2025 Northern League One

[ForeverRed]

Kahibah to win it, Stags will drop off.
Kahibah will need to play better after today?s performance, the gunners gave it to them in spades during the second half but couldn?t buy a goal with Kahibah scoring a second right before on full time, they looked along way from a team leading the comp in my opinion

[MCG_1997]

Kahibah will need to play better after today?s performance, the gunners gave it to them in spades during the second half but couldn?t buy a goal with Kahibah scoring a second right before on full time, they looked along way from a team leading the comp in my opinion
I have no doubt the Gunners new coach, Keelan, will save them. He is a great coach and will get them out of trouble.

[ForeverRed]

I have no doubt the Gunners new coach, Keelan, will save them. He is a great coach and will get them out of trouble.
I hope you are right, they showed plenty of ticker today

[The Hacker]

I have no doubt the Gunners new coach, Keelan, will save them. He is a great coach and will get them out of trouble.

Well the only have to wait until next week to have another crack

[Jim]

I have no doubt the Gunners new coach, Keelan, will save them. He is a great coach and will get them out of trouble.

A lot of positive chat for a team on bottom after another loss. Yes they did play top spot and give a good account BUT, can they do this every game as they still need to face 1st kahibah again, Thornton 5th away, stags 2nd, singo 4th away. Thats a big ask.
However their biggest assistance is that there are many teams with them & 1 or 2 of of those may not win another game so 1 win gets them to safety.

[MCG_1997]

Except for Kahiba and Toronto that are well ahead of others, there is not much gap between the rest. One win put you in top 5 and a loss in relegation battle. Give it two more games, Thornton will be down there fighting again.

[The Hacker]

Except for Kahiba and Toronto that are well ahead of others, there is not much gap between the rest. One win put you in top 5 and a loss in relegation battle. Give it two more games, Thornton will be down there fighting again.

I think today?s win for Dudley takes them out of the relegation battle.
I think it?s between Cessnock, Southy or Wallsend

[GO AWAY]

This weekend v Westy at Westy is the crunch game for stags. They then finish Cessnock, Wallsend, Southy ??..with lakes last game. As you seen with Thornton, every point is crucial down the bottom so they are happy to try keep the higher teams to zero and take a draw ? could be the difference.

[Hunter403]

Southy looked better than they have for some time. However, "giving it to Kahibah in spades" is a bit over the top. They still lack anything decisive in the front third apart from corners. Keelan seemed to have a plan so that's a good start. It would be a shame to seem them drop.
Perhaps Kahibah were coming down from the high of the week before. They weren't at their best, but did enough to win and that's all they have to do.

[Kicktheball]

Southy looked better than they have for some time. However, "giving it to Kahibah in spades" is a bit over the top. They still lack anything decisive in the front third apart from corners. Keelan seemed to have a plan so that's a good start. It would be a shame to seem them drop.
Perhaps Kahibah were coming down from the high of the week before. They weren't at their best, but did enough to win and that's all they have to do.

South dropping to ZL1 is a win for everyone and this would give the people what they want - Southy v Cardiff

Keep dropping points Southy!

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

The NPL journeyman providing some much needed spark for Kahibah in the front third.

I still believe the class of the Stags will rise and Kahibah will drop points.

[The Hacker]

The NPL journeyman providing some much needed spark for Kahibah in the front third.

I still believe the class of the Stags will rise and Kahibah will drop points.

If Kahibah get through Dudley away without dropping points I can?t see them dropping points to Southy, Singo or Cessnock.
I imagine Dudley would take great joy in stopping a Kahibah promotion.
But on the 100th anniversary of the club maybe it was always going to be Kahibah?s year

[ForeverRed]

The NPL journeyman providing some much needed spark for Kahibah in the front third.

I still believe the class of the Stags will rise and Kahibah will drop points.

I didn?t see that yesterday

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

I didn?t see that yesterday

Burston scored his second in two games, which suggests he has added impetus to the Kahibah attack.

No doubt there was complacency evident from Kahibah on the day. Playing a team battling relegation can be sticky, which I?m sure the experienced Newman was wary of.

However, good teams find a way to win.

[Jim]

Tigers are the real Cardiff

[MCG_1997]

Round 15 prediction:

Westy 1-2 Toronto
Southy 2-1 Kahiba
Dudley 3-1 Cessnock
Thornton 1-1 Singleton
Wallsend 3-2 Lakes

[GO AWAY]

Stags 4 westy 0

[The Hacker]

Stags 4 westy 0

Westy very poor today. Need to be better in the coming weeks if they want to play top 4.
Toronto were clinical and a class above.

[Hunter403]

Kahibah roll on. Got a bit exciting at 2-2 but you always felt Kahibah were going to win it. Southy definitely improving under the new coach but still not creating much in the final third.

[Trigger]

If Kahibah get through Dudley away without dropping points I can?t see them dropping points to Southy, Singo or Cessnock.
I imagine Dudley would take great joy in stopping a Kahibah promotion.
But on the 100th anniversary of the club maybe it was always going to be Kahibah?s year

Singo could nab a draw. Stags have the bottom 3 plus Lakes. Still game on but I think the fidget spinners can hold on.

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Dudley hitting form at the pointy end of the season, the derby in the final round will be intriguing.

[The Hacker]

Dudley hitting form at the pointy end of the season, the derby in the final round will be intriguing.

The derby is this Sat between them and Kahibah

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

The derby is this Sat between them and Kahibah

Cheers bud, my mistake.

[GO AWAY]

Dudley hitting form at the pointy end of the season, the derby in the final round will be intriguing.

Notice sulini and Matt swan played on weekend, they late signings ? Loads of experience there.
Come on Dudley 😬🤣

[Alton]

Notice sulini and Matt swan played on weekend, they late signings ? Loads of experience there.
Come on Dudley 😬🤣

Both nearly 40 yo

[ForeverRed]

Notice sulini and Matt swan played on weekend, they late signings ? Loads of experience there.
Come on Dudley 😬🤣

Tull back this week also after serving suspension

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Dudley will win the grand final, only club in the race that?s got pedigree when it comes to playing finals football.


One grand final win, two losses in over 10 years? That Dudley?


Ha ha ha ha

I spoke up Dudley when no one on this forum gave them a chance.. now the sheep are coming around? football oracle does it again .. looking forward to being right on this one !

[The Hacker]

Notice sulini and Matt swan played on weekend, they late signings ? Loads of experience there.
Come on Dudley 😬🤣

The talk yesterday was the club asked them to assist with at the time was a relegation battle to add some experience and depth. They have since won 4 in a row and could be in a promotion battle.
The local derby this week should be a huge game and could go a long way in determining if Kahibah gain automatic promotion

[ABCDEF]

Can anyone confirm whether Dudley can play finals/promotion playoffs? I thought teams that didn't have juniors couldn't be promoted and therefore can't participate

[northern_swan]

Can anyone confirm whether Dudley can play finals/promotion playoffs? I thought teams that didn't have juniors couldn't be promoted and therefore can't participate

Word is they’ve applied for a JDL & PYL licence. Can only assume it’ll get rubber stamped in time for finals

[Premy]

I spoke up Dudley when no one on this forum gave them a chance.. now the sheep are coming around? football oracle does it again .. looking forward to being right on this one !

Only problem with that self proclaimed Oracle is this competition doesn't have a grand final

Your knowledge is truly unquestionable Mr Farnham.

[The Hacker]

Word is they?ve applied for a JDL & PYL licence. Can only assume it?ll get rubber stamped in time for finals

They had to have application underway and ground work in place at season start. They were probably best situated to do this with the junior club of 700 plus players and an appetite between the juniors and seniors club. The federation could see that it?s very achievable

I will be interested to see how future clubs that may get promoted such as Croatia, Suns, Uni etc that don?t have juniors go about it. Will the federation just accept a club saying they will have PYL the following season from scratch?
Is it realistic to think a club could actually set up a PYL program from scratch in a year with zero junior base.

Croatia look the most likely to come up and I think most people would agree the federation might be reluctant to accept an application from a club without a proper home ground yet. If that?s the case in the short term I think it?s tough on the club to be forced up but then can only go as high as 5th. They have been back for what 4yrs realistically they are still establishing the club to ensure it?s here for the long run in senior football then to expect them to in the space of a year set up a premier youth program is really a big undertaking.

I think all teams promoted from ZL1 to NL1 should have a 2 or 3 year window where they have time to get PYL in place but in those years if they make finals they can play in them.

The federation want the best teams in these top 2 comps of senior men?s football but then have the caveat of needing jnrs to play finals. In 5 years time there may be 5 teams in a comp eligible for finals. That would be a bad look.

I?d be interested other peoples thoughts cause with Dudley safe it means an NL1 team from last year is getting relegated so all of a sudden after 1 year or promotion and relegation this comp has 2 teams from ZL1 in it and next year could be another ?established? club relegated for a team with no junior program

[The Postman]

They had to have application underway and ground work in place at season start. They were probably best situated to do this with the junior club of 700 plus players and an appetite between the juniors and seniors club. The federation could see that it?s very achievable

I will be interested to see how future clubs that may get promoted such as Croatia, Suns, Uni etc that don?t have juniors go about it. Will the federation just accept a club saying they will have PYL the following season from scratch?
Is it realistic to think a club could actually set up a PYL program from scratch in a year with zero junior base.

Croatia look the most likely to come up and I think most people would agree the federation might be reluctant to accept an application from a club without a proper home ground yet. If that?s the case in the short term I think it?s tough on the club to be forced up but then can only go as high as 5th. They have been back for what 4yrs realistically they are still establishing the club to ensure it?s here for the long run in senior football then to expect them to in the space of a year set up a premier youth program is really a big undertaking.

I think all teams promoted from ZL1 to NL1 should have a 2 or 3 year window where they have time to get PYL in place but in those years if they make finals they can play in them.

The federation want the best teams in these top 2 comps of senior men?s football but then have the caveat of needing jnrs to play finals. In 5 years time there may be 5 teams in a comp eligible for finals. That would be a bad look.

I?d be interested other peoples thoughts cause with Dudley safe it means an NL1 team from last year is getting relegated so all of a sudden after 1 year or promotion and relegation this comp has 2 teams from ZL1 in it and next year could be another ?established? club relegated for a team with no junior program

I think eventually things will settle in and balance themselves out as teams go and up down, players will move around.

Let's assume Southy get relegated, and Croatia come up. How many parents will be happy forking out thousands of dollars for the Southy Youth Program to be in 3rd Division (even though it seems to be going quite well). And yes, I know any club can have the Youth Licence next year, but you are silly if you think where First Grade play doesn't come into account for kids and parents when it comes to wanting to play for a club.

Those kids will leave and filter into other NewFM clubs. I would imagine if Croatia announced that next year, they would be having 13s > 18s, they would have NO issue filling those teams.

The easiest way to have a successful Youth Program is to have a successful First Grade - just look at Toronto, they were in danger of folding for several years, could barely fill 2 out of 4 youth team. Then First Grade turn their fortunes around and now they are very established in the younger ages.

I see no reason why Croatia can't do the same - they just need a proper field. Can someone with some knowledge of the Croatian Wickham Sports Club tell me why can't they use any of the fields there? Seems like a pretty obvious solution, must be something standing in their way.

[northern_swan]

They had to have application underway and ground work in place at season start. They were probably best situated to do this with the junior club of 700 plus players and an appetite between the juniors and seniors club. The federation could see that it?s very achievable

Hit it on the head there. Juniors & seniors announced a merger on their Facebook back in January.

According to the article link, confirmation of new clubs for boys and girls are due by the end of the month
https://www.northernnswfootball.com.au/women-and-girls-premier-competitions

[2ndclasscitizen]

I see no reason why Croatia can't do the same - they just need a proper field. Can someone with some knowledge of the Croatian Wickham Sports Club tell me why can't they use any of the fields there? Seems like a pretty obvious solution, must be something standing in their way.

Yeah - the Hamilton Hawks. All the grounds behind the club are rugby fields.

[ForeverRed]

I think eventually things will settle in and balance themselves out as teams go and up down, players will move around.

Let's assume Southy get relegated, and Croatia come up. How many parents will be happy forking out thousands of dollars for the Southy Youth Program to be in 3rd Division (even though it seems to be going quite well). And yes, I know any club can have the Youth Licence next year, but you are silly if you think where First Grade play doesn't come into account for kids and parents when it comes to wanting to play for a club.

Those kids will leave and filter into other NewFM clubs. I would imagine if Croatia announced that next year, they would be having 13s > 18s, they would have NO issue filling those teams.

The easiest way to have a successful Youth Program is to have a successful First Grade - just look at Toronto, they were in danger of folding for several years, could barely fill 2 out of 4 youth team. Then First Grade turn their fortunes around and now they are very established in the younger ages.

I see no reason why Croatia can't do the same - they just need a proper field. Can someone with some knowledge of the Croatian Wickham Sports Club tell me why can't they use any of the fields there? Seems like a pretty obvious solution, must be something standing in their way.
Correct me if I?m wrong but the reason Beresfield never went up to 2nd division was because of their ground, and I?d say the reason they aren?t around anymore

[sapdad]

Let's assume Southy get relegated, and Croatia come up. How many parents will be happy forking out thousands of dollars for the Southy Youth Program to be in 3rd Division (even though it seems to be going quite well). And yes, I know any club can have the Youth Licence next year, but you are silly if you think where First Grade play doesn't come into account for kids and parents when it comes to wanting to play for a club.

Those kids will leave and filter into other NewFM clubs. I would imagine if Croatia announced that next year, they would be having 13s > 18s, they would have NO issue filling those teams.

I guess we had our first test case of that theory this season with Lakes and I would say that 1st grade dropping down a level hasnt had an effect on their youth program(still doing very well both in youth and JDL).As of next year a quick scan shows Lakes/Southy/New Lambton/Weston/Stags/Kahibah/Rosebuds will have senior programs at a different level to their youth.Over time it might start to trend differently but for now I think kids will stick at their current clubs if they are happy.Its not like the very top clubs at NPL level are bringing through wave after wave of their own juniors either so being at a good youth club guarantees you nothing.The likes of Croatia and Dudley taking on youth is great but its a massive job and getting key people(coaches and recruiters)in early is a huge part of it.No offence to those clubs but thinking kids at that level will just want to play there because of the name is debatable and I think Stags have shown the way forward.Get a good JDL program and bring them through year by year. Stags are at least another season or 2 before even thinking about getting to the 2nd tier in youth but they are trending in the right direction and should be applauded for building something that looks sustainable.

[sapdad]

Is it realistic to think a club could actually set up a PYL program from scratch in a year with zero junior base.

No.Retention is well under way for next year in youth already and most clubs will have rosters 80% filled by early August.To expect a club to have to start from scratch after that date already has them at a huge disadvantage.It will be an interesting test case when it happens but stopping a team from playing finals because of their youth program(which we went to all of the trouble of decoupling)is wrong in my opinion.Of course we should all be encouraging clubs to run good youth programs but results cannot be dependent on it.there needs to be a better way.

[Hunter403]

Remember, PYL and NPL/NL1 are no longer linked. So, its open slather on getting a PYL licence if you can meet the criteria and if NNSW are willing to expand it.

The problem with Dudley getting a youth licence (and there is a strong rumour there will be another from the Hunter Association) is that the PYL will blow out to 25 or 26 teams and NNSWF can't manage 24 effectively with the current format. I reckon they will have to dump the two phase competition. No mid season movement - just three divisions with promotion and relegation. That takes the focus off development and puts it on winning. Not waht NNSW football intended.

Using the example above with Southy... they have a successful youth programme. They don't charge "thousands of dollars" like others. If getting their seniors relgated will have an impact, it will most likely be on the u18s.
The other big issue for clubs wanting to join PYL is the shortage of good qualified coaches. Sure, there are many with a C qualifications, but not all of them can coach well.

Dudley already recruiting. They are actively approaching kids from other PYL clubs.

Anyway, the Kahibah v Dudley match this weekend should be a cracker and with a good charitable cause in the background. Get out there and support it.

[Yesk21]

Weekend tips
Thornton 3-2 southy
Toronto 4-1 Cessnock
Singo 3-3 lakes
Dudley 1-1 kahibah
Wallsend 1-3 westy

[MCG_1997]

Weekend prediction:

Thornton 1-3 southy
Toronto 5-0 Cessnock
Singleton 3-2 Lakes
Dudley 1-1 Kahibah
Wallsend 2-1 West Wallsend

[GO AWAY]

Thornton 2 Southy 0
Toronto Awaba 3 Cessnock 1
Singleton 1 Lakes 2
Dudley 10 Kahibah 0 ( gee up 1-1 )
Wallsend 2 westy 2

Side note of stags v Cessnock three leading goalscorers in the comp. Special mention of kid from Cessnock to be leading in a struggling team.

[RightFoot]

Side note of stags v Cessnock three leading goalscorers in the comp. Special mention of kid from Cessnock to be leading in a struggling team.

Zac Kronholm is a baller, he'd be knocking on the door of some NPL clubs but he's a Cessnock boy through and through

[RightFoot]

Thornton 2-3 Southy
Toronto 4-2 Cessnock
Singleton 2-1 Lakes
Dudley 1-4 Kahibah
Wallsend 0-2 West Wallsend

[Jim]

Thornton 3-2 Southy
Toronto 3-1 Cessnock
Singleton 2-2 Lakes
Dudley 3-2 Kahibah
Wallsend 2-2 West Wallsend

[Jim]

Remember, PYL and NPL/NL1 are no longer linked. So, its open slather on getting a PYL licence if you can meet the criteria and if NNSW are willing to expand it.
The problem with Dudley getting a youth licence (and there is a strong rumour there will be another from the Hunter Association) is that the PYL will blow out to 25 or 26 teams and NNSWF can't manage 24 effectively with the current format. I reckon they will have to dump the two phase competition. No mid season movement - just three divisions with promotion and relegation. That takes the focus off development and puts it on winning. Not waht NNSW football intended.


That's a major defect in this system. We are seriously struggling to keep 24 competitive youth clubs now.
We cant competently house new youth squads for new clubs stepping up each year even if it is only the same 4 or 5 clubs bouncing up/down so soon.
Maybe as a solution we'll have 3 separate divisions of youth with promotion relegation so then we can add those new clubs to the 3rd division over time thus avoiding floggings from the top 2.

[MurderOnZidanesFloor]

Thornton 3-1 Southy
Toronto 3-0 Cessnock
Singleton 2-1 Lakes
Dudley 2-1 Kahibah
Wallsend 1-2 West Wallsend

[Addios]

Thornton 2-2 Southy
Toronto 3-1 Cessnock
Singleton 2-2 Lakes
Dudley 1-3 Kahibah
Wallsend 1-2 West Wallsend

[Goatscheese]

Word is they?ve applied for a JDL & PYL licence. Can only assume it?ll get rubber stamped in time for finals

It's not going to be rubber stamped, they have done all the work and made the submissions already regardless of where they finish. Since they are already approaching players, they must have already been told they meet all the criteria and will have youth teams next year.

[Goatscheese]

Let's assume Southy get relegated, and Croatia come up. How many parents will be happy forking out thousands of dollars for the Southy Youth Program to be in 3rd Division (even though it seems to be going quite well). And yes, I know any club can have the Youth Licence next year, but you are silly if you think where First Grade play doesn't come into account for kids and parents when it comes to wanting to play for a club.

It's not thousands of dollars, and since the Youth will still be competing in League B it's not really a change. While some may not want to go because of that, we do see many young kids going to Zone teams because it means 1st grade chances, no reason this wouldn't apply to Southy.


I would imagine if Croatia announced that next year, they would be having 13s > 18s, they would have NO issue filling those teams.

Unless they have applied, and done all the work to meet the criteria, they just can't announce they will be entering. Also they will have issues filling those teams, look at Wallsend, their youth is struggling.


The easiest way to have a successful Youth Program is to have a successful First Grade - just look at Toronto, they were in danger of folding for several years, could barely fill 2 out of 4 youth team. Then First Grade turn their fortunes around and now they are very established in the younger ages.

This is insulting to the number of people at Toronto who did a lot of hard work to develop Toronto JDL and Youth which started (and had to start) before their 1st grade started going well. If those people hadn't done the work then Toronto Youth and JDL would be in a worse spot then it is. It's much more than just having a good 1st grade side and shows an ignorance of the amount of work and time (spanning years) to rebuilt and develop a youth and JDL program.

[sapdad]

This is insulting to the number of people at Toronto who did a lot of hard work to develop Toronto JDL and Youth which started (and had to start) before their 1st grade started going well. If those people hadn't done the work then Toronto Youth and JDL would be in a worse spot then it is. It's much more than just having a good 1st grade side and shows an ignorance of the amount of work and time (spanning years) to rebuilt and develop a youth and JDL program.

While I dont think the original post was deliberately insulting you are 100% right that its been way more than just a good 1st grade run that has reignited Stags youth.Their JDL program has been talked about for a while and the results and on field quality now are coming through in their 13s and 14s.The production line will keep improving and hopefully its means long term success.A lot of people out there have done a great job and should be commended and copied.Of course a good 1st grade instils a lot of pride in the kids and something to aspire to but theres plenty of examples where youth programs have gone backwards regardless of 1st grades position.Stags are on a great path forward and its good to see.

[Bremsstrahlung]

Saw Southy drew 3-3 with Thornton.

Thought that would see them rise above Cessnock.

Until I saw Cessnock defeated Toronto 2-1.

Southy now level with Wallsend on 14 but with a worse differential. 7 goals the difference at the moment.

Looks like Kahibah have all but wrapped up promotion with their 4-1 win over Dudley.

[The Hacker]

Saw Southy drew 3-3 with Thornton.

Thought that would see them rise above Cessnock.

Until I saw Cessnock defeated Toronto 2-1.

Southy now level with Wallsend on 14 but with a worse differential. 7 goals the difference at the moment.

Looks like Kahibah have all but wrapped up promotion with their 4-1 win over Dudley.

Your right Southy must have been happy to grab a point and like everyone would have thought Toronto deal with Cessnock then the upset of the year.

Kahibah home and hosed after a clinical display against a Dudley side missing a few. Dudley have probably learnt this year that unlike previous years once you take 4-5 first graders out of your team it makes it tough to win no matter the team your playing.

What?s peoples thoughts on how Kahibah might fair in NPL. How would this Kahibah team compare to the Belswans team that was promoted. You would hate to see them go up and struggle

[ForeverRed]

Your right Southy must have been happy to grab a point and like everyone would have thought Toronto deal with Cessnock then the upset of the year.

Kahibah home and hosed after a clinical display against a Dudley side missing a few. Dudley have probably learnt this year that unlike previous years once you take 4-5 first graders out of your team it makes it tough to win no matter the team your playing.

What?s peoples thoughts on how Kahibah might fair in NPL. How would this Kahibah team compare to the Belswans team that was promoted. You would hate to see them go up and struggle

If they played Belswans tomorrow Belswans win 6 nil

[northern_swan]

Your right Southy must have been happy to grab a point and like everyone would have thought Toronto deal with Cessnock then the upset of the year.

Kahibah home and hosed after a clinical display against a Dudley side missing a few. Dudley have probably learnt this year that unlike previous years once you take 4-5 first graders out of your team it makes it tough to win no matter the team your playing.

What?s peoples thoughts on how Kahibah might fair in NPL. How would this Kahibah team compare to the Belswans team that was promoted. You would hate to see them go up and struggle

If Kahibah can keep their coach they will attract more players and will be more than comfortable in NPL

[Alton]

If Kahibah can keep their coach they will attract more players and will be more than comfortable in NPL
They are way off Belswans

[Goatscheese]

Saw Southy drew 3-3 with Thornton.

Thought that would see them rise above Cessnock.

Until I saw Cessnock defeated Toronto 2-1.

Got to wonder what is going on at Toronto? Do they actually want to be promoted? Losing 2-1 to Cessnock would suggest that they don't want to go up.

[Addios]

Got to wonder what is going on at Toronto? Do they actually want to be promoted? Losing 2-1 to Cessnock would suggest that they don't want to go up.

Got the wobbles

[GO AWAY]

Got the wobbles

May be right after tonight, but ball back in kahibahs court for the inevitable

[W8 WATCHER]

Got the wobbles

i hear that Stags will be awarded a Michellin star

[Addios]

Kahibah 2 games to go v Singo & Cessnock and 4 pts ahead I'd say its 99% done.

[Zone Insider]

Stags to choke again in playoffs

[Alton]

Stags to choke again in playoffs

The bottom 3 in NPL are all far better than the Stags, they needed to finish in first place although that is highly unlikely now

[GO AWAY]

Stags to choke again in playoffs


Maybe so, wait and see, but coming within a bees last year and addition of Luke Callen, Sam Maxwell, Tyrell Paulson and Jacob Dundas surely will give them another good shot. Btw?. Come on singo. More then capable of knocking off Kaheyba potentially prolonging the agony til the last round.

[GO AWAY]

Heard all games shifted to speers point this weekend ? Stags v southy 8pm sat night

[The Hacker]

Heard all games shifted to speers point this weekend ? Stags v southy 8pm sat night

Wallsend v Dudley tonight

[Trigger]

Heard all games shifted to speers point this weekend ? Stags v southy 8pm sat night

Wow. Forethought for a change. Same with NPL.

[Hunter403]

Wallsend v Dudley tonight
Good win for Wallsend

[Trigger]

Good win for Wallsend

Yes. Probably saved their season. Southy in bottom 2 now.

[Alton]

Yes. Probably saved their season. Southy in bottom 2 now.

What has happened at Southy, weren?t they in NPL not long ago

[Builtwithlove18]

Wallsend v Dudley tonight


Great game from Wallsend, goes to show money doesn?t buy you wins.

Dudley wouldn?t be happy with that result. Embarrassing

[The Hacker]

Great game from Wallsend, goes to show money doesn?t buy you wins.

Dudley wouldn?t be happy with that result. Embarrassing

Very poor result. They had their own destiny in their hands now they may have to rely on results

[GO AWAY]

Very poor result. They had their own destiny in their hands now they may have to rely on results



Spices up Dudley v west Wallsend next weekend

[Zone Insider]

Looking forward to Southy V Cardiff next season in zone 1

[MCG_1997]

In a hypothetical scenario, if Cessnock beat Thornton and Southy beat Toronto, there will be 4 teams with the chance of relegation in the last round (Southy, Wallsend, Cessnock and Thornton).

[GO AWAY]

In a hypothetical scenario, if Cessnock beat Thornton and Southy beat Toronto, there will be 4 teams with the chance of relegation in the last round (Southy, Wallsend, Cessnock and Thornton).

Or Toronto beat southy and singo beat Kahibah. Be one point in it the last day

[northern_swan]

Two games to go
2 teams can still get automatic promotion
5 teams can take the remaining 2 playoff spots
5 teams can still be relegated (mathematically)

You can’t say this comp hasn’t delivered

[Hunter403]

Hope Sam Marr from Westy makes a quick recovery

[Trigger]

Good win for Westy. Gets them out of the relo fight.

[GO AWAY]

Good win for Westy. Gets them out of the relo fight.

Has it gone down as a win ?

[Trigger]

Has it gone down as a win ?

2-1 on Squadi

[MCG_1997]

Is Toronto vs Southy on tonight?

[Trigger]

Is Toronto vs Southy on tonight?

Yep.
What was Cessnock Thornton score? Supposedly on at turner park.

[MCG_1997]

Yep.
What was Cessnock Thornton score? Supposedly on at turner park.
As per Thornton's Facebook page, the game got postponed due to referee's decision who found the field unsafe to play.

[ForeverRed]

Gunners

[MCG_1997]

Gunners

Score please?

[Trigger]

2-1 gunners. Stags are in free fall

[Hunter403]

Kahibah boys are happy and promoted!!

[The Hacker]

Well done to Kahibah on promotion in the 100th anniversary year.

What happens with Westy and Lakes game. I would have thought the game would have to restart from where it stopped. I would think Lakes would be pushing that now being that they could get relegated if the result stands and other games results go against them.
What minute was the injury

[Alton]

Well done to Kahibah on promotion in the 100th anniversary year.

What happens with Westy and Lakes game. I would have thought the game would have to restart from where it stopped. I would think Lakes would be pushing that now being that they could get relegated if the result stands and other games results go against them.
What minute was the injury

Is there any time for catch ups to be played

[northern_swan]

Is there any time for catch ups to be played

Cessnock v Thornton & the remainder of Westy v Lakes are on at LMRFF on Tuesday night according to squadi

[Bremsstrahlung]

Cessnock v Thornton & the remainder of Westy v Lakes are on at LMRFF on Tuesday night according to squadi

Does this mean NNSW had pre booked/blocked out some fields with anticipation of some catch ups needing to be played this week?

Few other leagues said they had no availability when enquiries were made a few weeks ago. So seems NNSW ahead of the 8 ball here.

Kudos.

Soft spot for Southy so hoping they can get some results.

Congrats to Kahibah too!

[sapdad]

Does this mean NNSW had pre booked/blocked out some fields with anticipation of some catch ups needing to be played this week?

Few other leagues said they had no availability when enquiries were made a few weeks ago. So seems NNSW ahead of the 8 ball here.

Kudos.

Soft spot for Southy so hoping they can get some results.

Congrats to Kahibah too!

I heard they have moved JDL games away from the facility and extended matchdays.

[Bremsstrahlung]

I heard they have moved JDL games away from the facility and extended matchdays.

Thought it was too good to be true.

I guess credit where it’s due for getting those games played.

[The Hacker]

Thought it was too good to be true.

I guess credit where it’s due for getting those games played.

They cop some shit but hats off in this case

[Trigger]

Q. Are the games tonight starting where they left off?

[Avocadomexican]

Q. Are the games tonight starting where they left off?

I know westy did. Ended 2-1 same score as it ?started?

[Trigger]

Cessnock 2-0 over Thornton. Southy back on the bottom.

This comp just keeps giving at both ends... yeah

[RightFoot]

With that win, Cessnock are essentially safe now... and what a finish to the league this is. Let me spell out the last matchday for you...

ALL MATCHES AT SPEERS POINTS ON SATURDAY

Kahibah vs Cessnock, 11am
Doesn't matter about the result. Kahibah are already promoted and Cessnock will survive relegation on GD

Singleton vs South Cardiff, 1pm
If Singleton win, Southy are relegated. If Southy win, Singleton could potentially miss playoffs if Westy/Dudley draw.

Thornton vs Wallsend, 1pm
If Southy beat Singo, one of Thornton and Wallsend are going to Zone League. Wallsend need nothing less than a win.

Lake Mac vs Toronto, 3pm
Pretty much a nothing game. Toronto will finish 2nd no matter what, and it is highly unlikely Lake Mac will make playoffs or get relegated... But both are technically still possible...

West Wallsend vs Dudley Redhead, 3pm
Quite literally a battle for the playoffs. Winner makes finals, loser has to wait another year.

1. Kahibah | 44pts | +26
2. Toronto | 37pts | +28
3. Singleton | 22pts | +3
4. Westy | 22pts | +2
5. Dudley | 22pts | -7
6. Cessnock | 19pts | -5
7. Lake Mac | 19pts | -6
8. Thornton | 19pts | -11
9. Wallsend | 18pts | -12
10. Southy | 17pts | -18

[Yesk21]

One of northerns better ideas in recent times to bring back promotion and relegation. An exciting weekend ahead

[Two tone]

One of northerns better ideas in recent times to bring back promotion and relegation. An exciting weekend ahead

Then they go and remove the bloke from the board that got promotion and relegation reinstated.
NNSW one step forward two steps backward.

[matmoncrieff]

Then they go and remove the bloke from the board that got promotion and relegation reinstated.
NNSW one step forward two steps backward.

The previous board had already rubber stamped promotion/relegation its not something the new board should be hanging their hat on. The format was formed under their tenure no doubt and although it is very good it still my opinion needs a review and a few changes to make it even better.

The whole no standard final series for 2nd division is not right in my opinion and I said this last year when Belswans won. Premier League etc arguement's a side Australian sport is built around the Grand Final being the pinnacle of just about every team sport. Take last year for example Belswans won with 2-3 games to go and virtually had nothing to play for potentially affecting the integrity of the competition in 1sts and reserve grade then sat back and watched other teams play out a final series in their comp as well as every other comp in the area. Then you have the farcical trophy presentation/celebration to the Adamstown players at the end of the promotion game while Toronto were not acknowledged at all at the presentation. No blame to Adamstown they had every right to celebrate but it just didn't pass the pub test for me, it just wasn't right they run 11th in their competition they had every right to celebrate but be handed a trophy and medals. But, yes the game was exciting.

Like everyone that has a whinge you should have a solution.

Mine is a small change to what is a brilliant initiative to our game. 2 teams up and 2 teams down. 1st and 2nd of 2nd division automatically promoted to NPL and the 2nd Division has a regular final series .

The 12th team in NPL still automatically relegated then the 10th and 11th team do a one off relegation game to keep the excitement in week 1 of the finals series maybe on the Friday night, winner is safe loser gets relegated. No trophy presentation just one huge celebration for the winning team knowing they are safe.

This will keep the bottom of the table in NPL even more alive then it already is now, will also allow NNSW to not have to align the 2 competitions to end on the same weekend which must be a logistical nightmare especially with the wet weather we have experienced in the past few seasons.

Promotion and relegation has been awesome but in my opinion could be even better.

[northern_swan]

With that win, Cessnock are essentially safe now... and what a finish to the league this is. Let me spell out the last matchday for you...

ALL MATCHES AT SPEERS POINTS ON SATURDAY

Kahibah vs Cessnock, 11am
Doesn't matter about the result. Kahibah are already promoted and Cessnock will survive relegation on GD

Singleton vs South Cardiff, 1pm
If Singleton win, Southy are relegated. If Southy win, Singleton could potentially miss playoffs if Westy/Dudley draw.

Thornton vs Wallsend, 1pm
If Southy beat Singo, one of Thornton and Wallsend are going to Zone League. Wallsend need nothing less than a win.

Lake Mac vs Toronto, 3pm
Pretty much a nothing game. Toronto will finish 2nd no matter what, and it is highly unlikely Lake Mac will make playoffs or get relegated... But both are technically still possible...

West Wallsend vs Dudley Redhead, 3pm
Quite literally a battle for the playoffs. Winner makes finals, loser has to wait another year.

1. Kahibah | 44pts | +26
2. Toronto | 37pts | +28
3. Singleton | 22pts | +3
4. Westy | 22pts | +2
5. Dudley | 22pts | -7
6. Cessnock | 19pts | -5
7. Lake Mac | 19pts | -6
8. Thornton | 19pts | -11
9. Wallsend | 18pts | -12
10. Southy | 17pts | -18

Whatever happens, can someone at Northern turn the score boards on & operate them this week?

[ForeverRed]

With Peter Haynes and the grounds manager on a fully paid junket in Europe to find the next type of synthetic turf for speers point I?m not sure who?s turning the score board on, I know Bentley isn?t up to it

[Trigger]

With Peter Haynes and the grounds manager on a fully paid junket in Europe to find the next type of synthetic turf for speers point I?m not sure who?s turning the score board on, I know Bentley isn?t up to it

What a waste of money and shonky Peter would know better. Any info on product can be had over a zoom call.

[Trigger]

If Southy Lose or draw Wallsend safe regardless. Plenty of cases for a few to fall to 2nd last

[Alton]

With Peter Haynes and the grounds manager on a fully paid junket in Europe to find the next type of synthetic turf for speers point I?m not sure who?s turning the score board on, I know Bentley isn?t up to it

Thanks Red I wonder if clubs knew about this

[ForeverRed]

Thanks Red I wonder if clubs knew about this
I was told part of it was funded by the synthetic turf suppliers but I?m not sure of the percentage or if true

[ForeverRed]

What a waste of money and shonky Peter would know better. Any info on product can be had over a zoom call.
I agree, even if the trip was paid for by the suppliers I find it pointless and a waste of time, like you said most information required is at your finger tips nowadays.

[prawnhead]

I agree, even if the trip was paid for by the suppliers I find it pointless and a waste of time, like you said most information required is at your finger tips nowadays.

Fingertips and Zoom won?t cut it for assessing the suitability of a synthetic pitch FR.

The CEO could play a bit back in the day and knew where the goal was. He?s obviously just dusted the Copa?s off and decided to test it out first hand - fair play to him.

[ForeverRed]

Fingertips and Zoom won?t cut it for assessing the suitability of a synthetic pitch FR.

The CEO could play a bit back in the day and knew where the goal was. He?s obviously just dusted the Copa?s off and decided to test it out first hand - fair play to him.

Good luck to him mate, if someone offered me that opportunity I?d jump at it but I still think recognisancent junkets are a thing off the past

[Trigger]

oh yeah. I forgot the audience here are mainly lowbrow union slackers.

Ill leave the intelligent business acumen at the door next time. Time to block some roads because theres no AC in the crib hut

[Addios]

We need more than 18 games in this comp. Do 27

[Goatscheese]

I've heard Singleton want home field advantage to give them the best chance of making play-offs and despite rain forecast tomorrow and Saturday at Singleton Northern are going to let them do it despite Northern's desire to ensure all games are played this weekend. If I was at Thornton I'd be asking to host at home as well to give them a better chance of beating Wallsend.

[ForeverRed]

I've heard Singleton want home field advantage to give them the best chance of making play-offs and despite rain forecast tomorrow and Saturday at Singleton Northern are going to let them do it despite Northern's desire to ensure all games are played this weekend. If I was at Thornton I'd be asking to host at home as well to give them a better chance of beating Wallsend.
Disgrace if true

[The Hacker]

I've heard Singleton want home field advantage to give them the best chance of making play-offs and despite rain forecast tomorrow and Saturday at Singleton Northern are going to let them do it despite Northern's desire to ensure all games are played this weekend. If I was at Thornton I'd be asking to host at home as well to give them a better chance of beating Wallsend.

Surely with all the work Northern put in to map out the 2 division they aren?t going to throw that out the window. It will actually be an exciting day at the complex

[finzee]

I've heard Singleton want home field advantage to give them the best chance of making play-offs and despite rain forecast tomorrow and Saturday at Singleton Northern are going to let them do it despite Northern's desire to ensure all games are played this weekend. If I was at Thornton I'd be asking to host at home as well to give them a better chance of beating Wallsend.

Ok, if it gets called off Southy get 3 forfeited pts for stupidity.

[Alton]

I've heard Singleton want home field advantage to give them the best chance of making play-offs and despite rain forecast tomorrow and Saturday at Singleton Northern are going to let them do it despite Northern's desire to ensure all games are played this weekend. If I was at Thornton I'd be asking to host at home as well to give them a better chance of beating Wallsend.

Surely this isn?t happening, Northern make one of their smartest decisions in decades then this, nah sorry Singo see you at headquarters

[Zone Insider]

Surely this isn?t happening, Northern make one of their smartest decisions in decades then this, nah sorry Singo see you at headquarters

Seems they may have back tracked ? You have NPL clubs advertising matches at their own ground

[Bremsstrahlung]

To be fair, Singo or whoever should have first right to play the game at home.

But NNSWRFF is there as a backup and games will go ahead regardless of weather, one way or another.

Roles reversed, perhaps Southy would be pissed if they had a home game to save their season moved to a neutral venue.

I’m assuming this rain will make most grounds unplayable anyway.

[finzee]

To be fair, Singo or whoever should have first right to play the game at home.
I’m assuming this rain will make most grounds unplayable anyway.

The weather is the whole issue not who SHOULD play at home. Northern are trying to ensure games get played.
BTW you should play anyone anywhere if you think youre good enough. Tired of these infant excuses

[Pierre Essers]

The weather is the whole issue not who SHOULD play at home. Northern are trying to ensure games get played.
BTW you should play anyone anywhere if you think youre good enough. Tired of these infant excuses

No, Brem is correct here. Singo should have the first right to play at home if they are able to. As should anyone regardless of 5 mins or 60 mins drive.

If (& maybe when) the weather is an issue the neutral ground at LMFF should be the option as a back-up.

Not sure what's infant here with this?

[Bremsstrahlung]

The weather is the whole issue not who SHOULD play at home. Northern are trying to ensure games get played.
BTW you should play anyone anywhere if you think youre good enough. Tired of these infant excuses

Hey, I don’t really care, if I have any horse in this race it’s Southy and I’d be a little hurt to see them relegated.

Having time set aside at LMRFF is a great initiative to ensure all games are played.

I’m just saying, I think all home teams should have the right to host their games if they want to and their ground is playable. It’s the home and away season, but it’s like a finals game for most of these teams and it could definitely add/enhance the quality of these games.

When I played, I loved playing on good pitches, and agree in those instances usually better football wins.


I understand the weather is the issue, even if clubs are forced to make a decision on ground playability earlier than usual. As I said, I think in most instances the choice would be taken away with the rain we have had and will get. There would be nothing worse than having a game called off mid way through due to unsafe playing conditions.

No infant excuses, just offering an opinion, without name calling.

[MCG_1997]

I think the Wallsend will get the job done against Thornton. That will put extra pressure on Southy to make sure they beat Singo. A very exciting round 18.

[The Hacker]

I see they advertised all games shown live on YouTube. Guessing they aren?t sending a camera to Singo. The federation may of actually stumbled on a really good idea the neutral will hang and watch a game or 2 and the buzz will be high around the complex. Singo might just have to get on board

[Goatscheese]

Roles reversed, perhaps Southy would be pissed if they had a home game to save their season moved to a neutral venue.

All other clubs should be pissed that they haven't been given the opportunity to see if they can play at home. I'm sure West Wallsend and Thornton would rather host.

Northern made the call made it fair for all clubs and now because one club doesn't want that and have told Northern, they get what they want?


If (& maybe when) the weather is an issue the neutral ground at LMFF should be the option as a back-up.


And if the forecasted downfall happens 45mins before kick off? The game won't be able to be played, mid-week game would be coming through.

Aim is to get all games played this weekend for finals, this isn't round 3 where you can play later.

That some clubs get right to host and others aren't afforded it, puts the integrity of the competition in doubt.

[Goatscheese]

I think the Wallsend will get the job done against Thornton. That will put extra pressure on Southy to make sure they beat Singo. A very exciting round 18.

Thornton would like to host the game and be afforded the opportunity to host to give them the best chance of winning.

[Bremsstrahlung]

All other clubs should be pissed that they haven't been given the opportunity to see if they can play at home. I'm sure West Wallsend and Thornton would rather host.

Northern made the call made it fair for all clubs and now because one club doesn't want that and have told Northern, they get what they want?



And if the forecasted downfall happens 45mins before kick off? The game won't be able to be played, mid-week game would be coming through.

Aim is to get all games played this weekend for finals, this isn't round 3 where you can play later.

That some clubs get right to host and others aren't afforded it, puts the integrity of the competition in doubt.

I mean I did say ALL home clubs.

And how does “integrity” work when clubs are losing home games? You can argue Thornton and Singleton have possible promotion riding on the game.(again, not affiliated with any club that benefits from having a home game)

It’s a bit of a non event. And as I said originally, it’s a great idea and initiative from Northern to ensure games get on.

I’m just saying clubs should be able to say “our ground is fine, we will play at home and forfeit if it’s washed out”. If a club wants to take that risk, power to them.

[Goatscheese]

I mean I did say ALL home clubs.

And how does ?integrity? work when clubs are losing home games?

All clubs have lost a home game (last week was all at Speers Point too). To then allow one club the first call to host but not others is why.


You can argue Thornton and Singleton have possible promotion riding on the game.(again, not affiliated with any club that benefits from having a home game)

West Wallsend for finals as well.


I?m just saying clubs should be able to say ?our ground is fine, we will play at home and forfeit if it?s washed out?. If a club wants to take that risk, power to them.

If they said you have to forfeit if the game gets washed out is one thing, but Northern aren't going to say that.

[Addios]

I see they advertised all games shown live on YouTube. Guessing they aren?t sending a camera to Singo. The federation may of actually stumbled on a really good idea the neutral will hang and watch a game or 2 and the buzz will be high around the complex. Singo might just have to get on board

I will watch. Not going to Singo though

[The Hacker]

I will watch. Not going to Singo though

It would be good watching the 2 relegation games side by side.

[KITZ]

Ok, if it gets called off Southy get 3 forfeited pts for stupidity.

Its showing in Squadi as at Speers, so I'm not sure it's even a thing.

[ForeverRed]

Pitch inspection at singo late this arvo, laughable, how are clubs meant to prepare, grow some balls northern

[The Hacker]

Pitch inspection at singo late this arvo, laughable, how are clubs meant to prepare, grow some balls northern

So it could be ok at 5pm but piss down from 7pm and it changes. Northern need to follow thru with what they planned. Can other teams change

[ForeverRed]

Singleton v gunners is now at speers point, confirmed.

[The Hacker]

Singleton v gunners is now at speers point, confirmed.

Common sense prevails. Good days entertainment tomorrow

[ForeverRed]

Common sense prevails. Good days entertainment tomorrow
100%, I?ve had bad anxiety for three weeks supporting the gunners but I feel a lot calmer this evening, I know the boys have have put in a shift the last few weeks, they deserve some credit after what?s happened during the season in regards to coaching, they could have walked or rolled over but they?ve stuck together and deserve something Saturday, what will be will be, I?m at peace, they?ve made me proud,

[plague]

what will be will be, I'm at peace, they've made me proud,

Seeing FR sad vs seeing everyone else miserable that FR is happy.

What a conundrum........

Legit though, I wish them well. I know how much you love that club and it will be sad to see them drop if it happens.

[Bremsstrahlung]

100%, I?ve had bad anxiety for three weeks supporting the gunners but I feel a lot calmer this evening, I know the boys have have put in a shift the last few weeks, they deserve some credit after what?s happened during the season in regards to coaching, they could have walked or rolled over but they?ve stuck together and deserve something Saturday, what will be will be, I?m at peace, they?ve made me proud,

Will be a sad day if they go down.
Fond memories at Ulinga.
Sad with the work and progress they’ve made with PYL.
Just a bad year to finish last.

[Goatscheese]

Pitch inspection at singo late this arvo, laughable, how are clubs meant to prepare, grow some balls northern

Yep water all over the pitch, that Northern let a circus happen over the past 24 hours to only end up what should've happened if Northern had a backbone and just said no.

[the-deviant]

Southy going down is certainly an interesting case being such a central location in the competition. A team like Cessnock or Thornton could attract local players to go back up, but with Southy unless they?re throwing the $$$ around I?ll be interested to see how they fare in ZL1 should they be the team to go down.

[The Hacker]

Southy going down is certainly an interesting case being such a central location in the competition. A team like Cessnock or Thornton could attract local players to go back up, but with Southy unless they?re throwing the $$$ around I?ll be interested to see how they fare in ZL1 should they be the team to go down.

Hopefully Southy win and Wallsend go down. They have been a shambles for a decade abd deserve a spell.

[Bremsstrahlung]

Southy going down is certainly an interesting case being such a central location in the competition. A team like Cessnock or Thornton could attract local players to go back up, but with Southy unless they?re throwing the $$$ around I?ll be interested to see how they fare in ZL1 should they be the team to go down.

Similar thing happened with the drop from NPL to NL1. Lakes, Charlestown, Edgy, Valentine all nearby and lost most of their first grade to other clubs.
Basically starting from scratch. Not sure the background of players there now if likely to stay and fight in ZL1 next year, or move on. Regardless, I think winning ZL1 might be a tough ask.

Have the right idea with their PYL development. Competitive in youth comps against NPL and NL1 teams, and were hopefully working towards sustainability and having juniors come through to provide a base for some senior teams in years to come. Hard to foresee what happens, but think a few of their promising youth prospects may decide to move on to other clubs with that pathway to NPL/NL1.

It’s a tricky prospect dropping to ZL1, Especially with Warners Bay and Cardiff very established clubs in ZL1.

Obviously never good to see a team relegated, but it’s disappointing to see them actually working towards building the club up from the bottom in youth. Most clubs have youth to tick a box, but I feel like they have always done it well.

Anyway. Goodluck to them today! Crazy that the relegation battle comes down to the final round and there’s 5 points separating 3rd and 10th.
Really unfortunate for whoever finishes last.

[Jardelsimage]

It’s a tricky prospect dropping to ZL1, Especially with Warners Bay and Cardiff very established clubs in ZL1.

Obviously never good to see a team relegated, but it’s disappointing to see them actually working towards building the club up from the bottom in youth. Most clubs have youth to tick a box, but I feel like they have always done it well.

Anyway. Goodluck to them today! Crazy that the relegation battle comes down to the final round and there’s 5 points separating 3rd and 10th.
Really unfortunate for whoever finishes last.

I hope Southy wins today, being a Life Member of both Southy and CCFC, I don't really want that clash next season...

[Trigger]

All tears over Southy, be a bigger story if Wallsend went down. A once big, proud and one of the most successful clubs in Newcastle history.

[Knowsnuthin]

Watching northern league one on YouTube and if this is the best team (kahibah) in that comp they are definitely going to need to bring in players as most npl reserve grade teams would beat them.

[Bremsstrahlung]

HT:

Thornton 0 - Wallsend 1

Singleton 0 - South Cardiff 0

Big 45 for Southy.

[Bremsstrahlung]

1-1 Thornton Wallsend

[Bremsstrahlung]

Singleton missed a good chance to go ahead. good save from keeper.

Singleton Seem content to sit back and defend a draw at this point.

Southy yet to turn the screws and push for a winner.

15 to go

[Bremsstrahlung]

Great save from Thornton keeper to keep it 1-1

[Bremsstrahlung]

Thought 10 for Southy has been their best today.

[Bremsstrahlung]

1-0 Southy.

88th minute.

[matjpacker]

And then Wallsend go and score!

[Bremsstrahlung]

Wallsend 2-1
91st minute

[Bremsstrahlung]

Into 6 minutes of stoppage Southy game

[jessepinkman]

That tubby ref always likes to make it about himself

[the-deviant]

Unreal viewing, thank god for relegation. 3 teams all going down at some point in the final 10 minutes. Singo also at risk of missing the playoff too

[Toaf]

Unreal viewing, thank god for relegation. 3 teams all going down at some point in the final 10 minutes. Singo also at risk of missing the playoff too

Good viewing untill both games lost signal for streaming in injury time but other then that great spectacle unless your from thornton

[the-deviant]

Yep awful timing for that you are right

[Bremsstrahlung]

Damn. What. Crazy 15 minutes.

Congrats to South Cardiff and Wallsend.

Commiserations to Thornton.

[the-deviant]

Damn. What. Crazy 15 minutes.

Congrats to South Cardiff and Wallsend.

Commiserations to Thornton.

Lakes just need to avoid conceding 7?

[northern_swan]

Edge of seat stuff. Fantastic.

[Bremsstrahlung]

Lakes just need to avoid conceding 7?

One final twist haha.

[the-deviant]

1-0 Lakes. What a day

[TopCorner]

Its almost like promotion and relegation as a concept actually works ... shocked :dry:

Newcastle Football been stagnant for too long. Great drama at both ends of the table. Congratulations to Kahibah on promotion and those teams retaining their NL1 status. Great first season for Dudley also.

If you rest on your laurels now, live off past glories, then you'll get punished, and you just don't bounce back next season either.
Plenty of clubs are doing good things at lower levels and are ready to step up. Great to see.

[ForeverRed]

Amazing scenario with both games going at the same time creating a crazy atmosphere, I thought the gunners played smart and let singleton have the footy from the back, wasn?t a game for the purist with the first shot on target coming in the 70th minute, gunners, wallsend, Cessnock and Thornton all fought to the very end including the last 3 weeks as the results show, that?s football and as they say there can only be one winner.

[plague]

Huge congrats to everyone involved at Southy especially my man FR.

As much as you couldn't script a day like this any better, well in to Northern for getting the games played and creating the scene today.

I had no idea who was doing what most of the day but seeing different pockets of the crowd go nuts was a top day....even the rain added some fun.

Some good nonsense at the end with the Singo keeper looking like he wanted to take one of the Southy kids home as a keepsake from the day.

So now we have all agreed that pro/rel works let's not go out and cock it up please team.

Dudley's away kit is quite fetching.....and what the hell are Stags doing?

More of this in the future please everyone.

[MCG_1997]

I remember in 2023 they got an interim coach mid season after their coach of the time quit. They were dead last and the interim coach help them get off the bottom, and they missed the finals by 1 point (Southy finished 5th) and Thornton didn't continue with the bloke. They finished 2nd from the bottom last year, and they will be dead last this year.

I guess I predicted this for Thornton in March. Hahah
They will be an average side in ZL1.

[Undertaker]

Interesting to see that everyone?s congratulating Southy? Everyone was quick to judge Adamstown and their celebrations for staying up and winning the playoffs last season, yet no one is talking about how Southy?s just won the comp. (A bystander would have thought.)

Westy beat Stags
Valo beat Singo
Westy win promotion

[plague]

Interesting to see that everyone?s congratulating Southy? Everyone was quick to judge Adamstown and their celebrations for staying up and winning the playoffs last season, yet no one is talking about how Southy?s just won the comp. (A bystander would have thought.)

Westy beat Stags
Valo beat Singo
Westy win promotion

Most were laughing at Adamstowns coach and his carry on with that stupid trophy.

Most today agreed that one bad season for Southy would have seemed 'unfair' in the bigger picture of contribution to the sport over the last few years.


I saw relief today from the players, not carry on.

Supporters can feel relieved, and I don't have the table in front of me but after today didnt Southy only finish a win or so outside the play-offs?

Anyway, its sport my dude, just enjoy and don't over think it.

[plague]

Westy beat Stags
Valo beat Singo
Westy win promotion

I'll take any NL1 team replacing an NPL underperformer anyday.

The more chaos the better.

{laughs at New Lambton again}

At least next year there will be no bitching about who invented the eagle.

[Toaf]

Most were laughing at Adamstowns coach and his carry on with that stupid trophy.

Most today agreed that one bad season for Southy would have seemed 'unfair' in the bigger picture of contribution to the sport over the last few years.


I saw relief today from the players, not carry on.

Supporters can feel relieved, and I don't have the table in front of me but after today didnt Southy only finish a win or so outside the play-offs?

Anyway, its sport my dude, just enjoy and don't over think it.

2 points from a 4th place finish
Crazy singleton 22 points 4th
Southy 20 points 8th

[ForeverRed]

Interesting to see that everyone?s congratulating Southy? Everyone was quick to judge Adamstown and their celebrations for staying up and winning the playoffs last season, yet no one is talking about how Southy?s just won the comp. (A bystander would have thought.)

Westy beat Stags
Valo beat Singo
Westy win promotion
I was there to support the Southy players, it was a grand final for them, they had 3 different coaches during the season, they didn?t waver, they didn?t roll over, they didn?t walk, they deserved to be celebrated.

[Trigger]

Southy were a basket case for much of the season but pulled it together when it counted. Couldve gone either way.
Southy also beat Thornton and drew so justice probably served.

Stags arent good enough to beat Valo in the playoffs for mine.

[Bremsstrahlung]

Out of all the possibilities, I doubt many thought Thornton would be the unlucky ones to go down going into the final day.

Cessnock were bottom and got some important wins against Thornton and Toronto,
Wallsend bottom and got some important wins against Thornton, Dudley and a draw against Westy
Southy bottom and got some important wins against Singleton, Toronto and a draw against Thornton.

Thornton unfortunate - but didn?t get any wins on the road home.

I feel bad for Thornton. Such a tight competition this year. No clear relegation-worthy team. Even Thornton were a (14-0) win away from playing finals.
Previous years somebody has finished dead last, well and truly off the pace and probably more deserving than the 2025 Thornton team. But that?s football. Think they will do okay in ZL1.

Perhaps a bit of a reality check for a few clubs this year.

[Bremsstrahlung]

Amazing scenario with both games going at the same time creating a crazy atmosphere, I thought the gunners played smart and let singleton have the footy from the back, wasn?t a game for the purist with the first shot on target coming in the 70th minute, gunners, wallsend, Cessnock and Thornton all fought to the very end including the last 3 weeks as the results show, that?s football and as they say there can only be one winner.

Thought the game wasn?t too bad. Both teams defended well and seemed intent on not going behind. Fair enough. Southy keeper made an important stop. Singo should have scored there. Southy just struggled to transition to the final third. Thought their transitions between backs and midfield was pretty good. Just that final transition into final third attack was lacking, they didn?t look to cause many concerns of Singo until the last 10.

Thought 10 for Southy was great. Ran the midfield well. Made some important tackles. Distributed well.
Defence also did well - didn?t overcommit and managed to keep Singo?s skilful attack under control.
Looks like they channeled some Southy Spirit. Good to see lots of the youth getting there to support the seniors.

Kahibah in the early game had that game management ability of a NPL team. Happy to just control the ball. Able to fight the battle to win it back and then drop it back to the backs out of danger.

[Zone Insider]

Out of all the possibilities, I doubt many thought Thornton would be the unlucky ones to go down going into the final day.

Cessnock were bottom and got some important wins against Thornton and Toronto,
Wallsend bottom and got some important wins against Thornton, Dudley and a draw against Westy
Southy bottom and got some important wins against Singleton, Toronto and a draw against Thornton.

Thornton unfortunate - but didn?t get any wins on the road home.

I feel bad for Thornton. Such a tight competition this year. No clear relegation-worthy team. Even Thornton were a (14-0) win away from playing finals.
Previous years somebody has finished dead last, well and truly off the pace and probably more deserving than the 2025 Thornton team. But that?s football. Think they will do okay in ZL1.

Perhaps a bit of a reality check for a few clubs this year.

The current top teams in zone 1 would beat Thornton. Won?t be easy.

[Bremsstrahlung]

The current top teams in zone 1 would beat Thornton. Won?t be easy.

Sorry, I meant more that they should be able to recruit, maintain a reasonable squad.

Comparative to Southy, who I think may have struggled to keep a competitive squad unless they recruited from Cardiff, Warners bay etc.

Zone league 1 don’t have any teams up that way so may be an avenue for players from the area to play in that comp.

As it stands, I agree, I think they would be mid table.

[Trigger]

So playoffs are in:
Valo v Singo - Valo should get the W here, I dont think Singo can put 90 minutes together. We'll see

Stags v Westy - Cant pick this one. Stags won both this year but westy have some form right now.

[Yesk21]

So playoffs are in:
Valo v Singo - Valo should get the W here, I dont think Singo can put 90 minutes together. We'll see

Stags v Westy - Cant pick this one. Stags won both this year but westy have some form right now.

Westy are certainly the danger side in the playoffs, started to build confidence and could be hard to stop. Still think stags get the edge over them. Singo will be no easy beat for valentine.

[Hunter403]

Singo were really disappointing. No urgency, no desire. I really sleepy match. I would have thought Singo would have pushed hard to avoid meeting Valo, but they just didn't seem interested.
There is no doubt Southy have improved a lot since the change of coach. Still, they showed little urgency and were lucky to survive.
Credit to Wallsend for surviving. Let's hope they can take that and build something. Another poor season next year in both seniors and youth can't be acceptable. Hard work ahead.
Thornton should be a powerhouse club in that expanding area of the region. Sad that they haven't been able to harness it.

[ForeverRed]

Singo were really disappointing. No urgency, no desire. I really sleepy match. I would have thought Singo would have pushed hard to avoid meeting Valo, but they just didn't seem interested.
There is no doubt Southy have improved a lot since the change of coach. Still, they showed little urgency and were lucky to survive.
Credit to Wallsend for surviving. Let's hope they can take that and build something. Another poor season next year in both seniors and youth can't be acceptable. Hard work ahead.
Thornton should be a powerhouse club in that expanding area of the region. Sad that they haven't been able to harness it.
I thought the gunners controlled most of the match without threatening but they were patient and got their just rewards, you can?t going hard all game when it?s cut throat, urgency comes when you are behind on the scoreboard, they never were.

[Hunter403]

I thought the gunners controlled most of the match without threatening but they were patient and got their just rewards, you can?t going hard all game when it?s cut throat, urgency comes when you are behind on the scoreboard, they never were.

Your partisanship might be showing a bit there....I doubt few, except Southy supporters, would agree. However, enjoy the moment

[The Hacker]

Your partisanship might be showing a bit there....I doubt few, except Southy supporters, would agree. However, enjoy the moment

I agree with Red. Southy played it perfect. If they had of gone out all guns blazing and Singo pinched an early it would have been worst possible thing. They were patient controlled the middle of the park and tried to pinch a set piece. Singo played into their hands cause they looked scared to concede so were very passive

[Yesk21]

Have to applaud nnswf this weekend having all first grade fixtures at speers point because of the weather. Had a good atmosphere around all games right next to each other with relegation battles. One of their best

[Mr Beautiful 2.0]

Have to applaud nnswf this weekend having all first grade fixtures at speers point because of the weather. Had a good atmosphere around all games right next to each other with relegation battles. One of their best

That’s their job, do you clap and applaud the postman when he delivers your mail…..

[ForeverRed]

Have to applaud nnswf this weekend having all first grade fixtures at speers point because of the weather. Had a good atmosphere around all games right next to each other with relegation battles. One of their best
Agree,

[Goatscheese]

Interesting to see that everyone?s congratulating Southy? Everyone was quick to judge Adamstown and their celebrations for staying up and winning the playoffs last season, yet no one is talking about how Southy?s just won the comp. (A bystander would have thought.)

Ignoring the usual salty comments you have about South Cardiff, last year everyone was quick to judge that a trophy was awarded and celebrating with that. There was no trophy on Saturday, so you've missed the point completely.

[Goatscheese]

Supporters can feel relieved, and I don't have the table in front of me but after today didnt Southy only finish a win or so outside the play-offs?

Yes one more win over the year and Southy would be in the play-offs.

Very tight competitive competition, apart from 1st and 2nd only 6 points separated 3rd and 10th. Had a result or two for any of those 8 teams gone the other way we would've been talking about other teams being relegated.

[Addios]

Its almost like promotion and relegation as a concept actually works ... shocked :dry:
Newcastle Football been stagnant for too long. Great drama at both ends of the table. Congratulations to Kahibah on promotion and those teams retaining their NL1 status. Great first season for Dudley also.
If you rest on your laurels now, live off past glories, then you'll get punished, and you just don't bounce back next season either.
Plenty of clubs are doing good things at lower levels and are ready to step up. Great to see.

Agree and about time.

I know its possible but how does Singleton beat Valentine?

[Yesk21]

Agree and about time.

I know it?s possible but how does Singleton beat Valentine?

Singleton isn?t an easy road trip, a win is a must at home for singleton. Anything is possible

[RightFoot]

The more chaos the better.

Could not agree more.

F' it, I'm rooting for Singo to get promoted to NPL.

[plague]

Could not agree more.

F' it, I'm rooting for Singo to get promoted to NPL.

Indeed.

I want to see the big Singo keeper introcing himself to the locals at Magic Park or Jack Mac.

Would be good for the game etc etc.

[ForeverRed]

Indeed.

I want to see the big Singo keeper introcing himself to the locals at Magic Park or Jack Mac.

Would be good for the game etc etc.
Bring it on I say

[GO AWAY]

Loving the promotion relegation bringing in new opponents each year. Whether stags are
In NPL or NL1. Will be different having New Lambton back and Croatia in NL1

[Zone Insider]

Loving the promotion relegation bringing in new opponents each year. Whether stags are
In NPL or NL1. Will be different having New Lambton back and Croatia in NL1

How it should be. Also adds to zone football with different teams coming down and fighting to come back up

[Yesk21]

Westy too good today, definitely in the box seat for promotion after watching the other teams

[ForeverRed]

Westy too good today, definitely in the box seat for promotion after watching the other teams
How bad was singo v valo, it hurt my eyes watching

[KSSFC]

How bad was singo v valo, it hurt my eyes watching

My thinking was Valo had to have had regular first graders out and playing reserve graders because if that was their first grade team that played all season in NBN im surprised they didnt come dead last, i agree

[Zonal Marking]

Have Westy got a genuine shot at getting past Valo or are we going to have a team not even from the competition crowned champions of Newfm again?

[the-deviant]

Have Westy got a genuine shot at getting past Valo or are we going to have a team not even from the competition crowned champions of Newfm again?

Based off the fixtures just gone I would say Westy would see off Valo quite comfortably. Unless something drastic changes for the Phoenix

[Goatscheese]

Have Westy got a genuine shot at getting past Valo or are we going to have a team not even from the competition crowned champions of Newfm again?

No one was crowned Champions of NewFM last year.

[Zonal Marking]

No one was crowned Champions of NewFM last year.

Adamstown won the newfm finals series.

[The Postman]

Adamstown won the newfm finals series.

Adamstown won the "Promotion/Relegation Play-off Series"

[outsider]

Adamstown won the "Promotion/Relegation Play-off Series"

They also got a trophy

[Goatscheese]

Adamstown won the newfm finals series.

The only NewFM finals series was the reserves sides.

Bet you look at the EFL Championship playoff and wonder how the top two teams don't get a chance to play in the grand final.

[Addios]

Adamstown won the "Promotion/Relegation Play-off Series"

It appeared they did. They got a trophy presentation and celebrated that looked like a GF win but the history books say no.

Newfm comp still needs a proper GF for mine.

[Hunter403]

It appeared they did. They got a trophy presentation and celebrated that looked like a GF win but the history books say no.

Newfm comp still needs a proper GF for mine.

Mat Moncrieff had the right idea. Read his post

[Jardelsimage]

Mat Moncrieff had the right idea. Read his post

where is his post??

[GO AWAY]

Toronto 3-0
Valo 2-0

Fingers crossed haha

[Hunter403]

where is his post??

In this thread on 6/8/25

[Jardelsimage]

QUOTE:The previous board had already rubber stamped promotion/relegation its not something the new board should be hanging their hat on. The format was formed under their tenure no doubt and although it is very good it still my opinion needs a review and a few changes to make it even better.

The whole no standard final series for 2nd division is not right in my opinion and I said this last year when Belswans won. Premier League etc arguement's a side Australian sport is built around the Grand Final being the pinnacle of just about every team sport. Take last year for example Belswans won with 2-3 games to go and virtually had nothing to play for potentially affecting the integrity of the competition in 1sts and reserve grade then sat back and watched other teams play out a final series in their comp as well as every other comp in the area. Then you have the farcical trophy presentation/celebration to the Adamstown players at the end of the promotion game while Toronto were not acknowledged at all at the presentation. No blame to Adamstown they had every right to celebrate but it just didn't pass the pub test for me, it just wasn't right they run 11th in their competition they had every right to celebrate but be handed a trophy and medals. But, yes the game was exciting.

Like everyone that has a whinge you should have a solution.

Mine is a small change to what is a brilliant initiative to our game. 2 teams up and 2 teams down. 1st and 2nd of 2nd division automatically promoted to NPL and the 2nd Division has a regular final series .

The 12th team in NPL still automatically relegated then the 10th and 11th team do a one off relegation game to keep the excitement in week 1 of the finals series maybe on the Friday night, winner is safe loser gets relegated. No trophy presentation just one huge celebration for the winning team knowing they are safe.

This will keep the bottom of the table in NPL even more alive then it already is now, will also allow NNSW to not have to align the 2 competitions to end on the same weekend which must be a logistical nightmare especially with the wet weather we have experienced in the past few seasons.

Promotion and relegation has been awesome but in my opinion could be even better.



We ae all getting caught up in these playoff games, thinking it is good for the comps, i don't think it is, when as MM says last year Belswans had nothing to play for in the end, only to see Adamstown raise a trophy for what???

Why don't they just go back to 1up, 1down then semis as per usual?? I dont see the sense of playoff games when we have 12 team comps

[ForeverRed]

Gunners have signed Keelan Hamilton as first grade coach next season, good appointment

[anfield]

Maybe the best solution is having NL1 a 12 team competition to mirror and align with the NPL.

Still retain promotion /relegation playoff game, but just 1 game.
But add a Final series to NL1

Week 1
1st are promoted and have week off in final series.
2nd have week off from final series but play a play off with 11th in NPL for a spot in following season's NPL. 1 game , winner takes all. Game at a Neutral venue

3 v 6
4 v 5

Week 2
1st play at home to lowest rank winner from previous weeks finals.

2nd play at home to highest rank winner from previous weeks finals.

Week 3
Grand Final at Neutral venue

NL1 gets 4 more regular season games, which is probably the right number. Opens up more spots in the pyramid for zone league teams in each division.

[Zone Insider]

Maybe the best solution is having NL1 a 12 team competition to mirror and align with the NPL.

Still retain promotion /relegation playoff game, but just 1 game.
But add a Final series to NL1

Week 1
1st are promoted and have week off in final series.
2nd have week off from final series but play a play off with 11th in NPL for a spot in following season's NPL. 1 game , winner takes all. Game at a Neutral venue

3 v 6
4 v 5

Week 2
1st play at home to lowest rank winner from previous weeks finals.

2nd play at home to highest rank winner from previous weeks finals.

Week 3
Grand Final at Neutral venue

NL1 gets 4 more regular season games, which is probably the right number. Opens up more spots in the pyramid for zone league teams in each division.

Issue will be when clubs who come up from zone 1 that dont have PYL and can?t be promoted or compete in playoffs.

[RightFoot]

Issue will be when clubs who come up from zone 1 that dont have PYL and can?t be promoted or compete in playoffs.

This model actually aids the ZL/non-eligible clubs. At the moment if a non-eligible club makes the top 4, they are not allowed to compete in the playoffs.
This new model proposed by anfield allows non-eligible clubs to compete in the finals series, while keeping the playoff concept and even making the playoff more exclusive with reduced access to get promoted. I like it.

[The Hacker]

This model actually aids the ZL/non-eligible clubs. At the moment if a non-eligible club makes the top 4, they are not allowed to compete in the playoffs.
This new model proposed by anfield allows non-eligible clubs to compete in the finals series, while keeping the playoff concept and even making the playoff more exclusive with reduced access to get promoted. I like it.

I agree that is an outstanding idea and is sensible. Give him a job at Northern

[RightFoot]

How this model would've played out this season:

Week 1
pro/rel playoff
Toronto vs Valentine (neutral venue)

preliminary finals
West Wallsend (H) vs Wallsend (A)
Singleton (H) vs Dudley (A)

Week 2
semi finals
Kahibah (H) vs Lowest ranked W1 Winner (A)
Toronto (H) vs Highest ranked W1 winner (A)

Week 3
grand final

[Zonal Marking]

Maybe the best solution is having NL1 a 12 team competition to mirror and align with the NPL.

Still retain promotion /relegation playoff game, but just 1 game.
But add a Final series to NL1

Week 1
1st are promoted and have week off in final series.
2nd have week off from final series but play a play off with 11th in NPL for a spot in following season's NPL. 1 game , winner takes all. Game at a Neutral venue

3 v 6
4 v 5

Week 2
1st play at home to lowest rank winner from previous weeks finals.

2nd play at home to highest rank winner from previous weeks finals.

Week 3
Grand Final at Neutral venue

NL1 gets 4 more regular season games, which is probably the right number. Opens up more spots in the pyramid for zone league teams in each division.

I actually dont mind this.

My only potential gripe is whether a relegation match should come down to just a one off 90mins winner takes all match. It is such a big moment in the future direction or even existence of some clubs should it be at minimum a two legged playoff over 180mins to ensure that a team does not go down purely because of a bad day at the office.

For the record im not saying I am against it though

[Zone Insider]

This model actually aids the ZL/non-eligible clubs. At the moment if a non-eligible club makes the top 4, they are not allowed to compete in the playoffs.
This new model proposed by anfield allows non-eligible clubs to compete in the finals series, while keeping the playoff concept and even making the playoff more exclusive with reduced access to get promoted. I like it.

Several factors to consider also if a non eligible club are premiers, what happens then ? No relegation from NPL?

[RightFoot]

Several factors to consider also if a non eligible club are premiers, what happens then ? No relegation from NPL?

As it stands currently...

"Should a team without Premier Youth League teams finish as premiers of Northern League One, they will not be promoted to NPL Men?s. In this instance, the team finishing in 11th place (qualifying for the play-offs) will remain in NPL Men?s and the team finishing 12th will take their spot in the relegation playoffs rather than be automatically relegated."

[Zone Insider]

As it stands currently...


"Should a team without Premier Youth League teams finish as premiers of Northern League One, they will not be promoted to NPL Men?s. In this instance, the team finishing in 11th place (qualifying for the play-offs) will remain in NPL Men?s and the team finishing 12th will take their spot in the relegation playoffs rather than be automatically relegated."

Thanks for that

[anfield]

I actually dont mind this.

My only potential gripe is whether a relegation match should come down to just a one off 90mins winner takes all match. It is such a big moment in the future direction or even existence of some clubs should it be at minimum a two legged playoff over 180mins to ensure that a team does not go down purely because of a bad day at the office.

For the record im not saying I am against it though

My reasoning, Firstly it fits into the schedule well being only one week.

Secondly , I think everyone likes an event, a final. I think the interest will there for a one off game. Crowd will be big for that match.

[The Hacker]

I actually dont mind this.

My only potential gripe is whether a relegation match should come down to just a one off 90mins winner takes all match. It is such a big moment in the future direction or even existence of some clubs should it be at minimum a two legged playoff over 180mins to ensure that a team does not go down purely because of a bad day at the office.

For the record im not saying I am against it though

It currently is a one off game for pro/relegation

[GO AWAY]

I actually dont mind this.

My only potential gripe is whether a relegation match should come down to just a one off 90mins winner takes all match. It is such a big moment in the future direction or even existence of some clubs should it be at minimum a two legged playoff over 180mins to ensure that a team does not go down purely because of a bad day at the office.

For the record im not saying I am against it though

Or the last three minutes of a playoff 😢😢🤣

[Zonal Marking]

My reasoning, Firstly it fits into the schedule well being only one week.

Secondly , I think everyone likes an event, a final. I think the interest will there for a one off game. Crowd will be big for that match.

No arguments with any of that. Just pointing out just how much is on the line in just a one off match.

[Zonal Marking]

It currently is a one off game for pro/relegation

Yeah I know but i think it should probably be decided over 180mins

[anfield]

No arguments with any of that. Just pointing out just how much is on the line in just a one off match.

I think that's the plus side of a one off match, how much is at stake. A little like the EPL playoff match at Wembley, There is much more interest in a winner takes all clash.

[Zonal Marking]

I think that's the plus side of a one off match, how much is at stake. A little like the EPL playoff match at Wembley, There is much more interest in a winner takes all clash.

Agreed although the EPL playoff is 2 teams vying to go up. What we have is a team that are already in the top division potentially losing their place in the competition due to a poor 90min showing.

[monz6]

Agreed although the EPL playoff is 2 teams vying to go up. What we have is a team that are already in the top division potentially losing their place in the competition due to a poor 90min showing.

1980 minutes plus stoppage time during the normal season is surely more than enough time to avoid coming 11th

[Zonal Marking]

1980 minutes plus stoppage time during the normal season is surely more than enough time to avoid coming 11th

You could argue avoiding coming 12th should be suffice enough to avoid having to enter a one off relegation match

[northern_swan]

Mine is a small change to what is a brilliant initiative to our game. 2 teams up and 2 teams down. 1st and 2nd of 2nd division automatically promoted to NPL and the 2nd Division has a regular final series .

The 12th team in NPL still automatically relegated then the 10th and 11th team do a one off relegation game to keep the excitement in week 1 of the finals series maybe on the Friday night, winner is safe loser gets relegated. No trophy presentation just one huge celebration for the winning team knowing they are safe.

This will keep the bottom of the table in NPL even more alive then it already is now, will also allow NNSW to not have to align the 2 competitions to end on the same weekend which must be a logistical nightmare especially with the wet weather we have experienced in the past few seasons.

I like the ideas that have been put forward here, but just to expand on this one, could it be over 2 legs instead of a winner takes all scenario?

Also agree on NL1 going to 12 teams in time, especially if more clubs join at ZL3 moving forward. You could do this in 2 ways:
1- no relegation for 2 years (eg 2027 is 11 teams, 2028 is 12 teams, done via promotion)
2- no relegation for 1 year & zone league 1 winner plus grand final winner going up (or runner up if a team wins the league & grand final). This method could be replicated easily down to ZL3 to keep comps at 12

[Zonal Marking]

I like the ideas that have been put forward here, but just to expand on this one, could it be over 2 legs instead of a winner takes all scenario?

Also agree on NL1 going to 12 teams in time, especially if more clubs join at ZL3 moving forward. You could do this in 2 ways:
1- no relegation for 2 years (eg 2027 is 11 teams, 2028 is 12 teams, done via promotion)
2- no relegation for 1 year & zone league 1 winner plus grand final winner going up (or runner up if a team wins the league & grand final). This method could be replicated easily down to ZL3 to keep comps at 12

I think posters are getting too caught up on the excitement of one off games. Yes they are great but the idea that a team can lose its place in the top division because of a single bad day at the office just does not sit right with me. There are too many ramifications of going down and clubs potentially can be set back years.

[monz6]

You could argue avoiding coming 12th should be suffice enough to avoid having to enter a one off relegation match

I understand what you’re saying but that’s just sport. So many grand finals are lost by the team that wasn’t the best all year, because they had an off day or didn’t get up for it as much as the other team. UFC fighters lose titles because they had an off day, even though they may be a better fighter than the person who beat them. You could also argue it should be three games instead of two. But it’s one. Both teams know that in advance and have the same amount of time to prepare for it. Also, what if the npl team wins game one 3-0 and has a shocker in game two and loses 4-0?

[Zonal Marking]

I understand what you?re saying but that?s just sport. So many grand finals are lost by the team that wasn?t the best all year, because they had an off day or didn?t get up for it as much as the other team. UFC fighters lose titles because they had an off day, even though they may be a better fighter than the person who beat them. You could also argue it should be three games instead of two. But it?s one. Both teams know that in advance and have the same amount of time to prepare for it. Also, what if the npl team wins game one 3-0 and has a shocker in game two and loses 4-0?

Yes but losing a grand final does not usually have long term ramifications on a club. You come back next season in the same division and you go again.

Relegation however has the potential to completely tear a club apart and I just dont think a club should be at risk of suffering that fate over a one off 90 minute game of football.

And two games traditionally in our sport is the perfect number in this scenario as it does give you the chance to recover from a crazy fluke result.

If an NPL team is leading 3-0 in the first leg and lose the 2nd leg 4-0 then they probably dont deserve to be playing NPL

However if they completely dominate a match for 89mins but just have one of those days where it wont go into the net and go onto concede an own goal in the 90th minute well I think they deserve the chance to come back the following week to try and fix their shortcoming. If lightning strikes twice well thats unfortunate but they can have no complaints.

Overall you cant compare a grand final to a relegation playoff. The whole purpose of a grand final is to give the underdog the best possible chance of succeeding which is what we love to see in this country. A relegation playoff however should be construed so that the superior team has the better chance to advance as you want the best teams playing in the league the following season and making the competition as strong as can be.

[plague]

However if they completely dominate a match for 89mins but just have one of those days where it wont go into the net and go onto concede an own goal in the 90th minute

To be fair in order to have a chance at an unlucky event like this you need to put in a solid 20 odd rounds of shite to qualify yeah?

[monz6]

Yes but losing a grand final does not usually have long term ramifications on a club. You come back next season in the same division and you go again.

Relegation however has the potential to completely tear a club apart and I just dont think a club should be at risk of suffering that fate over a one off 90 minute game of football.

And two games traditionally in our sport is the perfect number in this scenario as it does give you the chance to recover from a crazy fluke result.

If an NPL team is leading 3-0 in the first leg and lose the 2nd leg 4-0 then they probably dont deserve to be playing NPL

However if they completely dominate a match for 89mins but just have one of those days where it wont go into the net and go onto concede an own goal in the 90th minute well I think they deserve the chance to come back the following week to try and fix their shortcoming. If lightning strikes twice well thats unfortunate but they can have no complaints.

Overall you cant compare a grand final to a relegation playoff. The whole purpose of a grand final is to give the underdog the best possible chance of succeeding which is what we love to see in this country. A relegation playoff however should be construed so that the superior team has the better chance to advance as you want the best teams playing in the league the following season and making the competition as strong as can be.


You make some great points and I agree with a lot of them. I’m not really pro one and against the other to be honest. Two games would be just as good. More football who could complain. I just think that the one game format doesn’t make it unfair on the NPL team. They have a whole season not to come 11th and be in that position. It’s 21 chances to try and fix their shortcomings.

[Trigger]

And two games traditionally in our sport is the perfect number in this scenario as it does give you the chance to recover from a crazy fluke result.
If an NPL team is leading 3-0 in the first leg and lose the 2nd leg 4-0 then they probably dont deserve to be playing NPL

Nah. Some are way over thinking these scenarios. If teams wins 3-0 off 3 shots theyre still quality. finishing 2nd isnt a fluke in L1, finishing 2nd last isn't a fluke in NPL. 90 minutes is more than enough time to get a real result. Anything can happen and if you think you need a cry over any result than the next year the big ego club should go straight back up. Its pretty simple.

[Zonal Marking]

Nah. Some are way over thinking these scenarios. If teams wins 3-0 off 3 shots theyre still quality. finishing 2nd isnt a fluke in L1, finishing 2nd last isn't a fluke in NPL. 90 minutes is more than enough time to get a real result. Anything can happen and if you think you need a cry over any result than the next year the big ego club should go straight back up. Its pretty simple.

Yeah its really not that simple. You are definitely underestimating how difficult it is to come back up when you do go down.

[Zonal Marking]

To be fair in order to have a chance at an unlucky event like this you need to put in a solid 20 odd rounds of shite to qualify yeah?

But you have still done enough to not finish bottom of the table which is traditionally fulfilling the criteria to stay in the division.

[Jeterpool]

Hey all - for those who don't browse outside the local forums, Furns has shared a Forum hosting update. Please have a look.

https://www.newcastlefootball.net/forum/showthread.php?3430-Site-Foz-upgrades&p=283007&viewfull=1#post283007

[Goatscheese]

the EPL playoff

Don't you mean the EPL grand final?

[Zonal Marking]

Don't you mean the EPL grand final?

They don’t do grand finals in England

[GO AWAY]

Great the game is on tonight. Great if you are a player, but it?s on field 2 for some reason and little shelter for the crowd. Must be a NPL game on field 1 ?

[Goatscheese]

They don?t do grand finals in England

Attended one last year in England, Wigan won. Can't seem to get anything right. That's before we quietly mention that the EPL doesn't even have a playoff


Great the game is on tonight. Great if you are a player, but it?s on field 2 for some reason and little shelter for the crowd. Must be a NPL game on field 1 ?

According to Squadi it is on field 1. The Valo-Singleton game has also been moved onto field 1 tomorrow with the NPL Minor Semi-Final being played on field 2.

[Zonal Marking]

Attended one last year in England, Wigan won. Can't seem to get anything right. That's before we quietly mention that the EPL doesn't even have a playoff

Wrong sport dipwad

[Yesk21]

Great the game is on tonight. Great if you are a player, but it?s on field 2 for some reason and little shelter for the crowd. Must be a NPL game on field 1 ?

Toronto v westy is on field 1

[The Hacker]

Toronto v westy is on field 1

Do we think Toronto can overturn the 2 goals

[northern_swan]

Do we think Toronto can overturn the 2 goals

Based on the first half…no (watch this prediction age like milk left in the sun)

[GO AWAY]

Based on the first half…no (watch this prediction age like milk left in the sun)

You were right, but not sure how, stags hit crossbar three times, damo missed one in third minute and westy. Had
Fifteen injuries where ref had to stop the game,
Including a cramp eighty metres back down the field,
Good luck to them, let?s say they defended the 4-2 lead
Well.