2025 Zone League 1

[cell]

Well put Cell.
I feel for Cardiff not only will the games get harder for them next season but with South Cardiff being relegated from new fm we might see players leave to the Gunners. This was meant to be a fairytale season for the tigers at the start of this year.

Thanks and great point regarding south Cardiff.

Speaking of the gunners, I?ve just seen a funny Facebook post from them ? they?re recruiting a director of football? why the f would a ZL1 team need a director of football?

Very interested to see how Cardiff go against them next year.

[Guthorina]

Thanks and great point regarding south Cardiff.

Speaking of the gunners, I?ve just seen a funny Facebook post from them ? they?re recruiting a director of football? why the f would a ZL1 team need a director of football?

Very interested to see how Cardiff go against them next year.

wow im actually crackin up thinkin about southy in zone league. its more than they deserve in my opinion theyve always been a club full of grubs and panel beaters. ideally the club would fold completely, it would make Newcastle football better overall.

[Jardelsimage]

Well put Cell.
I feel for Cardiff not only will the games get harder for them next season but with South Cardiff being relegated from new fm we might see players leave to the Gunners. This was meant to be a fairytale season for the tigers at the start of this year.

might go the other way also.......

[Jardelsimage]

wow im actually crackin up thinkin about southy in zone league. its more than they deserve in my opinion theyve always been a club full of grubs and panel beaters. ideally the club would fold completely, it would make Newcastle football better overall.

Hiding behind "my opinion" don't cut it.

Who do you follow by the way, then we can compare the grubs you don't like and the grubs you follow....

[Jim]

Hiding behind "my opinion" don't cut it.

Who do you follow by the way, then we can compare the grubs you don't like and the grubs you follow....

Exactly, bigger grub clubs in ZL & NPL then Southy. Look no further further than our brordmedo friends

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Can anyone tell me the prize money for winning zl1? Still 10k?

[RightFoot]

Who and where did these so called NPL players go to ? The only one i know that is still playing is Tom Smart who went to adamstown

These five fellas played for Stocko in 2024 and I believe all have 10+ years of experience playing first grade NPL. All jumped shipped after Stockton got promoted.

Tom Smart
Paul Buxton - Played for magic and a couple other NPL clubs
Chris Berlin - Played for adamstown, magic, and a couple others I think - gun striker
Blake Thompson - 7 ft maitland legend
Jon Griffiths - Played for the likes of jaffas, olympic, magic

[Jim]

These five fellas played for Stocko in 2024 and I believe all have 10+ years of experience playing first grade NPL. All jumped shipped after Stockton got promoted.
Tom Smart
Paul Buxton - Played for magic and a couple other NPL clubs
Chris Berlin - Played for adamstown, magic, and a couple others I think - gun striker
Blake Thompson - 7 ft maitland legend
Jon Griffiths - Played for the likes of jaffas, olympic, magic

Shame. They wouldve have been a certain top 5 team.

[RightFoot]

Shame. They wouldve have been a certain top 5 team.

Last season they pushed Croatia all the way, more than what the ZL1 teams have this season and definitely one of the biggest 'what ifs' this season.

Stockton have done incredibly well to try and rebuild their first grade from literal scratch after a lot of their other first graders have moved on too. If managed well they'll stay in ZL1 for the next couple of seasons. A lot of work to do if they want to challenge finals though.

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Would Suns even want to play the grand final this season and risk being destroyed by the unstoppable behemoth that is Newcastle Croatia…. A 3rd time.. ? Hearing the grand final may end up being Croatia vs another team. Kind of sad as for all Suns dominance in this league they will be remembered as just another zl1 team Croatia put a clinic on in years to come

[Builtwithlove18]

Would Suns even want to play the grand final this season and risk being destroyed by the unstoppable behemoth that is Newcastle Croatia?. A 3rd time.. ? Hearing the grand final may end up being Croatia vs another team. Kind of sad as for all Suns dominance in this league they will be remembered as just another zl1 team Croatia put a clinic on in years to come

You are blowing a lot of smoke up Croatia?s backside?.still plenty of football to be played. Do not speak to soon!!

[cobra23]

These five fellas played for Stocko in 2024 and I believe all have 10+ years of experience playing first grade NPL. All jumped shipped after Stockton got promoted.

Tom Smart
Paul Buxton - Played for magic and a couple other NPL clubs
Chris Berlin - Played for adamstown, magic, and a couple others I think - gun striker
Blake Thompson - 7 ft maitland legend
Jon Griffiths - Played for the likes of jaffas, olympic, magic



like i said, you said they all jumped ship and are glory hunters ? .
other then Tom Smart, he went back to NPL
Griffiths , Berlin & Thomspon have retired or cant play, they would still be playing for Stocko if they played
Paul buxton only played youth NPL 15 years ago or more but agree did go to the Suns to play against Stocko for some reason

[Zonal Marking]

Last season they pushed Croatia all the way, more than what the ZL1 teams have this season and definitely one of the biggest 'what ifs' this season.

Stockton have done incredibly well to try and rebuild their first grade from literal scratch after a lot of their other first graders have moved on too. If managed well they'll stay in ZL1 for the next couple of seasons. A lot of work to do if they want to challenge finals though.

Lets not pretend its the same Croatia the ZL1 clubs have had to deal with. I dont recall any ex A-league players running around with last seasons Croatia.

[Zone Insider]

Tonight

Stockton 1-3 Mayfield

Weekend

Olympic 2-2 Suns
Warners Bay 1-4 Uni

[Builtwithlove18]

Lets not pretend its the same Croatia the ZL1 clubs have had to deal with. I dont recall any ex A-league players running around with last seasons Croatia.

Correct me if I?m wrong


Croatia have the same team as last season, the only new signing they have is Cowburn ?

[Zonal Marking]

Correct me if I?m wrong


Croatia have the same team as last season, the only new signing they have is Cowburn ?

Correct me if im wrong. I dont recall Croatia of last season having any ex A-league players playing for them

[W8 WATCHER]

Would Suns even want to play the grand final this season and risk being destroyed by the unstoppable behemoth that is Newcastle Croatia?. A 3rd time.. ? Hearing the grand final may end up being Croatia vs another team. Kind of sad as for all Suns dominance in this league they will be remembered as just another zl1 team Croatia put a clinic on in years to come

for someone, watching from afar, and no affiliation with the croats, you must be a closet Serb with Croat envy:whistling:

[Toaf]

New gk for first grade van something?
Serpa was 1st grade keeper last year and now in ressies

[Builtwithlove18]

Correct me if im wrong. I dont recall Croatia of last season having any ex A-league players playing for them

I said Cowburn?his one ?player?

Not sure what ?players? you are talking about ?

[Zonal Marking]

Tonight

Stockton 1-3 Mayfield

Weekend

Olympic 2-2 Suns
Warners Bay 1-4 Uni


Would not be surprised to see Stockton & Warners Bay both get points from these matches

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

for someone, watching from afar, and no affiliation with the croats, you must be a closet Serb with Croat envy:whistling:

No idea what you’re talking about and to be honest it’s embarrassing that you have the 6 accounts below. go get a life. And quit talking to yourself online

W8 watcher, Zonal marking, lofty, builtwithlove, Souths melon, murderonzidane

[MCG_1997]

Stockton 2-2 Mayfield
Stockton was up 2-1 until 92' when Mayfield scored.

[Zonal Marking]

Would not be surprised to see Stockton & Warners Bay both get points from these matches

1 from 1 so far

[W8 WATCHER]

No idea what you?re talking about and to be honest it?s embarrassing that you have the 6 accounts below. go get a life. And quit talking to yourself online

W8 watcher, Zonal marking, lofty, builtwithlove, Souths melon, murderonzidane

must have blurred the checkers.lol
embarrassing ...right pot calling kettle black

[RightFoot]

Stockton 2-2 Mayfield
Stockton was up 2-1 until 92' when Mayfield scored.

Is someone able to give a count of how many times Stockton have blown a lead in the last 5 minutes - I feel like its happened at least 3 times this season.

Not to discredit this great result

[ZLWB]

I hope Croatia fc go up as Dudley has somewhat let down the zone league reputation with what they’ve achieved in New fm this year… I have a feeling Suns would be the same. It would be nice to go full circle and have Dudley comeback to zone league 1 as well through being relegated

3rd on the NL1 table. Top 2 are miles clear, but Dudley haven?t let anyone down

[Builtwithlove18]

3rd on the NL1 table. Top 2 are miles clear, but Dudley haven?t let anyone down

Calm down mate?with 1 loss they are back down the ladder

[Toaf]

Calm down mate?with 1 loss they are back down the ladder

Most teams will go down a ladder with a loss ..

[straightred88]

Olympic 5-2 Suns

[prawnhead]

Olympic 5-2 Suns

Suns just throwing games early to avoid promotion.

[ZLWB]

Calm down mate?with 1 loss they are back down the ladder

Responding to Mr B?s absurd claim that Dudley had let Zone League down. Two thirds of the way through the season they are in third place. Sure it is a busy table, but there they are in third.
But thanks for your insightful comment that losing will see them not do as well. So glad you were here to point that out.

[Zonal Marking]

Suns love throwing a match against Olympic

[Suarez]

As a neutral watching the game I think you will find Olympic just out played them

[MCG_1997]

As a neutral watching the game I think you will find Olympic just out played them
Exactly. Credit should be given when deserved. Olympic won the game because they were a better team on the day.
Suns new coach this year must be under pressure.

[Builtwithlove18]

Suns love throwing a match against Olympic


Olympic just too good

[FairPlay2022]

Warners Bay vs Uni
1sts 2-1
Res 1-4
3rd 1-1

[ZLWB]

Would not be surprised to see Stockton & Warners Bay both get points from these matches

Tipping level - elite

No longer a two horse race. Croatia home and hosed.

I thought early in the season their potential archilles heel would be defence, but I think they?re the only team to keep both Suns and Kotara to nil. Their defence must be sound

[Builtwithlove18]

Tipping level - elite

No longer a two horse race. Croatia home and hosed.

I thought early in the season their potential archilles heel would be defence, but I think they?re the only team to keep both Suns and Kotara to nil. Their defence must be sound

You know there is still 7 games to go ?

Can?t speak to soon.

[stopper2]

Tipping level - elite

No longer a two horse race. Croatia home and hosed.

I thought early in the season their potential archilles heel would be defence, but I think they?re the only team to keep both Suns and Kotara to nil. Their defence must be sound
Yep biggest myth going around in ZL1 perpetuated by some podcast is that Croatia's defence is dodgy. The fact is that they currently have conceded only 19 goals in 15 games, next best is 26. Stats don't lie and especially considering that 2/3rds of the season is gone.

[stopper2]

As we get to the business end of the season it's pretty embarrassing seeing clubs play regular 1st graders in their Conference League team in the run to the Premiership and the Finals. I wonder what motivates this practice? Is it just to win a title in Conference league or are they totally fixated on winning the Club Championship?
Wouldn't be a big deal if they were regular Reserve grade players but 1st Graders...Come on.
Won't mention the club but can say that it was kind of funny to see it backfire on them a few days ago in a catch-up game 😄

[Zonal Marking]

1 from 1 so far

And with Warners Bay defeating University earlier today make that 2 from 2

[Zonal Marking]

As we get to the business end of the season it's pretty embarrassing seeing clubs play regular 1st graders in their Conference League team in the run to the Premiership and the Finals. I wonder what motivates this practice? Is it just to win a title in Conference league or are they totally fixated on winning the Club Championship?
Wouldn't be a big deal if they were regular Reserve grade players but 1st Graders...Come on.
Won't mention the club but can say that it was kind of funny to see it backfire on them a few days ago in a catch-up game ��

Oh come on this is no fun. Name and shame

[Richardarlison]

Oh come on this is no fun. Name and shame

Yes please fill everyone in on the cub doing this. Embarrassing stuff

[Trigger]

You know there is still 7 games to go ?

Can?t speak to soon.

Thought that until I saw the run home. Although theres no gimme wins, having Hamo, WestL, Swans, WBay, I think theres enough wins in the bag there.

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Croatia have well and truly sucked the life out of the Suns.

5-2 at the hands of Olympic on the weekend, put a line through them.

Cardiff v Swansea tomorrow night will be an interesting match up, might be worth a look.

[Guthorina]

No idea what you?re talking about and to be honest it?s embarrassing that you have the 6 accounts below. go get a life. And quit talking to yourself online

W8 watcher, Zonal marking, lofty, builtwithlove, Souths melon, murderonzidane


I?m glad you?re saying this because I?ve been thinking this was a lofty alt account for a while

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

I?m glad you?re saying this because I?ve been thinking this was a lofty alt account for a while

Yes I have found when the sun sits high in the sky Lofty is very active on forum however when it goes down these other accounts spring to life all posting the same ideas and thoughts as lofty…

[Builtwithlove18]

Croatia have well and truly sucked the life out of the Suns.

5-2 at the hands of Olympic on the weekend, put a line through them.

Cardiff v Swansea tomorrow night will be an interesting match up, might be worth a look.

Suns will come home strong, will be fighting for top of the table come season end

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

I have inside word Suns have made contact with tserapas & an ex magic npl vet who I will not name as I know him personally and he’s a dear friend of mine. Smart move by them, the game has changed and if you don’t adapt you will be left behind.

[Zonal Marking]

Yes I have found when the sun sits high in the sky Lofty is very active on forum however when it goes down these other accounts spring to life all posting the same ideas and thoughts as lofty?

See it is interesting you say this because I have been suspicious for quite awhile that you are in fact Lofty?

[Zonal Marking]

I have inside word Suns have made contact with tserapas & an ex magic npl vet who I will not name as I know him personally and he’s a dear friend of mine. Smart move by them, the game has changed and if you don’t adapt you will be left behind.

No one has more inside word with the Suns than Lofty…

[Jardelsimage]

I have inside word Suns have made contact with tserapas & an ex magic npl vet who I will not name as I know him personally and he’s a dear friend of mine. Smart move by them, the game has changed and if you don’t adapt you will be left behind.

Rego's closed 30th June, so unless they have registered earlier, can't happen.

[ZLWB]

See it is interesting you say this because I have been suspicious for quite awhile that you are in fact Lofty?
I?ve always found contributions from Lofty thoughtful and incisive, though less frequent since he stopped playing.
Some of those others, not so much

[ZLWB]

Yep biggest myth going around in ZL1 perpetuated by some podcast is that Croatia's defence is dodgy. The fact is that they currently have conceded only 19 goals in 15 games, next best is 26. Stats don't lie and especially considering that 2/3rds of the season is gone.

5 of those were in one game, so that makes just one a game for the rest of the season. No other team is anywhere near that this season.

[Lofty]

Yes I have found when the sun sits high in the sky Lofty is very active on forum however when it goes down these other accounts spring to life all posting the same ideas and thoughts as lofty…

To be honest, I find it pretty weird that grown men I’ve never met are thinking about me.
It was never a secret as to who I was on this forum, unlike the majority of clowns on here.
I spent 17 years heavily involved with the Suns and at the end of last year I stepped away. Hence why I haven’t posted on here.
If you idiots genuinely think I have a second account, you’re more stupid than I thought. I literally couldn’t care less. I was just a voice from our club on this forum.
I’m off to Europe this week, so you boys enjoy your keyboard sessions and I’ll enjoy my life :thumbsup:

[Guthorina]

To be honest, I find it pretty weird that grown men I?ve never met are thinking about me.
It was never a secret as to who I was on this forum, unlike the majority of clowns on here.
I spent 17 years heavily involved with the Suns and at the end of last year I stepped away. Hence why I haven?t posted on here.
If you idiots genuinely think I have a second account, you?re more stupid than I thought. I literally couldn?t care less. I was just a voice from our club on this forum.
I?m off to Europe this week, so you boys enjoy your keyboard sessions and I?ll enjoy my life :thumbsup:

is the suns form that bad that its making you flee the country?

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Calling everyone on the forum clowns, idiots and stupid….Really nice things to say to those that keep this league alive and support grassroots football.
I agree with Guthorina

[ZLWB]

Calling everyone on the forum clowns, idiots and stupid….Really nice things to say to those that keep this league alive and support grassroots football.
I agree with Guthorina

Dude - a quick scroll through YOUR posts sees you calling people idiots, morons, and imbeciles.

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Dude - a quick scroll through YOUR posts sees you calling people idiots, morons, and imbeciles.

Mr Dribbles can?t keep up with the diarrhoea that comes from his keyboard.

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Dude - a quick scroll through YOUR posts sees you calling people idiots, morons, and imbeciles.

If a Rhodes Scholar calls someone an imbecile they likely are… play on

Big came tonight for Suns do we know if it will be streamed? I have an important international business meeting with some clients in Dubai tomorrow morning so am stuck at the first class lounge in Sydney airport with some free time .. as for the other game Cardiff get the W

[Food_Destroyer]

If a Rhodes Scholar calls someone an imbecile they likely are? play on

Big came tonight for Suns do we know if it will be streamed? I have an important international business meeting with some clients in Dubai tomorrow morning so am stuck at the first class lounge in Sydney airport with some free time .. as for the other game Cardiff get the W

You should be smart enough to see the irony with what you said then

[Toaf]

if a player is named in first grade game mid week catch up
Can they also start the conference league catch up game against the same team?
Assuming this player must've been on bench for 1st game

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

if a player is named in first grade game mid week catch up
Can they also start the conference league catch up game against the same team?
Assuming this player must've been on bench for 1st game

Providing said player was a substitution for the first grade fixture, yes they can start the conference league match.

[Jardelsimage]

Cardiff v Swansea
1st 1-0
res 4-1
3rds 2-4

[RightFoot]

Providing said player was a substitution for the first grade fixture, yes they can start the conference league match.

I'm pretty sure there's been a change to the wording of the rules that now allows players to start both conference and first grade. It doesn't specifically say they ARE allowed, but I believe the wording that disallows it has been removed so there's no real rule against it. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[Kicktheball]

Cardiff v Swansea
1st 1-0
res 4-1
3rds 2-4

Add Cardiff to the list of clubs, playing first graders in reserve grade.

[MCG_1997]

Add Cardiff to the list of clubs, playing first graders in reserve grade.
If first grade players coming back from injury, or getting dropped due to poor performance, I see no problem with them playing in 2nd or 3rds.
But, if they start in 1st on the weekend and help lower grades in their catch up game, that is very poor form from their head coach.

[Alton]

Add Cardiff to the list of clubs, playing first graders in reserve grade.

Why would they do that when first grade pushing for finals

[Toaf]

Add Cardiff to the list of clubs, playing first graders in reserve grade.
Close, but when there's good numbers available you'll tend to find some players have to drop back a grade to get some miles in the legs rather then sit on the bench and maybe get 10 mins of game time

[Jardelsimage]

Add Cardiff to the list of clubs, playing first graders in reserve grade.

OMG if you think we had to stack reggies to beat Swansea reggies FMD.

We had 15 fit to choose from this week, decided not to change last week's winning side, the two you say, were consulted and said no probs we will go back and play Reggie's, 4 fresh on the bench is to many, rather get 80minutes under the legs instead of 10/20mins off the bench.

we had two reggies play 3rds as they couldn't play last night, is that a stack.....

every club drops 1st graders back at some stage

[Zone Insider]

Round 16

Mayfield 4-1 Westlakes
Swansea 2-1 Warners Bay
Suns 3-1 Stockton
Olympic 2-2 Croatia
Azzurri 1-4 Uni
Kotara 3-2 Cardiff

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Mayfield 5-1 Westlakes
Swansea 1-2 Warners Bay
Suns 4-1 Stockton
Olympic 2-4 Croatia
Azzurri 1-8 Uni
Kotara 3-1 Cardiff

[riverboy]

Add Cardiff to the list of clubs, playing first graders in reserve grade.

More like, Add Cardiff to the teams that have beat Swansea. That's how it should read.

[Addios]

Mayfield 3-0 Westlakes
Swansea 2-2 Warners Bay
Suns 5-1 Stockton
Olympic 3-3 Croatia
Azzurri 1-5 Uni
Kotara 2-1 Cardiff

[Richardarlison]

Mayfield 3-0 Westlakes
Swansea 2-2 Warners Bay
Suns 5-1 Stockton
Olympic 3-3 Croatia
Azzurri 1-5 Uni
Kotara 2-1 Cardiff

[deadbond]

Mayfield 3-0 Westlakes
Swansea 2-2 Warners Bay
Suns 5-1 Stockton
Olympic 3-3 Croatia
Azzurri 1-5 Uni
Kotara 2-1 Cardiff

Original predictions 👍

[MCG_1997]

Round 16 prediction:

Mayfield 4-2 Westlakes
Swansea 1-2 Warners Bay
Suns 5-3 Stockton
Olympic 2-3 Croatia
Azzurri 2-6 Uni
Kotara 2-2 Cardiff

[ZLWB]

Mayfield 5-1 Westlakes
Swansea 1-2 Warners Bay
Suns 4-1 Stockton
Olympic 2-4 Croatia
Azzurri 1-8 Uni
Kotara 3-1 Cardiff

This is some seriously good tipping

Mayfield won 4-0. Margin correct
Bay won 2-1. Margin correct
Croatia won 4-2. Margin and exact score correct
Uni won 8-1. Margin and exact score correct.
Suns won 2-0. Missed the margin by one goal.

Take a bow

[Zonal Marking]

This is some seriously good tipping

Mayfield won 4-0. Margin correct
Bay won 2-1. Margin correct
Croatia won 4-2. Margin and exact score correct
Uni won 8-1. Margin and exact score correct.
Suns won 2-0. Missed the margin by one goal.

Take a bow

Warners Bay won 1-0 according to their socials

[Addios]

Rd 17
Croatia 6-1 Azzurri
Uni 2-1 Mayfield
Cardiff 2-2 Olympic
Westlakes 2-4 Swansea
Stockton 1-3 Kotara
W Bay 2-3 Suns

[gtg]

pretty funny that the forums go down when lofty starts copping some flack off you blokes... does he have connections to the forum admins?

[MCG_1997]

Rd 17 Prediction:
Croatia 7-0 Azzurri
Uni 4-2 Mayfield
Cardiff 2-3 Olympic
Westlakes 1-3 Swansea
Stockton 2-2 Kotara
W Bay 1-3 Suns

[Zone Insider]

Round 17

Croatia 10-0 Azzurri
Uni 3-1 Mayfield
Cardiff 2-2 Olympic
Westlakes 2-3 Swansea
Stockton 0-4 Kotara
Warners Bay 2-1 Suns

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

pretty funny that the forums go down when lofty starts copping some flack off you blokes... does he have connections to the forum admins?

Haha I have been the adult one and just left him be…. If he wants to carry on like a bush turkey on the forums I won’t bite, not falling for the many accounts

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Round 17

Croatia 11-0 Azzurri
Uni 3-1 Mayfield
Cardiff 1-2 Olympic
Westlakes 1-3 Swansea
Stockton 1-5 Kotara
Warners Bay 0-3 Suns

[Jardelsimage]

Cardiff v Olympic

1st 3-1
Res 1-0

[Toaf]

3-1 tigers

[MCG_1997]

Stockton was up 1-0 for 50 minutes and let 3 in within 10 minutes followed by a late penalty, losing 1-4.

[Builtwithlove18]

Cardiff v Olympic

1st 3-1
Res 1-0

Funny you seem to only post when Cardiff win ?

[WWFC25]

Westlakes vs Swansea
1-1
1-1

[Jardelsimage]

Funny you seem to only post when Cardiff win ?

Oh no, Cardiff posted a result....i generally place it on the ZL1 chat but thought i give some a reason to have a go.... forums been a bit off lately....and pow..

[Guthorina]

Funny you seem to only post when Cardiff win ?

We all know Cardiff are quiet this year due to the embarrassment of spending big $ on players but not getting the results.

Not surprised they beat Olympic they only turn up against the suns.

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

We all know Cardiff are quiet this year due to the embarrassment of spending big $ on players but not getting the results.

Not surprised they beat Olympic they only turn up against the suns.

Cardiff or as I like to call them Croatia?s KRYPTONITE, have invested a lot this year I just hope they can possibly make the grand final and re-pay their generous sponsors, if not they will be in deep trouble next year

[Jardelsimage]

Cardiff or as I like to call them Croatia?s KRYPTONITE, have invested a lot this year I just hope they can possibly make the grand final and re-pay their generous sponsors, if not they will be in deep trouble next year

once again, this delusional idea that we have spent big comes up.

Mr Delusional and Gutho please tell me how much we spent, you seem to know everything about all teams, especially Cardiff....so tell me how much???????

[Builtwithlove18]

once again, this delusional idea that we have spent big comes up.

Mr Delusional and Gutho please tell me how much we spent, you seem to know everything about all teams, especially Cardiff....so tell me how much???????

Alex read wouldn?t come from Maitland NPL for a pie & a coke that?s for sure!!!

[Jardelsimage]

Alex read wouldn?t come from Maitland NPL for a pie & a coke that?s for sure!!!

No, he didn't, something to do with pizzas, he is not a pie man, but still that's not an answer to question, be brave put a $$ on it and don't forget the rest we are supposedly paying for.

Keep throwing darts at the board, you might hit the bullseye one day.


The funny thing is some blokes play with their mates for nothing, some play for rego, some play for a little bit of cash, some play for a lot of cash, all depends on which day, which club...

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Round 17

Croatia 11-0 Azzurri
Uni 3-1 Mayfield
Cardiff 1-2 Olympic
Westlakes 1-3 Swansea
Stockton 1-5 Kotara
Warners Bay 0-3 Suns

Not one of these was correct…

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Not one of these was correct…

Get your facts right Mr Dribbles?
Croatia 9-0 win
Kotara 4-1 win

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Get your facts right Mr Dribbles?
Croatia 9-0 win
Kotara 4-1 win

Sorry Nostradamus you predicted that the unstoppable Croatia would beat the wooden spooners is that supposed to wow me…I am simply pointing out that your predictions last week were completely a fluke as I expected….

[W8 WATCHER]

unstoppable......:roflz:

$130k + invested in a pub 3rd division team outstanding achievement.
a great outcome for the investors.
would be like installing a AMG in a Great Wall

[straightred88]

unstoppable......:roflz:

$130k + invested in a pub 3rd division team outstanding achievement.
a great outcome for the investors.
would be like installing a AMG in a Great Wall

You are both dribbling.

[Builtwithlove18]

unstoppable......:roflz:

$130k + invested in a pub 3rd division team outstanding achievement.
a great outcome for the investors.
would be like installing a AMG in a Great Wall

I think that?s abit extreme $130k?

If true good on them, results speak for themselves.

Good to see both ethnic clubs sitting on top of the table

[Addios]

No, he didn't, something to do with pizzas, he is not a pie man, but still that's not an answer to question, be brave put a $$ on it and don't forget the rest we are supposedly paying for.

Keep throwing darts at the board, you might hit the bullseye one day.


The funny thing is some blokes play with their mates for nothing, some play for rego, some play for a little bit of cash, some play for a lot of cash, all depends on which day, which club...

Cardiff arent the biggest spenders in this comp.

[Zone Insider]

Cardiff arent the biggest spenders in this comp.

Exactly that would be the Suns.

In other news hearing Azzurri will withdraw from zone football all together after this season.

[W8 WATCHER]

Exactly that would be the Suns.

In other news hearing Azzurri will withdraw from zone football all together after this season.

BETTING SUSPENDED
last round Suns vs Azzurri (Azzuri to FORFEIT AGAIN)

[pv4]

In other news hearing Azzurri will withdraw from zone football all together after this season.

Upsetting news if true. Hopefully this will act as a warning sign for other clubs that are doing similar to what Azzurri did - create/bring back a new/renewed club, gather a bunch of NPL mates together, sling some sponsors & dollars together, big buzz for a few years but lack sustainability when the core group fades out. Hopefully they can find some sustainability, or at the very least enjoy the ride while it lasts. And hopefully these other clubs rocking a similar blueprint are able to provide the funny content that Azzurri's socials has over the years, because it was a lot of fun at its peak.

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Any word on my good friend Vincent? I know he’s eating a pizza smiling after the Cardiff win on old boys day over the weekend.

[Builtwithlove18]

Any word on my good friend Vincent? I know he?s eating a pizza smiling after the Cardiff win on old boys day over the weekend.

Mr beautiful?.does Croatia keep their coach or does he get moved on?

[The Hacker]

Exactly that would be the Suns.

In other news hearing Azzurri will withdraw from zone football all together after this season.

Dreaming it?s the Suns. Croatia have the biggest players budget easily

[Vincent]

Any word on my good friend Vincent? I know he?s eating a pizza smiling after the Cardiff win on old boys day over the weekend.

Was a Good day mate, good crowd. plenty of half price pizzas were had at the sponsors afterwards. Alex read got a free one as he is our marque signing. I believe he purchased his own garlic bread tho.

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Mr beautiful?.does Croatia keep their coach or does he get moved on?

If he has the necessary badges for new fm then they keep him. Players like him, would take a falling out to get sacked. If you look at the New fm teams and factor in kahibah or stags going up and new lambton coming down there’s no reason they won’t finish top 3 in New-fm, and possibly create a few headaches for northern nsw football by winning new-fm.

I personally look forward to seeing them take on Dudley next year I know Hacker will look forward to that one as well.

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Was a Good day mate, good crowd. plenty of half price pizzas were had at the sponsors afterwards. Alex read got a free one as he is our marque signing. I believe he purchased his own garlic bread tho.

That’s good, look forward to watching Cardiff vs Croatia in the grand final, I think it will happen with Cardiff’s form 2nd half of season they will win remaining 5 games

[Builtwithlove18]

Dreaming it?s the Suns. Croatia have the biggest players budget easily

Money gets mentioned, the hacker appears & Croatia is hot on his keyboard once again.

[The Hacker]

If he has the necessary badges for new fm then they keep him. Players like him, would take a falling out to get sacked. If you look at the New fm teams and factor in kahibah or stags going up and new lambton coming down there?s no reason they won?t finish top 3 in New-fm, and possibly create a few headaches for northern nsw football by winning new-fm.

I personally look forward to seeing them take on Dudley next year I know Hacker will look forward to that one as well.

Why would they get rid of him. He?s earned the right to have a crack and then if he?s not the man that?s ok but I think he deserves the chance.

Croatia in will make Newfm stronger and the idea northern had for 2 strong comps will start to take shape. In 2 years the comp will have Lakes, New Lambton, Dudley and Croatia as new sides. In another 2 years it will be stronger again.

Croatia will be in the convo for the top 4. The big difference in the comp is there are no free games like ZL1. Cessnock who were last beat Toronto last week. If you don?t turn up to play you will lose games.

Big question if Croatia come up where will they play at cause I can?t imagine Pasadena passes any criteria for NL1

[The Hacker]

Money gets mentioned, the hacker appears & Croatia is hot on his keyboard once again.

Everyone knows they have the biggest player payments if they just came out and said ?Yeah we do? instead of pretending they don?t people actually wouldn?t care. Someone has to spend the most. My point is just admit it instead of pretending you don?t.

[Richardarlison]

Hi guys just wondering where the bloke from Cardiff that said Wes Pryce wasn?t a big signing is? He seems to be doing pretty well on the best and fairest leaderboard? Would like to know everyone?s thoughts. Cheers- Richy

[ZLWB]

Everyone knows they have the biggest player payments if they just came out and said ?Yeah we do? instead of pretending they don?t people actually wouldn?t care. Someone has to spend the most. My point is just admit it instead of pretending you don?t.

Hear Hear

[straightred88]

Everyone knows they have the biggest player payments if they just came out and said ?Yeah we do? instead of pretending they don?t people actually wouldn?t care. Someone has to spend the most. My point is just admit it instead of pretending you don?t.

Why would any club want to admit it ?

You do know unless you are on a pro contract it?s illegal to get paid and that includes local NPL and NL1.

[Pierre Essers]

Why would they get rid of him. He?s earned the right to have a crack and then if he?s not the man that?s ok but I think he deserves the chance.

Croatia in will make Newfm stronger and the idea northern had for 2 strong comps will start to take shape. In 2 years the comp will have Lakes, New Lambton, Dudley and Croatia as new sides. In another 2 years it will be stronger again.

Croatia will be in the convo for the top 4. The big difference in the comp is there are no free games like ZL1. Cessnock who were last beat Toronto last week. If you don?t turn up to play you will lose games.

Big question if Croatia come up where will they play at cause I can?t imagine Pasadena passes any criteria for NL1


Are they not still ringing the Councils to try and have the other clubs kicked off grounds...

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Exactly that would be the Suns.

In other news hearing Azzurri will withdraw from zone football all together after this season.

Smith Park would be a worthy facility for Croatia to re-locate.

[Zone Insider]

Are they not still ringing the Councils to try and have the other clubs kicked off grounds...

You are aware that no club owns their ground and it?s a council decision.

It?s just the clubs who think they own the ground and won?t share for the betterment of the game.

[Zone Insider]

Smith Park would be a worthy facility for Croatia to re-locate.

It would for zone level but I don?t think it would meet requirements for Northern League One should they be promoted

[Alton]

New Croatia coach been announced yet?

[Vincent]

That?s good, look forward to watching Cardiff vs Croatia in the grand final, I think it will happen with Cardiff?s form 2nd half of season they will win remaining 5 games

Yeah Cardiff have a favourable run home but still have a few tough teams. It?s more keeping blokes on the field due to injuries. And Hopefully a wet day v azzuri goes abit better this time around 🤣

[Builtwithlove18]

New Croatia coach been announced yet?

If this is true, I can see pops coaching the suns in 2026

[stopper2]

Are they not still ringing the Councils to try and have the other clubs kicked off grounds...
Yeah just like that rumour a couple seasons back that at training the players weigh themselves before and after training LOL.
You guys can keep talking and spreading BS about Croatia. We'll just keep doing our talking on the field...where it matters.

[Jardelsimage]

left field fellas, how many clubs have organized their End of Season on the October long weekend?????

[straightred88]

left field fellas, how many clubs have organized their End of Season on the October long weekend?????

You mean NRL GF weekend as well but good idea for a Presentation night on the Friday hey

[The Hacker]

Are they not still ringing the Councils to try and have the other clubs kicked off grounds...

Surely not

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Surely not

Hacker has a PhD in replying to all things Croatia ahah

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Hi guys just wondering where the bloke from Cardiff that said Wes Pryce wasn?t a big signing is? He seems to be doing pretty well on the best and fairest leaderboard? Would like to know everyone?s thoughts. Cheers- Richy

Off memory that was Jardel who said that ? he hasn?t been right on much this year

[The Hacker]

Hacker has a PhD in replying to all things Croatia ahah

I actually believe they wouldn?t be doing it. So in this case I don?t think they would be trying to pinch grounds

[Zonal Marking]

Upsetting news if true. Hopefully this will act as a warning sign for other clubs that are doing similar to what Azzurri did - create/bring back a new/renewed club, gather a bunch of NPL mates together, sling some sponsors & dollars together, big buzz for a few years but lack sustainability when the core group fades out. Hopefully they can find some sustainability, or at the very least enjoy the ride while it lasts. And hopefully these other clubs rocking a similar blueprint are able to provide the funny content that Azzurri's socials has over the years, because it was a lot of fun at its peak.

Does anyone else think this could also happen to Croatia? Flying high at the moment but things can change very quickly

[Richardarlison]

Off memory that was Jardel who said that ? he hasn?t been right on much this year

Yeah I was quite taken back about a comment on such a good player coming to his club. Great to see he didn?t let it get to his head and let the football do the talking in the end.

[ZLWB]

Does anyone else think this could also happen to Croatia? Flying high at the moment but things can change very quickly
Nope. Very strong community support behind them.
They are here for the long haul

[Zonal Marking]

Nope. Very strong community support behind them.
They are here for the long haul

Im sure the same thing was said 30 years ago?

[Addios]

Im sure the same thing was said 30 years ago?

Yep. They threw in the towel in the 90s so arent immune to going under.

[Zone Insider]

Does anyone else think this could also happen to Croatia? Flying high at the moment but things can change very quickly

Anything can happen

[Zone Insider]

Round 18

Mayfield 1-4 Croatia
Swansea 1-3 Uni
Suns 2-3 Kotara
Azzuri 1-4 Cardiff
Olympic 4-0 Stockton
Warners Bay 2-0 Westlakes

[W8 WATCHER]

[QUOTE=Zone Insider;282429]Round 18


Mayfield 2-1 Croatia
Swansea 1-3 Uni
Suns 2-1 Kotara
Azzuri 0-6 Cardiff
Olympic 4-2 Stockton
Warners Bay 2-1 Westlakes

[Jardelsimage]

You mean NRL GF weekend as well but good idea for a Presentation night on the Friday hey

$100/head
$900/table of 10

[MCG_1997]

Round 18:

Mayfield 2-4 Croatia
Swansea 0-2 Uni
Suns 2-2 Kotara
Azzuri 1-7 Cardiff
Olympic 4-3 Stockton
Warners Bay 4-1 Westlakes

[Trigger]

Round 18: Predict

Mayfield 3-3 Croatia
Swansea 0-2 Uni
Suns 2-3 Kotara
Azzuri 1-3 Cardiff
Olympic 3-1 Stockton
Warners Bay 2-2 Westlakes

[Kicktheball]

Round 18: Predict

Mayfield 3-3 Croatia
Swansea 0-2 Uni
Suns 2-3 Kotara
Azzuri 1-3 Cardiff
Olympic 3-1 Stockton
Warners Bay 2-2 Westlakes

All games called off, the only slight chance of getting on is good old smith park due to the new drainage

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

With the potential for a Grand final involving Croatia or Suns or Cardiff and Croatia winning minor premiership have we reached a point in zone league 1 where teams have to spend a minimum of 10k on a squad to win it?

[Addios]

With the potential for a Grand final involving Croatia or Suns or Cardiff and Croatia winning minor premiership have we reached a point in zone league 1 where teams have to spend a minimum of 10k on a squad to win it?

Inflation will see to that. 10k isnt all that impressive anymore. Soon we'll need 10k teams just to stay in ZL1.

Not sure if Cardiff has the mental juice for it this year. The more we talk them up the more they finish 4/5th.

Who handles finals pressure the best?

[Jonka]

With the potential for a Grand final involving Croatia or Suns or Cardiff and Croatia winning minor premiership have we reached a point in zone league 1 where teams have to spend a minimum of 10k on a squad to win it?

Croatia have spent that on one player

[Jardelsimage]

With the potential for a Grand final involving Croatia or Suns or Cardiff and Croatia winning minor premiership have we reached a point in zone league 1 where teams have to spend a minimum of 10k on a squad to win it?

well, there's a dart of some sort, we are well under 10K MR B.

[Builtwithlove18]

Croatia have spent that on one player

Please name the players at Croatia who get that much money?


We will be waiting..

[Zonal Marking]

Please name the players at Croatia who get that much money?


We will be waiting..

Cowburn?

[Zone Insider]

With the potential for a Grand final involving Croatia or Suns or Cardiff and Croatia winning minor premiership have we reached a point in zone league 1 where teams have to spend a minimum of 10k on a squad to win it?

Stop dribbling

[Zone Insider]

Please name the players at Croatia who get that much money?


We will be waiting..

It was mentioned before by someone on here from Croatia they don?t even know you so you wouldn?t have a clue.

[Zone Insider]

Suns and Kotara already off ?

[Builtwithlove18]

It was mentioned before by someone on here from Croatia they don?t even know you so you wouldn?t have a clue.

You would be surprised as to what I know my friend

[Zonal Marking]

You would be surprised as to what I know my friend

I would be very surprised if he was playing for Croatia purely for the love of the club and out of respect to his Croatian heritage.

[Builtwithlove18]

I would be very surprised if he was playing for Croatia purely for the love of the club and out of respect to his Croatian heritage.

No doubt he would be getting something, nobody said he wouldn?t be getting anything.

It?s getting old now, the Croatia paying players. The forum has been onto it for years.

Good on them I say, it?s working for them.

Suns, Croatia representing the balkans in style.

Watch & learn I say.

The end.

[Pierre Essers]

No doubt he would be getting something, nobody said he wouldn?t be getting anything.

It?s getting old now, the Croatia paying players. The forum has been onto it for years.

Good on them I say, it?s working for them.

Suns, Croatia representing the balkans in style.

Watch & learn I say.

The end.

It's got nothing to do with the player payments - fair play to buy the comp. I think everyone is jealous of the women's program, the youth development, the stuff they've done with the ground, community links, lower grade strength and so on.

Don't let the haters hate Builtboy.

[Builtwithlove18]

It's got nothing to do with the player payments - fair play to buy the comp. I think everyone is jealous of the women's program, the youth development, the stuff they've done with the ground, community links, lower grade strength and so on.

Don't let the haters hate Builtboy.

Rome wasn?t built in a day, sit back & watch.

[Zonal Marking]

It's got nothing to do with the player payments - fair play to buy the comp. I think everyone is jealous of the women's program, the youth development, the stuff they've done with the ground, community links, lower grade strength and so on.

Don't let the haters hate Builtboy.

Do the Croatian first graders have any interaction with the lower grades at all? You must admit there is quite a drop off from their first team to their reserves compared to the other teams in the league.

[Builtwithlove18]

Do the Croatian first graders have any interaction with the lower grades at all? You must admit there is quite a drop off from their first team to their reserves compared to the other teams in the league.

I?m sure they do yes.

You should go back & look at the previous years of Croatia in reserve grade before making a statement like that.

[Pierre Essers]

Rome wasn?t built in a day, sit back & watch.

So third year lucky with the letter to Council with inflated player numbers?

[Builtwithlove18]

So third year lucky with the letter to Council with inflated player numbers?

What do council have to do with player numbers ?

You just focus on your club Pierre

[NUGUNS]

What do council have to do with player numbers ?

You just focus on your club Pierre

Alright I have no idea on the scenario at all but I'll take a punt.

Pierre is implying that Croatia are trying to get a ground from the council and are inflating player numbers to push the case?

[stopper2]

Do the Croatian first graders have any interaction with the lower grades at all? You must admit there is quite a drop off from their first team to their reserves compared to the other teams in the league.
Lol you must wake up in the morning and try to think up any negative spin just to try and bring Croatia down. For the record the Conference team is currently in 6th and still well in contention for the Finals. Croatia's Ressies have been Runner Up Grand Finalists, Premiers and GF Winners in the previous 3 seasons, been a challenging year this year and looking like missing Finals for the first time but when they are called upon to step up to 1st grade they always do the job for the Coach and the team. With 1st grade currently leading by 6 points...isn't that the priority?
So is it really such an issue that as you put it "there is quite a drop off from the first team to reserves".

[MCG_1997]

Whether or not people like Newcastle Croatia as a football team, that can't take away that they are the most consistent team in the league. Their consistency and winning mentality put them where they are currently. Hats off to all involved from committee to coaches and players. Time for the rest to focus on their business model to improve, in whatever format they would like to persue (pay rego, pay players, free pizzas or whatever).

[Zonal Marking]

Lol you must wake up in the morning and try to think up any negative spin just to try and bring Croatia down. For the record the Conference team is currently in 6th and still well in contention for the Finals. Croatia's Ressies have been Runner Up Grand Finalists, Premiers and GF Winners in the previous 3 seasons, been a challenging year this year and looking like missing Finals for the first time but when they are called upon to step up to 1st grade they always do the job for the Coach and the team. With 1st grade currently leading by 6 points...isn't that the priority?
So is it really such an issue that as you put it "there is quite a drop off from the first team to reserves".

Whoa steady up stop sign. I was just making an observation that there seems to be quite a disparity in regards of quality between Croatias first team down to the next grade. Moreso than the average club. Based off how dominant your first grade are I would expect the other grades to not only to be playing finals football but pushing for the major titles in their competitions as well.

[stopper2]

Whoa steady up stop sign. I was just making an observation that there seems to be quite a disparity in regards of quality between Croatias first team down to the next grade. Moreso than the average club. Based off how dominant your first grade are I would expect the other grades to not only to be playing finals football but pushing for the major titles in their competitions as well.
Whoa yourself ha ha. Yeah you were just "making an observation" but to me you seem to want to make it into a major issue. Our Ressies have been competitive in most games and if we had won a few more of those tight games (we lost 5 by a solitary goal) instead of losing them we would be in contention for the Finals too just like our Conference team are.
The overall depth in the club is getting stronger year after year and only in our fourth season back I'm sure everyone is pretty happy with where the club is at so if your expectations are that our other grades should be pushing for major titles too, well I'm sorry that we have not achieved that standard for you this year mate ha ha.

[Builtwithlove18]

Whoa yourself ha ha. Yeah you were just "making an observation" but to me you seem to want to make it into a major issue. Our Ressies have been competitive in most games and if we had won a few more of those tight games (we lost 5 by a solitary goal) instead of losing them we would be in contention for the Finals too just like our Conference team are.
The overall depth in the club is getting stronger year after year and only in our fourth season back I'm sure everyone is pretty happy with where the club is at so if your expectations are that our other grades should be pushing for major titles too, well I'm sorry that we have not achieved that standard for you this year mate ha ha.


Wasting your time explaining to a bunch of clowns

[ZLWB]

Whoa yourself ha ha. Yeah you were just "making an observation" but to me you seem to want to make it into a major issue. Our Ressies have been competitive in most games and if we had won a few more of those tight games (we lost 5 by a solitary goal) instead of losing them we would be in contention for the Finals too just like our Conference team are.
The overall depth in the club is getting stronger year after year and only in our fourth season back I'm sure everyone is pretty happy with where the club is at so if your expectations are that our other grades should be pushing for major titles too, well I'm sorry that we have not achieved that standard for you this year mate ha ha.

Just to be clear, if you had have won more games you would be in contention for the finals?

Stunning insights

[stopper2]

Just to be clear, if you had have won more games you would be in contention for the finals?

Stunning insights
Go back to the original argument that your mate Zonanal Marking brought up you Muppet so you can understand the point I'm getting at instead of just coming into the discussion and firing away.

[Builtwithlove18]

Just to be clear, if you had have won more games you would be in contention for the finals?

Stunning insights

Be interesting to know what club you support ?

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

So third year lucky with the letter to Council with inflated player numbers?

I’m hearing they will share Meyer park with Suns and split it between Wickham park. Rugby Union is on its last legs in Newcastle with the top competition having 6 teams and that’s likely to become 5 next year and a 12 game season imminent . NCC has big plans for Waratah park as well so Hamilton Hawks may get moved there and Croatia will return to their home but that’s likely 3 years away. The Meyer park news will likely be broken at seasons end

[Hajduk]

That?s more dribble 🎣🎣

[The Hacker]

I?m hearing they will share Meyer park with Suns and split it between Wickham park. Rugby Union is on its last legs in Newcastle with the top competition having 6 teams and that?s likely to become 5 next year and a 12 game season imminent . NCC has big plans for Waratah park as well so Hamilton Hawks may get moved there and Croatia will return to their home but that?s likely 3 years away. The Meyer park news will likely be broken at seasons end

That would go down like a lead balloon at the Suns with all the time and money they have spent there.
Wouldn?t have thought Meyer park would fit the criteria the federation want of enclosed grounds etc

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

It’s a shame for the suns who did a lot of the heavy lifting and turned that park into something special, but the reality is Croatia are heading to the New fm league and need a stadium. It is nnsw fault for setting such unrealistic expectations on clubs, council will give them this outcome as a slap to the face in order to queue northern to make changes to field requirements...trust me council do not like pressure to upgrade small parks in tight turn around windows <1 year.

[Builtwithlove18]

I?m hearing they will share Meyer park with Suns and split it between Wickham park. Rugby Union is on its last legs in Newcastle with the top competition having 6 teams and that?s likely to become 5 next year and a 12 game season imminent . NCC has big plans for Waratah park as well so Hamilton Hawks may get moved there and Croatia will return to their home but that?s likely 3 years away. The Meyer park news will likely be broken at seasons end

Suns will not be sharing a ground with Croatia

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Suns will not be sharing a ground with Croatia

Lofty aren’t you on holidays? there is the Stadium called the San Siro maybe look it up, history doesn't repeat itself but it often rhymes.

[Swanky]

I’m hearing they will share Meyer park with Suns and split it between Wickham park. Rugby Union is on its last legs in Newcastle with the top competition having 6 teams and that’s likely to become 5 next year and a 12 game season imminent . NCC has big plans for Waratah park as well so Hamilton Hawks may get moved there and Croatia will return to their home but that’s likely 3 years away. The Meyer park news will likely be broken at seasons end

Hamilton Hawks just spent millions on a clubhouse they are going nowhere

[Pierre Essers]

Lofty aren?t you on holidays? there is the Stadium called the San Siro maybe look it up, history doesn't repeat itself but it often rhymes.

So after all the time and money Hamilton Hawks have spent over years at Wickham...NCC are going to tell them to move away?.?

Paper bags work with players but not council submissions Mr B. Maybe look at Hexham as opening there.

[Builtwithlove18]

Lofty aren?t you on holidays? there is the Stadium called the San Siro maybe look it up, history doesn't repeat itself but it often rhymes.

Close, but not close enough.

Our friend lofty is enjoying his summer holiday.

Try again ?

[Zonal Marking]

Whoa yourself ha ha. Yeah you were just "making an observation" but to me you seem to want to make it into a major issue. Our Ressies have been competitive in most games and if we had won a few more of those tight games (we lost 5 by a solitary goal) instead of losing them we would be in contention for the Finals too just like our Conference team are.
The overall depth in the club is getting stronger year after year and only in our fourth season back I'm sure everyone is pretty happy with where the club is at so if your expectations are that our other grades should be pushing for major titles too, well I'm sorry that we have not achieved that standard for you this year mate ha ha.

Well we know that one of those 5 was not your 6-0 loss in reserve grade to the Newcastle Suns. Followed up by your first grade winning the following fixture by the same scoreline.

You have built a great first grade team and credit where it is due. However Im not sure why you are having such a difficult time in admitting that your lower grades have been neglected. Until you fix this I dont think you will ever have a club culture as strong as somewhere like Suns or Kotara.

[Hajduk]

Suns will not be sharing a ground with Croatia

Of course we won?t be Mr T

[stopper2]

Well we know that one of those 5 was not your 6-0 loss in reserve grade to the Newcastle Suns. Followed up by your first grade winning the following fixture by the same scoreline.

You have built a great first grade team and credit where it is due. However Im not sure why you are having such a difficult time in admitting that your lower grades have been neglected. Until you fix this I dont think you will ever have a club culture as strong as somewhere like Suns or Kotara.
You do realise that Suns and Kotara have been around for years, this is only Croatia's fourth year back as a club yet you expect us to be as strong as them across 3 grades. Don't worry about our culture mate, in those 4 years we have built a strong winning mentality in 1st grade...everyone when they play against us lifts and want to beat us which makes us raise our standards even higher.
Lastly it's kind of funny that you mentioned the results against the Suns. Now wouldn't you think that because we accounted for the Suns so easily in 1st grade as did they on our Reserve grade team that possibly they have Reserve grade players that should be playing 1st grade Lol?
Ultimately a club lives and dies (regarding pro/rel) by it's 1st grade results so you can keep analysing why Croatia's lower grades aren't in your opinion as strong as they should be.

[Zonal Marking]

You do realise that Suns and Kotara have been around for years, this is only Croatia's fourth year back as a club yet you expect us to be as strong as them across 3 grades. Don't worry about our culture mate, in those 4 years we have built a strong winning mentality in 1st grade...everyone when they play against us lifts and want to beat us which makes us raise our standards even higher.
Lastly it's kind of funny that you mentioned the results against the Suns. Now wouldn't you think that because we accounted for the Suns so easily in 1st grade as did they on our Reserve grade team that possibly they have Reserve grade players that should be playing 1st grade Lol?
Ultimately a club lives and dies (regarding pro/rel) by it's 1st grade results so you can keep analysing why Croatia's lower grades aren't in your opinion as strong as they should be.

Well no because if Suns 1sts played their own ressies they probably win by 3 goals. However if Croatia 1sts played their own ressies you would put double figures past them.

At the end of the day you have done what you needed to do and that is get first grade up to standard for promotion. So congratulations on that. However really by the standards your firsts have set your lower grades should not only be playing finals football but be right in the hunt for premierships as well. From the outside looking in and going off results it just seems as though all focus has been on firsts and the rest of the club has been neglected. Therefore I think other clubs have a better culture especially amongst the playing group.

[ForeverRed]

Well no because if Suns 1sts played their own ressies they probably win by 3 goals. However if Croatia 1sts played their own ressies you would put double figures past them.

At the end of the day you have done what you needed to do and that is get first grade up to standard for promotion. So congratulations on that. However really by the standards your firsts have set your lower grades should not only be playing finals football but be right in the hunt for premierships as well. From the outside looking in and going off results it just seems as though all focus has been on firsts and the rest of the club has been neglected. Therefore I think other clubs have a better culture especially amongst the playing group.
Give it a spell mate, move on 🤦*♂️

[Zone Insider]

Yawn

[Zonal Marking]

Give it a spell mate, move on 🤦*♂️

I was going to but this reply has now encouraged me to keep at it. Well done!

[ForeverRed]

I was going to but this reply has now encouraged me to keep at it. Well done!
More fool you for continuing

[Zonal Marking]

More fool you for continuing

More fool you for getting involved in something that does not even concern you

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Give it a spell mate, move on ��*♂️

It’s an interesting debate I enjoy hearing both perspectives… it will be a long time before the zone league sees a team like Dudley that consistently dominated across all grades though they have underachieved in new fm this year.

Croatia have assembled a power house team in firsts but for the first time in the season the pressure Is on them to go on and win the grand final. I still laugh that some thought they would struggle this season at the start

[Zone Insider]

Anyone going to get on this weekend ? Looks like another wet one

[stopper2]

It’s an interesting debate I enjoy hearing both perspectives… it will be a long time before the zone league sees a team like Dudley that consistently dominated across all grades though they have underachieved in new fm this year.

Croatia have assembled a power house team in firsts but for the first time in the season the pressure Is on them to go on and win the grand final. I still laugh that some thought they would struggle this season at the start
Not sure what you mean about the pressure is on to win the GF? The pressure is on to win every game in the battle to win the League and achieve promotion which let's be honest now with the Pro/Rel system fully implemented, that is now the primary goal not the GF.
Winning the GF no doubt still has some prestige but if a team wins the Premiership and gains promotion (take Kahibah now as an eg), if anything there is less pressure to take out the GF?

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Not sure what you mean about the pressure is on to win the GF? The pressure is on to win every game in the battle to win the League and achieve promotion which let's be honest now with the Pro/Rel system fully implemented, that is now the primary goal not the GF.
Winning the GF no doubt still has some prestige but if a team wins the Premiership and gains promotion (take Kahibah now as an eg), if anything there is less pressure to take out the GF?

I say the pressure is on them because at the start of the year no one tipped them to win zl1 now people expect them to win the grand final and with expectations comes pressure. Grand final is the big day in zl1 not many people in the league care about minor premiership hence the big crowd.

As for the promotion element Croatia fc is the only team with any interest in being promoted I think if others were in the running they would deliberately throw the competition like Suns did last year. Awesome for Kahibah but the reality is they will either get relegated or become another Adamstown rosebuds and have disappointing seasons for the next decade in npl.

[ZLWB]

It’s an interesting debate I enjoy hearing both perspectives… it will be a long time before the zone league sees a team like Dudley that consistently dominated across all grades though they have underachieved in new fm this year.

Croatia have assembled a power house team in firsts but for the first time in the season the pressure Is on them to go on and win the grand final. I still laugh that some thought they would struggle this season at the start

I know of nobody who thought they would struggle. I do not think many thought they would dominate the way they have, but have never heard anyone say they would struggle.

Look at the predictions for the season in the early posts on this thread and everyone has them making the semis. Everyone.

[Alton]

I know of nobody who thought they would struggle. I do not think many thought they would dominate the way they have, but have never heard anyone say they would struggle.

Look at the predictions for the season in the early posts on this thread and everyone has them making the semis. Everyone.

They need an influx of players to be competitive in League 1

[Zone Insider]

They need an influx of players to be competitive in League 1

First they have to get there and second I think they could be competitive now but would need a boost for reserves.

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

I know of nobody who thought they would struggle. I do not think many thought they would dominate the way they have, but have never heard anyone say they would struggle.

Look at the predictions for the season in the early posts on this thread and everyone has them making the semis. Everyone.

I just checked first page of this year first prediction does not have them making semis, in future please don?t waste my valuable time with your complete novelty arguments.

[Hunter403]

Awesome for Kahibah but the reality is they will either get relegated or become another Adamstown rosebuds and have disappointing seasons for the next decade in npl.
Maybe you should change your name to Mr Negative. No reason why Kahibah can't emulate Belswans and stay up. They will be well coached and if they recruit well, they will do ok.

[Hunter403]

It’s an interesting debate I enjoy hearing both perspectives… it will be a long time before the zone league sees a team like Dudley that consistently dominated across all grades though they have underachieved in new fm this year

Jeez, that's harsh. Dudley have underachieved? They are in fourth place with a game to go and are a good chance of being in the play-offs. I' love to hear what you say about Southy's performance if fourth disappoints you.

[The Hacker]

They need an influx of players to be competitive in League 1

They will be in the top half with that team. They have a quality striker that will get them goals. That alone gets you past teams.
The top teams in that league have the mix right between young talent and older heads. Croatia have great experienced players whether they try and get a few young legs eg early 20?s or go down the experience path that will be interesting.
It will be interesting to see which team is relegated and how they adjust to ZL1.
I think Croatia will adjust and have a more ?successful? year going up than the team that comes down to ZL1

[Builtwithlove18]

They will be in the top half with that team. They have a quality striker that will get them goals. That alone gets you past teams.
The top teams in that league have the mix right between young talent and older heads. Croatia have great experienced players whether they try and get a few young legs eg early 20?s or go down the experience path that will be interesting.
It will be interesting to see which team is relegated and how they adjust to ZL1.
I think Croatia will adjust and have a more ?successful? year going up than the team that comes down to ZL1

That is the most positive thing you have ever said about Croatia since they have come back

[ZLWB]

I just checked first page of this year first prediction does not have them making semis, in future please don?t waste my valuable time with your complete novelty arguments.

That post had them finishing 6th, which is hardly ?struggling?, and look how people jumped all over them for it.
This from the bloke who claimed the Suns had poached talent from Azzurri.

I look forward to Croatia advancing to NL1 so I no longer have to endure your drivel.

[The Hacker]

That is the most positive thing you have ever said about Croatia since they have come back

I think they are good for the comp cause they make it better comp being strong. My only argument is own that you pay players and some like Maj last year and Cowburn this year are on big money ?compared to every player in THIS comp?
I don?t even care that they do pay. Someone has to spend the most and if you can why not but just own it.
I heard a rumour they are looking to make Speers Point facility their home next year. That?s an expensive excercise if true. Playing on that every second week would give you a decent advantage

[straightred88]

I think they are good for the comp cause they make it better comp being strong. My only argument is own that you pay players and some like Maj last year and Cowburn this year are on big money ?compared to every player in THIS comp?
I don?t even care that they do pay. Someone has to spend the most and if you can why not but just own it.
I heard a rumour they are looking to make Speers Point facility their home next year. That?s an expensive excercise if true. Playing on that every second week would give you a decent advantage

I heard a rumour they moving to Lydon Oval.

[Builtwithlove18]

I think they are good for the comp cause they make it better comp being strong. My only argument is own that you pay players and some like Maj last year and Cowburn this year are on big money ?compared to every player in THIS comp?
I don?t even care that they do pay. Someone has to spend the most and if you can why not but just own it.
I heard a rumour they are looking to make Speers Point facility their home next year. That?s an expensive excercise if true. Playing on that every second week would give you a decent advantage

How do you know what money maj or Cowburn are on

[The Hacker]

I heard a rumour they moving to Lydon Oval.

They would love the salt air out there

[The Hacker]

How do you know what money maj or Cowburn are on

Do you think players at Croatia don?t talk to other players. I reckon if you asked players from each club they would all give you the same numbers
Again if the numbers are correct good on Croatia for being able to pay it

[Bremsstrahlung]

Regarding paying players - it’s a constant theme on here.

If your club is in a financially sustainable position to offer decent money to players playing 3rd tier competition, good on you/them for being in that position. Go nuts, put together a good team and shoot for promotion if that suits your club’s ambitions.

If you spend big, come up short and struggle financially in years to come, then the spending becomes irresponsible, and I don’t think they’ll find much sympathy in the community. Probably be met with much amusement.


Same thing in NPL, NL1 etc.

[The Hacker]

Regarding paying players - it?s a constant theme on here.

If your club is in a financially sustainable position to offer decent money to players playing 3rd tier competition, good on you/them for being in that position. Go nuts, put together a good team and shoot for promotion if that suits your club?s ambitions.

If you spend big, come up short and struggle financially in years to come, then the spending becomes irresponsible, and I don?t think they?ll find much sympathy in the community. Probably be met with much amusement.


Same thing in NPL, NL1 etc.

Well said

[Zone Insider]

Tonight
Olympic 4-1 Stockton

Round 19

Stockton 2-1 Azzurri
Cardiff 3-2 Mayfield
Croatia 4-1 Swansea
Uni 3-1 Warners Bay
Westlakes 0-5 Suns
Kotara 3-1 Olympic

[Zonal Marking]

Tonight
Olympic 4-1 Stockton

Round 19

Stockton 2-1 Azzurri
Cardiff 3-2 Mayfield
Croatia 4-1 Swansea
Uni 3-1 Warners Bay
Westlakes 0-5 Suns
Kotara 3-1 Olympic

Rain is forecast again for this weekend. Reckon we get any matches played?

[Addios]

Rain is forecast again for this weekend. Reckon we get any matches played?

Only if some are relocated to Speersy although Northern have only recently decided to use it for the top 2 grades.

Nelson Bay are always a chance

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Regarding paying players - it’s a constant theme on here.

If your club is in a financially sustainable position to offer decent money to players playing 3rd tier competition, good on you/them for being in that position. Go nuts, put together a good team and shoot for promotion if that suits your club’s ambitions.

If you spend big, come up short and struggle financially in years to come, then the spending becomes irresponsible, and I don’t think they’ll find much sympathy in the community. Probably be met with much amusement.


Same thing in NPL, NL1 etc.

It’s actually illegal to pay players at this level and creates an unfair advantage to teams that break the rules…Suns have done this for years and are known bullies in this competition with it. I must admit I find it funny since Croatia have taken it to another level and since doing so have humbled Suns completely. As I have said earlier a once social comp is turning into a 20k minimum buy in to be competitive.

Would you say good for you to clubs that could pay off refs as well?

[Macca]

It?s actually illegal to pay players at this level and creates an unfair advantage to teams that break the rules?Suns have done this for years and are known bullies in this competition with it. I must admit I find it funny since Croatia have taken it to another level and since doing so have humbled Suns completely. As I have said earlier a once social comp is turning into a 20k minimum buy in to be competitive.

Would you say good for you to clubs that could pay off refs as well?

:blah: :yawn:

[RightFoot]

It?s actually illegal to pay players at this level and creates an unfair advantage to teams that break the rules?Suns have done this for years and are known bullies in this competition with it. I must admit I find it funny since Croatia have taken it to another level and since doing so have humbled Suns completely. As I have said earlier a once social comp is turning into a 20k minimum buy in to be competitive.

Would you say good for you to clubs that could pay off refs as well?

You're stuck in the past. With connecting the pyramids it was always naturally going to become more professional, competitive, and whether you like it or not, financially driven. I'd genuinely like it if you could find it in the rules and regulations where it states it is illegal.

If you're passionate about social competitions there's 50+ all age and over 35 comps in Newcastle you can go and support.

[ZLWB]

It’s actually illegal to pay players at this level and creates an unfair advantage to teams that break the rules…Suns have done this for years and are known bullies in this competition with it. I must admit I find it funny since Croatia have taken it to another level and since doing so have humbled Suns completely. As I have said earlier a once social comp is turning into a 20k minimum buy in to be competitive.

Would you say good for you to clubs that could pay off refs as well?

Illegal?
I assume you mean under competition rules. If yes, would you point us to the specific rule? I am not aware of any statute that does (or could) prohibit paying athletes.

To be clear, I am not disputing this, just interested in what the rule is and why

[straightred88]

Illegal?
I assume you mean under competition rules. If yes, would you point us to the specific rule? I am not aware of any statute that does (or could) prohibit paying athletes.

To be clear, I am not disputing this, just interested in what the rule is and why

Unless a player is on a professional contract then you cannot be paid legally.

Also at this time Northern do not allow professional contracts in NPL or Northern League One.

I did hear that they will be changing the rules for NPL only.

[Zone Insider]

Unless a player is on a professional contract then you cannot be paid legally.

Also at this time Northern do not allow professional contracts in NPL or Northern League One.

I did hear that they will be changing the rules for NPL only.

You are correct and I have mentioned this before

[straightred88]

BarTV match of the round

Stockton V Azzurri

[riverboy]

BarTV match of the round

Stockton V Azzurri

Match of the round has become a joke. Next thing you know they will cover an all age K game.

The Croatia vs Suns game at the start of the year had people talking, what a game. But since then has Croatia or the Suns been on? What about Cardiff, they are decent, where are they?

The podcast could be really good. People are interested in seeing teams on with CT and Wilso. If it's just the host giving results then it's as boring as batsh#t, no detail and little about anything. Anyone can read results.

Why hasn't Croatia, Suns or Cardiff been on the podcast?

[MoSalahh]

I think it's been really good. I'm sure they will go on eventually, but there are actually a lot of great clubs in Newcastle/ Zone League and its brilliant to see some of those get to tell their story.

Also match of the round has been really good, show casing all levels of football. Have some appreciation for the work people are putting in at all levels to get their clubs to perform. There's far more to football than ZL1, or Croatia + Suns.

I am just glad more is being done to promote Zone League. I'm sure they are trying to naturally improve the content over time.

[Zonal Marking]

Match of the round has become a joke. Next thing you know they will cover an all age K game.

The Croatia vs Suns game at the start of the year had people talking, what a game. But since then has Croatia or the Suns been on? What about Cardiff, they are decent, where are they?

The podcast could be really good. People are interested in seeing teams on with CT and Wilso. If it's just the host giving results then it's as boring as batsh#t, no detail and little about anything. Anyone can read results.

Why hasn't Croatia, Suns or Cardiff been on the podcast?

I get why you included the top two teams in the league but why also throw in a mid table team currently sitting out of the finals places?

[Builtwithlove18]

I think it's been really good. I'm sure they will go on eventually, but there are actually a lot of great clubs in Newcastle/ Zone League and its brilliant to see some of those get to tell their story.

Also match of the round has been really good, show casing all levels of football. Have some appreciation for the work people are putting in at all levels to get their clubs to perform. There's far more to football than ZL1, or Croatia + Suns.

I am just glad more is being done to promote Zone League. I'm sure they are trying to naturally improve the content over time.

Why did you just mention Croatia & suns ? Cardiff were also mentioned ?

[Builtwithlove18]

Match of the round has become a joke. Next thing you know they will cover an all age K game.

The Croatia vs Suns game at the start of the year had people talking, what a game. But since then has Croatia or the Suns been on? What about Cardiff, they are decent, where are they?

The podcast could be really good. People are interested in seeing teams on with CT and Wilso. If it's just the host giving results then it's as boring as batsh#t, no detail and little about anything. Anyone can read results.

Why hasn't Croatia, Suns or Cardiff been on the podcast?

Suns definitely are not interested in going on the podcast & I?m positive Croatia are not either.

They seem to talk a lot about Croatia conceding goals, if you check the stats Croatia have conceded the least in the comp.

[straightred88]

I think it's been really good. I'm sure they will go on eventually, but there are actually a lot of great clubs in Newcastle/ Zone League and its brilliant to see some of those get to tell their story.

Also match of the round has been really good, show casing all levels of football. Have some appreciation for the work people are putting in at all levels to get their clubs to perform. There's far more to football than ZL1, or Croatia + Suns.

I am just glad more is being done to promote Zone League. I'm sure they are trying to naturally improve the content over time.


You would since you host it.

[straightred88]

Suns definitely are not interested in going on the podcast & I?m positive Croatia are not either.

They seem to talk a lot about Croatia conceding goals, if you check the stats Croatia have conceded the least in the comp.

Correct they can?t even get basic stats right.

The latest episode with Stockton was just embarrassing

[Builtwithlove18]

Correct they can?t even get basic stats right.

The latest episode with Stockton was just embarrassing

I will not comment further as I will be attacked on here

[riverboy]

I get why you included the top two teams in the league but why also throw in a mid table team currently sitting out of the finals places?

A mid table team is surely a better watch then a bottom of the ladder team. Correct?

[riverboy]

Suns definitely are not interested in going on the podcast & I?m positive Croatia are not either.

They seem to talk a lot about Croatia conceding goals, if you check the stats Croatia have conceded the least in the comp.

Can someone please confirm firstly if they have been asked and if so why don't they want to go on it?

[riverboy]

Correct they can?t even get basic stats right.

The latest episode with Stockton was just embarrassing

The host clearly knows nothing that happens outside his club.

[Jardelsimage]

The host clearly knows nothing that happens outside his club.

it's not all his fault; the puppet master pulls the strings....

[Kicktheball]

No games again this weekend. That gives clubs 3 weeks to play 5/6 games before the regular season finishes.

When do we start having conversations to extend the season or move games to Speers?

[Zone Insider]

No games again this weekend. That gives clubs 3 weeks to play 5/6 games before the regular season finishes.

When do we start having conversations to extend the season or move games to Speers?

They won?t extend the season. More rain coming next week as well by the forecast so potentially another weekend off.

Until NPL and NL1 finish I can?t see much space being free at Speers Point and if it becomes available who will bare the cost as I?m sure Northern won?t do it for free.

[Jardelsimage]

They won?t extend the season. More rain coming next week as well by the forecast so potentially another weekend off.

Until NPL and NL1 finish I can?t see much space being free at Speers Point and if it becomes available who will bare the cost as I?m sure Northern won?t do it for free.

Speers Point booked out for 2 weeks straight, they told us yesterday...

[Trigger]

So can we now build the new much needed synthetic pitches in the Broadmeadow precinct upgrade. The best chance to get a new ground from the anti Newcastle state govt.

[MCG_1997]

So can we now build the new much needed synthetic pitches in the Broadmeadow precinct upgrade. The best chance to get a new ground from the anti Newcastle state govt.

I think Kings Park in Raymond Terrace would be a good location for synthetic pitches in Port Stephens Council wants to fork out a few millions.

[Thomas477]

I think Kings Park in Raymond Terrace would be a good location for synthetic pitches in Port Stephens Council wants to fork out a few millions.

Apart from the fact it floods quite regularly, which is a problem most grounds will have.

[Toaf]

Lets welcome Thornton redbacks to the comp 🫣

[Trigger]

Lets welcome Thornton redbacks to the comp ��

Wonder how many of the squad theyll keep. Being in a more "remote" place I would think theyll keep most?

Yes, we need Speers point now for ZL

[The Hacker]

Wonder how many of the squad theyll keep. Being in a more "remote" place I would think theyll keep most?

Yes, we need Speers point now for ZL

A chunk came from Azzurri Reserve grade last year so not like they live there. I would guess they may lose a big chunk and will be in the bottom half of the table

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Welcome to zone league 1 Thornton and best of luck in zone league 2 in 2027

[ForeverRed]

Welcome to zone league 1 Thornton and best of luck in zone league 2 in 2027
Why why why 🤦*♂️

[Zonal Marking]

Why why why ��*♂️

Thought you would be happy that Thornton is coming down and that South Cardiff managed to avoid relegation?

[ForeverRed]

Thought you would be happy that Thornton is coming down and that South Cardiff managed to avoid relegation?
I?m was referring g to the poor sportsmanship from Mrbeautiful, I thought it was poor form

[The Hacker]

I?m was referring g to the poor sportsmanship from Mrbeautiful, I thought it was poor form

Whilst I don?t think they will finish in the top 4 in ZL1 they won?t finish last

[Addios]

A chunk came from Azzurri Reserve grade last year so not like they live there. I would guess they may lose a big chunk and will be in the bottom half of the table

Ouch

[The Postman]

Southy or Wallsend coming down may have been the death knell for those clubs. Thornton has a real opportunity to land some current NPL players from Maitland, Weston and other guys from the up the Valley who don't want the pressures of NPL anymore.

We have seen it in all the Newy bases clubs already, I think they will be very strong in this league!

[the-deviant]

A fair few old NPL and NL1 players in the area already play for Norths and Bolwarra in ZL2. Will be interesting to see if Thornton can attract those sorts of players. I would have thought that was the end for Wallsend if they were to go down.

[ZLWB]

Forecast has improved. There might be some football this weekend !

[straightred88]

Newcastle Football and Northern should be pressuring council and NPL, NL1 clubs out of the finals to use their grounds.