero to play for so one of them might do this especially in the lower grades. Should of played midweek earlier like the other teams

This is actually incorrect. Several weeks ago we sent an email to the Newcastle Football outlining our plan to get all our games played before 28/08, which included two double header weekends, Westlakes on 21/08 and Swansea on 28/08. We f***ing begged NF to support our proposal in the email even though it would have seen us play matches on 16/08, 20/08, 21/08, 24/08, 27/08, and 28/08. We were happy to take on this hectic schedule in order to ensure that games were played and the finals series would be unaffected. We stated that we didn’t want to be at the mercy of more inclement weather. However NF didn’t support us in this.

Westlakes refused to play on 21/08 despite them having no game that weekend and despite being given plenty of notice, due to “not being able to field teams on a Sunday” and they were backed by NF and Macquarie. We proposed another date to which Westlakes refused and then NF plus Macquarie made us chose a date proposed by Westlakes.

If NF had supported our initial proposal we would have had all our games completed by last Sunday, however they didn’t, and here we are. But please don’t blame us for everything when you have absolutely zero clue regarding what has been going on behind the scenes.

[mge61]

As they forfeited yesterday apparently result will stand

Unless games were already forfeited before the rain

[The Hacker]

Unless games were already forfeited before the rain

So what’s the plan for these washouts

[Parochial Supporter]

So Azzurri V Westlakes off today
What happens now?
Is it all going to be draws ?

[The Hacker]

This is actually incorrect. Several weeks ago we sent an email to the Newcastle Football outlining our plan to get all our games played before 28/08, which included two double header weekends, Westlakes on 21/08 and Swansea on 28/08. We f***ing begged NF to support our proposal in the email even though it would have seen us play matches on 16/08, 20/08, 21/08, 24/08, 27/08, and 28/08. We were happy to take on this hectic schedule in order to ensure that games were played and the finals series would be unaffected. We stated that we didn’t want to be at the mercy of more inclement weather. However NF didn’t support us in this.

Westlakes refused to play on 21/08 despite them having no game that weekend and despite being given plenty of notice, due to “not being able to field teams on a Sunday” and they were backed by NF and Macquarie. We proposed another date to which Westlakes refused and then NF plus Macquarie made us chose a date proposed by Westlakes.

If NF had supported our initial proposal we would have had all our games completed by last Sunday, however they didn’t, and here we are. But please don’t blame us for everything when you have absolutely zero clue regarding what has been going on behind the scenes.

I take back my comment and appologize. Newcastle Football should of said to Westlakes. Play on the 21st or you forfeit. It’s not a Sat only comp so if you can’t field a team then stiff s$&t. So in fact the team coming ninth is the reason that the semis are 1 leg now. That makes that desicion even worse.

[jim wallis]

This is actually incorrect. Several weeks ago we sent an email to the Newcastle Football outlining our plan to get all our games played before 28/08, which included two double header weekends, Westlakes on 21/08 and Swansea on 28/08. We f***ing begged NF to support our proposal in the email even though it would have seen us play matches on 16/08, 20/08, 21/08, 24/08, 27/08, and 28/08. We were happy to take on this hectic schedule in order to ensure that games were played and the finals series would be unaffected. We stated that we didn’t want to be at the mercy of more inclement weather. However NF didn’t support us in this.

This is exactly why we need new management in Zones and NNSW

[Incognito mosquito]

I take back my comment and appologize. Newcastle Football should of said to Westlakes. Play on the 21st or you forfeit. It’s not a Sat only comp so if you can’t field a team then stiff s$&t. So in fact the team coming ninth is the reason that the semis are 1 leg now. That makes that desicion even worse.

Not wanting to turn this into a mud slinging match but just want to provide some context from Westlakes side of things.

- we advised early on that the 21/8 wasn’t suitable for us and tried to work with Azzurri on alternate dates so that at-least 2 games could get on at a minimum. I believe (not 100% sure) we offered dates prior to the 21/8 as a solution as well
- we offered our venue as a solution to assist with field options to get the games played

To say we simply refused to play and suggest we didn’t attempt to assist in getting the games played isn’t quite right. I empathise with Azzurri and the position they’re in and its good that they have been so pro active to try and sort their games out but you can’t suggest that we are solely at fault for the circumstances at play now.

[The Hacker]

Not wanting to turn this into a mud slinging match but just want to provide some context from Westlakes side of things.

- we advised early on that the 21/8 wasn’t suitable for us and tried to work with Azzurri on alternate dates so that at-least 2 games could get on at a minimum. I believe (not 100% sure) we offered dates prior to the 21/8 as a solution as well
- we offered our venue as a solution to assist with field options to get the games played

To say we simply refused to play and suggest we didn’t attempt to assist in getting the games played isn’t quite right. I empathise with Azzurri and the position they’re in and its good that they have been so pro active to try and sort their games out but you can’t suggest that we are solely at fault for the circumstances at play now.

Ok we should blame the real problem. RH

[Kicktheball]

So how does this work?

We have azzuri awaiting a result between Cardiff 3rds and mayfield? If this cannot be played will they dispute the draw as it rules them out of finals. Same can be said about first grade, Cardiff do suns a favor by beating mayfield? If this is a draw azzuri are out.

If these games aren’t played before Saturday you have to feel for those that don’t get a final crack at finals..

Anyone like to elaborate ?

[Zonal Marking]

So how does this work?

We have azzuri awaiting a result between Cardiff 3rds and mayfield? If this cannot be played will they dispute the draw as it rules them out of finals. Same can be said about first grade, Cardiff do suns a favor by beating mayfield? If this is a draw azzuri are out.

If these games aren’t played before Saturday you have to feel for those that don’t get a final crack at finals..

Anyone like to elaborate ?

If only we had an all weather facility over at Speers Point where we could at the minimum pick all games from all grades that still have a bearing on finals or relegation standings and guarantee to play them during the week.

[jim wallis]

If only we had an all weather facility over at Speers Point where we could at the minimum pick all games from all grades that still have a bearing on finals or relegation standings and guarantee to play them during the week.

You mean the one thats already there that most c*nts on here hate on every other day except when your fields are f**ked?

Nah you guys are too good for that place.

[Zonal Marking]

You mean the one thats already there that most c*nts on here hate on every other day except when your fields are f**ked?

Nah you guys are too good for that place.

Well considering half of the facility was paid for using various government funding not to mention about $140 of each zone players registration fee goes towards NNSW Football I’d say we aren’t ‘too good’ for that place at all and have a pretty strong case to make use of it.

[HAFC_ZL]

Not wanting to turn this into a mud slinging match but just want to provide some context from Westlakes side of things.

- we advised early on that the 21/8 wasnÂ’t suitable for us and tried to work with Azzurri on alternate dates so that at-least 2 games could get on at a minimum. I believe (not 100% sure) we offered dates prior to the 21/8 as a solution as well
- we offered our venue as a solution to assist with field options to get the games played

To say we simply refused to play and suggest we didnÂ’t attempt to assist in getting the games played isnÂ’t quite right. I empathise with Azzurri and the position theyÂ’re in and its good that they have been so pro active to try and sort their games out but you canÂ’t suggest that we are solely at fault for the circumstances at play now.

Mate the negotiations regarding the 21/08 were dragged out for days. No prior date was offered cause as is seen by our schedule, we had no prior dates available. The 21/08 was our only available date, and you got the luxury of a weekend off, period.

Field was only offered after the fact and I can prove that mate. The field was offered for a fixture previously, however hours after that was negotiated and agreed upon, Westlakes pres then messaged us to sort out hire fee of the faculty, not previously mentioned in any negotiation.

Every other club that we have dealt with this season with regards to washouts (Suns, Cardiff especially, Swansea, Cooks Hill) have been so flexible and easy to deal with, however Westlakes unfortunately have been extremely reluctant and difficult.

I will say this though, the association allow this to happen. So much negotiating power rests with the away team. To be honest as frustrated as I am how everything has panned out, I don’t even blame Westlakes for trying to get the best solution for their club. The association just don’t want to make tough decisions with regards to reschedules.

[HAFC_ZL]

So how does this work?

We have azzuri awaiting a result between Cardiff 3rds and mayfield? If this cannot be played will they dispute the draw as it rules them out of finals. Same can be said about first grade, Cardiff do suns a favor by beating mayfield? If this is a draw azzuri are out.

If these games aren’t played before Saturday you have to feel for those that don’t get a final crack at finals..

Anyone like to elaborate ?

We are trying desperately to get our games played midweek.

I believe Cardiff and Mayfield have rescheduled also?

[The Hacker]

We are trying desperately to get our games played midweek.

I believe Cardiff and Mayfield have rescheduled also?

So 2 midweek games and a semi tough ask if that happens

[HAFC_ZL]

So 2 midweek games and a semi tough ask if that happens

Very big task to qualify, and as has been highlighted already we are depending on other results also. Will try our best though.

[The Hacker]

Very big task to qualify, and as has been highlighted already we are depending on other results also. Will try our best though.

The weather forecast may not be your friend

[BuzzRothfield]

This seems like a good solution in theory but isn’t possible. There is only room for 4 games to be played there per night (6pm and 8pm kick off on both fields), realistically the games can’t be played on Friday with finals starting Saturday so that leaves 16 spots for games to be played.
I’m guessing all Northern League 1 semi finals (18s, Ressies and 1st) were called off this weekend and will be played there this week so that takes up 6 of the spots.
I’m sure there would be NPL games that were called off this weekend that have a bearing on finals so they would likely be prioritised.
Long story short the synthetic pitches are only able to host a fraction of the games that are needed to be played in the next week across all competitions.

[HAFC_ZL]

The weather forecast may not be your friend

Agreed, but again we will try our best.

[The Hacker]

Anyone trying to get games away tonight?

[WWFC25]

Anyone trying to get games away tonight?

Westlakes vs Azzurri catch-ups Tuesday
Azzurri vs Swansea catch up Wednesday

[The Hacker]

Westlakes vs Azzurri catch-ups Tuesday
Azzurri vs Swansea catch up Wednesday

Which grades

[Buddha]

Going to assume 3rds & 1sts for Westlakes game and 1sts for Swansea seeing as though the lower grades forfeited

[Jardelsimage]

Cardiff v Mayfield
Tuesday
3rds and reggies
Thursday
1st

[WWFC25]

Going to assume 3rds & 1sts for Westlakes game and 1sts for Swansea seeing as though the lower grades forfeited

Correct

[HAFC_ZL]

Current state of play from our perspective.

First and foremost, we absolutely DID NOT ask for the season to be extended a week. As has been previously noted, we were happy to play two nights in a row and worked collaboratively yesterday with Swansea and Westlakes to schedule midweek fixtures, genuinely massive thank you to both clubs for that.

The email drops yesterday regarding the season being extended, NF advises us to approach Westlakes about moving fixtures against them to Saturday. We initiate this conversation about moving fixtures to Saturday at Westlakes as advised by NF. All verbal and no official confirmation.

We get phone calls from clubs basically asking us to roll over and take 1-1 draws, could be wrong but that's how it came off. Never happening, no other club would do that in our position. If you say that you would, you are lying.

Email drops that zones go back on extending the season, all games to be played before Thursday again.

At short notice we reassemble our troops to face Westlakes tonight and manage to scrape enough together, however Westlakes players have scattered to the wind and can't play tonight now.

What an absolute f***ing horror show that the association have created here across the board.

[Zonal Marking]

Current state of play from our perspective.

First and foremost, we absolutely DID NOT ask for the season to be extended a week. As has been previously noted, we were happy to play two nights in a row and worked collaboratively yesterday with Swansea and Westlakes to schedule midweek fixtures, genuinely massive thank you to both clubs for that.

The email drops yesterday regarding the season being extended, NF advises us to approach Westlakes about moving fixtures against them to Saturday. We initiate this conversation about moving fixtures to Saturday at Westlakes as advised by NF. All verbal and no official confirmation.

We get phone calls from clubs basically asking us to roll over and take 1-1 draws, could be wrong but that's how it came off. Never happening, no other club would do that in our position. If you say that you would, you are lying.

Email drops that zones go back on extending the season, all games to be played before Thursday again.

At short notice we reassemble our troops to face Westlakes tonight and manage to scrape enough together, however Westlakes players have scattered to the wind and can't play tonight now.

What an absolute f***ing horror show that the association have created here across the board.

I agree it is a horror show but the absolute top priority for you guys next season has to be finding a new ground. That paddock up at Hexham isn’t up to ZPL standard and is basically the sole reason you have to now play so many games within a short amount of time.

[mge61]

And they want to take over Northern ��

[prawnhead]

Current state of play from our perspective.

First and foremost, we absolutely DID NOT ask for the season to be extended a week. As has been previously noted, we were happy to play two nights in a row and worked collaboratively yesterday with Swansea and Westlakes to schedule midweek fixtures, genuinely massive thank you to both clubs for that.

The email drops yesterday regarding the season being extended, NF advises us to approach Westlakes about moving fixtures against them to Saturday. We initiate this conversation about moving fixtures to Saturday at Westlakes as advised by NF. All verbal and no official confirmation.

We get phone calls from clubs basically asking us to roll over and take 1-1 draws, could be wrong but that's how it came off. Never happening, no other club would do that in our position. If you say that you would, you are lying.

Email drops that zones go back on extending the season, all games to be played before Thursday again.

At short notice we reassemble our troops to face Westlakes tonight and manage to scrape enough together, however Westlakes players have scattered to the wind and can't play tonight now.

What an absolute f***ing horror show that the association have created here across the board.

Why would NF ring you to advise that you should contact Westlakes to transfer the game to this weekend if it was already scheduled midweek? I bet that corro from NF was conveniently only verbal too.

All clubs have endured a tough season with the wet weather. Im sure every club could have made a better effort to get games on, but there would have been times when a game could have been played but due to numbers available and who you were playing etc, these were pushed out by the hosting club for a better day. All clubs do this. Unfortunately though when your ground is rubbish (and yours clearly is) and the weather kicks back in, it can bite you on the arse.

Anyway like Lofty has mentioned, the correct decision has been made and we all move on. Good luck in 2023.

[Lofty]

Cardiff 4-2 Mayfield in thirds tonight.
Throws the door wide open for Azzurri..

[Incognito mosquito]

Current state of play from our perspective.

First and foremost, we absolutely DID NOT ask for the season to be extended a week. As has been previously noted, we were happy to play two nights in a row and worked collaboratively yesterday with Swansea and Westlakes to schedule midweek fixtures, genuinely massive thank you to both clubs for that.

The email drops yesterday regarding the season being extended, NF advises us to approach Westlakes about moving fixtures against them to Saturday. We initiate this conversation about moving fixtures to Saturday at Westlakes as advised by NF. All verbal and no official confirmation.

We get phone calls from clubs basically asking us to roll over and take 1-1 draws, could be wrong but that's how it came off. Never happening, no other club would do that in our position. If you say that you would, you are lying.

Email drops that zones go back on extending the season, all games to be played before Thursday again.

At short notice we reassemble our troops to face Westlakes tonight and manage to scrape enough together, however Westlakes players have scattered to the wind and can't play tonight now.

What an absolute f***ing horror show that the association have created here across the board.

Just going to pull you up here pal.

We were advised on Monday like yourself that the game had been shifted. Our available players had since taken on additional shifts and changed plans based on this info. We were then given less than 3 hours today to pull together 2 sides which we were unable to do. You even said yourself you barely managed to do this, and all credit to you for being able to but don’t imply we have been actively trying to avoid playing this match to suit your narrative.

Personally, the change from Tuesday to Saturday should never have happened and I believe that the right decision (eventually has been made). Unfortunately that means Azzurri didn’t have to ‘earn’ their 3 points off us but so be it.

Good luck to everyone for this upcoming weekend hopefully there are no further delays or last minute changes. What a heck of a ride

[Jardelsimage]

Cardiff v Mayfield
Tuesday
3rds and reggies
Thursday
1st

Cardiff v Mayfield
3rds: 4-2
Res: 9-1

[Kicktheball]

Cardiff v Mayfield
3rds: 4-2
Res: 9-1

Good confidence builder for mayfield going into semis

[PlasticFan]

Can anyone confirm the rumour of Cardiff playing first graders in their thirds and reserves last night?

[The Hacker]

Can anyone confirm the rumour of Cardiff playing first graders in their thirds and reserves last night?

There first grade can’t make it so maybe. It’s a one game band aid cause they can’t do that on the weekend

[Jardelsimage]

Can anyone confirm the rumour of Cardiff playing first graders in their thirds and reserves last night?

i can deny that, so which rumour you grabbing at plasto?

we had two on the bench due to 20 players unavailable last night, they got 20 mins each at the end, we also had 4 AA players play 3rds.
why do you people throw this shit out there? FFS you want a bite come down tomorrow when 1st are playing and you can be like the Mayfield supporter last night who said when they were being beaten 6-1, how much did you pay the refs??? sorry Richo and Pete

maybe Mayfield were not good enough, they weren't good enough, they were given a lesson, plain and simple.

The 11 that started last night will be close enough to the 11 that will start v Dudley, the suspended captain to come into the side.
We have 13 fully qualified reggies players, then we will 3rds to fill the gap.
As i was told they supposedly had a few 3rd graders play as they wanted their bench fresh for tomorrow night's 1st grade game.

[WWFC25]

1st Catch up
Swansea 2 Azzurri 0

[The Hacker]

1st Catch up
Swansea 2 Azzurri 0

😂😂😂

[Asdfg1234]

Has there been any update on the outcome of Azzurri vs Westlakes?

[PlasticFan]

i can deny that, so which rumour you grabbing at plasto?

we had two on the bench due to 20 players unavailable last night, they got 20 mins each at the end, we also had 4 AA players play 3rds.
why do you people throw this shit out there? FFS you want a bite come down tomorrow when 1st are playing and you can be like the Mayfield supporter last night who said when they were being beaten 6-1, how much did you pay the refs??? sorry Richo and Pete

maybe Mayfield were not good enough, they weren't good enough, they were given a lesson, plain and simple.

The 11 that started last night will be close enough to the 11 that will start v Dudley, the suspended captain to come into the side.
We have 13 fully qualified reggies players, then we will 3rds to fill the gap.
As i was told they supposedly had a few 3rd graders play as they wanted their bench fresh for tomorrow night's 1st grade game.

Pretty confused by this one, you CAN deny it but then you had 2 on the bench? Doesn’t matter to me as the mighty panthers are basically onto a GF birth at this point. Just with all the Suns debacles surely no one is stacking teams a game out from the semis.

[Zonal Marking]

1st Catch up
Swansea 2 Azzurri 0

So is that the top 4 in first grade set?

Also does that win push Swansea off the bottom of the table?

[WWFC25]

i can deny that, so which rumour you grabbing at plasto?

we had two on the bench due to 20 players unavailable last night, they got 20 mins each at the end, we also had 4 AA players play 3rds.
why do you people throw this shit out there? FFS you want a bite come down tomorrow when 1st are playing and you can be like the Mayfield supporter last night who said when they were being beaten 6-1, how much did you pay the refs??? sorry Richo and Pete

maybe Mayfield were not good enough, they weren't good enough, they were given a lesson, plain and simple.

The 11 that started last night will be close enough to the 11 that will start v Dudley, the suspended captain to come into the side.
We have 13 fully qualified reggies players, then we will 3rds to fill the gap.
As i was told they supposedly had a few 3rd graders play as they wanted their bench fresh for tomorrow night's 1st grade game.

Until you get into finals there are no players specifically assigned to any grade, it’s just a whole squad that you can choose from.

You play who’s available, if they happen to have played a bunch of first grade games this season good on them.

I’d hate to think a team would complain about 2 players out of the 11 they are versing as being the only reason they got beaten.

Sounds purely like Jardel says Cardiff wanted it more and were better than Mayfield.

[Premy]

So do Westlakes still have catch up games against Newcastle and Hamilton?
Will these games be put down as 1-1 draws and save them from relegation?

Interesting times ahead.

[Lofty]

There’s only so many days in the week.

At the end of the day, Swansea and westlakes played each other twice during the season and I’m fairly sure that Westlakes won both of those games.
They both ended up on 9 points. H2H should always stand for more than GD anyway. I don’t think Swansea can complain too much about that.

Surely we can move on from all this ‘what if’ drama.

Semi finals this weekend, let’s focus on that please!

[WWFC25]

So do Westlakes still have catch up games against Newcastle and Hamilton?
Will these games be put down as 1-1 draws and save them from relegation?

Interesting times ahead.

Azzuri went down as a forfeit for us because we couldn’t get the numbers and allowed Azzurri to continue to attempt to make semis.

Suns went down as a 1-1 draw as there was no need to play it when it doesn’t affect the final standings for semis.

Only game left is 3rd grade Azzurri vs Westlakes to see if Azzurri make it into the 3rd grade finals.

Sadly not overly interesting :)

[The Debt Collector]

Move over Will McMaster theres a new Tarro Terminator in town and his name is Joshua Schumann. He was absolutely terrorising the opposition putting some real Pride in the Swansea jersey

Azzurri probably should have taken the 1-1 draw so they could be in a slightly better position

[Premy]

Suns went down as a 1-1 draw as there was no need to play it when it doesn’t affect the final standings for semis.

Doesn't effect the Finals but it certainly effected the relegation.

[Jardelsimage]

Pretty confused by this one, you CAN deny it but then you had 2 on the bench? Doesn’t matter to me as the mighty panthers are basically onto a GF birth at this point. Just with all the Suns debacles surely no one is stacking teams a game out from the semis.

well, if you want to call it stacking reggies, call it what you like, 2 off bench for 20mins, its totally legal, it's totally moral, it was already 7-1 when they came on, so go you mighty panthers if you can't beat them after that moral draining loss, that's on you.

Would you like a copy of the rules put up here again, just to prove it to you?

All i am doing is telling the truth, no smoke, no mirrors, no bullshit that seems to flow quite readily on this forum.

cheers

[Jardelsimage]

Azzuri went down as a forfeit for us because we couldn’t get the numbers and allowed Azzurri to continue to attempt to make semis.

Suns went down as a 1-1 draw as there was no need to play it when it doesn’t affect the final standings for semis.

Only game left is 3rd grade Azzurri vs Westlakes to see if Azzurri make it into the 3rd grade finals.

Sadly not overly interesting :)

playing when???

[Lofty]

Doesn't effect the Finals but it certainly effected the relegation.

Well the only thing you can blame is the weather. Suns and Westlakes we due to play on Saturday and were washed out.
Monday - season extended.
Tuesday - season brought back.
That left Tuesday night (impossible), Wednesday night and Thursday night to organise Suns to play out at Westlakes.
We have a semi final coming up and to be honest, if we were somehow forced to play, we would have forfeited or it would have been a team somehow made up of players not playing this weekend, if that would even be possible.

The wet weather this year has led to this. You can’t start pointing the finger now with all that has happened the last two days.

As I said before, westlakes beat Swansea twice during the season and played two less games than they did. Surely the carry on can just stop now.

What’s everyone’s finals predictions now?

Will Azzurri pinch the last spot in third grade tonight?

[mge61]

Well the only thing you can blame is the weather. Suns and Westlakes we due to play on Saturday and were washed out.
Monday - season extended.
Tuesday - season brought back.
That left Tuesday night (impossible), Wednesday night and Thursday night to organise Suns to play out at Westlakes.
We have a semi final coming up and to be honest, if we were somehow forced to play, we would have forfeited or it would have been a team somehow made up of players not playing this weekend, if that would even be possible.

The wet weather this year has led to this. You can’t start pointing the finger now with all that has happened the last two days.

As I said before, westlakes beat Swansea twice during the season and played two less games than they did. Surely the carry on can just stop now.

What’s everyone’s finals predictions now?

Will Azzurri pinch the last spot in third grade tonight?

They’ll need to be better than their 1sts last night.

[Macca]

That left Tuesday night (impossible)

Not according to some

[MisplacedPasses]

As I said before, westlakes beat Swansea twice during the season and played two less games than they did. Surely the carry on can just stop now.


Mate, tell yourself whatever makes you feel better, but giving Westlakes a point and gifting them their position in ZPL for next year at the expense of Swansea is just not right, beat it up how you want, it is just not right!

Typical Suns making a mockery of the competition.

So here is a solution…… Why can’t there be a relegation playoff on grand final day between Swansea and Westlakes, kick off 9am before 3rd grade? Obviously hasn’t happened before but given the season from hell with the weather surely this is an option the fed could consider. Not only does this give both clubs a chance to earn their right to stay in the comp, it brings another 2 clubs supporters to GF day who in all likelihood wouldn’t attend otherwise! This concept could be applied in ZL 1 too for Merewether and Stockton!

[FlatScreen]

Will it be the third grade or first grade playing tonight for the Azzurri V Wildcats? I know it's a scheduled thirds match, but which teams will play?

[The Hacker]

Will it be the third grade or first grade playing tonight for the Azzurri V Wildcats? I know it's a scheduled thirds match, but which teams will play?

After Azzurri’s first grade played last night I’m sure they won’t play tonight and if they did and you played 3rds for them all year you would be pretty filthy if they did. If their 3rds can’t beat Westlakes they shouldn’t be in the semis

[FlatScreen]

After Azzurri’s first grade played last night I’m sure they won’t play tonight and if they did and you played 3rds for them all year you would be pretty filthy if they did. If their 3rds can’t beat Westlakes they shouldn’t be in the semis

100% agree, but this season has seen enough crazy things! It's sounding like a solid grudge match.

I mean Westalakes gave them a free 3 points, so I don't really understand the shade.

[Lofty]

Mate, tell yourself whatever makes you feel better, but giving Westlakes a point and gifting them their position in ZPL for next year at the expense of Swansea is just not right, beat it up how you want, it is just not right!

Typical Suns making a mockery of the competition.

So here is a solution…… Why can’t there be a relegation playoff on grand final day between Swansea and Westlakes, kick off 9am before 3rd grade? Obviously hasn’t happened before but given the season from hell with the weather surely this is an option the fed could consider. Not only does this give both clubs a chance to earn their right to stay in the comp, it brings another 2 clubs supporters to GF day who in all likelihood wouldn’t attend otherwise! This concept could be applied in ZL 1 too for Merewether and Stockton!

Hoenstly, cry more and you might wash out some more games. I'm not sure when we were supposed to play. Do you fully understand how much the circumstances have changed over the last few days??

Do you think any other club in finals would be sending out their first grade team a few days out from the grand final qualifier mid week? Have no training and no preparation for the upcoming game? You are delusional.
We had every intention to play the game, but you cannot avoid the weather events we have had and then the chopping and changing of the comp on Monday and Tuesday.

I can assure you that if Swansea's last game wasn't against Azzurri and it was Dudley or Warners Bay, there would have been a different situation.

Maybe you could ask the federation to reverse the forfeit on Westlakes in first grade and they can play Azzurri tonight in firsts also. Because that decision was very dodgy in itself.

The Suns are not the reason Swansea are bottom of the league. End of.

[Buddha]

Was it 1-1 in all 3 grades for Westlakes v Suns? If Azzurri beat Westlakes tonight, means they go to 3rd above Suns in 3rd Grade if Westlakes were given the 3-0 forfeit

[gtg]

So here is a solution…… Why can’t there be a relegation playoff on grand final day between Swansea and Westlakes, kick off 9am before 3rd grade?

You can't just start making up random rules to suit your club, mate.

[WWFC25]

No only Firsts and Ressies were 1-1 all draws because they didn’t affect finals we didn’t play them. We attempted to get 3rd played when it could have affected the finals but once Cardiff beat Mayfield on Tuesday Suns couldn’t miss out so they forfeited to avoid their guys having to play a midweek game before finals

[Kingofthemiddle]

Has the GF ground been announced or is still at fletcher?

[WWFC25]

Mate, tell yourself whatever makes you feel better, but giving Westlakes a point and gifting them their position in ZPL for next year at the expense of Swansea is just not right, beat it up how you want, it is just not right!

Typical Suns making a mockery of the competition.

So here is a solution…… Why can’t there be a relegation playoff on grand final day between Swansea and Westlakes, kick off 9am before 3rd grade? Obviously hasn’t happened before but given the season from hell with the weather surely this is an option the fed could consider. Not only does this give both clubs a chance to earn their right to stay in the comp, it brings another 2 clubs supporters to GF day who in all likelihood wouldn’t attend otherwise! This concept could be applied in ZL 1 too for Merewether and Stockton!

You can get F****** mate!

I won’t have you slandering my club saying we don’t deserve to be here and it was gifted to us. We beat Swansea home and away as well as the minor premiers at their turf. We more than deserve to stay in ZPL.

We can’t control the weather or decisions that chop and change that the association makes. Suns don’t want to put themselves at a disadvantage by playing midweek before finals then fair enough. So don’t go slandering them and accuse them of doing anything wrong.

I do sympathise with Swansea who played extremely well last night to beat Azzurri but sometimes things are out of peoples control.

Your ideas are as idiotic as your biased opinion so stop sharing them with people so they don’t have to waste their lives reading your dribble.

[YerMate]

What a week. Good luck to all in the finals.

[mge61]

There are zero A graders in Azzurri’s side tonight. Who Westlakes bring up is their business and if Azzurri can’t beat them, like their 1sts last night v Swansea they don’t deserve a finals spot.

[Villians]

Whoever is blaming the Suns or the Cats for Swansea's predicament are delusional and most likely biased. Westlakes wouldn't have forfeited to Azzurri if there was a chance to be relegated (based on Azzurri's performance last night, the Cats would've had a good chance for points). The Suns straight-up would've forfeited against Westlakes if forced to play this week. Who in their right mind would risk their players a few days out from a knockout semi on a match that has zero bearing on their table position? Fools.

[MisplacedPasses]

You can get F****** mate!

:popcorn::popcorn::soapbox::soapbox::wanker:



I won’t have you slandering my club saying we don’t deserve to be here and it was gifted to us. We beat Swansea home and away as well as the minor premiers at their turf. We more than deserve to stay in ZPL.

We can’t control the weather or decisions that chop and change that the association makes. Suns don’t want to put themselves at a disadvantage by playing midweek before finals then fair enough. So don’t go slandering them and accuse them of doing anything wrong.

I do sympathise with Swansea who played extremely well last night to beat Azzurri but sometimes things are out of peoples control.


So you're saying it wasn't a gift from the suns who you had to get point(s) to stay in the league?




Your ideas are as idiotic as your biased opinion so stop sharing them with people so they don’t have to waste their lives reading your dribble.


Yeah, you're right it was idiotic of me to share a possible solution to give battling clubs such as yours a second chance, not that you needed it or anything?

[Macca]

Westlakes wouldn't have forfeited to Azzurri if there was a chance to be relegated

Westlakes didn't choose to forfeit first grade against Azzurri.
This decision was made by the association and is being disputed.

I believe at 2pm Tuesday, we were playing Suns in third grade on Wednesday night, then 3 grades vs Azzuri on Saturday.
By the time the email circulated to the clubs regarding the backflip on the week extension, then having communication go out to players who are at work to try and work out if we could get a side together in a couple of hours, Tuesday wasn't seen as feasible for us.
This was taken by someone (association I assume?) as grounds for us forfeiting.

I'm still confused as to why we are playing just thirds tonight and not firsts as well.

One guess is that Azzurri didn't see Thursday as feasible for first grade if they were to make finals and have to back up this weekend after playing Wed/Thurs.
Is that grounds for a 3-0 forfeit too?

This whole end of season is a giant mess.
Congrats and good luck to those who have made finals, hopefully after all this fuss they can end up running smoothly.

[PlasticFan]

Who else is heading to the ground tonight to watch Azzuri’s first grade side battle it out for the final third grade semi spot?

[Buddha]

Finals on Saturday & Sunday this weekend or both on Saturday seeing as though no second leg?

[Lofty]

Grand final at Darling Street.

[Jardelsimage]

Finals on Saturday & Sunday this weekend or both on Saturday seeing as though no second leg?

saturday(dudley) and sunday(suns)

[Buddha]

saturday(dudley) and sunday(suns)

Cheers boss, assuming they are hosts for all 3 grades as well? Dudley probably prefer to have their games on Sunday one would think!

[Lofty]

Cheers boss, assuming they are hosts for all 3 grades as well? Dudley probably prefer to have their games on Sunday one would think!

Correct. Suns and Dudley both preferred the reverse. The request was made, but shut down.

[mge61]

On a wider serious note guys it’s RUOK day so I hope everyone is well. If not please call out to a friend. If you are call a friend and check on them.

[Flanders]

Who else is heading to the ground tonight to watch Azzuri’s first grade side battle it out for the final third grade semi spot?

Man's got jokes

[Mr.beautiful]

Sad way to see Swansea go out, i think they’ve left a lasting impact on zpl clubs that have done everything they can to ensure they get relegated because they fear that Swansea would’ve returned to their previous best next year.

On another note could this be another season with an asterisk next to the title winners? Many clubs have been left hung out to dry with reorganisation of games etc.

[Mr.beautiful]

Who else is heading to the ground tonight to watch Azzuri’s first grade side battle it out for the final third grade semi spot?

Hahaha they totally would lol

[PlasticFan]

Cardiff v Mayfield cancelled. Cardiff first graders too sore from plying two games already this week no doubt.

Swansea have left an impression no doubt, I’m sure there are many other clubs that people would rather be relegated, mainly the ones paying players and ruining it for the underdogs.

[The Hacker]

Cardiff v Mayfield cancelled. Cardiff first graders too sore from plying two games already this week no doubt.

Swansea have left an impression no doubt, I’m sure there are many other clubs that people would rather be relegated, mainly the ones paying players and ruining it for the underdogs.

Which club are you referring to

[Lofty]

Cardiff v Mayfield cancelled. Cardiff first graders too sore from plying two games already this week no doubt.

Swansea have left an impression no doubt, I’m sure there are many other clubs that people would rather be relegated, mainly the ones paying players and ruining it for the underdogs.

Oh the irony…

The funniest part about this post is that numerous Swansea boys have had beers with me at the Greeny telling me that they themselves were being paid at Swansea. Either you actually have no idea or you just have no other ammunition to spray at other clubs.
I’ve got nothing against clubs that want to pay players win bonuses or whatever else, but don’t throw shade at others and contradict yourself champion.

[prawnhead]

Never good to see any club get relegated. But to be fair Swansea have been rubbish all season in all grades. You reap what you sew though. Coaching appointments and player signings over last couple of years didn’t help.

Agree that it’s been a tough year for all clubs with weather and not the best leadership shown by the Federations. Reckon all clubs deserve to have an asterisk next to them for 2022. A positive though is that Swansea can take their asterisk for 2022 down a division next year - let’s hope they use it wisely. Good luck for 2023.

And this was responding to Mr Beatifuls post.

[The Hacker]

Who else is heading to the ground tonight to watch Azzuri’s first grade side battle it out for the final third grade semi spot?

Anyone go out and watch care to tell us how it played out

[WWFC25]

Anyone go out and watch care to tell us how it played out

Played in the game. 2-0 win to the Cats.

Pretty even game with one goal from a keeper error and another from a counter when Azzurri were piling on the pressure. Both teams could have and probably should have scored more. A bit spicy at times but played in good spirits.

Just how I saw it but maybe spectators have a different view……

Thanks to Azzurri for getting a game on to finish off the year. It’s a long drive out there but a nice pitch to play on, perhaps an option instead of Hexham next year.

[The Hacker]

Played in the game. 2-0 win to the Cats.

Pretty even game with one goal from a keeper error and another from a counter when Azzurri were piling on the pressure. Both teams could have and probably should have scored more. A bit spicy at times but played in good spirits.

Just how I saw it but maybe spectators have a different view……

Thanks to Azzurri for getting a game on to finish off the year. It’s a long drive out there but a nice pitch to play on, perhaps an option instead of Hexham next year.

Ouch tough 2 days for Azzurri. Was it spicy once they realized they didn’t play enough first graders and had choked

[Undertaker]

Ouch tough 2 days for Azzurri. Was it spicy once they realized they didn’t play enough first graders and had choked

Payback is a bitch for stupid Facebook posts…

Where’s Azzurri? Not in finals

[The Hacker]

Payback is a bitch for stupid Facebook posts…

Where’s Azzurri? Not in finals

😂😂

[Zonal Marking]

So did Azzurri not make the finals in any grade?

[Undertaker]

So did Azzurri not make the finals in any grade?

Westlakes beat them 2-0 in thirds tonight so no finals or World Cup for the Italians this year

[Jardelsimage]

Cardiff v Mayfield cancelled. Cardiff first graders too sore from plying two games already this week no doubt.

Swansea have left an impression no doubt, I’m sure there are many other clubs that people would rather be relegated, mainly the ones paying players and ruining it for the underdogs.


We at Cardiff actually wanted to play, it was Mayfield who didn't want to play last night, but we agreed as the game was nothing, we didn't play.

So you keep dribbling the shit, go the Panthers!

[Lofty]

We at Cardiff actually wanted to play, it was Mayfield who didn't want to play last night, but we agreed as the game was nothing, we didn't play.

So you keep dribbling the shit, go the Panthers!

I’d have been very surprised if Mayfield didn’t forfeit to be honest. The last few days have been mayhem.

[Kicktheball]

How does Dudley hold up in the rain ?

[Mr.beautiful]

Payback is a bitch for stupid Facebook posts…

Where’s Azzurri? Not in finals

What did they post on Facebook? Haha I can’t see it when i checked.

[Mr.beautiful]

How does Dudley hold up in the rain ?

It gets muddy around the edges but overall probably one of if not the best pitches in zpl for handling rain

[Zonal Marking]

It gets muddy around the edges but overall probably one of if not the best pitches in zpl for handling rain

More importantly then how does Meyer Park hold up? Someone said it was underwater last weekend?

[Lofty]

More importantly then how does Meyer Park hold up? Someone said it was underwater last weekend?

It's been in good condition all week. Last week was a crazy amount of rain in short period.

Rain is all over from early this arvo and then sunny all weekend. It will be fine.

[Buddha]

Played in the game. 2-0 win to the Cats.

Pretty even game with one goal from a keeper error and another from a counter when Azzurri were piling on the pressure. Both teams could have and probably should have scored more. A bit spicy at times but played in good spirits.

Just how I saw it but maybe spectators have a different view……

Thanks to Azzurri for getting a game on to finish off the year. It’s a long drive out there but a nice pitch to play on, perhaps an option instead of Hexham next year.

How i saw it from the Sidelines, bad error from Azzurri keeper put them behind the 8 ball early on, Azzurri had a stack of chances but failed to convert.

Few Westlakes players and supporters having a go at one of the Azzurri blokes who got cleaned up with an awful tackle accusing him of diving and ripping into him, turns out he has completely cooked his collarbone. Classy stuff.

[VelkiKurac]

Westlakes beat them 2-0 in thirds tonight so no finals or World Cup for the Italians this year

😂😂😂

[Buddha]

Westlakes beat them 2-0 in thirds tonight so no finals or World Cup for the Italians this year

Apart from their ZL3 team who won the premiership in both Grades :lulzturtle:

[WWFC25]

How i saw it from the Sidelines, bad error from Azzurri keeper put them behind the 8 ball early on, Azzurri had a stack of chances but failed to convert.

Few Westlakes players and supporters having a go at one of the Azzurri blokes who got cleaned up with an awful tackle accusing him of diving and ripping into him, turns out he has completely cooked his collarbone. Classy stuff.

There was plenty said about a range of challenges from both teams.
It was poor tackle and was rightfully given a yellow card.
Despite what was said 2 of our blokes from the bench did go over and check on him and ask if he needed ice.
He said no and then he got up and played on, good on him for doing so, for 5 minutes before coming off.
We aren’t doctors so couldn’t diagnose a broken collarbone on the spot I’m afraid.

I hope it’s not too serious and he’s back to full fitness and soon as possible.

[4-4-f*cking-2]

How i saw it from the Sidelines, bad error from Azzurri keeper put them behind the 8 ball early on, Azzurri had a stack of chances but failed to convert.

Few Westlakes players and supporters having a go at one of the Azzurri blokes who got cleaned up with an awful tackle accusing him of diving and ripping into him, turns out he has completely cooked his collarbone. Classy stuff.

The game’s the game innit

[The Hacker]

The games’ the game innit. It’s the year of the Tiger anyway 🐯

As in Mayfield

[Mr.beautiful]

Azzurri 3rds needed 1 win in their last 4 matches to make the finals and they couldn’t do it. I think that will go down as the biggest choke in zpl history. Can anyone name a better one from previous years?

[Mitchy]

Azzurri 3rds needed 1 win in their last 4 matches to make the finals and they couldn’t do it. I think that will go down as the biggest choke in zpl history. Can anyone name a better one from previous years?

Suns a few years back in the final vs bero

[PlasticFan]

How wild has this year been!?

Starting off with the floods, moving into double to triple game weeks, Suns getting docked points when they definitely didn’t cheat, Azzuri choking at the final hour to reach any semi finals outside of ZL3, Bero folding altogether, Mayfield’s coach aged 10 years when he realised he had to lose semi finals again, Swansea getting relegated, Westlakes stacking third grade over a Facebook post and Amongst all of this the mighty panthers have played the best football seen within Newcastle for years. Despite whatever happens over the next 2 weeks **** I love this game.

[Buddha]

Azzurri 3rds needed 1 win in their last 4 matches to make the finals and they couldn’t do it. I think that will go down as the biggest choke in zpl history. Can anyone name a better one from previous years?

Mayfield choking in the finals a few times over the last few seasons has been a pretty sustained choke. Especially considering the money they have thrown at players to get there.

[Buddha]

How wild has this year been!?

Starting off with the floods, moving into double to triple game weeks, Suns getting docked points when they definitely didn’t cheat, Azzuri choking at the final hour to reach any semi finals outside of ZL3, Bero folding altogether, Mayfield’s coach aged 10 years when he realised he had to lose semi finals again, Swansea getting relegated, Westlakes stacking third grade over a Facebook post and Amongst all of this the mighty panthers have played the best football seen within Newcastle for years. Despite whatever happens over the next 2 weeks **** I love this game.

Best league in the state. Forget NPL, give us a broadcaster

[Mr.beautiful]

Mayfield choking in the finals a few times over the last few seasons has been a pretty sustained choke. Especially considering the money they have thrown at players to get there.

Interesting how some clubs pay players. Fair game to them. Would the highest paid player in zpl be on 200-300 per game or is it a lot more?

[Zonal Marking]

What’s everyone’s predictions for the games this weekend?

1sts
Dudley vs Warners Bay (2-1 Dudley)
Suns vs Mayfield (3-1 Suns AET)

Reserves
Dudley vs Cardiff (3-2 Cardiff)
Warners Bay vs Mayfield (2-0 Wbay)

3rds
Dudley vs Mayfield (4-1 Dudley)
Cardiff vs Suns (2-2 Suns on Pens)

[Lord Elland]

Whats the problem with paying players in ZPL?

[prawnhead]

Whats the problem with paying players in ZPL?

It’s a pub league mate. Paying a few players rego I can understand, but paying players anything at this level is a laugh. If there are clubs doing it, those involved couldn’t trap it or make the grade back in their day. FFS - paying players at this level. Anyone involved be sneaking into the showers after game to see if mines bigger than yours. Wake up you blokes.

[433Footy]

It’s a pub league mate. Paying a few players rego I can understand, but paying players anything at this level is a laugh. If there are clubs doing it, those involved couldn’t trap it or make the grade back in their day. FFS - paying players at this level. Anyone involved be sneaking into the showers after game to see if mines bigger than yours. Wake up you blokes.

It’s the 3rd best division in newcastle, arguably a good selection of teams in zpl would be better than newfm teams as represented in the Australia Cup. Promotes growth for the game in my opinion.

[prawnhead]

It’s the 3rd best division in newcastle, arguably a good selection of teams in zpl would be better than newfm teams as represented in the Australia Cup. Promotes growth for the game in my opinion.

So paying blokes in ZPL helps promote growth of the game? Wake up, you’re one of them sneaking into the tubs at the end of 1st grade, or you couldn’t trap it.

[433Footy]

So paying blokes in ZPL helps promote growth of the game? Wake up, you’re one of them sneaking into the tubs at the end of 1st grade, or you couldn’t trap it.

More money = Better players = more supporters and awareness = growth of the game.

[prawnhead]

More money = Better players = more supporters and awareness = growth of the game.

More money = better players? Absolute proven formula for success in local comps in recent years.

[Zonal Marking]

It’s the 3rd best division in newcastle, arguably a good selection of teams in zpl would be better than newfm teams as represented in the Australia Cup. Promotes growth for the game in my opinion.

It might be the 3rd best quality wise but let’s be real the ZPL is the best football competition in Newcastle. What other comp would you get bottom of the table Westlakes going away to the eventual premiers Newcastle Suns and turning them over on their own ground!

Actually it’s probably 2nd best quality wise anyway. The NPL second division is pretty ordinary and their teams more often than not get knocked out of the cup by the ZPL ones.

[The Hacker]

What’s everyone’s predictions for the games this weekend?

1sts
Dudley vs Warners Bay (2-1 Dudley)
Suns vs Mayfield (3-1 Suns AET)

Reserves
Dudley vs Cardiff (3-2 Cardiff)
Warners Bay vs Mayfield (2-0 Wbay)

3rds
Dudley vs Mayfield (4-1 Dudley)
Cardiff vs Suns (2-2 Suns on Pens)

1st
Dudley 2-0 Warner’s Bay
Suns 2-1 Mayfield

Reserves
Dudley 1-1 Cardiff (Flip a coin)
Warners Bay 3-0 Mayfield

Thirds
Dudley 2-0 Mayfield
Cardiff 3-1 Suns

Think there will be some good games across the weekend good luck to all involved

[433Footy]

It might be the 3rd best quality wise but let’s be real the ZPL is the best football competition in Newcastle. What other comp would you get bottom of the table Westlakes going away to the eventual premiers Newcastle Suns and turning them over on their own ground!

Actually it’s probably 2nd best quality wise anyway. The NPL second division is pretty ordinary and their teams more often than not get knocked out of the cup by the ZPL ones.

Exactly, 100%

[Goatscheese]

It might be the 3rd best quality wise but let’s be real the ZPL is the best football competition in Newcastle. What other comp would you get bottom of the table Westlakes going away to the eventual premiers Newcastle Suns and turning them over on their own ground!

I've seen it happen in plenty of AA and O35 leagues. I'd wager lower level AA comps are the best on Newcastle based on that criteria.


You're continual bashing of NL1 and NPL is quite bizarre, did teams in those comps say you weren't good enough for them?

[Zonal Marking]

I've seen it happen in plenty of AA and O35 leagues. I'd wager lower level AA comps are the best on Newcastle based on that criteria.


You're continual bashing of NL1 and NPL is quite bizarre, did teams in those comps say you weren't good enough for them?

Firstly how am I bashing the NPL competition? All ive said is that I believe the ZPL is the best football competition in Newcastle ironically in the ZPL thread. And my claims about NL1 aren’t so outlandish when you consider that 5 ZPL clubs in their pre season won their cup ties against opposition from that league.

What’s bizzare is why Northerns mule boy is posting in this thread looking to start arguments. Don’t forget to have Elands coffee on his desk by 9am sharp Monday morning. Run along now

[Jim]

You're continual bashing of NL1 and NPL is quite bizarre, did teams in those comps say you weren't good enough for them?
bahahaha did you just pretend that those 2 leagues are elite??? This town is hilarious

[Jim]

Firstly how am I bashing the NPL competition? All ive said is that I believe the ZPL is the best football competition in Newcastle ironically in the ZPL thread. And my claims about NL1 aren’t so outlandish when you consider that 5 ZPL clubs in their pre season won their cup ties against opposition from that league.

Actually, as a competition, the NPL is one of the best regarding results being close. The level is hit n miss.

[Lord Elland]

Leave my faithful squire be

[Lord Elland]

However, I do think 6ish of the ZPL clubs could go into the NL1 two senior comps (rezzies & 1sts) and be competitive wouldn’t be better than NL or Belswans. Would be on par with the rest of the comp and would easily roll over Wallsend & Cessnock. I think some disrespect gets thrown down on ZPL & NL1 why can’t we just appreciate the quality in both ?

[433Footy]

However, I do think 6ish of the ZPL clubs could go into the NL1 two senior comps (rezzies & 1sts) and be competitive wouldn’t be better than NL or Belswans. Would be on par with the rest of the comp and would easily roll over Wallsend & Cessnock. I think some disrespect gets thrown down on ZPL & NL1 why can’t we just appreciate the quality in both ?

Agreed, the only big difference between the two is squad depth. The juniors and young ‘guns’ coming through are much bigger in NL1 clubs. In terms of pure talent in starting XI I think ZPL out weighs majority of the NL1 competition. The quality is high in both and both should be supported quite appropriately.

[Mr.beautiful]

However, I do think 6ish of the ZPL clubs could go into the NL1 two senior comps (rezzies & 1sts) and be competitive wouldn’t be better than NL or Belswans. Would be on par with the rest of the comp and would easily roll over Wallsend & Cessnock. I think some disrespect gets thrown down on ZPL & NL1 why can’t we just appreciate the quality in both ?

I saw a trial match a year ago where not only did Dudley dominate which the score didn’t really reflect 2-1 win for dudley against belswans. I think their other grades were all also very competitive maybe Dudley won them also.

I have no history background of northern league one. But where some of the clubs are located geographically were always going to struggle, were they picked based on trying to spread football across the region?

Suns would probably be coming 2nd if they were in northern league one. I think playing on good pitches would help suns a lot more than some of the northern teams.

I personally think questions need to be asked about northern league one because it requires:
Extensive coaching badges
Training regimes
Money in some cases
Massive rego fees

Yet they’re closer to zone league quality than npl. Has a northern league 1 team ever beaten an npl team in an ffa cup game?

Since they’ve separated youth now in northern and nnsw npl the next step should be just having a 1st, ressies, 3rds format throughout the leagues to allow promotion and relegation. Good players skip ages groups anyhow so it’s pointless imo having 18s, 20’s first

[Zonal Marking]

I saw a trial match a year ago where not only did Dudley dominate which the score didn’t really reflect 2-1 win for dudley against belswans. I think their other grades were all also very competitive maybe Dudley won them also.

I have no history background of northern league one. But where some of the clubs are located geographically were always going to struggle, were they picked based on trying to spread football across the region?

Suns would probably be coming 2nd if they were in northern league one. I think playing on good pitches would help suns a lot more than some of the northern teams.

I personally think questions need to be asked about northern league one because it requires:
Extensive coaching badges
Training regimes
Money in some cases
Massive rego fees

Yet they’re closer to zone league quality than npl. Has a northern league 1 team ever beaten an npl team in an ffa cup game?

Since they’ve separated youth now in northern and nnsw npl the next step should be just having a 1st, ressies, 3rds format throughout the leagues to allow promotion and relegation. Good players skip ages groups anyhow so it’s pointless imo having 18s, 20’s first

Whoah careful now your comments and bashing of the NL1 competition are going to send GoatsFool into a state of rage. Just wind back a bit yeah.

For the record you make a lot of great points. Yes NL1 opposition have beaten ZPL teams in the cup in the past however more often than not I would wager the 3rd division sides have come out victorious in these match ups. Even more impressive when you consider that the NL1 season has usually commenced when these matches take place. Meanwhile the ZPL is still in pre season.

[travellingman]

Since they’ve separated youth now in northern and nnsw npl the next step should be just having a 1st, ressies, 3rds format throughout the leagues to allow promotion and relegation. Good players skip ages groups anyhow so it’s pointless imo having 18s, 20’s first

NNSW had 1st, reserves and third grade back in 78. 1979 saw the introduction of 19's and 3rd grade was dropped.
If a player is good enough, he is old enough to play in a higher grade. However, having 18's, 20's and 1st grade has benefitted the Zone leagues as player's who fail to make 1st grade by 20's fall back into the zones league's.

[Mr.beautiful]

Agreed age groups allow zone league clubs to poach talent.

Also not trying to insult nl1 either as I imagine where some clubs are located it’s hard to get a lot of players. credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood.

I just see it from afar and while the comp is relatively close this year I’ve seen previous years where the regional sides are losing 5-0 most games. Football needs to be fun and that comes with an even playing field. This can also be said about zpl3 this year. We risk losing clubs and players where teams lose every week 5-0. Far call on putting Newcastle fc in zl3, but it’s resulted in some one sided games, mind you they didn’t win the comp. Question is will they be in zpl3 next year?

[The Hacker]

Caught the second half at Dudley. Was very tense Dudley up 1-0. Not sure the other grades

[Jardelsimage]

Caught the second half at Dudley. Was very tense Dudley up 1-0. Not sure the other grades

ok back to the real reason this post exists.

cardiff v suns 1-1 ccfc on pens
Cardiff v Dudley 2-0

[Jardelsimage]

Cardiff v Mayfield cancelled. Cardiff first graders too sore from plying two games already this week no doubt.

Swansea have left an impression no doubt, I’m sure there are many other clubs that people would rather be relegated, mainly the ones paying players and ruining it for the underdogs.

you know what really pisses me off is, when someone pretends to part of a club and there not, Plasto man is this you???? go the panthers or is it the green tigers???

[Zonal Marking]

you know what really pisses me off is, when someone pretends to part of a club and there not, Plasto man is this you???? go the panthers or is it the green tigers???

Maybe he just likes big jungle cats?

[Jardelsimage]

Maybe he just likes big jungle cats?

disgruntled ex-player maybe, Plasto, your turn....

[Zonal Marking]

ok back to the real reason this post exists.

cardiff v suns 1-1 ccfc on pens
Cardiff v Dudley 2-0

Good day out for Cardiff and an exciting weekend to come. 3rds did well and Reserves are in great form. Mayfield or Wbay will have a very tough game awaiting them next weekend.

[prawnhead]

ok back to the real reason this post exists.

cardiff v suns 1-1 ccfc on pens
Cardiff v Dudley 2-0

You won’t sleep tonight Peck 😁. Good results for you boys today - well done 🍺👍

[Jardelsimage]

You won’t sleep tonight Peck ��. Good results for you boys today - well done ����

sleep like a baby tonight, 15 schooners does that to you.....:wink:

[The Hacker]

sleep like a baby tonight, 15 schooners does that to you.....:wink:

Didn’t see it but good result for Cardiff in Reggies both teams had been traveling nicely

[NUGUNS]

Suns 2 - 0 at the break.

Suns the better side so far.

[NUGUNS]

4 - 3 Suns about 24 to go

[NUGUNS]

4 - 3 to suns about 20 to go.

Suns down to 10 for handball on the line to stop a goal.

Mayfield miss pen

[NUGUNS]

5 - 4 suns

Suns limp over the line with 10.

Mayfield miss a crucial pen after the red.

[The Hacker]

5 - 4 suns

Suns limp over the line with 10.

Mayfield miss a crucial pen after the red.

Gee I wish I hadn’t gone to watch Belswans beat Kahibah this game sounds wild.

[The Hacker]

5 - 4 suns

Suns limp over the line with 10.

Mayfield miss a crucial pen after the red.

How’d the other grades end up

[NUGUNS]

Gee I wish I hadn’t gone to watch Belswans beat Kahibah this game sounds wild.

First half was all Suns with Mayfield having two or three chances. Mayfield had a keeper change as the starting keeper looked to have a shoulder injury.

Second half saw Mayfield bring it back to 2 - 1 with Suns scoring about a minute or two later to put them back up 3 - 1

Two more quick goals brought it back to 3 - 3.

Suns scored a shortly after making it 4 - 3.

Mayfield them put a cross in and the ball gets blocked on the line for handball with the ball still rolling into the net see a red card to the Suns centre back and a chance to equalise.

Mayfield blast wide to the right and then Suns go the field to score against the run of the play making it 5 - 3.

Mayfield score in about the 89th minute but unfortunately couldn't equalise in stoppage time.

Congrats to suns for making the final (I hope you guys have lost that megaphone during covid), I think the centre back for Suns getting carded was worth it as he looked like he wasn't gonna play the final limping quite badly.

[NUGUNS]

How’d the other grades end up

6 - 0 Dudley in 3rds

3 - 0 Bay in Res

[Nou Camp]

The game had a bit of everything!!!
Suns hit the bar at 3-1 and mayfield scored not even a minute later to make things very interesting

[Zonal Marking]

The game had a bit of everything!!!
Suns hit the bar at 3-1 and mayfield scored not even a minute later to make things very interesting

Just another standard ZPL game really. No in all seriousness it was very entertaining. Completely different to yesterdays semi final where both teams barely gave each other a sniff. This afternoons match defending was definitely considered optional. Three fantastic grand finals next weekend though. It should be a great day out at darling street.

[Lofty]

Both sides left nothing out there. Absolute cracker of a game. Tough day for Mayfield having to stretch across three grades.

Really looking forward to next week. Four clubs being represented on the day.
Suns v Dudley
Warners Bay v Cardiff
Dudley v Cardiff

Those three games deserve to be played in town at a venue accessible to most. Super glad the way things have panned out with that.

[Jardelsimage]

Both sides left nothing out there. Absolute cracker of a game. Tough day for Mayfield having to stretch across three grades.

Really looking forward to next week. Four clubs being represented on the day.
Suns v Dudley
Warners Bay v Cardiff
Dudley v Cardiff

Those three games deserve to be played in town at a venue accessible to most. Super glad the way things have panned out with that.

good luck my friend

[PlasticFan]

I’d rather shit in my own hand than step foot inside mayfield. Up the Panthers, reserve grade is where it’s at anyway

[Mr.beautiful]

Wow the mayfield curse continues for finals. Keep chipping away at it lads your time will come.

I predicted this grand final days in advance, let’s see if it plays out like i said it would. I’d comment on lower grades but the cardiff faithful seem to pepper me with insults if i predict they lose

Best of luck in finals to all involved

[Jardelsimage]

Wow the mayfield curse continues for finals. Keep chipping away at it lads your time will come.

I predicted this grand final days in advance, let’s see if it plays out like i said it would. I’d comment on lower grades but the cardiff faithful seem to pepper me with insults if i predict they lose

Best of luck in finals to all involved

congrats on picking the 1st grade GF teams in advance, it wasn't rocket science, 1 out of 3 games, well lucky I'm not punting on your picks again.
geez your a bit touchy aren't you, if you think that's an insult you might need to toughen up a bit....

In the end, you can predict what you like, but when you pick a side to lose by 7, no matter what the excuse you give, i take that as an insult, obviously you don't know the comp real well or your just fishing...

happy picking, Mr Beautifulllllllllllll

[Mr.beautiful]

Telling me to toughen…

Then crying about how I predicted that the team you support would lose 7-0 haha the irony..

Don’t bother replying either because It will fall on deaf ears!

[Jardelsimage]

Telling me to toughen…

Then crying about how I predicted that the team you support would lose 7-0 haha the irony..

Don’t bother replying either because It will fall on deaf ears!


just remember if you make a prediction and it's wrong that does give some the right to have a slight dig, that's why it's called the forum.

good bye.

[The Hacker]

just remember if you make a prediction and it's wrong that does give some the right to have a slight dig, that's why it's called the forum.

good bye.

Judging by the update above he was close with 7-0 just the wrong semi

[JustMe]

congrats on picking the 1st grade GF teams in advance, it wasn't rocket science, 1 out of 3 games, well lucky I'm not punting on your picks again.
geez your a bit touchy aren't you, if you think that's an insult you might need to toughen up a bit....

In the end, you can predict what you like, but when you pick a side to lose by 7, no matter what the excuse you give, i take that as an insult, obviously you don't know the comp real well or your just fishing...

happy picking, Mr Beautifulllllllllllll

I see Mr Dkhead getting cranky cause he cant tip lolol.

[Kicktheball]

Shame on Cardiff Ressies for spoiling the party for Dudley having 3 teams at Darling Street

[Mr.beautiful]

New forum rule… all score predictions that have cardiff involved must have cardiff winning or else prepare to be verbally assaulted.

Getting petty over a score prediction which i do for a bit of fun. Hate to think how you guys will carry on when you get dusted in ressies and 3rds this weekend.

Take note that none of the other teams i predicted to lose resorted to name calling because they see it as just a fun prediction. Believe it or not I don’t watch every game on camera and analyse squad lists in my spare time.

[Jardelsimage]

Shame on Cardiff Ressies for spoiling the party for Dudley having 3 teams at Darling Street

sorry

[Jardelsimage]

New forum rule… all score predictions that have cardiff involved must have cardiff winning or else prepare to be verbally assaulted.

Getting petty over a score prediction which i do for a bit of fun. Hate to think how you guys will carry on when you get dusted in ressies and 3rds this weekend.

Take note that none of the other teams i predicted to lose resorted to name calling because they see it as just a fun prediction. Believe it or not I don’t watch every game on camera and analyse squad lists in my spare time.

I was having some fun, had a joke about being on the punt and your bad predictions.

Its not only me having is having a dig at you now, so pull your head in, its blokes like you who get on here, 24 posts in and react to whatever is said and take things way too personal, its a forum FFS.

if we get dusted, we get dusted simple as that, but we are playing on Sunday, so come enjoy the day, i will even buy you a beer...who do you support by the way?

[Source]

Mayfield more choke than a old Holden 👍👍Up the bay yeeeewwww

[JustMe]

Mayfield more choke than a old Holden ����Up the bay yeeeewwww

1st grade aimed up and was a great watch. Still some pride in the Green yet.

[Lofty]

Mayfield scraped into fourth in all three grades and had to stretch across playing all grades on one day. Choked in the past, but I wouldn’t say they did this year.
Finals football doesn’t seem to favour them though! Especially the last 5 years anyway.

[Zonal Marking]

Mayfield scraped into fourth in all three grades and had to stretch across playing all grades on one day. Choked in the past, but I wouldn’t say they did this year.
Finals football doesn’t seem to favour them though! Especially the last 5 years anyway.

Yeah everyones being a bit harsh on Mayfield. They probably only came 2nd to Dudley in the club Championship at the end of the day so once again have proven to be one of the strongest clubs in the ZPL.

I have to disagree with the choking comment though Lofty. If you miss a penalty to make it 4-4 with an extra man advantage for the rest of the match you have to be considered to have choked a little in such a circumstance.

[Lofty]

Yeah everyones being a bit harsh on Mayfield. They probably only came 2nd to Dudley in the club Championship at the end of the day so once again have proven to be one of the strongest clubs in the ZPL.

I have to disagree with the choking comment though Lofty. If you miss a penalty to make it 4-4 with an extra man advantage for the rest of the match you have to be considered to have choked a little in such a circumstance.

Agree to disagree then. Mayfield never led during the match. I think that if the Suns didn't hold on, the conversation would be very different. I don't think Mayfield ever got into a dominant position and choked as you say. They were behind by two goals in the match 3 times. Anyway, I'm sure everyone will have their own opinion.

And for the record, Mayfield were fourth in Club Championship.

[The Hacker]

Agree to disagree then. Mayfield never led during the match. I think that if the Suns didn't hold on, the conversation would be very different. I don't think Mayfield ever got into a dominant position and choked as you say. They were behind by two goals in the match 3 times. Anyway, I'm sure everyone will have their own opinion.

And for the record, Mayfield were fourth in Club Championship.

What was the order of Club Championship

[Buddha]

Would probably say Dudley won Club Championship? 1st in 3rds, 2nd in Res, 2nd in 1sts.

[Lofty]

Dudley - 177
Warners Bay - 166
Suns - 162
Mayfield - 158
Cardiff - 153

Not playing the final round against Westlakes may have cost us a few points. Fairly tight top 5 though!

[WWFC25]

Dudley - 177
Warners Bay - 166
Suns - 162
Mayfield - 158
Cardiff - 153

Not playing the final round against Westlakes may have cost us a few points. Fairly tight top 5 though!

You’d still be on 162 even if you had played had us Lofty :)

[Jardelsimage]

You’d still be on 162 even if you had played had us Lofty :)

nice one:lol::lol:

[Lofty]

You’d still be on 162 even if you had played had us Lofty :)

Hahaha maybe!!

[Zonal Marking]

Dudley - 177
Warners Bay - 166
Suns - 162
Mayfield - 158
Cardiff - 153

Not playing the final round against Westlakes may have cost us a few points. Fairly tight top 5 though!

Would not have picked Wbay to come 2nd at the beginning of the season. What a year they have had. No surprise seeing Dudley, Suns & Mayfield there. These clubs have always been pretty consistent over recent years. Congrats to Dudley anyway.

[The Hacker]

Would not have picked Wbay to come 2nd at the beginning of the season. What a year they have had. No surprise seeing Dudley, Suns & Mayfield there. These clubs have always been pretty consistent over recent years. Congrats to Dudley anyway.

Warners Bay with an excellent season they improved out of sight. 24 points between 1st and 5th shows how close and exciting this comp is

[AwayDay Views]

Just quickly - how is Club Championship points counted?

Gonna be a cracker day Sunday!

[Lofty]

Just quickly - how is Club Championship points counted?

Gonna be a cracker day Sunday!

First grade
W - 8pts
D - 4

Ressies
W - 4
D - 2

Thirds
W - 2
D - 1

[Zonal Marking]

So what are everyone’s predictions for the big ones on the weekend?

3rds Dudley vs Cardiff
Dudley the dominant team all season and many would expect them to continue to show it on Sunday however you would be a fool to write off this Cardiff team.

Ressies Warners Bay vs Cardiff
Arguably the match of the day. Warners Bay the best team across the season up against Cardiff who have probably been the form team of the comp over the last month or two.

Firsts Newcastle Suns vs Dudley
What more needs to be said? Possibly the biggest rivalry in Newcastle football. The only guarantee from this one is that there will be a red card (probably more)

[Buddha]

So what are everyone’s predictions for the big ones on the weekend?

3rds Dudley vs Cardiff
Dudley the dominant team all season and many would expect them to continue to show it on Sunday however you would be a fool to write off this Cardiff team.

Ressies Warners Bay vs Cardiff
Arguably the match of the day. Warners Bay the best team across the season up against Cardiff who have probably been the form team of the comp over the last month or two.

Firsts Newcastle Suns vs Dudley
What more needs to be said? Possibly the biggest rivalry in Newcastle football. The only guarantee from this one is that there will be a red card (probably more)
Cardiff on Pens in 3rds & Ressies, 2-2 in both grades

Dudley to win in extra time 3-1, 1-1 at the end of 90

[terry]

3rds Dudley 4-2 Cardiff

Res Warners Bay 3-0 Cardiff

Firsts Newcastle Suns 3-2 Dudley

[Kicktheball]

Dudley 4-2 Cardiff

Res Warners Bay 3-0 Cardiff

Firsts Newcastle Suns 3-2 Dudley

Thirds -Dudley 2-1

Reggie’s- Cardiff 3-1

Firsts - Suns 4-3

[FairPlay2022]

Thirds - Cardiff 1-1 Pens

Reserves - Warners Bay 2-0

Firsts - Dudley 1-0

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Third Grade: Dudley 2-1
Reserve Grade: Warner’s Bay 2-0
First Grade: 2-1 (Suns ET)

[The Hacker]

If the weather and the pitch is like today for NL1 which being at the ground was super impressive we are in for a ripping day tomorrow with some good football.

Thirds if football is played Dudley to win if the game is stop start Cardiff will be well in it. Dudley 2-1

Reserves will be a cracking game with 2 excellent teams making the final. If Cardiff have their first grade keeper in goals they will win Cardiff 1-0

First should be an absolute cracker with both teams liking to play football and move the ball. The pitch should help that. Real toss of the coin. Dudley 2-0

[ForeverRed]

To big to strong, go the thistles

[United]

Well deserved by Dudley today. I thought they defended well and worked their pace on the counter attack. Suns never really got going and kept frustrating themselves. But also comes down to Dudley’s pressure which was great.
Dudley didn’t give the Suns too much space and Suns didn’t really threaten much in the second half. With Dudley’s keeper going off at half time I thought they would have at least had some shots but no. Might say send off three then off but it was just Dudley’s day finally.
I noticed nobody spoke of Dudley for the GF or win but credit to the club for producing a hungry younger side after a few players moved on. Willow did an excellent job in his first season as coach. Dudley boys are happy!!!

[Lofty]

Well done to Dudley, good day for you guys.

Hilarious that Warners Bay after all of their carry on this year to have a bench full of first graders and then to score the winner. Not against stretching the rules, but the carry on is laughable.

[FairPlay2022]

Well done to Dudley, good day for you guys.

Hilarious that Warners Bay after all of their carry on this year to have a bench full of first graders and then to score the winner. Not against stretching the rules, but the carry on is laughable.

Convincingly beaten in the grand final and first thing you mention about is Warners Bay. Jog on muppet. Firstly congratulations to Dudley completely deserved and most certainly the best team in yesterdays match. let’s be honest the real grand final was last weekend out at Dudley Park where two quality teams faced off in a proper contest. Maybe if Suns had their best defender on the park yesterday instead of being hailed as a hero for a needless red card hand ball offence last weekend they may have kept Dudley out at the back today.

[FairPlay2022]

Well deserved by Dudley today. I thought they defended well and worked their pace on the counter attack. Suns never really got going and kept frustrating themselves. But also comes down to Dudley’s pressure which was great.
Dudley didn’t give the Suns too much space and Suns didn’t really threaten much in the second half. With Dudley’s keeper going off at half time I thought they would have at least had some shots but no. Might say send off three then off but it was just Dudley’s day finally.
I noticed nobody spoke of Dudley for the GF or win but credit to the club for producing a hungry younger side after a few players moved on. Willow did an excellent job in his first season as coach. Dudley boys are happy!!!

I think you’ll find quite a few of the posters picked Dudley to get the win.

[Buddha]

Any scores in the other grades?

[NUGUNS]

Res 2 - 1 warners bay
3rds 2 - 1 Dudley

[The Hacker]

If the weather and the pitch is like today for NL1 which being at the ground was super impressive we are in for a ripping day tomorrow with some good football.

Thirds if football is played Dudley to win if the game is stop start Cardiff will be well in it. Dudley 2-1

Reserves will be a cracking game with 2 excellent teams making the final. If Cardiff have their first grade keeper in goals they will win Cardiff 1-0

First should be an absolute cracker with both teams liking to play football and move the ball. The pitch should help that. Real toss of the coin. Dudley 2-0

2 out of 3 scores right. If I knew W/B were going to play the clubs best player off the bench in his Reggies debut I would of picked them.

[MisplacedPasses]

2 out of 3 scores right. If I knew W/B were going to play the clubs best player off the bench in his Reggies debut I would of picked them.

It's common practice in ZPL to bring "1st graders" down come finals time. Nothing to see here

Cardiff were ordinary.

[Asdfg1234]

I know Warners bay havenÂ’t played much finals football in recent years but IÂ’m not sure how common it is to play your clubs best player in reserve grade.

[W8 WATCHER]

It's common practice in ZPL to bring "1st graders" down come finals time. Nothing to see here

Cardiff were ordinary.

typical pub football
make the rules up as you go.
if suns get punished in season fixture , how is this possible in the 2nd chance cup (gf)

[PlasticFan]

Guys be nice to Cardiff, it’s not everyday you lose 2 grand finals. This is one of the stages of mourning. Up the might panthers! Just lucky we let it be close, could have sealed it late on but preferred the drama.

[Premy]

Highlight of the day had to be the Security Guards missed tackle.

[WWFC25]

3 good games to watch yesterday despite the conditions and it was especially good to have BarTv covering the games.

Based on performance throughout the year it can’t be said the 3 GF winners didn’t deserve to win.

Dudley have dominated in 3rd grade all year and Warners Bay have done the same in Ressies.

The first grade game was pretty even throughout but can’t say Dudley were any better than Suns. Dudley simply took the two clear chances they created and Suns not being able to do the same, which is how you win grand finals.

It was very disappointing to see Warners Bay cheat in a GF by using a first grader off the bench! Even if he hadn’t scored the winner he shouldn’t have been used.

There Ressies players had done the job all year and should have completed it themselves.

Well done to everyone involved in the finals and hopefully we get more of the same next season.

[FairPlay2022]

3 good games to watch yesterday despite the conditions and it was especially good to have BarTv covering the games.

Based on performance throughout the year it can’t be said the 3 GF winners didn’t deserve to win.

Dudley have dominated in 3rd grade all year and Warners Bay have done the same in Ressies.

The first grade game was pretty even throughout but can’t say Dudley were any better than Suns. Dudley simply took the two clear chances they created and Suns not being able to do the same, which is how you win grand finals.

It was very disappointing to see Warners Bay cheat in a GF by using a first grader off the bench! Even if he hadn’t scored the winner he shouldn’t have been used.

There Ressies players had done the job all year and should have completed it themselves.

Well done to everyone involved in the finals and hopefully we get more of the same next season.

I think you’ll find Cardiff also had first graders on their bench so it would be interesting to see if you called them out if one of their players got the winner. You don’t hear Dudley complaining that Cardiff used their first grade keeper last week either. They may have played in the gf themselves yesterday if he wasn’t there.

At the end of the day Warners were the best team over the 18 games of the regular season. Didn’t lose either match to Cardiff this season including a comfortable win at Evans park. Seasons done no need for bitterness lads.

[Crofty]

Damn could use some of that suns salt as seasoning

[Crofty]

Damn imagine being the only minor prem team to not win the big one and their first thought is to rip into a club they didn’t even verse hahaha

[Macca]

I thought Dudley were deserved winners in firsts. First half felt like they dominated, too fit/hungry and the Suns were never able to hold onto the ball for any extended period it felt like.
Suns deserve credit for coming out in the second half and turning it into a much more even contest. I would say for the first half hour of the second half they looked the more likely team to score even after going down a man.
I wouldn't say it seemed like a goal was "coming" though, Dudley handled them pretty well and their defense was quite solid even with the keeper change.
Might have been interesting if Suns had 11 on the park for the whole second half, maybe they could have mounted some more pressure and created a few more chances.

Good game to watch though, good intensity and plenty happening, well done to both teams.

[Mr.beautiful]

New forum rule… all score predictions that have cardiff involved must have cardiff winning or else prepare to be verbally assaulted.

Getting petty over a score prediction which i do for a bit of fun. Hate to think how you guys will carry on when you get dusted in ressies and 3rds this weekend.

Take note that none of the other teams i predicted to lose resorted to name calling because they see it as just a fun prediction. Believe it or not I don’t watch every game on camera and analyse squad lists in my spare time.

Predicted the result that Cardiff would get swept days in advance.

Must say, very impressed by the crowd numbers from all teams over the weekend. Can’t imagine you would’ve had a 1/3 of those numbers if it had been held at fletcher. A few of the guys dressed up like idiots were yelling stupid things but that’s not unexpected and I think the players actually felt the 12th man presence from the audience.

Looking forward to seeing Dudley go back to back next year.

[samcan]

Suns play a good game. Imagine if those half dozen gravity riders trimmed up, they'd walk the next league.

[Jardelsimage]

I think you’ll find Cardiff also had first graders on their bench so it would be interesting to see if you called them out if one of their players got the winner. You don’t hear Dudley complaining that Cardiff used their first grade keeper last week either. They may have played in the gf themselves yesterday if he wasn’t there.

At the end of the day Warners were the best team over the 18 games of the regular season. Didn’t lose either match to Cardiff this season including a comfortable win at Evans park. Seasons done no need for bitterness lads.

Firstly congrats to all the winners on the day.

just need to put some things straight, evreybody who played for cardiff in reggies and 3rds had qualified and by the rules, 2/3'rds of you games etc etc, so 1st graders off the bench is incorrect, yes they have played 1st during the year, but qualified none the less.

Redo played as our keeper was in Goulburn working last weekend and once again it is within the rules, have to ask permission to play him, specialists spot.

to all the others out there the rules state you can use anyone off the bench even if they dont qualify to start, so drop the crap, let all the teams who won and lost celebrate the year and be very glad we didn't play at Fletcher.

cheers to all see you in 23.

[Zonal Marking]

Tough on Cardiff losing both games on Sunday but overall Dudley & Wbay were the dominant teams of the season and can’t begrudge them winning the big one.

Well done to Olympic for putting on a great day and there is no question that the correct call was made to move the matches there. Great to see so many supporters from all clubs turn out in force. Wbay probably had the smallest amount number wise but heck that far corner of Darling Street was making some noise throughout the final two games. Helped add to the atmosphere though which was great.

Finally congrats to Dudley on winning the first grade fixture. Grand finals more often than not seem to be scrappy low scoring matches and I think maybe playing in a similar match last weekend probably had them better prepared than Suns who were coming off a high scoring thriller. Until next season though.

[The Hacker]

Tough on Cardiff losing both games on Sunday but overall Dudley & Wbay were the dominant teams of the season and can’t begrudge them winning the big one.

Well done to Olympic for putting on a great day and there is no question that the correct call was made to move the matches there. Great to see so many supporters from all clubs turn out in force. Wbay probably had the smallest amount number wise but heck that far corner of Darling Street was making some noise throughout the final two games. Helped add to the atmosphere though which was great.

Finally congrats to Dudley on winning the first grade fixture. Grand finals more often than not seem to be scrappy low scoring matches and I think maybe playing in a similar match last weekend probably had them better prepared than Suns who were coming off a high scoring thriller. Until next season though.

Olympic put on a great day got there for first grade there was a great atmosphere with both supporters on opposing side which added to it. Great to see Dudley win and common sense with the games being in town

ZPL showing again why it’s an outstanding comp

[UniMen]

Newcastle University Mens Football Club
Zone League One

Uni FC are currently seeking expressions of interest for coaches for season 2023, mainly the position of first grade/ head coach.
The Uni have a young, ever-changing and ambitious squad which under the right guidance will achieve great success.

If this is something which interests you please reach out via our form https://forms.gle/1gjEY5RpyCvM9e5H9
or reach out to Oscar Brotherston at president.unifc@gmail.com

Thank you to the admins for allowing our post to the forum, and thanks to you for your time reading it.

[The Hacker]

Any coaching movement across the comp. I imagine Suns, Dudley, Warner’s Bay and maybe Mayfield might stay the same or are there more staying put

[mge61]

Heard that Mayfield coach was having a year off.

[WeekendWarrior]

Heard that Mayfield coach was having a year off.

Probably over the premature aging from their finals series efforts over the past 5 years

[MisplacedPasses]

Word the on grape vine is suns have offered their new manager/coach a fair budget to take home.... Or pay the Virgili brothers wages for next season



They don't pay players though I'm don't know what to believe

[terry]

Word the on grape vine is suns have offered their new manager/coach a fair budget to take home.... Or pay the Virgili brothers wages for next season
They don't pay players though I'm don't know what to believe

Kickbacks arent wages :rof::rof::rof:

[Lofty]

Word the on grape vine is suns have offered their new manager/coach a fair budget to take home.... Or pay the Virgili brothers wages for next season



They don't pay players though I'm don't know what to believe

Your grapevine is broken.

[The Hacker]

Your grapevine is broken.

Are you staying with the same coach Lofty

[jandysardine]

Is Azzurris skipper going to suns

[Goatscheese]

Is Azzurris skipper going to suns

Only if the pay is right

[Zonal Marking]

Word the on grape vine is suns have offered their new manager/coach a fair budget to take home.... Or pay the Virgili brothers wages for next season



They don't pay players though I'm don't know what to believe

That’s a very solid double pickup for the Suns. Looking like they’ll be the team to beat again.

[Lofty]

Are you staying with the same coach Lofty

yes, same coach. Virgili boys aren't playing anymore.

MissedplaceInformation has no idea - as per usual.

I don't even know who Azzurri's keeper is?

It seems you guys know more about the Suns than the Suns do.

[mge61]

yes, same coach. Virgili boys aren't playing anymore.

MissedplaceInformation has no idea - as per usual.

I don't even know who Azzurri's keeper is?

It seems you guys know more about the Suns than the Suns do.

Pretty sure it said Azzurri's skipper.