2013 Zone League 2 Thread

[Itsmuz]

Tbh I was surprised to hear teams sing for a first leg victory, but that's just me.

To be fair, didnt hang around to hear it (if it happened) but Mussy deserved to sing their team song for a very good win against a Westlakes side who were equally impressive.
Scoreline maybe slightly flattering to Mussy as WL were very good also. Very tight first half, both teams knocking on the door a few times and for all Mussy's chances when they got up the other end, they put little threat onto the WL goalie and it was only a fantastic near-post save from the Mussy keeper that kept them from going into the break down 1-0.
Second half, as has been said, Mussy bossed it in the midfield and any time the Linds or the #40 got goal side of the WL midfield they were a serious threat. Mussy's forwards are quality and full credit to the WL backline for their effort.

As for reggies, a missed penalty and a goal against the run of play saw us down 1-0 at HT and we huffed and puffed but just couldnt score in the second until a bit of fortune when they made a defensive error allowed us to sneak one in at the death. I'd say we deserved it though and 1-1 was a fair scoreline. Charlie are quality opponents and its always a tough game. looking forward to next weekend.

[pv4]

If I were to have won yesterday, I would have attempted to persuade my guys not to sing as it would have only been the half way mark overall. But I'm sure I would have been outvoted and we would have sung. If we don't win the overall match, I'll refuse to sing regardless of the score, even if we edge it by not enough, this upcoming sunday

[the_butcher]

During first grade some local fans,uncouth brats,drunk yocals, however you describe we're absolutely disgraceful.after giving it to 2 elderly mussy supporters turned on one mussy guy supporting and looking after their bags that were later vandalized.one bloke jumped all over their kits(looked to be in a marching band) then 20 minutes after a confrontation with the mussy guy grabbed their white board and snapped it in half over the fence..

I heard people talking about this at the New Fm GF today. What an absolute disgrace. I'd be very surprised if this doesn't go further.


If like you said a mussy guy saw his mates stuff getting stood on why didnt he move the bags?

I'm absolutely gobsmacked by this comment.


Its something our committee will have to address in the offseason.

I'd suggest addressing this shit now. If, like you said, this has been going on for a few games, why hasn't the club been pro-active in stamping out this sort of rubbish?


Seems to me they sorted it out.

Seems to me like they did quite the opposite. I have a feeling this isn't the last we'll hear about this. It's a terrible look for a club who already doesn't have the best of reputations.

[pv4]

To be fair there's been two major incidents of note by off field supporters. The first were guys who flew from qld and haven't been back since, the second were regulars who as I said was totally out of character. The club was proactive in that in the week leading up to the game we were preparing to put a harsh word on the first incident blowins if they showed up, but they didn't and the club thought it would be an incident free day. As I said, I missed the whole incident but it sounded like to me when the issue was reaching its peak that ejections were made and it was dealt with, like I mentioned.

To be honest I personally don't know where it gets taken from here. If it doesn't get dealt with there will be some heads rolling, I know that much. Our problem is our entire club features one player who is over 30 years old, and absolutely no committee members over mid-20s. It's a bunch of kids who have been dumped an entire clubs worth of responsibility on, and not the ideal scenario of several older heads showing up on game day specifically to sort off field things and the like.

None of this is excuses btw, I'm just giving people an insight into our scenario.

At the end of the day we've got to deal with a problematic supporter or two (they aren't apart of the playing group btw), and figure out the best course of action from there. Like I said, I personally don't know what that is.

Were people talking about it at the newfm GF because mussy fans were at said gf, by any chance? :rof:

[pv4]

Needless to say, it'll be interesting come sunday to see where us westlakes boys leave our bags :rof:

[the_butcher]

Were people talking about it at the newfm GF because mussy fans were at said gf, by any chance? :rof:

Though Muswellbrook have fans across all four corners of the world, I'm not sure if there were many there today.



Needless to say, it'll be interesting come sunday to see where us westlakes boys leave our bags :rof:

You won't have to worry about that at such a well-run club like Muswellbrook. The duty officers up there do more than just wear the vest.

[Cabaye#4]

As I said, I missed the whole incident but it sounded like to me when the issue was reaching its peak that ejections were made and it was dealt with, like I mentioned.

You didnt see it. So please dont make claims that it was dealt with. It wasnt.
I bit my tongue yesterday rather coming on here and expressing my disgust for what I saw, but as a spectator who saw the whole incident unfold, and whom even was asked to support the mussy bloke in cases things escalated, all i can say that its pathetic if westlakes feel like the matter was even remotely well handled.

The only reason they were ejected was because 4 or 5 of your own fans stepped in to tell the deadbeat off.
The stomping of the bags occurred after the first goal, in retaliation to said mussy supporter yelling out something about what the guys name who scored was (ie, they had been yelling abuse and name calling all game, and the musdy guy yelled out 'his name is blah blah by the way'), to which this deadbeat lowlife degenerate responded by saying something like 'well who's bags are these? Stomp stomp stomp stomp, lolz.
The mussy guy went over and told him off, to which he was given a response by 2 drunk cavemen 'what are u gonna do about it?'. Note, these 2 guys were ur typical singlet wearing, built like a brick shithouse, higher weight than IQ, more tattoos than brain cells kind of guys.
So this all happened while the duty officers both sat watching the game (not having a go at the duty officers).
Later, after the 3rd goal, a loud banging was heard, and i looked over to see this brainless individual slamming the muswellbrook whiteboard over the railing, and breaking it by bending it at right angles. Only then did an old bloke and a few others nearby step in to ask this guy to funk off. At this time, another fan was telling the duty officer about what was going on, and after some coaxing, the f'wits were asked to leave. Despite refusing to go, then claiming ignorance (i didnt mean to), then saying sorry and thinking that'd suffice.

I dont kno what constitutes leaving, but going into the carpark to continue drinking by their car didnt really seem like punishment as i drove offer after the game finished.

Now, Charlestown Oval is now an alcohol free zone due to the problematic youths who seem to frequent the ground, which does nothing really, except ruin it for us, as we cant sell or consume booze at our games (legally). Id seriously question how westlakes have a liquor license yet no concept of RSA or the associated LAWS that having this license requires.
The fact is, intoxicated individuals should be ejected from your ground, as the law states, not because they damage people's possessions.

But, i also agree with your comments about who can actually do anything.
I'll b the first person to say that if the mussy bloke needed help if things escalated, i would have been none, as these guys would have put me in hospital, so i understand how there is a problem with 20 plus year old duty officers not really wanting to take a hard line approach, but the fact is, if these guys were served alcohol, you've failed your RSA. If these guys drank their own booze, then issues come up around your policing that (very difficult im aware).

At the end of the day, this isnt a dig at any individuals, but i think the club has some serious issues to address. As mentioned above, this isnt an isolated incident, and just because it hasnt been mentioned on the forums doesnt mean it hasnt been issues all year.
Great setup, great individuals at the club trying to do the right thing, but the club has let those individuals down by expecting them to deal with situations that they arent equipped to deal with.

On a side note.
Charlestown 2-2 Jesmond

[true waterboy]

I agree with alot of the comments about this issue. I think as a club we dealt well with alot of issues on the day however I think this event was handled poorly.

Im only mentioning this to be nit picky to show how easy it is for these type of events to occur, as you mention its apparently illegal to consume alcohol at your venue, there were at least three different supporters groups drinking alcohol from glass bottles on the grass today. It only takes one person to throw one of those glass bottles and its a similar story as to yesterday at our home ground. Im only mentioning this to open peoples eyes as to how different events can be seen (or missed) by respective duty officers.


Anyways back to talking about soccer. I only watched the first half of charlie and jeso today but imo that was one of the better standards of footy ive watched this year. some very breif notes i took was that charlie keeper seems to be impressive at handling crosses, his take of a corner under presser was unbelievable. Alot of good performances by a number of players but i was really impressed by charlie captain and is it law (sp?) from jeso. Also charlies first goal was a classy finish.

[pv4]

Though Muswellbrook have fans across all four corners of the world, I'm not sure if there were many there today.




You won't have to worry about that at such a well-run club like Muswellbrook. The duty officers up there do more than just wear the vest.

:rof: picked up on the only two sarcastic comments in the whole post :rof:

Yeah Cabaye I agree with what you've said. I don't think there's a single person who think the matter was as effectively sorted on the day as it could have been. As I said, I was embarrassed by what happened. All I was making mention to, which has been picked up on by you & the butcher, is from an "outside" perspective, ejecting guys sounds like they at least got some form of balls to do something.

I know I was duty officer before firsts even started, and I made sure I walked up to the end of the dressing sheds at least 3 times, so I would have hoped our guys would have been routinely doing similar during firsts where the crowd was quite frankly massive compared to normal, but I personally really don't know what/how/when/etc.

Whether it was alcohol sold or brought in, I genuinely don't know. I can guess, and probably be right, but that's for the investigators to find out I guess.

:rof: I can confirm the guys in question do lift - they're massive. I didn't even know about the fact they went to the carpark after being ejected till yesterday on the way to the charly game when I was told - I'm sure this is just one more issue that needs to be addressed.

Out of curiosity to the guys who were and weren't there but have commented on the situation - and this is a semi-serious question as I personally am legit out of my depth here - what would you guys do about the situation if it were your club? Just say a committee meeting that you're involved with was happening 5 minutes after seeing this post - what would you be attempting to make happen so that some form of reputation for your club was brought back, so the matter was unheard of in the future, and in regards to dealing with the specific individuals (the regulars from Sat, and the blowins from a few weeks ago)? Would you suggest the everyone in the club perform seppuku? Would you suggest everyone give up & go play league, or Friday night all age? Would you suggest try and setup a system where the duty officers do more, and in general learn from the mistakes? Would you suggest we play good cop/bad cop on the problem spectators? Do they get banned? How do you uphold a ban on a public venue?

Also Cabaye if your man goes to Arsenal and Per keeps number 4, what are you going to do mate? :rof:

Also on the football (excuse the thread derailment, we can continue on to the crowd problems after this) - I thought watching Olympic & Westlakes was a bit of fun yesterday. It's a shame that the playing surface has such a wicked bobble, the ball spent most of the time during the game in the air. Speaking with bias it felt like Westlakes edged the game overall (yet rarely, or didn't, trouble the Olympic 18yard box enough), and it was only due to a defender taking on a striker in his own third and losing possession that saw the solitary goal happen. I hope I'm free next week to watch the return fixture, I had good fun. I didn't get to see the firsts game yesterday.

[true waterboy]

hamo v cats
0-0

Sad to see our ressies knocked out. I dont think we played good today but I thought we were the better team last week. First year since I started playing seniors I havnt been involved in a grand final (4 years). Shame that our goal was disallowed at the end there, but we shoulda capitalised on our other chances.

Anyways good luck to all those playing next week.

On a side note for the kit nerds, does anyone from charlie or jeso struggle to play against each other. I woulda thought they would need an alternative strip for red v maroon.

[grub]

Charly 1 - Jesmond 0. Charly win 3-2 on agg.

[Swanky]

hamo v cats
0-0

Sad to see our ressies knocked out. I dont think we played good today but I thought we were the better team last week. First year since I started playing seniors I havnt been involved in a grand final (4 years). Shame that our goal was disallowed at the end there, but we shoulda capitalised on our other chances.

Anyways good luck to all those playing next week.

On a side note for the kit nerds, does anyone from charlie or jeso struggle to play against each other. I woulda thought they would need an alternative strip for red v maroon.

The Blue of Olympic and purple/green of weslakes is closer matche then Charlie v jeso
Also with the disaalowed goal the whistle had blown well and truly before the bloke shot I'm sure the spastic Olympic keeper would saved it if he wanted too. Weslakes can dream they dominated but its Olympic who go through and weslakes can dream what may have been were outclassed over the 2 legs

[true waterboy]

I dont think I can agree with you on the game, but I do agree with you comments about our strips. I was quiet surprised that when both keepers were asked if they could changed their jerseys (both wearing green) last week that hamo wasnt asked to wear an alternate strip. And Im also surprised that we werent asked yesterday when our keeper had to change shorts.

I dont think in ressies it made a difference but in first grade being faster tempo I thought it may have

[true waterboy]

On another side note I thought jeso park was quiet good to play on yesterday. When the field is dry the cricket pitch doesn't seem to be as pronounced. Hopefully the drainage is better next year

[Cabaye#4]

Res Uni 1-6 Charlie
1sts Mussy 3-2 Westlakes (so im told), we had boarded the bus at ht, it was 2-0 at ht.

Must say that im over the moon to have both grades in next week's grand finals. We struggled at times this year with both on & off field problems, but both grades found consistency at the right time.

In response to you pv4, i think it probably comes back to the R in RSA. I commend you guys having such a good variety of booze at your ground ($5 for a pint of becks? Wow!), but unfortunately that can encourage individuals to become intoxicated, and as is life, it only takes a few bad eggs to ruin it for everyone.
That, combined with a bit more alert duty officers (i kno u are there to watch too, but u can surely do both from a better vantage point where u can see the game AND all potential incidents), are probably the only real options.
Address the issue for what it was, and put a bit tighter policies in place so that if these kind of issues do come up, u can address them before they reach that point.
As soon as drunk individuals start exchanging insults/banter with other spectators, i think someone needs to step in and just give a courtesy 'lets keep it civil guys' in order to stop things b4 someone thinks its fine to vandalise other ppls property.

Anyway, enuf has been made/said of the incident both on and off the forums. Im sure westlakes will deal with the issue.

Saturday 14th September
1st Grade Grand Final @ Johnston Park, West Wallsend, 3pm
Muswellbrook v Charlestown
Res Grade, 1245pm
Olympic v Charlestown

Should be a good afternoon at Wembley!

[pv4]

I thoroughly enjoyed the westlakes and mussy hitout today. The mussy boys are a terrific bunch - play hard and get results. Westlakes were happy with our effort today but three goals was too much to turn over

Good luck to the golden eagles in the final next week at wembley!!

[pv4]

I thoroughly enjoyed the westlakes and mussy hitout today. The mussy boys are a terrific bunch - play hard and get results. Westlakes were happy with our effort today but three goals was too much to turn over

Good luck to the golden eagles in the final next week at wembley!!

[pv4]

And Im also surprised that we werent asked yesterday when our keeper had to change shorts.


Outsider - can you give us a run down on what refs are told the rules regarding kits are in Newcastle?

As far as I'm aware, teams can clash shorts. Both outfield teams, both keepers, the refs, etc - all can wear the same colour shorts. Shorts mean nothing in terms of clashes. And keepers are allowed to wear whatever colour shorts they want, regardless of who else is wearing what. As far as I'm aware the only rule that NNSW state that is different to FIFA law is NNSW dictate that local keepers wear the same socks as their outfield players.

Why, exactly, did the ref on the weekend at Olympic v Westlakes ask our keeper to change shorts to match the outfield players shorts colours?

Note: I wasn't there Sat, but this gives me enough of a headache to ask the question.

Also, in before everyone says "it's jerseys, it's shorts, who cares?" - I care.

Also FWIW Swanky I agree that Westlakes/Olympic clash. I struggled with us two playing each other, and also us playing Charlestown (and hence why we wore our away kit for round 2 v Charesltown). We were potentially going get our reserves to wear our away kit for the Jesmond Park game v you guys on Sat, but after seeing that you guys wore your home kit for your "away" game we decided that the refs wouldn't care for us to do the same the week after.

[Swanky]

Outsider - can you give us a run down on what refs are told the rules regarding kits are in Newcastle?

As far as I'm aware, teams can clash shorts. Both outfield teams, both keepers, the refs, etc - all can wear the same colour shorts. Shorts mean nothing in terms of clashes. And keepers are allowed to wear whatever colour shorts they want, regardless of who else is wearing what. As far as I'm aware the only rule that NNSW state that is different to FIFA law is NNSW dictate that local keepers wear the same socks as their outfield players.

Why, exactly, did the ref on the weekend at Olympic v Westlakes ask our keeper to change shorts to match the outfield players shorts colours?

Also FWIW Swanky I agree that Westlakes/Olympic clash. I struggled with us two playing each other, and also us playing Charlestown (and hence why we wore our away kit for round 2 v Charesltown). We were potentially going get our reserves to wear our away kit for the Jesmond Park game v you guys on Sat, but after seeing that you guys wore your home kit for your "away" game we decided that the refs wouldn't care for us to do the same the week after.

Our Keeper had to change shorts on Saturday as well. First time ever he has to wear the same colour shorts as his team.

Whenever we have played at Rathmines we have worn Yellow tops (Away Shirts) but whenever Westlakes have came to Connelly you have always worn your home Purple and Green. We had yellow and blue strips there but our boys preference was to wear our home strip

[true waterboy]

Our Keeper had to change shorts on Saturday as well. First time ever he has to wear the same colour shorts as his team.

Whenever we have played at Rathmines we have worn Yellow tops (Away Shirts) but whenever Westlakes have came to Connelly you have always worn your home Purple and Green. We had yellow and blue strips there but our boys preference was to wear our home strip

Unfortunately our alternate strip wasnt available for our away trip at hamo. this year was the first that I think our strip has clashed with opponents (being yours and charlie) due to having less green. I think we stuffed up by not having an alternate strip ready for our away clash with you and hopefully we wear it more often cause I love the design being one that we wore in juniors.
I proposed we wear our alternate strip (which is basically all white) in our away leg of the final saturday but our boys were happy to continue wearing the home strip. I would of liked both teams wearing home and away strips. I was just suprised first grade didnt have an issue being a faster tempo.

[the_butcher]

So what is everyone's prediction for the GF? Some may say Muswellbrook are favourites considering they are the premiers but Charlestown did beat them in their last encounter. Should be a great game. Would personally like to see the boys from the 'brook take it out, i think they thoroughly deserve it.

[SK15]

You should celebrate every victory. No need to be sore losers.

[SK15]

Also I agree with the comment about the Purple and Blue clashing strips. We have a yellow strip and probably should have used it.

[pv4]

So what is everyone's prediction for the GF? Some may say Muswellbrook are favourites considering they are the premiers but Charlestown did beat them in their last encounter. Should be a great game. Would personally like to see the boys from the 'brook take it out, i think they thoroughly deserve it.

Word from Mussy is when they've had their full team, they've not scored less than 2 goals in any one game. So assuming Saturday is the same, and Mussy get their usual 2 (or more) goals - I think it'd be too much to ask from Charlestown to overcome in a grand final IMO. So I'll pick the golden eagles for the double. But in terms of this league, I'm horrendous at predicting things - I picked Olympic to win the grand final, and they came I think 6th!

Got my orange shirt ready for Sat :cool:

[true waterboy]

I think mussy will be too strong in firsts.

As for ressies I think it will be a close contest. Before the finals started I said who ever wins out of us v olympic would take it out, but after their assistant coaches rants on the sideline in the last game I hope charlie get up.

[demon]

Looking forward to wandering down and watching these games. The ground was in great shape for the last game (New FM Semi Final) so I hope they kept the automatic sprinklers on these last few weeks to give a great GF

[sharky21]

Here's hoping they have the wooden spoon properly engraved with the words "back to back". Surely we have deserved that over the past two season's.

Iv been lost to the world of football since tenambits last game and have only found out who in GF. So congrats and good luck to the four teams involved over the both grades.

[pv4]

Charly 3-0 in reserves
Charly 3-2 in firsts. The better team won. Crazy finish to the game

[pv4]

So what is this rule I read on zl3 forum about players not being able to start both reserves and firsts? Is that aactually a rule? I think there may have been one or two charly players that did this today, if so

[true waterboy]

So what is this rule I read on zl3 forum about players not being able to start both reserves and firsts? Is that aactually a rule? I think there may have been one or two charly players that did this today, if so

From the rules an outfield player can't start in both grades. A player designated at the start of the finals to be a keeper can start both.

[Shayne]

From the rules an outfield player can't start in both grades. A player designated at the start of the finals to be a keeper can start both.

This is what happened in first.

Our reserve grade striker is our first grade keeper, has been most of the year! He was the only player to start both grades.

Great wins by Charlestown today bagging both grand final wins!

Great day for the club and did it with class.

Reserves was all Charlie, 2-0 at HT, dominated the first 25, with some good defense in the late stages of the first half to keep the clean sheet. As expected Hamilton came out firing in the second and had Charlie under the pump, though they held their composure. Charlie nabbed their third to seal the game. Hamilton got a pen late into the second half which was saved brilliantly by the Charlie keeper, tipping it onto the post. Only to be "cleared" Charlie, but an indirect free kick was awarded to Hamilton. From here the game went into disarray. I wont say anything more, but it wasn't pretty. Game finished Charlie 3-0. Great win by Charlie and well deserved.

First grade was a close fought game, with both teams showing class, into HT at 0-0. Charlie was the first to score with a great finish by the charlie striker. Soon after Charlie made it 2-0 with a low shot across the keeper into the far corner. Muswellbrook fought back to make it 2-1 after a hand ball into the box (I think the shot was going well high and wide, tough from my angle, any further comments?), finished by the Muswellbrook keeper. There was some drama mid way through the second half with two Muswellbrook players being sent and one from Charlie sent off. Once again wont comment any further. Mussy player finished well into the bottom corner to level the scores with 10 to go. 2-2. Nail biting finish with the scores tied and 5 to go, Charlestown to finished it off with a goal in the last minute to win it, great strike by the Charlestown mid fielder.

Awesome atmosphere in the grand stand with both groups of supporters giving each team the support they deserved and some heckling as well. Good stuff. Great day all round, but hats off to Charlie for bagging the double GF wins.

[pv4]

I was behind the goals and thought the ball was going on target. But I thought it was a harsh call to be a straight pen tbh.

First half it was pretty even - charly looked on top but mussy looked good on the counter and had more clear cut chances. Second half was mostly charly imo. Very deserved winners in the end. Overall though it seemed a day for the keepers - all keepers were very busy and pulled off some phenomenal saves

[the_butcher]

Charly 3-0 in reserves
Charly 3-2 in firsts. The better team won. Crazy finish to the game

Disagree. Thought mussy had some huge chances but Charlie keeper kept them in the game in the first half. Could have been game over. Charlie then finished their two chances exceptionally well to make it 2-0. Ref maybe harsh in sending 2 mussy players off. Mussy fought back like the champion team they are to make it 2-2. They pushed for the win when they probably should have played for the draw & got caught out.

In saying all that congrats to Charlie for winning both grades, great achievement!

Well done to muswellbrook. Their work on the field, off the field and in the stands is befitting a higher grade.

[The Dreaded Keeper]

Congrats to Charlie on the first grade win today. Took their chances and were too good for us on the day. A shame we couldn't test out the keeper a little more as we created plenty of opportunities-he made a great save in the first half, top stuff really and kept them in it, but from there almost every shot went straight to him. I even kicked one straight at him from 12 yards but he dived out of the way?!!!

Chris Matthews was all class too. A standout in this division every time I've seen him. If he had an equally good strike partner they'd score 30 a season each.

Thoroughly deserved in both grades Charlie-enjoy your night/s on the piss!!!

[mrpewterschmidt]

chris matthews actually got on the piss last night and walked home from newcastle to edgeworth, he got home at 7:20am this morning, quite a good performance considering

[mrpewterschmidt]

also, thoughts on that penalty? i appreciate the ref was just trying to make it interesting for the fans, but seriously, how was that a pen?

[thebear]

Definitely wasn't a pen. The player that conceded it was a hard place all season and didn't deserve such a monstrosity of a decision.

[thebear]

Player of the season: big dunc
Team of the season: west lakes. 11 all stars, can't think of a player that could crack into their team. Top shelf.

[mrpewterschmidt]

The only player who could crack into that side would be an at strength westlakes player

[Cabaye#4]

As for ressies I think it will be a close contest. Before the finals started I said who ever wins out of us v olympic would take it out
Ima lol at this comment now considering charlie beat olympic twice, beat westlakes once and drew, beat uni once, and drew other to decide minor premiership on the final day, THEN pumped the minor premiers 7-2 on aggregate. Then strolled home 3-0 against a typically grubby olympic side.
One sent off after the final whistle, few other cheap shots during the game, and quality comments from their bench telling their players to try and injure our 1st grade keeper so he couldnt play afterwards. "Kick him so he wont play 1st grade"
What a disgrace. Disappointing our average finishing didnt give them the 6 goal drubbing they deserved.

[true waterboy]

Ima lol at this comment now considering charlie beat olympic twice, beat westlakes once and drew, beat uni once, and drew other to decide minor premiership on the final day, THEN pumped the minor premiers 7-2 on aggregate. Then strolled home 3-0 against a typically grubby olympic side.
One sent off after the final whistle, few other cheap shots during the game, and quality comments from their bench telling their players to try and injure our 1st grade keeper so he couldnt play afterwards. "Kick him so he wont play 1st grade"
What a disgrace. Disappointing our average finishing didnt give them the 6 goal drubbing they deserved.
I was basing my comments on performances against us. But I'm glad I was wrong. Hope you guys aren't too sore this morning after last nites partying.
As for your comments about their grubyness, it was a similar story in our semis against them. Wasn't suprised to hear that player get sent after the game after his displaces during and after our semis.
I gotto admit I didn't mind talking to a few of their guys just that a few others carry on.

[Cabaye#4]

I was basing my comments on performances against us. But I'm glad I was wrong. Hope you guys aren't too sore this morning after last nites partying.
As for your comments about their grubyness, it was a similar story in our semis against them. Wasn't suprised to hear that player get sent after the game after his displaces during and after our semis.
I gotto admit I didn't mind talking to a few of their guys just that a few others carry on.
I'm in the same boat. A few of the guys are quite nice, level headed blokes, and good for a chat. Unfortunately the majority of the team, including the agro captain, cant keep their cool and want to escalate things, on a fairly regular basis.
Win or lose, do it with class (or at least some dignity).

As for 1st grade, i think anyone spectating would agree there probably wasnt a better grand final to watch across all the divisions, as the game really had everything. After starting well, i think halftime helped Charlie as it gave us a chance to regroup just as it looked like Mussy were going to get over us in the centre of the park. I thought we had the better of the first 25 and were unlucky not to take the lead, but Mussy finished the half well and also couldve taken the lead.
Second half was a more one sided as a whole, Mussy offered little threat against the breeze and Charlie took a deserved 2-0 lead. Could/should have been 3 as I think we had one goal line scramble cleared off the line at least twice, and then the 'incident' made things interesting with 10 v 9 for the last 20 minutes!
The incident being what it was, a brain snap, and an inexplicable boot to the head of our player on the ground, after already standing on his hand (accident or otherwise). Charlie guy sent off for escalating and throwing a few jabs during the ensuing melee, and i believe the 2nd Mussy player was sent for a combo of dissent/gesturing/escalating etc. the ref actually was looking to send another player off, but the linesman couldnt help him identify the player (so im told by our sideline spies).
From there, it was awkward to defend the lead and man advantage, or keep attacking.
The crucial goal came from a poor decision imo. All players want is some clarity and consistency in handball decisions. After not giving Charlie a penalty in the first half where a shot clearly struck an outstretched arm as the mussy player tried to block a shot because the player wasnt looking at the ball, hence deemed not intentional, i find it bizarre that he then gives a penalty when the ball hits a players arms in front of his own chest because he was looking at the ball as it was hit into him from 2 meters away. That makes no sense to me, and we could argue over the handball rule/interpretation for months.
They scored, it gave them an obvious lift with about 15 to go, and they came home like a house on fire. After struggling all day to hit water from inside a boat the previous 85 minutes, an optimistic 30 yarder found its way into the bottom corner and it was 2-2.
Rightly or wrongly, Mussy kept pushing as they probably sensed blood in the water, and with about 90 seconds left were caught on the counter, and Charlie got a winner which I feel we deserved on the day. Cue mass celebrations as Charlie did the 1st/Res Grade double for the 2nd time in 3 seasons.
Great atmosphere in 1st grade provided by both sets of supporters, and a fitting finale to the season.

[true waterboy]

Win or lose, do it with class (or at least some dignity).


I really love this quote. Sums it up nicely.

Cheers for the firsts match report. sadly wasnt able to attend the match and regretting it after hearing of the events. great to hear it had abit of everything.

The extra person you said the ref was wanting to send off, do you know which team they were from and was it for escalation of the fight? im guessing it was just a square up. refs hate it when they dont send the same number of people off after a fight.

[Cabaye#4]

The extra person you said the ref was wanting to send off, do you know which team they were from and was it for escalation of the fight? im guessing it was just a square up. refs hate it when they dont send the same number of people off after a fight.
From what im told, they were looking at another mussy player as there was a few mussy players man handling our guy, hence his shirt was ripped/ruined, but they couldnt work out who to send/thought it may have been #10, whom they already had sent for his gesturing etc after it had all been broken up.

[pv4]

Tbh there were two mussy handballs in the box in the first half that went uncalled. I thought the pen for mussy in the second half was pretty harsh to charly in the context.

If I were mussy I would have kept attacking at the death when 2 all too. They were on their last legs (it was hot, particularly in the first half) and were a man down and I couldn't see them lasting through extra time.

Good game. I didn't see any other divisions finals but this one was much more exciting than I could have predicted.

[The Dreaded Keeper]

Pv4 is #mussyfo'life.

[the_butcher]

A couple of quotes from my boy PV4 at the beginning of the season...


westlakes (zl2, will be zl1 after this upcoming season) have kept the same coaching staff


because I'm a gambling man, watched no one outplay the wildcats last season & the squad is greatly strengthening for next season

[SK15]

Well done Charlestown you guys deserved it in Reserve grade. Can't say I watched the match in Firsts but like I said - you deserved to win. Sorry about some of our players misconduct too.

[nosmackjustfact]

The fact.
The hammers put the nail in that season.
No smack.

[Cabaye#4]

So what the hell am I meant to do this weekend?

[Cabaye#4]

What makes u think tenambit will be
will be dead last?? We came down from League 1 may have come last but always were competitive in 90% of games have lost bigger all from first grade infact have improved in my opinion. I understand its your opinion but was just wondering how u came about it that's all??

I for one hope you come straight back up good bunch of blokes laughable that some think you'll come last
Lolz. So much optimism for Merewether & Tenambit at the start of the season.

[Cabaye#4]

Anyone game to have a firm guess at premiers and grand final winners yet???


mbrook or charly imo

Give that man a new!

(Obviously I found something to do this weekend)

[CCB]

Here is the Muswellbrook Chronicle's write up on the big GF.
Good to see teams getting some local coverage.
http://www.muswellbrookchronicle.com.au/story/1790301/gritty-eagles-right-to-the-end/?cs=1235

Congrats to Muswellbrook on a great season, and all the best next season.
Well done to our Charlestown boys for achieving what looked very unlikely midway through the season, in winning both grand finals.

[nosmackjustfact]

The fact.
Best smiley face dude thingy ever.
No smack.

[sharky21]

Lolz. So much optimism for Merewether & Tenambit at the start of the season.
That wasn't the first and id say won't be the last time my drunken rambling will come back to bite me. lol
To say this season was disappointing would be an understatement.
The past two have been rubbish really to get back to back wooden spoons and to win a combined 3 games in first grade over the two years ain't much to be proud of. But the biggest disappointment would be the second half of this season where we stopped competing in games.

[namwob99]

That wasn't the first and id say won't be the last time my drunken rambling will come back to bite me. lol
To say this season was disappointing would be an understatement.
The past two have been rubbish really to get back to back wooden spoons and to win a combined 3 games in first grade over the two years ain't much to be proud of. But the biggest disappointment would be the second half of this season where we stopped competing in games.

You staying up blacky?

[sharky21]

You staying up blacky? Not sure yet club still to make a decision on what grade to apply for. From what I can gather we can choose. But dnt take that as gospel as I havnt been involved in any of those discussion.

[curious_fan]

Not sure yet club still to make a decision on what grade to apply for. From what I can gather we can choose. But dont take that as gospel as I havnt been involved in any of those discussion.

Yes, you are right Russell Henry puts out a note to all clubs and asks them to submit applications for what Division they would like to play in. From there he inevitably does a bit of negotiating with some clubs so they get as close to the right numbers as possible in each division etc but I do believe he tried his hardest to get clubs where they need to be in terms of being realistic and competitive as possible. Thankfully most clubs are willing to give as well as take for the best of the entire Zone comp.

I can't remember the dates off the top of my head but it is in the New Year I think once clubs have had a chance to look at their preseason turnouts and registrations etc so there is always time after a season for any club to be proactive about any issues they might have if they can.

[lafootball]

THE GALLAGHER SHIELD
Wallsend Fc vs South Cardiff Fc

Wallsend will play South Cardiff in the very first Gallagher Shield. The Gallagher shield is in honour of Peter Gallagher who passed away from brain cancer just last year. Pete played for both of these great clubs and was a special player and person.
We are hoping to make this a yearly event between these two sides. The day will be held at the Gardens in Wallsend on February 2 and next year at South Cardiff, all three grades will play: 3rd grade, reserves and first grade. There will be a points system in place to determine which club wins the Shield, for example: If wallsend win in reserve grade they get 5 pts, if first grade win they get 7 pts etc. Which ever club ends up with the most points will win the Gallagher Shield and will get to keep that shield at their club for the year as well as bragging rights!
Each year we would like to dedicate this day to someone in need. Katie Vullo lost her husband just 8 weeks ago to a brain tumor. He had only just graduated with first class honours at Newcastle University as a lawyer & they were moving to Sydney for a job when he was diagnosed in November 2012 with a grade 4 GBM. The highest grade and most aggressive brain tumor. He passed away at the age of just 30. Katie is also 34 weeks preganant with their first child.
So on the day we are looking to raise some money for her and her child. The day is all about helping someone in need and I’m sure we can pack out the stadium and show our support!
For entry, there will be a gold coin donation. Also on the day there will be a BBQ, raffles, canteen, bar, entertainment and of course, some competitive football.
It would be great to see everyone wearing red & white on the day. After the games are finished, the club boxes at the top of the stadium will be opened for everyone to enjoy some drinks and share some stories! It would be great to get as many old boys from both clubs to make it a special day. Red and white is the colour of the day. So if you have nothing on that day, feel free to come down and have a watch. Cheers

[outsider]

THE GALLAGHER SHIELD
Wallsend Fc vs South Cardiff Fc

Wallsend will play South Cardiff in the very first Gallagher Shield. The Gallagher shield is in honour of Peter Gallagher who passed away from brain cancer just last year. Pete played for both of these great clubs and was a special player and person.
We are hoping to make this a yearly event between these two sides. The day will be held at the Gardens in Wallsend on February 2 and next year at South Cardiff, all three grades will play: 3rd grade, reserves and first grade. There will be a points system in place to determine which club wins the Shield, for example: If wallsend win in reserve grade they get 5 pts, if first grade win they get 7 pts etc. Which ever club ends up with the most points will win the Gallagher Shield and will get to keep that shield at their club for the year as well as bragging rights!
Each year we would like to dedicate this day to someone in need. Katie Vullo lost her husband just 8 weeks ago to a brain tumor. He had only just graduated with first class honours at Newcastle University as a lawyer & they were moving to Sydney for a job when he was diagnosed in November 2012 with a grade 4 GBM. The highest grade and most aggressive brain tumor. He passed away at the age of just 30. Katie is also 34 weeks preganant with their first child.
So on the day we are looking to raise some money for her and her child. The day is all about helping someone in need and I’m sure we can pack out the stadium and show our support!
For entry, there will be a gold coin donation. Also on the day there will be a BBQ, raffles, canteen, bar, entertainment and of course, some competitive football.
It would be great to see everyone wearing red & white on the day. After the games are finished, the club boxes at the top of the stadium will be opened for everyone to enjoy some drinks and share some stories! It would be great to get as many old boys from both clubs to make it a special day. Red and white is the colour of the day. So if you have nothing on that day, feel free to come down and have a watch. Cheers



Please send a letter to State League referees requesting referees for the day and mention the reason for the day.Hopefully referees who are prepared to donate their time for free will be made available on the day.-I am assuming that this is an out of competition day.

[lafootball]

THE GALLAGHER SHIELD
Wallsend Fc vs South Cardiff Fc

Wallsend will play South Cardiff in the very first Gallagher Shield. The Gallagher shield is in honour of Peter Gallagher who passed away from brain cancer just last year. Pete played for both of these great clubs and was a special player and person.
We are hoping to make this a yearly event between these two sides. The day will be held at the Gardens in Wallsend on February 2 and next year at South Cardiff, all three grades will play: 3rd grade, reserves and first grade. There will be a points system in place to determine which club wins the Shield, for example: If wallsend win in reserve grade they get 5 pts, if first grade win they get 7 pts etc. Which ever club ends up with the most points will win the Gallagher Shield and will get to keep that shield at their club for the year as well as bragging rights!
Each year we would like to dedicate this day to someone in need. Katie Vullo lost her husband just 8 weeks ago to a brain tumor. He had only just graduated with first class honours at Newcastle University as a lawyer & they were moving to Sydney for a job when he was diagnosed in November 2012 with a grade 4 GBM. The highest grade and most aggressive brain tumor. He passed away at the age of just 30. Katie is also 34 weeks preganant with their first child.
So on the day we are looking to raise some money for her and her child. The day is all about helping someone in need and I’m sure we can pack out the stadium and show our support!
For entry, there will be a gold coin donation. Also on the day there will be a BBQ, raffles, canteen, bar, entertainment and of course, some competitive football.
It would be great to see everyone wearing red & white on the day. After the games are finished, the club boxes at the top of the stadium will be opened for everyone to enjoy some drinks and share some stories! It would be great to get as many old boys from both clubs to make it a special day. Red and white is the colour of the day. So if you have nothing on that day, feel free to come down and have a watch. Cheers



Please send a letter to State League referees requesting referees for the day and mention the reason for the day.Hopefully referees who are prepared to donate their time for free will be made available on the day.-I am assuming that this is an out of competition day.

Yep indeed it is an out of competition day. Thanks mate, will look into doing that for sure!