THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
NEWCASTLE Jets coach Gary van Egmond delivered a blunt message to Stuart Musialik yesterday, declaring the errant midfielder had "hurt a number of people" by missing the Olyroos training camp and needed to take responsibility for his actions.
Musialik, the Newcastle born-and-bred playmaker who steered the Jets to a 1-0 grand final win against Central Coast on Sunday, was cut from the Olyroos squad when he failed to join the team in camp on Tuesday before flying out on Wednesday for their friendly clash with Mexico.
He was apparently uncontactable, and Olyroos coach Graham Arnold eventually lost patience. Doubt now surrounds Musialik's selection chances for the Beijing Olympics.
The 22-year-old offered a variety of excuses to the media yesterday for his non-attendance but insisted that excessive post-grand final partying was not a contributing factor.
Initially he said he became separated from his mobile phone and was unaware that people were trying to contact him.
He then revealed he had some "personal issues" that needed to be dealt with and was feeling "a bit flat" after Newcastle's play-off campaign.
But van Egmond said yesterday that Musialik needed to realise that representative selection was an honour that should never be taken for granted.
"It doesn't take too much for him to pick up the phone and call someone," van Egmond said yesterday.
"It doesn't take too much for him acknowledge the fact that [Jets assistant coach] Mark Jones has rung him three times and we've got people sitting up in the Australian camp waiting for him.
"I'm the first one to go into bat for Stuey and the issues that he has, and I'm very understanding of it.
"I think he's a wonderful person and a wonderful player, and I want him to reach his maximum potential. But he's also got to help himself.
"We've all got our issues, some worse than others, obviously.
"But at the end of the day it's paramount that people who are selected for the Olyroos turn up, because I would suggest there are a number of people out there who would give their back teeth to have as much talent as Stuart Musialik and be given the same opportunities he has. He's got to realise that."
Asked if he thought Musialik's omission would prove a wake-up call, van Egmond replied: "I hope it is. The quicker he wakes up to himself with regard to people wanting to help him, the better he'll be, as a footballer and a person."
Van Egmond agreed it was "a possibility" that Musialik might have cost himself a spot in Australia's Olympic squad.
"That's up to Graham Arnold, and I'm sure Arnie will have a good talk to him when he gets back from America," he said.
"What he's done is hurt a number of people who've gone out on a limb to help him, and that's probably the most disappointing thing."
Musialik said yesterday that there was "a little bit of partying after the game, but nothing too heavy".
Asked to explain why he was AWOL, Musialik replied: "My mobile phone and charger and car keys were in my bag, and I couldn't get to my bag until Tuesday afternoon. I've been doing a little bit of surfing, but it wasn't due to partying. It wasn't as if I was partying for three days straight."
He said he had since spoken to Arnold.
"I told him I had a few personal issues going on and he seemed very understanding about it," Musialik said.
Musialik, who is yet to re-sign with Newcastle for next season, admitted that he felt he had "let the [Olyroos] boys down and I'm very sorry about that".
Van Egmond was hopeful that Musialik would stay with Newcastle despite interest from Melbourne.
"It's just a matter of seeing where we are as far as that is concerned," he said.
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/van-egmond-gives-wayward-musialik-piece-of-his-mind/1193427.html
Friday, February 29, 2008
'Jets Will Stay For Mates Rates'
FOURFOURTWO.NET.AU
By Jon Ritson
EXCLUSIVE: Matt Thompson says the Jets’ Championship stars simply want a fair deal for their services with none seeking ‘out of this world money’ to stay put.
One of the club’s biggest stalwarts is disappointed that celebrations are being tainted somewhat by continued talk of departures and hopes Andrew Durante’s exit is not the start of the floodgates opening.
The left-back/midfielder, who has been with the Jets since the very start of the A-League, said goodbye to Durante as the club celebrated its success at a civic reception on Thursday and he is anxious that the Jets family remain largely intact.
Mark Bridge is thought to be next with a move to Sydney FC imminent while Stuart Musialik and Tarek Elrich are on the radars of other A-League clubs.
Successful sides build from a position of strength and Thompson knows it is a lot harder to rebuild a team from scratch.
Speaking to au.fourfourtwo.com today he said: “We’ve had a great year and we’re more than just teammates, we’re like a family.
"You don’t want a family to break up do you? Look, the boys want to stay here. None of the out of contract guys are asking for out of this world money mate.
“I’m sorry to see Andrew Durante go because he’s a quality player. He’s been a great competitor for this club and you look what he’s gone through to achieve the success he has (two broken legs).
"Equally, you can’t blame the guys if a better deal is on offer somewhere else. You aren’t just talking about a player having to make a decision for himself.
"It may well be that he is in a situation where he has to make a decision as to what’s best for his family."
He added: “I’d love to keep all the boys together here and go on to build on the success we’ve had this year.
"We’ve one of the youngest, if not the youngest squad in the competition and you hope those boys continue to progress alongside the more experienced players.
“Other clubs aren’t stupid though. They are obviously looking at the situation and everyone wants quality players.
“We lost quite a few players at the end of last season and look what we’ve achieved this year but I think you’d rather be in a position where you’re not having to keep rebuilding at the end of each year.”
Article source http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/71113,jets-will-stay-for-mates-rates.aspx
By Jon Ritson
EXCLUSIVE: Matt Thompson says the Jets’ Championship stars simply want a fair deal for their services with none seeking ‘out of this world money’ to stay put.
One of the club’s biggest stalwarts is disappointed that celebrations are being tainted somewhat by continued talk of departures and hopes Andrew Durante’s exit is not the start of the floodgates opening.
The left-back/midfielder, who has been with the Jets since the very start of the A-League, said goodbye to Durante as the club celebrated its success at a civic reception on Thursday and he is anxious that the Jets family remain largely intact.
Mark Bridge is thought to be next with a move to Sydney FC imminent while Stuart Musialik and Tarek Elrich are on the radars of other A-League clubs.
Successful sides build from a position of strength and Thompson knows it is a lot harder to rebuild a team from scratch.
Speaking to au.fourfourtwo.com today he said: “We’ve had a great year and we’re more than just teammates, we’re like a family.
"You don’t want a family to break up do you? Look, the boys want to stay here. None of the out of contract guys are asking for out of this world money mate.
“I’m sorry to see Andrew Durante go because he’s a quality player. He’s been a great competitor for this club and you look what he’s gone through to achieve the success he has (two broken legs).
"Equally, you can’t blame the guys if a better deal is on offer somewhere else. You aren’t just talking about a player having to make a decision for himself.
"It may well be that he is in a situation where he has to make a decision as to what’s best for his family."
He added: “I’d love to keep all the boys together here and go on to build on the success we’ve had this year.
"We’ve one of the youngest, if not the youngest squad in the competition and you hope those boys continue to progress alongside the more experienced players.
“Other clubs aren’t stupid though. They are obviously looking at the situation and everyone wants quality players.
“We lost quite a few players at the end of last season and look what we’ve achieved this year but I think you’d rather be in a position where you’re not having to keep rebuilding at the end of each year.”
Article source http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/71113,jets-will-stay-for-mates-rates.aspx
Sea of fans fete football heroes
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
By JACQUI JONES, RENEE VALENTINE and MARTIN DINNEEN
NEWCASTLE was awash with red, blue and gold yesterday as more than 2000 Jets fans, draped in team colours, braved the rain and gathered outside City Hall to give their soccer heroes a champions' welcome.
The city hosted a civic reception for the 2007-08 A-League premiers to mark their grand final win last Sunday against the Central Coast Mariners.
Players and coaching staff were met with screams, cheers and cries of "New-cas-tle, New-cas-tle" and "We are champions".
There was elation as Jets' captain Jade North, coach Gary van Egmond and team owner Con Constantine together raised the A-League trophy to the crowd.
The wet weather did not deter enthusiastic fans.
"We've supported them all season and even though it's raining you've gotta come down and show that we appreciate what they've done for the town and the Hunter," Sarah-Jane Stevenson, of Branxton, said.
Niki Putra, of Waratah West, was dressed in a Jets shirt and scarf and brandishing an inflatable Jets hand.
"I wouldn't miss it for the world, it could be hailing, could be snowing, balls of fire could be falling from the sky, I would always be here," he said.
Former Newcastle United captain Andy Roberts, who was wearing a gold suit and Jets scarf, said that the victory was long overdue.
"I am a very proud Novocastrian right here today," he said.
Peter Stitt lifted son Ben onto his shoulders to view the spectacle.
"We came to see the boys and give them a cheer. Support the team and support [team supporters group] The Squadron," Mr Stitt said.
The city's team of champions filed out of City Hall one by one, walking to the stage through a guard of honour formed by the team's dance squad, the Bombers.
The team's poster boys, twins Adam and Joel Griffiths, were introduced to high-pitched screams from their adoring female fans.
Three F/A-18s from Williamtown RAAF base capped off proceedings, flying over City Hall in formation.
After showing off the championship trophy, Mr Constantine could hardly contain his excitement.
"New-cas-tle we done it, we done it!," he said. "This is a dream come true and I could never do it by myself.
"Thank you. Enjoy. Go the Jets!"
North said his team was inspired by the public support displayed yesterday and throughout the season.
"It's a massive achievement for you guys to come out," he said.
Joel Griffiths told fans: "You made my dream come true."
Van Egmond, who was greeted with chants of "Gary-Gary-Gary" said it was the "ultimate dream" to win the A-League title and encouraged fans to "enjoy the ride" with the Jets as they head to the Asian Champions League.
There was a more subdued but no less proud atmosphere at an official function before the public celebrations.
Charlton MP Greg Combet, Anglican Dean of Newcastle the Very Reverend Graeme Lawrence, Newcastle Airport chief executive Paul Hughes, Maitland Mayor Peter Blackmore, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens councillors and Squadron members were among those who rubbed shoulders with players.
Cr Tate presented the Jets with a plaque from the city commemorating the team's grand final success.
"Every Novocastrian is part of the win, every Hunter person is part of the win," he said. "Because I know the Jets have captured the hearts and minds of people in the Hunter."
Jets' goalkeeper Ante Covic said Jets' supporters had helped inspire Newcastle to championship glory.
"The crowd that was there in the grand final was amazing," Covic said.
"It's something that you see in Europe and I've experienced it over there but the football culture has come on really strong in Australia, especially in this city and it's a credit to them.
"It's pouring rain out there but they've still come out in numbers today."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/local/general/sea-of-fans-fete-football-heroes/1192996.html
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Newcastle celebrates Jets win one last time
ABC NEWS
By Niav Owens and Brooke Bannister
It was described by Jets Football director Remo Nogarotto as "the icing on the cake" for the club, but for thousands of fans Thursday's civic reception in Newcastle was much more.
It was a chance to officially celebrate the Jet's grand final win and fans crowded into the usually busy city streets to cheer on the victorious players with what voice they had left. And for the 1233 Drive team it was an event not to be missed.
Self-confessed Jets tragic, and 1233 Drive presenter Simone Thurtell, jumped at the opportunity to broadcast live from Civic Park and to get amongst the celebrations.
A crowd of several thousand started to gain the best vantage points from 2pm, many of them braving extreme weather conditions as the heavens opened and bucketed down on Newcastle.
1233 Breakfast presenter and Jets commentator Aaron Kearney introduced the players to the stage, in the midst of a thousand soggy and devoted Jets fans.
The players were introduced one by one; with each player receiving riotous applause from the loyal fans assembled around the steps of Newcastle City Hall. Squadron members directed the rest of the crowd in the "New-cas-tle, New-cas-tle" chant throughout the afternoon.
The official ceremony was concluded by Squadron leader, Tim Verscheldon. He took the microphone and led the passionate hordes of supporters through a number of their favourite chants.
Captain Jade North and Johnny Warren Medal winner Joel Griffiths thanked the crowd for its support throughout the season - pronouncing Jets supporters as indisputably the best and most vocal fans in the league. Jets coach Gary Van Egmond and owner Con Constantine hoisted the trophy aloft, with fans from all over the Hunter Valley delighted to welcome the silverware to its new home.
The 1233 ABC Drive team returned to the studio for the last hour of the program, a little soggy, but keen to welcome Jets CEO John Tsatsimas, Squadron leader Tim Verscheldon, and the club's media manager Tracy McKelligot, for the regular Drive segment "The Final Word". Not surprisingly all three had had a week filled with lots of football and not much sleep, but each had different experiences to share.
John Tsatsimas paid tribute to the dedication of local fans, and the fact that thousands of people turned out today, despite the inclement weather.
"It just goes to show how hardcore our support is, it started from nothing but it has become something mega...we thank all of the people who showed up today and showed their appreciation, I know the boys certainly appreciate their support," Mr Tsatsimas said.
Tracy McKelligott, who runs the publicity for the Jets, said that there were 125 to 130 radio interviews last week alone, and praised the commitment of the players.
"Especially the Hunter boys, like Stuart Musialik and Joel Griffiths... they know what it's all about, they've experienced the Knights, they know what this town can make you, and they embrace it, they really do," Ms McKelligott said.
Squadron leader Tim Verscheldon echoed the feelings of football fans right across the Hunter, when he said, "It's been unreal, I've been a fan of football in Newcastle for as long as I can remember and now to be the top team in Australia is just the best feeling ever".
After 30 years in the football desert, Newcastle's round-ball enthusiasts will be celebrating this triumph long and hard. The 1233 team could be found throughout the afternoon, cheering loudly, and enjoying the atmosphere in Civic Park Newcastle, right in the middle of the festivities. It would take more than rain to dampen the spirits of Newcastle's football fans today.
Article source http://www.abc.net.au/newcastle/stories/s2175756.htm?nsw
Durante signs for Wellington Phoenix
FOXSPORTS
NEW Zealand's Wellington Phoenix have signed defender Andrew Durante, the man-of-the-match in the Newcastle Jets' A-League grand final victory.
The Phoenix, who finished last this season, announced the signings of Durante and former Socceroos defender Jon McKain in their build-up to their second season in the Australian competition.
Durante, linchpin of the Jets defence in their championship season, was awarded the Joe Marston Medal as best player in Newcastle's 1-0 win over Central Coast Mariners in last Sunday's grand final here.
Durante and McKain, who has 12 caps and is returning from club stints in Romania, join the Phoenix on two-year deals.
Their signings will bolster the Phoenix's defensive stocks, while the search continues for a strike partner for prolific scorer Shane Smeltz, as well as another attacking midfielder and a right-back, the club said.
Former Perth Glory and New Zealand international winger Leo Bertos signed a two-year deal with the Wellington club last month.
Article source: http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23291337-5000940,00.html
NEW Zealand's Wellington Phoenix have signed defender Andrew Durante, the man-of-the-match in the Newcastle Jets' A-League grand final victory.
The Phoenix, who finished last this season, announced the signings of Durante and former Socceroos defender Jon McKain in their build-up to their second season in the Australian competition.
Durante, linchpin of the Jets defence in their championship season, was awarded the Joe Marston Medal as best player in Newcastle's 1-0 win over Central Coast Mariners in last Sunday's grand final here.
Durante and McKain, who has 12 caps and is returning from club stints in Romania, join the Phoenix on two-year deals.
Their signings will bolster the Phoenix's defensive stocks, while the search continues for a strike partner for prolific scorer Shane Smeltz, as well as another attacking midfielder and a right-back, the club said.
Former Perth Glory and New Zealand international winger Leo Bertos signed a two-year deal with the Wellington club last month.
Article source: http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23291337-5000940,00.html
Newcastle to honour champion Jets
ABC NEWS
Newcastle's streets will be awash with gold this afternoon with thousands of people expected to turn out for a civic reception to honour the A-League champions.
The ceremony at Newcastle's City Hall gets underway at 3:30pm AEDT, with the Air Force planning a fly-past to celebrate the Jets' 1-0 grand final victory over Central Coast last Sunday.
Jets football director Remo Nogarotto, who is still trying to re-sign several high profile players, says it will be an emotional day.
"I think it'll be a fitting bit of icing on the cake," he said.
Article source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/02/28/2174799.htm
Newcastle's streets will be awash with gold this afternoon with thousands of people expected to turn out for a civic reception to honour the A-League champions.
The ceremony at Newcastle's City Hall gets underway at 3:30pm AEDT, with the Air Force planning a fly-past to celebrate the Jets' 1-0 grand final victory over Central Coast last Sunday.
Jets football director Remo Nogarotto, who is still trying to re-sign several high profile players, says it will be an emotional day.
"I think it'll be a fitting bit of icing on the cake," he said.
Article source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/02/28/2174799.htm
Jets hero Griffiths is A-League's best
LIVENEWS.COM.AU
By Neil Varcoe with AAP
Newcastle Jets striker Joel Griffiths was a big winner for the second time in four days when he collected the prestigious Johnny Warren Medal today.
Griffiths received an overwhelming 394 votes from his A-League peers as the player of the season, 140 votes ahead of nearest rivals Alex Brosque of Sydney FC (254 votes) and Shane Smeltz from the Wellington Phoenix (157).
The Johnny Warren Medal was Griffith's second gong at the A-League awards lunch as he also picked up the golden boot award for the 12 goals he scored.
Having claimed their first A-League championship trophy by defeating Central Coast 1-0 in the grand final on Sunday, the Jets also gained two other awards with Gary Van Egmond named coach of the year and the team getting the fair play award.
Adelaide United's Bruce Djite received the rising star award for the most outstanding Under-20 player in the A-League, and Melbourne Victory's Michael Theoklitos took out the inaugural goalkeeper of the year award.
Sydney FC's Brendon Sanatalab won the goal of the season award, as voted online by the fans, for his memorable strike against Adelaide United in round 18 at the Adelaide Oval.
Television replays showed he missed a crucial hand ball by Newcastle in the final moments of the grand final, but Mark Shield's consistent excellence saw him named referee of the year for the third time in the past three seasons.
Article source: http://www.livenews.com.au/articles/2008/02/27/Win_Win_Griffiths_named_playeroftheyear
Buckley content Joel possesses marquee quality
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
By ROBERT DILLON
FOOTBALL Federation Australia officials are unlikely to object if the Newcastle Jets apply to make Joel Griffiths their marquee player next season although strictly he does not meet certain criteria.
The FFA prefers marquee players to either be current internationals or, in the case of veterans like Dwight Yorke, Juninho or Mario Jardel, to have formerly played for their country and in high-profile leagues overseas.
But FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said yesterday that such stipulations were not set in stone and that each marquee-player request would be considered on merit.
"It's related to national-team appearances, his level of experience and some more subjective ones, like his ability to help in marketing the club and building the profile of the club," Buckley said yesterday.
"I don't think anyone would doubt that Joel has those qualities."
Buckley said that Griffiths, who played the last of his two games for the Socceroos in August 2006, technically did not qualify as a marquee player on the score of his international credentials.
"But again, there are other subjective criteria, and if they make an application, we'll review it," he said.
The Jets are considering making Griffiths their marquee man and signing him to a five-year deal.
Griffiths hopes to embark in the next week on a three-month loan deal with Japanese club Avispa Fukuoka.
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/buckley-content-joel-possesses-marquee-quality/1191906.html
By ROBERT DILLON
FOOTBALL Federation Australia officials are unlikely to object if the Newcastle Jets apply to make Joel Griffiths their marquee player next season although strictly he does not meet certain criteria.
The FFA prefers marquee players to either be current internationals or, in the case of veterans like Dwight Yorke, Juninho or Mario Jardel, to have formerly played for their country and in high-profile leagues overseas.
But FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said yesterday that such stipulations were not set in stone and that each marquee-player request would be considered on merit.
"It's related to national-team appearances, his level of experience and some more subjective ones, like his ability to help in marketing the club and building the profile of the club," Buckley said yesterday.
"I don't think anyone would doubt that Joel has those qualities."
Buckley said that Griffiths, who played the last of his two games for the Socceroos in August 2006, technically did not qualify as a marquee player on the score of his international credentials.
"But again, there are other subjective criteria, and if they make an application, we'll review it," he said.
The Jets are considering making Griffiths their marquee man and signing him to a five-year deal.
Griffiths hopes to embark in the next week on a three-month loan deal with Japanese club Avispa Fukuoka.
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/buckley-content-joel-possesses-marquee-quality/1191906.html
Van Egmond says coaching award a real team effort
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
JETS mentor Gary van Egmond dedicated his coach of the year win at yesterday's A-League awards to his players and coaching staff.
Van Egmond capped an amazing 18-month rise in the A-League coaching ranks to lead the Newcastle Jets to championship glory this year then pick up the prized award which was voted on by his peers.
"It's been a phenomenal year for the Newcastle Jets and one which we've obviously worked extremely hard to achieve," van Egmond said.
"There are people here who are getting individual recognition, but there's a lot of people behind the scenes who deserve a big thankyou as well in regards to my backroom staff headed by [assistant coach] Mark Jones and, as I've stated before, he's been the best signing I've made, player or staff.
"That goes all the way down to our kit man. They want to be the best they can at their individual jobs and it shows.
"Everything is done extremely professionally and extremely well and obviously ably backed up by the administration through the club.
"It's just been a wonderful year and one which we'll now enjoy and look back on with really fond memories and get ourselves ready for next year."
Van Egmond is in the process of working with owner Con Constantine, chief executive John Tsatsimas and director of football Remo Nogarotto on finalising the squad for next season.
"We don't want to lose anyone but, at the end of the day, you've got the salary cap in place, and that's something you have to abide by," van Egmond said.
"All teams are going to be losing players.
"If we can ensure that we don't lose many players, then it would be fantastic.
"The more players we can hold onto the better in regards to ensuring we keep the nucleus of this very good and very young squad.
"Con's listened all of the time. He's got a few views on certain ways on how he wants to do things, which is fair enough.
"He's the one who signs the cheques at the end of the day.
"Myself, Remo and John Tsatsimas have been in discussions with him this week, and hopefully we can have some news on some players by the end of it."
Van Egmond expected teams to be gunning for the Jets next season after their remarkable year.
"That's another mind-set, another mentality you've got to be able to cope with and, for us, we're in a situation where everyone's going to be wanting to knock us off because we're the reigning premiers," van Egmond said.
"And we've got to have that aura about us that, when we do go and play teams, that they feel slightly in awe of that team as do the best teams in the world in their respective leagues.
"I mean the Barcelonas, the Real Madrids, the Manchester Uniteds, the Arsenals no matter where they play, there's a real aura about these teams, and that's only made up by the players.
"We've got to create that for next year and we've got a good chance of creating that, and the best way to do it obviously is to keep as much stability with the group as we most possibly can and ensure that the people coming in again will add something more to the squad."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/van-egmond-says-coaching-award-a-real-team-effort/1191908.html
JETS mentor Gary van Egmond dedicated his coach of the year win at yesterday's A-League awards to his players and coaching staff.
Van Egmond capped an amazing 18-month rise in the A-League coaching ranks to lead the Newcastle Jets to championship glory this year then pick up the prized award which was voted on by his peers.
"It's been a phenomenal year for the Newcastle Jets and one which we've obviously worked extremely hard to achieve," van Egmond said.
"There are people here who are getting individual recognition, but there's a lot of people behind the scenes who deserve a big thankyou as well in regards to my backroom staff headed by [assistant coach] Mark Jones and, as I've stated before, he's been the best signing I've made, player or staff.
"That goes all the way down to our kit man. They want to be the best they can at their individual jobs and it shows.
"Everything is done extremely professionally and extremely well and obviously ably backed up by the administration through the club.
"It's just been a wonderful year and one which we'll now enjoy and look back on with really fond memories and get ourselves ready for next year."
Van Egmond is in the process of working with owner Con Constantine, chief executive John Tsatsimas and director of football Remo Nogarotto on finalising the squad for next season.
"We don't want to lose anyone but, at the end of the day, you've got the salary cap in place, and that's something you have to abide by," van Egmond said.
"All teams are going to be losing players.
"If we can ensure that we don't lose many players, then it would be fantastic.
"The more players we can hold onto the better in regards to ensuring we keep the nucleus of this very good and very young squad.
"Con's listened all of the time. He's got a few views on certain ways on how he wants to do things, which is fair enough.
"He's the one who signs the cheques at the end of the day.
"Myself, Remo and John Tsatsimas have been in discussions with him this week, and hopefully we can have some news on some players by the end of it."
Van Egmond expected teams to be gunning for the Jets next season after their remarkable year.
"That's another mind-set, another mentality you've got to be able to cope with and, for us, we're in a situation where everyone's going to be wanting to knock us off because we're the reigning premiers," van Egmond said.
"And we've got to have that aura about us that, when we do go and play teams, that they feel slightly in awe of that team as do the best teams in the world in their respective leagues.
"I mean the Barcelonas, the Real Madrids, the Manchester Uniteds, the Arsenals no matter where they play, there's a real aura about these teams, and that's only made up by the players.
"We've got to create that for next year and we've got a good chance of creating that, and the best way to do it obviously is to keep as much stability with the group as we most possibly can and ensure that the people coming in again will add something more to the squad."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/van-egmond-says-coaching-award-a-real-team-effort/1191908.html
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Jets in running to sweep awards
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
By RENEE VALENTINE
THE Newcastle Jets could cap a dream season by collecting all five major accolades at the A-League awards in Sydney today.
The Jets made history on Sunday when they beat Central Coast 1-0 to deliver Newcastle its first national league title.
Today they could pick up the Johnny Warren Medal for player of the year, the coach of the year award, the goalkeeper of the year award and the Rising Star award.
Striker Joel Griffiths is already guaranteed the Golden Boot after finishing the preliminary season with a league-leading 12 goals.
Jets mentor Gary van Egmond said a clean sweep of the league's individual prizes would be the perfect end to a season to remember.
"You like to get recognition, and individual recognition is always nice, but what you do obviously is conducive to what you've got to work with," van Egmond said.
"We're very lucky to have a really good playing staff and backroom staff to support."
Van Egmond has already been named coach of the year by Four Four Two magazine for the second year in a row and is also tipped to take out the official A-League accolade.
Griffiths is being touted as former teammate Nick Carle's successor for the Johnny Warren Medal.
"It's nice to be recognised by your peers if that's what happens," van Egmond said.
"I think that's where the players enjoy it as well, for the fact that their peers are the ones who judge them.
"You get a lot of satisfaction from that.
"Joel's obviously got an extremely good chance of winning it, I would suggest.
"It's been well publicised this year how well he's done, and statistics show in regards to the goals he has scored and what his general play has been like. You would imagine he would go extremely close.
"Joel has won the Alex Tobin award [for player of the year] from Fox Sports. For him to win the A-League one and he has got the golden boot already it would be a real stellar year for him."
Jets shot-stopper Ante Covic should be a strong showing for goalkeeper of the year, which has been added to the list of awards this year.
Covic has had a brilliant season between the sticks for the Jets and sat on the bench for the Socceroos' opening match of the World Cup qualifiers in Melbourne this month behind Mark Schwarzer.
His main rival for the goalkeeping honours was expected to be Central Coast's Danny Vukovic, but the Olyroos custodian is no longer eligible after getting a red card in the grand final.
Van Egmond also said Tarek Elrich, who has had a sensational season in the new role of right back, would be a "bolter" for the Rising Star award for the best under-20 player.
The Jets coach said the players were winding down yesterday after much-deserved team celebrations.
"Yesterday I think it felt like it had sunk in a bit more than the day before," he said.
"It feels a little bit surreal when you're walking around the pitch, but I think it will probably kick in a little bit later down the track.
"They're all just on a massive high. This year there has been a bit of adversity, and to do it with everything that has gone on . . . people picked us to come seventh or eighth and, like Jado [Jade North] said in his [post-match] speech, to prove a lot of people wrong is really satisfying."
The Jets will be presented to the city in a civic reception at Town Hall tomorrow afternoon.
Article source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/jets-in-running-to-sweep-awards/1190830.html
By RENEE VALENTINE
THE Newcastle Jets could cap a dream season by collecting all five major accolades at the A-League awards in Sydney today.
The Jets made history on Sunday when they beat Central Coast 1-0 to deliver Newcastle its first national league title.
Today they could pick up the Johnny Warren Medal for player of the year, the coach of the year award, the goalkeeper of the year award and the Rising Star award.
Striker Joel Griffiths is already guaranteed the Golden Boot after finishing the preliminary season with a league-leading 12 goals.
Jets mentor Gary van Egmond said a clean sweep of the league's individual prizes would be the perfect end to a season to remember.
"You like to get recognition, and individual recognition is always nice, but what you do obviously is conducive to what you've got to work with," van Egmond said.
"We're very lucky to have a really good playing staff and backroom staff to support."
Van Egmond has already been named coach of the year by Four Four Two magazine for the second year in a row and is also tipped to take out the official A-League accolade.
Griffiths is being touted as former teammate Nick Carle's successor for the Johnny Warren Medal.
"It's nice to be recognised by your peers if that's what happens," van Egmond said.
"I think that's where the players enjoy it as well, for the fact that their peers are the ones who judge them.
"You get a lot of satisfaction from that.
"Joel's obviously got an extremely good chance of winning it, I would suggest.
"It's been well publicised this year how well he's done, and statistics show in regards to the goals he has scored and what his general play has been like. You would imagine he would go extremely close.
"Joel has won the Alex Tobin award [for player of the year] from Fox Sports. For him to win the A-League one and he has got the golden boot already it would be a real stellar year for him."
Jets shot-stopper Ante Covic should be a strong showing for goalkeeper of the year, which has been added to the list of awards this year.
Covic has had a brilliant season between the sticks for the Jets and sat on the bench for the Socceroos' opening match of the World Cup qualifiers in Melbourne this month behind Mark Schwarzer.
His main rival for the goalkeeping honours was expected to be Central Coast's Danny Vukovic, but the Olyroos custodian is no longer eligible after getting a red card in the grand final.
Van Egmond also said Tarek Elrich, who has had a sensational season in the new role of right back, would be a "bolter" for the Rising Star award for the best under-20 player.
The Jets coach said the players were winding down yesterday after much-deserved team celebrations.
"Yesterday I think it felt like it had sunk in a bit more than the day before," he said.
"It feels a little bit surreal when you're walking around the pitch, but I think it will probably kick in a little bit later down the track.
"They're all just on a massive high. This year there has been a bit of adversity, and to do it with everything that has gone on . . . people picked us to come seventh or eighth and, like Jado [Jade North] said in his [post-match] speech, to prove a lot of people wrong is really satisfying."
The Jets will be presented to the city in a civic reception at Town Hall tomorrow afternoon.
Article source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/jets-in-running-to-sweep-awards/1190830.html
Withdrawals decimate Olyroos
THE AUSTRALIAN and FOXSPORT
By Ray Gatt
AUSTRALIA'S Olympic team, already hit hard by the loss of goalkeeper Danny Vukovic, had more problems on Tuesday when four more players dropped out of the squad.
Newcastle Jets duo Mark Bridge (hamstring) and Stuart Musialik (personal issues), Sydney FC defender Mark Milligan (injury) and Queensland Roar's Michael Zullo (personal) were forced to withdraw on the eve of the under-23 team's departure to San Francisco to play Mexico in a friendly on Sunday.
Bridge, who scored the goal that helped the Jets beat Central Coast in Sunday's A-League grand final, arrived in camp on Tuesday and was immediately ruled out.
However, Musialik failed to show and was immediately stood down. It was revealed he did not attend because of a personal matter, not because of anything to do with Newcastle's ongoing grand-final victory celebrations.
Musialik's no-show is not expected to affect his hopes of making the final Olyroos squad for the Beijing Olympics.
Seven uncapped players have been selected in the 20-man squad for the one-off international practice match.
"A lot of young players have shone in the last few months of the A-League and this will provide an excellent opportunity for them to show me what they can do at international level," coach Graham Arnold said.
"Few overseas-based players were available as it's not an international match date, but this will be a great chance for some new faces."
Article Source: http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23282735-23215,00.html
Durante's program for perfection
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
SATURDAY MID-AFTERNOON (leave Newcastle United Sports Club)
It was crazy. We all met at the Adamstown club and there were a lot of supporters already up the front waiting for the bus to leave. We thought that was pretty much it. Then we were heading down the road past EnergyAustralia Stadium and there were heaps of cars along the sides of the road and flags waving out of all of the cars. As we headed out towards the freeway there were even more cars lined up on the side of the road. It was just unbelievable. That played a big part, I'm sure, in all of the boys' thoughts before we went out to the game.
SATURDAY EVENING (arrive Crown Plaza, Coogee)
After dinner, Dutchy [Jets coach Gary van Egmond] and Jonesy [assistant coach Mark Jones] put a video session on for us. We spoke about things we needed to do some tactics and stuff. Straight after that, [captain] Jade [North] pulled all of the boys together to stay behind. He wanted each player to say what winning the grand final would mean to them and what they will do to play their part in helping make sure we get the title. It was a bit emotional, actually, because when it's a group of boys, you don't really speak from the heart. It's always a bit of mucking around and taking the piss a bit. To hear each player talk about what it meant to them, and what they're going to do to help win the game the next day, was pretty powerful stuff. We normally play poker the night before games but we decided to have an early night and to get into bed early and just concentrate on the game the next day.
SUNDAY MID-MORNING
We got up and had breakfast then went for the usual jog down to a local park and did a couple of laps. We then got together and had some lunch around 11.30 to 12 o'clock. We had our own time until 2.30 then we got on the bus and headed straight to the stadium.
SUNDAY 3PM (arrive Sydney Football Stadium for pre-match preparations)
There was heaps and heaps of Jets fans, and they were all screaming and waving flags around. We went into the change room and that's when we started preparing for the game. Dutchy put the formation up on the board because we still weren't sure if we were going to definitely play the three at the back or stick to the four, but he made his decision and we all saw what he wanted us to do in that formation. Then a policeman came to the door and asked Jonesy could he get a Jets jersey signed. Jonesy was a bit hesitant because we don't normally sign stuff just before a game, but he said why he wanted it signed. Apparently his brother had died the night before and requested that he be buried in the Jets jersey. Dutchy told us the story of why we're signing this jersey and just said it spoke volumes of what we've created up here in the Hunter that this guy, on his deathbed, wanted to get buried in a Jets jersey signed by the players. That was his dying wish. That was pretty huge for us. We all took that in massively when we heard about that.
SUNDAY 5PM (kick-off)
The walk out was incredible when the fans on both sides were cheering. I got goose bumps. Going out there was incredible the noise that was going around the stadium, seeing all of the gold ribbons and flags being waved in the stadium was an incredible feeling. We were just trying to soak it all up. It just lifts you another level to hear all of the fans and all of the supporters get behind you. We could hear them throughout the whole game they were jumping around and singing non-stop. Normally, when I finish a game, I don't really remember how noisy the crowd was, but it stuck in my mind how vocal they were with the Newcastle chant. The whole game they were pretty much supporting us. There wasn't a time where it was quiet in the game.
THE GAME
I remember most of it. I thought the first half of the game we were extremely dominant. They didn't know what hit them for at least the first half an hour, then the game sort of settled a bit. They came out in the second half and probably put us on the back foot a little bit at the start of the second half, but we stuck to our game plan. Bridgey [Mark Bridge] got that crucial goal which sort of opened up the game a bit more because they pushed on a bit further and pushed three up front eventually, so we went back to a back four. I just think, tactically, Dutchy's decisions were pretty much the reason why we won the game.
THE GOAL
It was unbelievable. To see Bridgey pinch the ball off Tony Vidmar at the back there and to show a cool head and finish it like that in a grand final speaks volumes about Bridgey and the kind of character that he is. And then the crowd was just crazy. It was fantastic.
THE FINAL WHISTLE
I can't even think of the word to tell you how good it was it was unbelievable. You dream about getting an A-League medal and winning the trophy in Australia, and we did it that day. The feeling between the boys is something that will stick with us forever.
WINNING THE JOE MARSTON MEDAL FOR PLAYER OF THE GRAND FINAL
That was very emotional for me. I've had a bit of bad luck in my career with a broken leg and just missing out on grand finals for certain reasons. To win it was unbelievable, but to get player of the match was beyond my wildest dreams. I didn't even consider that before the game to go out there and try to get man of the match. I just played as good as I could. To get that was a huge honour.
Article source
http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/durantes-program-for-perfection/1190831.html
SATURDAY MID-AFTERNOON (leave Newcastle United Sports Club)
It was crazy. We all met at the Adamstown club and there were a lot of supporters already up the front waiting for the bus to leave. We thought that was pretty much it. Then we were heading down the road past EnergyAustralia Stadium and there were heaps of cars along the sides of the road and flags waving out of all of the cars. As we headed out towards the freeway there were even more cars lined up on the side of the road. It was just unbelievable. That played a big part, I'm sure, in all of the boys' thoughts before we went out to the game.
SATURDAY EVENING (arrive Crown Plaza, Coogee)
After dinner, Dutchy [Jets coach Gary van Egmond] and Jonesy [assistant coach Mark Jones] put a video session on for us. We spoke about things we needed to do some tactics and stuff. Straight after that, [captain] Jade [North] pulled all of the boys together to stay behind. He wanted each player to say what winning the grand final would mean to them and what they will do to play their part in helping make sure we get the title. It was a bit emotional, actually, because when it's a group of boys, you don't really speak from the heart. It's always a bit of mucking around and taking the piss a bit. To hear each player talk about what it meant to them, and what they're going to do to help win the game the next day, was pretty powerful stuff. We normally play poker the night before games but we decided to have an early night and to get into bed early and just concentrate on the game the next day.
SUNDAY MID-MORNING
We got up and had breakfast then went for the usual jog down to a local park and did a couple of laps. We then got together and had some lunch around 11.30 to 12 o'clock. We had our own time until 2.30 then we got on the bus and headed straight to the stadium.
SUNDAY 3PM (arrive Sydney Football Stadium for pre-match preparations)
There was heaps and heaps of Jets fans, and they were all screaming and waving flags around. We went into the change room and that's when we started preparing for the game. Dutchy put the formation up on the board because we still weren't sure if we were going to definitely play the three at the back or stick to the four, but he made his decision and we all saw what he wanted us to do in that formation. Then a policeman came to the door and asked Jonesy could he get a Jets jersey signed. Jonesy was a bit hesitant because we don't normally sign stuff just before a game, but he said why he wanted it signed. Apparently his brother had died the night before and requested that he be buried in the Jets jersey. Dutchy told us the story of why we're signing this jersey and just said it spoke volumes of what we've created up here in the Hunter that this guy, on his deathbed, wanted to get buried in a Jets jersey signed by the players. That was his dying wish. That was pretty huge for us. We all took that in massively when we heard about that.
SUNDAY 5PM (kick-off)
The walk out was incredible when the fans on both sides were cheering. I got goose bumps. Going out there was incredible the noise that was going around the stadium, seeing all of the gold ribbons and flags being waved in the stadium was an incredible feeling. We were just trying to soak it all up. It just lifts you another level to hear all of the fans and all of the supporters get behind you. We could hear them throughout the whole game they were jumping around and singing non-stop. Normally, when I finish a game, I don't really remember how noisy the crowd was, but it stuck in my mind how vocal they were with the Newcastle chant. The whole game they were pretty much supporting us. There wasn't a time where it was quiet in the game.
THE GAME
I remember most of it. I thought the first half of the game we were extremely dominant. They didn't know what hit them for at least the first half an hour, then the game sort of settled a bit. They came out in the second half and probably put us on the back foot a little bit at the start of the second half, but we stuck to our game plan. Bridgey [Mark Bridge] got that crucial goal which sort of opened up the game a bit more because they pushed on a bit further and pushed three up front eventually, so we went back to a back four. I just think, tactically, Dutchy's decisions were pretty much the reason why we won the game.
THE GOAL
It was unbelievable. To see Bridgey pinch the ball off Tony Vidmar at the back there and to show a cool head and finish it like that in a grand final speaks volumes about Bridgey and the kind of character that he is. And then the crowd was just crazy. It was fantastic.
THE FINAL WHISTLE
I can't even think of the word to tell you how good it was it was unbelievable. You dream about getting an A-League medal and winning the trophy in Australia, and we did it that day. The feeling between the boys is something that will stick with us forever.
WINNING THE JOE MARSTON MEDAL FOR PLAYER OF THE GRAND FINAL
That was very emotional for me. I've had a bit of bad luck in my career with a broken leg and just missing out on grand finals for certain reasons. To win it was unbelievable, but to get player of the match was beyond my wildest dreams. I didn't even consider that before the game to go out there and try to get man of the match. I just played as good as I could. To get that was a huge honour.
Article source
http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/durantes-program-for-perfection/1190831.html
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Stick with us: Jets move quickly to retain off-contract stars
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
NEWCASTLE Jets officials have wasted no time in trying to shore up the players who carved their names in history on Sunday by winning the A-League grand final.
Jets coach Gary van Egmond said after the 1-0 triumph over Central Coast Mariners in Sydney that his club were capable of building a dynasty, providing off-contract matchwinners like Mark Bridge, Stuart Musialik and Andrew Durante were retained.
Newcastle's director of football Remo Nogarotto did not even wait for the dust to settle after the title decider, revealing yesterday morning he had already held talks with agents representing several Newcastle players.
Nogarotto was confident that Newcastle-born Musialik would stay and was also hopeful the Jets would manage to re-sign "at least one of Bridge and Durante", who have been linked to Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix respectively.
"There's no time to waste here," Nogarotto said yesterday.
"We've got to do the right thing by the team and the community, and particularly by an outstanding coach called Gary van Egmond."
Bridge has signed a letter of intent with Sydney, but the grand final hero has stated several times in the past week that he wants to stay in Newcastle.
If the Olyroos striker requested a release from his commitment to Sydney, his chances of staying in Newcastle would hinge on whether or not Sydney were willing to play hardball.
Bridge's manager Leo Karis said he hoped to have a decision before the 22-year-old flies out tomorrow for Mexico with the Olyroos.
"We're still in discussions," Karis said yesterday.
"My plan is for it to be resolved before his departure.
"I don't want to get into the exact details of what has been signed or hasn't been signed, but I hope to be meeting with Mark either tonight or tomorrow, and hopefully he can make a quick decision."
As well as Bridge, Musialik and Durante, other Jets who are free agents include Adam D'Apuzzo, Denni, Stephen Laybutt, Steve Eagleton, Paul Kohler and Ben Kennedy.
Tarek Elrich has agreed in principle to an offer from Newcastle but is yet to sign. Scott Tunbridge is under contract for one more season, but the Jets have made it obvious they would like him to move on.
Noel Spencer is also signed for another season but has attracted interest from the proposed Gold Coast franchise.
Nogarotto was confident Newcastle's bargaining position had been enhanced by both their title triumph and qualifying for the Asian Champions League.
"The opportunity to play in a group of guys who potentially could be vying for the championship for the next couple of years is a rare thing, especially in a town like Newcastle, where the fan base is just completely and absolutely behind you," he said.
"And secondly, we have now qualified for the Asian Champions League, and that is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate their wares on a bigger stage."
But Nogarotto added that the Jets would not be able to keep all their players, especially as they hope to bring in Ahmad Elrich (Wellington), Ruben Zadkovic (Sydney) and possibly Ryan Griffiths from Rapid Bucharest.
"The brutal economics of the salary cap means you're going to lose some people," he said.
The Jets also intend to be proactive and ensure senior players Jade North, Joel and Adam Griffiths and Ante Covic, who are all contracted for another season, are re-signed long before they become free agents.
"The lesson that's been learnt this year is that for those players we definitely want to keep and the coach is completely and absolutely secure in his view about, we need to get in there earlier rather than later," Nogarotto said.
He said the unsuccessful Mario Jardel gamble would not deter the Jets from pursuing high-profile imports in the future, but Joel Griffiths is likely to be upgraded to marquee-player status.
"If the right person comes along, we will always consider bringing him in," Nogarotto said.
"I think what we will do in future is make sure our due diligence to these sort of players is a bit stricter than it was with Mario Jardel."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/stick-with-us-jets-move-quickly-to-retain-offcontract-stars/1189868.html
NEWCASTLE Jets officials have wasted no time in trying to shore up the players who carved their names in history on Sunday by winning the A-League grand final.
Jets coach Gary van Egmond said after the 1-0 triumph over Central Coast Mariners in Sydney that his club were capable of building a dynasty, providing off-contract matchwinners like Mark Bridge, Stuart Musialik and Andrew Durante were retained.
Newcastle's director of football Remo Nogarotto did not even wait for the dust to settle after the title decider, revealing yesterday morning he had already held talks with agents representing several Newcastle players.
Nogarotto was confident that Newcastle-born Musialik would stay and was also hopeful the Jets would manage to re-sign "at least one of Bridge and Durante", who have been linked to Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix respectively.
"There's no time to waste here," Nogarotto said yesterday.
"We've got to do the right thing by the team and the community, and particularly by an outstanding coach called Gary van Egmond."
Bridge has signed a letter of intent with Sydney, but the grand final hero has stated several times in the past week that he wants to stay in Newcastle.
If the Olyroos striker requested a release from his commitment to Sydney, his chances of staying in Newcastle would hinge on whether or not Sydney were willing to play hardball.
Bridge's manager Leo Karis said he hoped to have a decision before the 22-year-old flies out tomorrow for Mexico with the Olyroos.
"We're still in discussions," Karis said yesterday.
"My plan is for it to be resolved before his departure.
"I don't want to get into the exact details of what has been signed or hasn't been signed, but I hope to be meeting with Mark either tonight or tomorrow, and hopefully he can make a quick decision."
As well as Bridge, Musialik and Durante, other Jets who are free agents include Adam D'Apuzzo, Denni, Stephen Laybutt, Steve Eagleton, Paul Kohler and Ben Kennedy.
Tarek Elrich has agreed in principle to an offer from Newcastle but is yet to sign. Scott Tunbridge is under contract for one more season, but the Jets have made it obvious they would like him to move on.
Noel Spencer is also signed for another season but has attracted interest from the proposed Gold Coast franchise.
Nogarotto was confident Newcastle's bargaining position had been enhanced by both their title triumph and qualifying for the Asian Champions League.
"The opportunity to play in a group of guys who potentially could be vying for the championship for the next couple of years is a rare thing, especially in a town like Newcastle, where the fan base is just completely and absolutely behind you," he said.
"And secondly, we have now qualified for the Asian Champions League, and that is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate their wares on a bigger stage."
But Nogarotto added that the Jets would not be able to keep all their players, especially as they hope to bring in Ahmad Elrich (Wellington), Ruben Zadkovic (Sydney) and possibly Ryan Griffiths from Rapid Bucharest.
"The brutal economics of the salary cap means you're going to lose some people," he said.
The Jets also intend to be proactive and ensure senior players Jade North, Joel and Adam Griffiths and Ante Covic, who are all contracted for another season, are re-signed long before they become free agents.
"The lesson that's been learnt this year is that for those players we definitely want to keep and the coach is completely and absolutely secure in his view about, we need to get in there earlier rather than later," Nogarotto said.
He said the unsuccessful Mario Jardel gamble would not deter the Jets from pursuing high-profile imports in the future, but Joel Griffiths is likely to be upgraded to marquee-player status.
"If the right person comes along, we will always consider bringing him in," Nogarotto said.
"I think what we will do in future is make sure our due diligence to these sort of players is a bit stricter than it was with Mario Jardel."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/stick-with-us-jets-move-quickly-to-retain-offcontract-stars/1189868.html
Young soccer players chance to impress
SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
Olyroos coach Graham Arnold is challenging his debutants to impress him on soccer's international stage ahead of this year's Beijing Olympics.
Australia's U/23 side is set to take on Mexico in a one-off international practice match this Sunday in San Francisco.
Seven uncapped players have been selected in the 20-man squad due to the unavailability of a number of domestic and overseas-based players.
Arnold says the practice match is a rare opportunity for young players to compete at a higher level.
"A lot of young players have shone in the last few months of the A-League and this will provide an excellent opportunity for them to show me what they can do at international level," said Arnold.
"Few overseas based players were available as it's not an international match date, but this will be a great chance for some new faces to test themselves against a different type of football."
Newcastle Jets trio James Holland, Tarek Elrich, and Jason Hoffman are set to make their debut for the team, alongside A-League grand final counterparts Matt Simon and Nigel Boogaard from the Central Coast Mariners.
Perth Glory striker Nikita Rukavytsya has been included after featuring in the squad for the home qualifier against Iraq last November.
Goalkeeping duo Tando Velaphi of Perth Glory, and debutant Justin Pasfield of NSW club Wollongong Wolves, are set to battle it out for the number one jersey.
The squad contains just two overseas based players in former Melbourne Victory defender Adrian Leijer of English Premier League club Fulham, and striker David Williams based at Danish-club Brondby.
Among the absentees are captain Mark Milligan who has a quadricep injury, and Newcastle Jets' grand final hero Mark Bridge who will miss the match with a hamstring injury.
Also missing are Danny Vukovic who has been stood down from national team duty pending an appeal for a suspension, Stuart Musialik, Tahj Minniecon and Michael Zullo.
AUSTRALIA: Nigel Boogaard (Central Coast Mariners), Leigh Broxham (Melbourne Victory), Nathan Burns (Adelaide United), Billy Celeski (Melbourne Victory), Robert Cornthwaite (Adelaide United), Adam DApuzzo (Newcastle Jets), Bruce Djite (Adelaide United), Tarek Elrich (Newcastle Jets), Troy Hearfield (Newcastle Jets), Jason Hoffman (Newcastle Jets), James Holland (Newcastle Jets), Adrian Leijer (Fulham, England), Justin Pasfield (Wollongong Wolves, NSW), Nikita Rukavytsya (Perth Glory), Sebastian Ryall (Melbourne Victory), Matt Simon (Central Coast Mariners), Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Perth Glory), Tando Velaphi (Perth Glory), David Williams (Brondby, Denmark), Ruben Zadkovich (Sydney FC).
Article source http://news.smh.com.au/young-soccer-players-chance-to-impress/20080226-1uzc.html
Olyroos coach Graham Arnold is challenging his debutants to impress him on soccer's international stage ahead of this year's Beijing Olympics.
Australia's U/23 side is set to take on Mexico in a one-off international practice match this Sunday in San Francisco.
Seven uncapped players have been selected in the 20-man squad due to the unavailability of a number of domestic and overseas-based players.
Arnold says the practice match is a rare opportunity for young players to compete at a higher level.
"A lot of young players have shone in the last few months of the A-League and this will provide an excellent opportunity for them to show me what they can do at international level," said Arnold.
"Few overseas based players were available as it's not an international match date, but this will be a great chance for some new faces to test themselves against a different type of football."
Newcastle Jets trio James Holland, Tarek Elrich, and Jason Hoffman are set to make their debut for the team, alongside A-League grand final counterparts Matt Simon and Nigel Boogaard from the Central Coast Mariners.
Perth Glory striker Nikita Rukavytsya has been included after featuring in the squad for the home qualifier against Iraq last November.
Goalkeeping duo Tando Velaphi of Perth Glory, and debutant Justin Pasfield of NSW club Wollongong Wolves, are set to battle it out for the number one jersey.
The squad contains just two overseas based players in former Melbourne Victory defender Adrian Leijer of English Premier League club Fulham, and striker David Williams based at Danish-club Brondby.
Among the absentees are captain Mark Milligan who has a quadricep injury, and Newcastle Jets' grand final hero Mark Bridge who will miss the match with a hamstring injury.
Also missing are Danny Vukovic who has been stood down from national team duty pending an appeal for a suspension, Stuart Musialik, Tahj Minniecon and Michael Zullo.
AUSTRALIA: Nigel Boogaard (Central Coast Mariners), Leigh Broxham (Melbourne Victory), Nathan Burns (Adelaide United), Billy Celeski (Melbourne Victory), Robert Cornthwaite (Adelaide United), Adam DApuzzo (Newcastle Jets), Bruce Djite (Adelaide United), Tarek Elrich (Newcastle Jets), Troy Hearfield (Newcastle Jets), Jason Hoffman (Newcastle Jets), James Holland (Newcastle Jets), Adrian Leijer (Fulham, England), Justin Pasfield (Wollongong Wolves, NSW), Nikita Rukavytsya (Perth Glory), Sebastian Ryall (Melbourne Victory), Matt Simon (Central Coast Mariners), Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Perth Glory), Tando Velaphi (Perth Glory), David Williams (Brondby, Denmark), Ruben Zadkovich (Sydney FC).
Article source http://news.smh.com.au/young-soccer-players-chance-to-impress/20080226-1uzc.html
'Australia should no longer be some sort of backwater for cheap football talent' Jets stick to guns
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
By ROBERT DILLON
JETS owner Con Constantine will not relent on two crucial issues that would help his club retain the likes of Mark Bridge, Stuart Musialik and Andrew Durante because he feels they are matters of principle.
Bridge and Musialik have both asked to have exit clauses in their contracts, so that if they received offers from overseas clubs Newcastle would receive a set transfer fee known as a "ceiling" that would be well below their market rate.
Constantine has told The Herald he will refuse to comply with such a condition, because it would create a precedent, but insists he would never stand in the way of players heading abroad if Newcastle receive adequate compensation.
He also said last week that he had no intention of using service agreements to provide his players with financial sweeteners.
Each club is entitled to use service agreements third-party sponsorships for players that are collectively worth $450,000 a season and are not included in the $1.8 million salary cap.
Jets director of football Remo Nogarotto said yesterday that Constantine had firm and "highly principled" views on both issues.
"Australia should no longer be some sort of backwater for cheap talent," he said. "Our clubs should receive transfer fees in line with what the market is prepared to pay overseas. This is a fight Con and myself are having not just for Newcastle, but on behalf of Australian football."
Nogarotto said that when the Jets released Nick Carle to Turkish club Genclerbirligi last year "everyone was a winner".
"We were happy with the fee we got, which was around $600,000, Nicky was exceptionally happy with his deal, and the buying club was happy with what it paid," he said.
"My message to Bridgey and Stuey is that they should speak to Nicky Carle and see what his observations were and the way that was handled."
Constantine opposes service agreements because he believes they are not transparent and provide clubs like Sydney and Melbourne with major advantages, but he has called on Football Federation Australia to increase the salary cap by $400,000.
By using a service agreement, Newcastle might be able to match the lucrative offer Durante has received from Wellington.
"Sometimes in life there is a cost attached to being principled and consistent in your position," Nogarotto said. "We might be short-term losers out of that, but if our view prevails in time, I think the game and ourselves will be better off because of it."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/australia-should-no-longer-be-some-sort-of-backwater-for-cheap-football-talent-jets-stick-to-guns/1189865.html
By ROBERT DILLON
JETS owner Con Constantine will not relent on two crucial issues that would help his club retain the likes of Mark Bridge, Stuart Musialik and Andrew Durante because he feels they are matters of principle.
Bridge and Musialik have both asked to have exit clauses in their contracts, so that if they received offers from overseas clubs Newcastle would receive a set transfer fee known as a "ceiling" that would be well below their market rate.
Constantine has told The Herald he will refuse to comply with such a condition, because it would create a precedent, but insists he would never stand in the way of players heading abroad if Newcastle receive adequate compensation.
He also said last week that he had no intention of using service agreements to provide his players with financial sweeteners.
Each club is entitled to use service agreements third-party sponsorships for players that are collectively worth $450,000 a season and are not included in the $1.8 million salary cap.
Jets director of football Remo Nogarotto said yesterday that Constantine had firm and "highly principled" views on both issues.
"Australia should no longer be some sort of backwater for cheap talent," he said. "Our clubs should receive transfer fees in line with what the market is prepared to pay overseas. This is a fight Con and myself are having not just for Newcastle, but on behalf of Australian football."
Nogarotto said that when the Jets released Nick Carle to Turkish club Genclerbirligi last year "everyone was a winner".
"We were happy with the fee we got, which was around $600,000, Nicky was exceptionally happy with his deal, and the buying club was happy with what it paid," he said.
"My message to Bridgey and Stuey is that they should speak to Nicky Carle and see what his observations were and the way that was handled."
Constantine opposes service agreements because he believes they are not transparent and provide clubs like Sydney and Melbourne with major advantages, but he has called on Football Federation Australia to increase the salary cap by $400,000.
By using a service agreement, Newcastle might be able to match the lucrative offer Durante has received from Wellington.
"Sometimes in life there is a cost attached to being principled and consistent in your position," Nogarotto said. "We might be short-term losers out of that, but if our view prevails in time, I think the game and ourselves will be better off because of it."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/australia-should-no-longer-be-some-sort-of-backwater-for-cheap-football-talent-jets-stick-to-guns/1189865.html
Chief executive refuses to pay to keep Jets heroes
DAILY TELEGRAPH
By David Davutovic
THE implosion of A-League champions Newcastle Jets has already begun with the departure of two key players and owner Con Constantine refusing point blank to utilise third-party sponsor deals to bankroll new contracts for the squad.
The Jets' grand final heroes, goalscorer Mark Bridge and man of the match Andrew Durante, will join Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix respectively with the Jets refusing to up their derisory offers.
Newcastle have not used a cent of the $450,000 available under the Additional Services Agreements.
A stubborn yet optimistic chairman Con Constantine yesterday maintained that the emotion of the Jets' triumph and "the Newcastle lifestyle" would keep them at the Jets.
"We would love them to stay, but we're not desperate," Constantine declared. "We're not going to have a Dutch auction.
"What we give our players is the lifestyle in Newcastle. It's another world in New Zealand. I have no doubt at all they'll have a change of heart.
"From what I saw in them yesterday and seeing Andrew Durante at 3am, these are young men who have been given the wrong information. I think they are having second thoughts."
Constantine has offered Olyroos striker Bridge a miserly $80,000-a-year deal to stay with the Jets, less than half of Sydney FC's offer. Durante was offered $90,000, which is more than $50,000 below Wellington's proposed contract.
Yet The Daily Telegraph understands that Durante has a third-party sponsor ready to tip in, which would keep him at the club.
Constantine refuses to budge, however, insisting that the Jets will remain the only club not to utilise the third-party agreements.
"I don't want to go to the ASA because I don't think they're transparent enough," Constantine said.
"If FFA thinks we should increase the salary cap, I've got no problems paying players extra."
It is understood other key players are unhappy with the club's negotiations, and will consider walking if the situation does not change.
While Durante and Bridge's exits are a fait accompli, the Jets would need to re-sign uncontracted trio Stuart Musialik, Adam d'Apuzzo and Tarek Elrich to retain other unsettled stars.
But Constantine denied the claims, saying everyone wanted to stay.
"Joel (Griffiths) wants to sign for five years, Adam (Griffiths) has no intention of going, we're trying to get their brother Ryan and (Ante) Covic isn't going anywhere, so I don't know where the rumours are coming from.
"We will keep this squad together for many years to come."
Article Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23275872-5001023,00.html
By David Davutovic
THE implosion of A-League champions Newcastle Jets has already begun with the departure of two key players and owner Con Constantine refusing point blank to utilise third-party sponsor deals to bankroll new contracts for the squad.
The Jets' grand final heroes, goalscorer Mark Bridge and man of the match Andrew Durante, will join Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix respectively with the Jets refusing to up their derisory offers.
Newcastle have not used a cent of the $450,000 available under the Additional Services Agreements.
A stubborn yet optimistic chairman Con Constantine yesterday maintained that the emotion of the Jets' triumph and "the Newcastle lifestyle" would keep them at the Jets.
"We would love them to stay, but we're not desperate," Constantine declared. "We're not going to have a Dutch auction.
"What we give our players is the lifestyle in Newcastle. It's another world in New Zealand. I have no doubt at all they'll have a change of heart.
"From what I saw in them yesterday and seeing Andrew Durante at 3am, these are young men who have been given the wrong information. I think they are having second thoughts."
Constantine has offered Olyroos striker Bridge a miserly $80,000-a-year deal to stay with the Jets, less than half of Sydney FC's offer. Durante was offered $90,000, which is more than $50,000 below Wellington's proposed contract.
Yet The Daily Telegraph understands that Durante has a third-party sponsor ready to tip in, which would keep him at the club.
Constantine refuses to budge, however, insisting that the Jets will remain the only club not to utilise the third-party agreements.
"I don't want to go to the ASA because I don't think they're transparent enough," Constantine said.
"If FFA thinks we should increase the salary cap, I've got no problems paying players extra."
It is understood other key players are unhappy with the club's negotiations, and will consider walking if the situation does not change.
While Durante and Bridge's exits are a fait accompli, the Jets would need to re-sign uncontracted trio Stuart Musialik, Adam d'Apuzzo and Tarek Elrich to retain other unsettled stars.
But Constantine denied the claims, saying everyone wanted to stay.
"Joel (Griffiths) wants to sign for five years, Adam (Griffiths) has no intention of going, we're trying to get their brother Ryan and (Ante) Covic isn't going anywhere, so I don't know where the rumours are coming from.
"We will keep this squad together for many years to come."
Article Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23275872-5001023,00.html
Jets target $1million sponsor
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
By Robert Dillion
[PI9020] JETS chief executive John Tsatsimas believes his club's new-found profile will deliver a major sponsor worth in excess of $1 million per annum.
The Jets sported logos for Parklea Markets, a business owned by Con Constantine, on their shirts in Sunday's grand final but have not had a naming-rights deal in their three A-League campaigns.
But winning the title and a berth in the Asian Champions League will give them real bargaining power.
"That's a major priority, wrapping up something there," Tsatsimas said. "I'll be getting started on it tomorrow. I believe $1 million a year is realistic. My premise for that is that we now have a fantastic panorama for advertising in the Asian Champions League. That's something even the NRL clubs can't offer."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/jets-target-1million-sponsor/1189867.html
By Robert Dillion
[PI9020] JETS chief executive John Tsatsimas believes his club's new-found profile will deliver a major sponsor worth in excess of $1 million per annum.
The Jets sported logos for Parklea Markets, a business owned by Con Constantine, on their shirts in Sunday's grand final but have not had a naming-rights deal in their three A-League campaigns.
But winning the title and a berth in the Asian Champions League will give them real bargaining power.
"That's a major priority, wrapping up something there," Tsatsimas said. "I'll be getting started on it tomorrow. I believe $1 million a year is realistic. My premise for that is that we now have a fantastic panorama for advertising in the Asian Champions League. That's something even the NRL clubs can't offer."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/jets-target-1million-sponsor/1189867.html
Matter of life and death: Players ride emotional wave to deliver A-League dream to Hunter fans
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
FAIRYTALES do come true!
In the traditions of the best make-believe of childhood dreams, the Jets overcame the loss of key personnel at the start of the year, a host of doubters, and the scariest of endings to triumph on the big day.
I spoke to ex-teammate and Fox Sports personality Andy Harper before I wrote this piece, to check I wasn't watching the game through one-eyed binoculars, and he reassured me my impressions were fairly accurate.
In an era of increasing corporate involvement, Harps described the day as a "fans grand final", and that it was.
The supporters of both clubs travelled together by bus, by rail and on the now-famous "F3", and the atmosphere was convivial, vibrant and wholeheartedly good-natured.
Given the controversial finish, I'm not too sure about relations on the return journey, and given my idyllic trip to Lidcombe Station took me on a 15-stop tour of "Sonny-Bill" territory in south-west Sydney, I'm in no position to report.
Having listened to my son Alex and his best mate Andy espouse their theories and dutifully wave Jets shirts and scarves at every Mariners-clad car on the trip down, I wisely sent them off to the other side of the stadium so I could watch in relative peace.
I don't know about any of you, but I had goose bumps when the Squadron unveiled their enormous banner and the roar threatened to take the roof with it. They returned as always at the conclusion of the national anthem.
Emotions were undoubtedly high in both dressing-rooms, and the question on everyone's lips was how would the all-important first 20 minutes pan out? Which of the two teams had the most appetite for the fight? Who wanted it more?
At this point I'd like to, with the utmost respect for those involved, relate to you a story which had a profound effect on the Newcastle dressing-room.
Once inside the rooms, the players and coaches are loath to have anything other than their own space, concentration and focus to deal with.
When Jets assistant coach Mark Jones was approached by a policeman to have a Jets shirt signed by all the players, his initial reaction was to refuse, but he inquired who it was for. When the officer explained that his brother, a mad Jets fan, had passed away the night before after complications with a long-term illness and his dying wish was to be buried in a Jets shirt, the story was relayed and the shirt duly signed.
I can't begin to imagine how powerful an emotion was running through the boys dressed in gold in that dressing room at that moment, but I have tears running down my face as I try to describe it for you.
With lumps in throats under control, muscles and tendons stretched, and formalities complete, we wondered would Newcastle fight the expected fire with fire?
After John Hutchinson clattered Joel Griffiths inside two seconds, we'd surely soon know. The answer, in fact, was that Newcastle extinguished the Central Coast's fire with a bit of science and composure.
Gary "Rafa" van Egmond changed his starting line-up for the 25th consecutive game this season, but more importantly, he changed his formation, and it allowed his side to dominate the first 25 minutes.
I'm not going to let the pretence of false modesty rob me of the chance to say "I told you so" in Saturday's paper, that I fancied van Egmond would employ Adam Griffiths and Jade North as markers at some stage in a revised three-man backline.
It made perfect sense defensively to cut off supply to the Mariners front men, but it also allowed Newcastle to make John Aloisi and Sasho Petrovski do a lot of energy-sapping "donkey work" as Newcastle patiently kept the ball.
Key to this tactic is having a deep-lying midfielder to bounce things off and who are always available to receive.
Stu Musialik is just that kind of player, and with Jedinak and Hutchinson unsure which of the two should go with him, and Kwasnik and Owens picking up the more advanced duo of Elrich and D'Apuzzo, the 30-plus front duo were being asked to do a lot of fruitless shuttle-running in temperatures in the mid-20s.
The Mariners decided to push Hutchinson onto Musialik and ask Jedinak to pick up Joel Griffiths, who van Egmond had deployed in "the hole" behind Mark Bridge operating as the target man.
That tactic asked the question of whether the Mariners were prepared to go one-on-one in central defence by pushing someone onto Griffiths, or whether Jedinak would get the assignment.
Question answered too risky to go man-for-man against Griffiths's pace and suddenly the Mariners had 40 metres between their central midfielders Jedinak and Hutchinson and were unable to exert concerted pressure on the ball.
Certainly the Mariners clawed their way back into the contest, but the tactical advantage obtained in the opening half hour was key to the overall results.
Jedinak's influence was reduced by his endeavours to track a very quick and fit J Griffiths all over the field surely a job only one man in the stadium, and he was wearing a patriotic gold suit, ex-Newcastle defender Andy Roberts, would have relished.
Griffiths may not have caught fire on Sunday, but his presence, and the way the coach used him, had a big impact on how the Mariners played.
Newcastle's back three were terrific. Mark Bridge playing in his best position was very good, as was the young Korean, Song, who produced more than a few glimpses of his class.
Again I call on the succinct words of a man with a very extensive vocabulary, Mr Andy Harper, to summarise: "Newcastle didn't have a bad player, the Mariners had a few who were below their best."
If you felt no empathy for Tony Vidmar in his last game, you can't be human. But he will get over it and realise that these things happen to players far better than the ones we see in our A-League.
In contrast, you can't help but wonder what effect a last-minute penalty might have had on the career of young James Holland had the final result then been different.
The Mariners have every right to think that on another day, they might have won a penalty and a last-minute reprieve.
In their heart of hearts though, I think they'll know they were out-thought and out-played, albeit narrowly.
And not surprisingly, for all the tactical subtleties we dissect, the winning goal came from a simple error, some predatory instincts, and a sublime opportunist finish.
Congratulations to Con Constantine, Gary van Egmond and all the Jets players and staff you've brought a smile and immense pride to the city.
A-League Champions, you bloody beauty!
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/matter-of-life-and-death-players-ride-emotional-wave-to-deliver-aleague-dream-to-hunter-fans/1189864.html
FAIRYTALES do come true!
In the traditions of the best make-believe of childhood dreams, the Jets overcame the loss of key personnel at the start of the year, a host of doubters, and the scariest of endings to triumph on the big day.
I spoke to ex-teammate and Fox Sports personality Andy Harper before I wrote this piece, to check I wasn't watching the game through one-eyed binoculars, and he reassured me my impressions were fairly accurate.
In an era of increasing corporate involvement, Harps described the day as a "fans grand final", and that it was.
The supporters of both clubs travelled together by bus, by rail and on the now-famous "F3", and the atmosphere was convivial, vibrant and wholeheartedly good-natured.
Given the controversial finish, I'm not too sure about relations on the return journey, and given my idyllic trip to Lidcombe Station took me on a 15-stop tour of "Sonny-Bill" territory in south-west Sydney, I'm in no position to report.
Having listened to my son Alex and his best mate Andy espouse their theories and dutifully wave Jets shirts and scarves at every Mariners-clad car on the trip down, I wisely sent them off to the other side of the stadium so I could watch in relative peace.
I don't know about any of you, but I had goose bumps when the Squadron unveiled their enormous banner and the roar threatened to take the roof with it. They returned as always at the conclusion of the national anthem.
Emotions were undoubtedly high in both dressing-rooms, and the question on everyone's lips was how would the all-important first 20 minutes pan out? Which of the two teams had the most appetite for the fight? Who wanted it more?
At this point I'd like to, with the utmost respect for those involved, relate to you a story which had a profound effect on the Newcastle dressing-room.
Once inside the rooms, the players and coaches are loath to have anything other than their own space, concentration and focus to deal with.
When Jets assistant coach Mark Jones was approached by a policeman to have a Jets shirt signed by all the players, his initial reaction was to refuse, but he inquired who it was for. When the officer explained that his brother, a mad Jets fan, had passed away the night before after complications with a long-term illness and his dying wish was to be buried in a Jets shirt, the story was relayed and the shirt duly signed.
I can't begin to imagine how powerful an emotion was running through the boys dressed in gold in that dressing room at that moment, but I have tears running down my face as I try to describe it for you.
With lumps in throats under control, muscles and tendons stretched, and formalities complete, we wondered would Newcastle fight the expected fire with fire?
After John Hutchinson clattered Joel Griffiths inside two seconds, we'd surely soon know. The answer, in fact, was that Newcastle extinguished the Central Coast's fire with a bit of science and composure.
Gary "Rafa" van Egmond changed his starting line-up for the 25th consecutive game this season, but more importantly, he changed his formation, and it allowed his side to dominate the first 25 minutes.
I'm not going to let the pretence of false modesty rob me of the chance to say "I told you so" in Saturday's paper, that I fancied van Egmond would employ Adam Griffiths and Jade North as markers at some stage in a revised three-man backline.
It made perfect sense defensively to cut off supply to the Mariners front men, but it also allowed Newcastle to make John Aloisi and Sasho Petrovski do a lot of energy-sapping "donkey work" as Newcastle patiently kept the ball.
Key to this tactic is having a deep-lying midfielder to bounce things off and who are always available to receive.
Stu Musialik is just that kind of player, and with Jedinak and Hutchinson unsure which of the two should go with him, and Kwasnik and Owens picking up the more advanced duo of Elrich and D'Apuzzo, the 30-plus front duo were being asked to do a lot of fruitless shuttle-running in temperatures in the mid-20s.
The Mariners decided to push Hutchinson onto Musialik and ask Jedinak to pick up Joel Griffiths, who van Egmond had deployed in "the hole" behind Mark Bridge operating as the target man.
That tactic asked the question of whether the Mariners were prepared to go one-on-one in central defence by pushing someone onto Griffiths, or whether Jedinak would get the assignment.
Question answered too risky to go man-for-man against Griffiths's pace and suddenly the Mariners had 40 metres between their central midfielders Jedinak and Hutchinson and were unable to exert concerted pressure on the ball.
Certainly the Mariners clawed their way back into the contest, but the tactical advantage obtained in the opening half hour was key to the overall results.
Jedinak's influence was reduced by his endeavours to track a very quick and fit J Griffiths all over the field surely a job only one man in the stadium, and he was wearing a patriotic gold suit, ex-Newcastle defender Andy Roberts, would have relished.
Griffiths may not have caught fire on Sunday, but his presence, and the way the coach used him, had a big impact on how the Mariners played.
Newcastle's back three were terrific. Mark Bridge playing in his best position was very good, as was the young Korean, Song, who produced more than a few glimpses of his class.
Again I call on the succinct words of a man with a very extensive vocabulary, Mr Andy Harper, to summarise: "Newcastle didn't have a bad player, the Mariners had a few who were below their best."
If you felt no empathy for Tony Vidmar in his last game, you can't be human. But he will get over it and realise that these things happen to players far better than the ones we see in our A-League.
In contrast, you can't help but wonder what effect a last-minute penalty might have had on the career of young James Holland had the final result then been different.
The Mariners have every right to think that on another day, they might have won a penalty and a last-minute reprieve.
In their heart of hearts though, I think they'll know they were out-thought and out-played, albeit narrowly.
And not surprisingly, for all the tactical subtleties we dissect, the winning goal came from a simple error, some predatory instincts, and a sublime opportunist finish.
Congratulations to Con Constantine, Gary van Egmond and all the Jets players and staff you've brought a smile and immense pride to the city.
A-League Champions, you bloody beauty!
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/matter-of-life-and-death-players-ride-emotional-wave-to-deliver-aleague-dream-to-hunter-fans/1189864.html
Win puts Jets in the box seat in Newcastle
DAILY TELEGRAPH
by Barry Toohey
NEWCASTLE Knights hardly needed a wake-up call after a poor 2007 but they were delivered one anyway on Sunday.
The emphatic message from the Newcastle Jets simply read: You are no longer the only show in town.
In the space of just three seasons, the Jets have done the unthinkable.
The new A-League champions have elbowed their way into the hearts and minds of Newcastle's sporting public.
They have stolen a healthy share of the passion and adoration previously reserved only for the Knights.
The evidence?
THE 60-plus bus convoy down the F3 on Sunday to watch the A-League grand final;
THE sea of gold in the stands at a near-capacity SFS;
THE tears and sheer jubilation on the faces of supporters after the 1-0 win over the Mariners; and
THE 2500 strong-crowd that hung around in drizzling rain until after midnight to welcome their heroes home.
OK, so the celebrations may not have quite been on the same scale as 1997, when the Knights took over the city after clinching the ARL grand final and Joey Johns surfed the crowd.
But will anything Newcastle celebrates in the future in any sport ever match that breakthrough first title win and the emotion it generated?
Both clubs say they are not in competition with the other. They play in different seasons for one thing and there is little cross-over of corporate support.
The Knights will have it all to do in just over a fortnight's time when their own campaign begins in earnest.
Article Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23274781-5001023,00.html
by Barry Toohey
NEWCASTLE Knights hardly needed a wake-up call after a poor 2007 but they were delivered one anyway on Sunday.
The emphatic message from the Newcastle Jets simply read: You are no longer the only show in town.
In the space of just three seasons, the Jets have done the unthinkable.
The new A-League champions have elbowed their way into the hearts and minds of Newcastle's sporting public.
They have stolen a healthy share of the passion and adoration previously reserved only for the Knights.
The evidence?
THE 60-plus bus convoy down the F3 on Sunday to watch the A-League grand final;
THE sea of gold in the stands at a near-capacity SFS;
THE tears and sheer jubilation on the faces of supporters after the 1-0 win over the Mariners; and
THE 2500 strong-crowd that hung around in drizzling rain until after midnight to welcome their heroes home.
OK, so the celebrations may not have quite been on the same scale as 1997, when the Knights took over the city after clinching the ARL grand final and Joey Johns surfed the crowd.
But will anything Newcastle celebrates in the future in any sport ever match that breakthrough first title win and the emotion it generated?
Both clubs say they are not in competition with the other. They play in different seasons for one thing and there is little cross-over of corporate support.
The Knights will have it all to do in just over a fortnight's time when their own campaign begins in earnest.
Article Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23274781-5001023,00.html
Monday, February 25, 2008
We don't want to leave, say our grand final heroes
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
By James Gardiner
MARK Bridge scored the goal which delivered a championship to the Newcastle Jets.
Andrew Durante did the job at the other end, helping tame Mariners danger men John Aloisi and Sasho Petrovski in a performance that earned him the prestigious Joe Marston Medal.
Now it is up to club owner Con Constantine to ensure they stay in Newcastle.
Bridge and Durante have received lucrative offers to join Sydney FC and Wellington respectively.
Both are desperate to stay in Newcastle but say the ball is in Constantine's court.
"I wanted to stay before tonight," a delighted Bridge said.
"It is a great team, a great bunch of blokes. Why would I want to leave."
Durante also expressed his desire to stay in Newcastle.
"You have to try and keep as many players as you can in a winning side," Durante said.
"Con has said he does not want it to be a revolving door.
"But it also makes it hard when he does not want to use service agreements.
"We are in a winning side, so obviously other clubs are going to start picking off individual players.
"I have a big decision to make next week. I told the club I would make a decision after the grand final.
"Hopefully tonight will sway Con's thinking more than my thinking."
On last night's performance, the club should do whatever it takes to ensure both stay in Jets colours.
Bridge's strike was straight from the top shelf.
"When you score in a big game you always feel good," he said.
"Scoring in a grand final the feeling is times ten."
Bridge's strike sent the Newcastle fans into raptures a far cry from the boos he received early in the season when speculation surfaced that he was heading to Sydney.
"There is still the odd person that has booed," Bridge said.
"I take it as a compliment, it shows they want me to stay."
The Marston Medal capped an amazing three years for Durante, which has seen him come back from a career-threatening broken leg suffered in a crude tackle against the Mariners in their first meeting to become a Socceroo train-on squad member, championship winner and medal recipient.
"This is the most unbelievable night of my life," he said.
"I have been chasing a grand final for so long. To get one and get the Joe Marston Medal on top of that is incredible.
"I know if I do leave [Newcastle] I have left my heart here.
"I actually questioned whether I could come back after the second broken leg because I knew what was ahead of me.
"It is a lonely road back to first-grade football.
"Looking back, it has all been worthwhile."
Durante believed van Egmond's decision to switch from a back four to a back three was the key to victory.
"Tactically, Dutchy was brilliant," Durante said.
"The last few times we have played them Sasho [Petrovski] and John [Aloisi] were able to get ball to feet. That is when they are most dangerous.
"We stopped that by me playing behind the defence and Adam [Griffiths] and Jade [North] playing in front. We stopped the supply of balls to feet. That's where we won it."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/we-dont-want-to-leave-say-our-grand-final-heroes/1189208.html
By James Gardiner
MARK Bridge scored the goal which delivered a championship to the Newcastle Jets.
Andrew Durante did the job at the other end, helping tame Mariners danger men John Aloisi and Sasho Petrovski in a performance that earned him the prestigious Joe Marston Medal.
Now it is up to club owner Con Constantine to ensure they stay in Newcastle.
Bridge and Durante have received lucrative offers to join Sydney FC and Wellington respectively.
Both are desperate to stay in Newcastle but say the ball is in Constantine's court.
"I wanted to stay before tonight," a delighted Bridge said.
"It is a great team, a great bunch of blokes. Why would I want to leave."
Durante also expressed his desire to stay in Newcastle.
"You have to try and keep as many players as you can in a winning side," Durante said.
"Con has said he does not want it to be a revolving door.
"But it also makes it hard when he does not want to use service agreements.
"We are in a winning side, so obviously other clubs are going to start picking off individual players.
"I have a big decision to make next week. I told the club I would make a decision after the grand final.
"Hopefully tonight will sway Con's thinking more than my thinking."
On last night's performance, the club should do whatever it takes to ensure both stay in Jets colours.
Bridge's strike was straight from the top shelf.
"When you score in a big game you always feel good," he said.
"Scoring in a grand final the feeling is times ten."
Bridge's strike sent the Newcastle fans into raptures a far cry from the boos he received early in the season when speculation surfaced that he was heading to Sydney.
"There is still the odd person that has booed," Bridge said.
"I take it as a compliment, it shows they want me to stay."
The Marston Medal capped an amazing three years for Durante, which has seen him come back from a career-threatening broken leg suffered in a crude tackle against the Mariners in their first meeting to become a Socceroo train-on squad member, championship winner and medal recipient.
"This is the most unbelievable night of my life," he said.
"I have been chasing a grand final for so long. To get one and get the Joe Marston Medal on top of that is incredible.
"I know if I do leave [Newcastle] I have left my heart here.
"I actually questioned whether I could come back after the second broken leg because I knew what was ahead of me.
"It is a lonely road back to first-grade football.
"Looking back, it has all been worthwhile."
Durante believed van Egmond's decision to switch from a back four to a back three was the key to victory.
"Tactically, Dutchy was brilliant," Durante said.
"The last few times we have played them Sasho [Petrovski] and John [Aloisi] were able to get ball to feet. That is when they are most dangerous.
"We stopped that by me playing behind the defence and Adam [Griffiths] and Jade [North] playing in front. We stopped the supply of balls to feet. That's where we won it."
Article source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/we-dont-want-to-leave-say-our-grand-final-heroes/1189208.html
Carle joins exhilarating victory from world away
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
By BRETT KEEBLE
WATCHING on pay-TV from the other side of the world, former Jets wonder boy Nick Carle could not bear to watch the gripping last minutes of yesterday's grand final.
Carle, who won the Johnny Warren Medal with the Jets as A-League player of the year last season, leapt from his lounge-room chair in the Midlands region of England when friend and former teammate Mark Bridge broke the nil-all deadlock in the 64th minute.
The 26-year-old Socceroos midfielder, who now plays for Bristol City in the second-flight English Championship, then battled nerves like every other Newcastle fan as the Jets withstood a desperate Central Coast rally to secure the silverware.
"What a game. I had my heart in my mouth until the last minute, and I'm really, really happy for all of the boys," Carle told The Herald from his Bristol home.
"I was really nervous throughout the whole game, then I was worried the ref [Mark Shield] was going to award a penalty to the Mariners at the end there, but thankfully he didn't because the boys really deserved it.
"They were the better team on the night and played the better football."
Mariners players and fans were livid when Shield did not see the ball hit the arm of Jets rookie James Holland from a last-gasp Central Coast corner.
Carle sent congratulatory text messages to Bridge, Marston medallist Andrew Durante and Matt Thompson immediately after the game.
"And I would have sent one to all the boys if I had their numbers in my phone," said Carle, who was up "bright and early" for the match, which kicked off at 6am English time.
"I would have loved to have been there. I would have loved to have jumped on a plane to come over there and watch it, then fly back here.
"The boys thoroughly deserve it, the fans thoroughly deserve it; all the people of Newcastle really deserve it because they've always stuck by the boys.
"They just said on the TV commentary that they're the youngest group in the A-League so what an achievement for them."
Carle left Newcastle in the off-season to further his career in Europe first at Turkish club Genclerbirligi and then Bristol in a $1.3 million deal but has continued to support the Jets while overseas.
"I'm absolutely stoked for them," he said. "They're the A-League champions, and now they can look forward to representing Newcastle and the A-League in Asia."
Carle also had cause of his own to be excited yesterday after Bristol moved into line for Premier League promotion with a 2-1 away win over Colchester.
Article Source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/carle-joins-exhilarating-victory-from-world-away/1189202.html
By BRETT KEEBLE
WATCHING on pay-TV from the other side of the world, former Jets wonder boy Nick Carle could not bear to watch the gripping last minutes of yesterday's grand final.
Carle, who won the Johnny Warren Medal with the Jets as A-League player of the year last season, leapt from his lounge-room chair in the Midlands region of England when friend and former teammate Mark Bridge broke the nil-all deadlock in the 64th minute.
The 26-year-old Socceroos midfielder, who now plays for Bristol City in the second-flight English Championship, then battled nerves like every other Newcastle fan as the Jets withstood a desperate Central Coast rally to secure the silverware.
"What a game. I had my heart in my mouth until the last minute, and I'm really, really happy for all of the boys," Carle told The Herald from his Bristol home.
"I was really nervous throughout the whole game, then I was worried the ref [Mark Shield] was going to award a penalty to the Mariners at the end there, but thankfully he didn't because the boys really deserved it.
"They were the better team on the night and played the better football."
Mariners players and fans were livid when Shield did not see the ball hit the arm of Jets rookie James Holland from a last-gasp Central Coast corner.
Carle sent congratulatory text messages to Bridge, Marston medallist Andrew Durante and Matt Thompson immediately after the game.
"And I would have sent one to all the boys if I had their numbers in my phone," said Carle, who was up "bright and early" for the match, which kicked off at 6am English time.
"I would have loved to have been there. I would have loved to have jumped on a plane to come over there and watch it, then fly back here.
"The boys thoroughly deserve it, the fans thoroughly deserve it; all the people of Newcastle really deserve it because they've always stuck by the boys.
"They just said on the TV commentary that they're the youngest group in the A-League so what an achievement for them."
Carle left Newcastle in the off-season to further his career in Europe first at Turkish club Genclerbirligi and then Bristol in a $1.3 million deal but has continued to support the Jets while overseas.
"I'm absolutely stoked for them," he said. "They're the A-League champions, and now they can look forward to representing Newcastle and the A-League in Asia."
Carle also had cause of his own to be excited yesterday after Bristol moved into line for Premier League promotion with a 2-1 away win over Colchester.
Article Source http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/carle-joins-exhilarating-victory-from-world-away/1189202.html
Jets triumph in destiny derby: Bridge strikes decisive blow in historic occasion for Newcastle
THE NEWCASTLE HERALD
FAIRYTALES do come true.
The Newcastle Jets, written off at the start of the season, are the A-League champions.
Almost 30 years to the day since KB United made the city's first foray into the national league, Newcastle finally have a title to their name.
Mark Bridge scored the decisive goal in the 64th minute after he picked the pocket of retiring Mariners defender Tony Vidmar and fired a thunderbolt to beat Mariners keeper Danny Vukovic inside the right post.
Jets owner Con Constantine, who has poured $15 million into his passion, celebrated in typical style.
He moved from his suite to the end of the pitch and proceeded to hug, kiss and pay homage to the Jets fans who had turned the southern end into a sea of gold.
"New-cas-tle, let's go, we done it, thanks," Constantine roared.
It would not have been an F3 derby without controversy.
Referee Mark Shield turned down the Mariners' appeals for a penalty from the last play of the game.
Replays showed the ball struck James Holland's forearm.
Vukovic, who had moved upfield for the corner, was incensed by the decision and let fly at Shield, who gave him a straight red card. He was later charged with "violent conduct striking a match official".
Socceroo John Aloisi was also enraged and received a yellow card.
Holland was not sure if the ball struck his arm or not.
"I went up and protected myself with my arm, and they claimed a handball," Holland said.
"If it did hit my arm I have not seen a replay I did not mean it.
"We have won now so it doesn't matter. First season in the A-League and I have a title. It is unbelievable."
As he has done all season, Gary van Egmond adopted a horses-for-courses approach to team selection.
He made one, but very important, change to the side who beat Queensland 3-2 in the preliminary final. Korean Song Jin-hyung came in for James Holland.
But it was his gamble to change formation that was the main talking point.
The Jets have played a 4-2-3-1 formation for the majority of the season, but last night they reverted to a 3-4-3 system, with the league's leading scorer, Joel Griffiths, in a midfield role.
Van Egmond's intention was to run the ageing Mariners off their feet and cut off the supply to strikers John Aloisi and Sasho Petrovski.
Not only that, the move provided a shock element.
The Jets dominated the first half. They moved the ball, won the majority of 50-50 challenges and were composed in defence.
But for all their purpose it failed to produce on the scoresheet in the first half.
Song was in everything.
He combined with Bridge to create the Jets' best chance of the half in the 19th minute.
The tricky Korean laid off a neat back-heel for Bridge, who weaved through two defenders and pulled the trigger. The shot was not far off, curling just past the outside of the right post.
Never have the stakes in an F3 derby been so high.
And it showed.
The match was not even 10 seconds old when Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson crunched Joel Griffiths in a fierce tackle.
Griffiths returned serve on Greg Owens a minute later, setting the scene for a brutal encounter.
The match erupted in the 11th minute after a late tackle by Griffiths on Mile Jedinak.
Players from both teams converged, and referee Mark Shield had to step in between Tarek Elrich and Hutchinson.
Once the dust settled, Griffiths was given a yellow card. Jedinak followed him into the referee's book a minute later when he chased Griffiths and returned the favour by bringing him down.
The Jets continued to probe and push and always looked the more likely to score.
Aloisi and Petrovski hardly had a touch in the first half.
In fact, the Mariners had to wait until the 28th minute for the first shot, a long-range effort by Owens which sailed high and wide.
After soaking up a heap of pressure in the opening 30 minutes, the Mariners started to work their way into the game.
Adam Griffiths was the third player to pick up a card when he slid in late on Hutchinson in the 38th minute.
After being contained in the first half, Aloisi should have put the Mariners ahead four minutes after the break.
Adam Kwasnik fired a cross from the left to Aloisi at the back post. The star midseason signing had a free header, but he pushed it past the right post.
The match was crying out for a goal, and Mark Bridge delivered in the 64th minute.
Vidmar slipped, and Bridge struck. He dispossessed the defender, before dribbling to the end of the box and letting rip with a another curling right-footer which smashed midway up the right-side back of the net.
"Vidmar stuffed up: I think he slipped," Bridge said.
"I was running towards goal and saw Nigel Boogaard standing in the way of Vuka [Vukovic], and he could not see the ball. I thought if I hit it sweet and bend it in the corner, he has no chance.
"Lucky enough for me it came off good and went in."
After putting the Jets ahead, Bridge was forced off with cramp 10 minutes later and was replaced by Holland.
Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna had already cleared his bench when van Egmond promoted Hoffman for a tired Matt Thompson.
The teenager thought he scored with his first touch, but the assistant referee had his flag up for offside.
Unlike earlier in the season, the Jets stayed positive once they had the lead.
Jedinak had a half-chance in the 83rd minute which was gobbled up by Ante Covic, one of the few saves he had to make.
Article Source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/jets-triumph-in-destiny-derby-bridge-strikes-decisive-blow-in-historic-occasion-for-newcastle/1189201.html
FAIRYTALES do come true.
The Newcastle Jets, written off at the start of the season, are the A-League champions.
Almost 30 years to the day since KB United made the city's first foray into the national league, Newcastle finally have a title to their name.
Mark Bridge scored the decisive goal in the 64th minute after he picked the pocket of retiring Mariners defender Tony Vidmar and fired a thunderbolt to beat Mariners keeper Danny Vukovic inside the right post.
Jets owner Con Constantine, who has poured $15 million into his passion, celebrated in typical style.
He moved from his suite to the end of the pitch and proceeded to hug, kiss and pay homage to the Jets fans who had turned the southern end into a sea of gold.
"New-cas-tle, let's go, we done it, thanks," Constantine roared.
It would not have been an F3 derby without controversy.
Referee Mark Shield turned down the Mariners' appeals for a penalty from the last play of the game.
Replays showed the ball struck James Holland's forearm.
Vukovic, who had moved upfield for the corner, was incensed by the decision and let fly at Shield, who gave him a straight red card. He was later charged with "violent conduct striking a match official".
Socceroo John Aloisi was also enraged and received a yellow card.
Holland was not sure if the ball struck his arm or not.
"I went up and protected myself with my arm, and they claimed a handball," Holland said.
"If it did hit my arm I have not seen a replay I did not mean it.
"We have won now so it doesn't matter. First season in the A-League and I have a title. It is unbelievable."
As he has done all season, Gary van Egmond adopted a horses-for-courses approach to team selection.
He made one, but very important, change to the side who beat Queensland 3-2 in the preliminary final. Korean Song Jin-hyung came in for James Holland.
But it was his gamble to change formation that was the main talking point.
The Jets have played a 4-2-3-1 formation for the majority of the season, but last night they reverted to a 3-4-3 system, with the league's leading scorer, Joel Griffiths, in a midfield role.
Van Egmond's intention was to run the ageing Mariners off their feet and cut off the supply to strikers John Aloisi and Sasho Petrovski.
Not only that, the move provided a shock element.
The Jets dominated the first half. They moved the ball, won the majority of 50-50 challenges and were composed in defence.
But for all their purpose it failed to produce on the scoresheet in the first half.
Song was in everything.
He combined with Bridge to create the Jets' best chance of the half in the 19th minute.
The tricky Korean laid off a neat back-heel for Bridge, who weaved through two defenders and pulled the trigger. The shot was not far off, curling just past the outside of the right post.
Never have the stakes in an F3 derby been so high.
And it showed.
The match was not even 10 seconds old when Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson crunched Joel Griffiths in a fierce tackle.
Griffiths returned serve on Greg Owens a minute later, setting the scene for a brutal encounter.
The match erupted in the 11th minute after a late tackle by Griffiths on Mile Jedinak.
Players from both teams converged, and referee Mark Shield had to step in between Tarek Elrich and Hutchinson.
Once the dust settled, Griffiths was given a yellow card. Jedinak followed him into the referee's book a minute later when he chased Griffiths and returned the favour by bringing him down.
The Jets continued to probe and push and always looked the more likely to score.
Aloisi and Petrovski hardly had a touch in the first half.
In fact, the Mariners had to wait until the 28th minute for the first shot, a long-range effort by Owens which sailed high and wide.
After soaking up a heap of pressure in the opening 30 minutes, the Mariners started to work their way into the game.
Adam Griffiths was the third player to pick up a card when he slid in late on Hutchinson in the 38th minute.
After being contained in the first half, Aloisi should have put the Mariners ahead four minutes after the break.
Adam Kwasnik fired a cross from the left to Aloisi at the back post. The star midseason signing had a free header, but he pushed it past the right post.
The match was crying out for a goal, and Mark Bridge delivered in the 64th minute.
Vidmar slipped, and Bridge struck. He dispossessed the defender, before dribbling to the end of the box and letting rip with a another curling right-footer which smashed midway up the right-side back of the net.
"Vidmar stuffed up: I think he slipped," Bridge said.
"I was running towards goal and saw Nigel Boogaard standing in the way of Vuka [Vukovic], and he could not see the ball. I thought if I hit it sweet and bend it in the corner, he has no chance.
"Lucky enough for me it came off good and went in."
After putting the Jets ahead, Bridge was forced off with cramp 10 minutes later and was replaced by Holland.
Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna had already cleared his bench when van Egmond promoted Hoffman for a tired Matt Thompson.
The teenager thought he scored with his first touch, but the assistant referee had his flag up for offside.
Unlike earlier in the season, the Jets stayed positive once they had the lead.
Jedinak had a half-chance in the 83rd minute which was gobbled up by Ante Covic, one of the few saves he had to make.
Article Source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/jets-triumph-in-destiny-derby-bridge-strikes-decisive-blow-in-historic-occasion-for-newcastle/1189201.html
The Newcastle Jets soar to new heights
ABC
By Brooke Bannister
At full-time the Jets fans were perplexed, they wanted to stay and cheer on their team holding their trophy at the Sydney Football Stadium, but also wanted to rush back home to celebrate with the rest of Newcastle.
Either way they were euphoric.
Most stayed, keeping dozens of bus drivers waiting, as grateful Jets players sauntered a slow lap of honour past the Jets support base, The Squadron. When they got to the end, the Jets decided to do it again.
The northern end of the SFS (Sydney Football Stadium), where the Mariners supporters had assembled, began clearing out before full-time. One lonely Mariner fan was found walking through the car park and was disappointed but still upbeat, "No tears, a few more beers, we'll soon be right. The beers will help," he said.
For the grand final, the sun shone brightly in a cloudless sky, but that was not the only thing that was golden. Gold-cladded Jets supporters dug-in at the southern end of the SFS flaunting now rare Jets strips.
Gold was the only thing you could see just before kick off when Tim Verscheldon, the president of the Squadron, ordered his supporters to pull a massive gold flag over the heads of about 600 supporters.
The gold flag, about 60 meters square, had the symbolic blue star in the centre and made the flags of the Central Coasts' flags look insignificant in comparison.
Fans from both sides were mesmerised by the size of the flag, most wondered where it started and where it finished. Tim Verscheldon's mother, Helen Verscheldon, helped make the flag and said it was a lot of work, "It took five women six weeks to sew together, but it was worth it."
Another Jets fan had a cheeky homemade flag that read, "They built the F3 to bypass the Central Coast."
Tim Verscheldon was still bursting with excitement just after the game, "We were going nuts. This was our biggest game we've ever played. It was great to see." The impromptu chat outside the gates of the SFS erupted into screaming as Con Constantine marched through the gates triumphantly holding the A-league trophy above his head.
However, the night was not victorious and inspiring for everyone. One Mariner player, defender Nigel Boogaard, emerged from the Central Coast change room, "I'm obviously devastated," he said in a quiet and gloomy voice. "We were the better team all year and we just couldn't clinch it in the grand final, one off game and too many of us didn't turn up and it cost us in the end."
When asked what "turn up" meant, the dejected defender explained, "They were just in the game, they looked a little bit hungrier and they got the result."
The game ended in controversy and was a sore point for the Mariner, "There was a bit of a dispute where there was a handball and should have been a penalty but obviously they didn't give it in the end and that happens," said Nigel Boogaard.
Jets fans quickly forgot that difference of opinion as the excitement built outside the SFS. After being mobbed, Con Constantine escaped the loyal fans and explained how he felt, "Mate, I'm on another planet. How good is this? How good was it tonight? It was a dream come true," he said answering his own questions.
"Newcastle has done it. Maybe we went the long way to get there but we done it, we took the long road. Mate, how good was that," He shouted to everyone, but no one in particular.
"No one can take that away from us," He yelled holding up the trophy, "This is going back to Newcastle and they can say anything they like, this is Newcastle's. New-cast-le, New-cast-le." Con Constantine broke into a chant as he strode toward waiting family and friends.
But it was not the last time fans would celebrate with him on the night. One of the more peculiar sites of the evening was Con Constantine brandishing the A-league trophy out the window of his car to every other vehicle heading up the F3 freeway, Jets and Mariners alike.
Now affectionately known as the "toilet seat", because of its unusual shape, the A-league trophy made its way to the Newcastle United Sports Club at Adamstown where Con Constantine proudly, positioned on the bar to the delight of waiting fans.
The triumphant team were greeted on stage with a thunderous Newcastle welcome of about two and half thousand fans to the sound of "We are the Champions". The only thing that the fans were unsure about now was where they would celebrate with their team next.
Article source: http://www.abc.net.au/newcastle/stories/s2171818.htm?nsw
By Brooke Bannister
At full-time the Jets fans were perplexed, they wanted to stay and cheer on their team holding their trophy at the Sydney Football Stadium, but also wanted to rush back home to celebrate with the rest of Newcastle.
Either way they were euphoric.
Most stayed, keeping dozens of bus drivers waiting, as grateful Jets players sauntered a slow lap of honour past the Jets support base, The Squadron. When they got to the end, the Jets decided to do it again.
The northern end of the SFS (Sydney Football Stadium), where the Mariners supporters had assembled, began clearing out before full-time. One lonely Mariner fan was found walking through the car park and was disappointed but still upbeat, "No tears, a few more beers, we'll soon be right. The beers will help," he said.
For the grand final, the sun shone brightly in a cloudless sky, but that was not the only thing that was golden. Gold-cladded Jets supporters dug-in at the southern end of the SFS flaunting now rare Jets strips.
Gold was the only thing you could see just before kick off when Tim Verscheldon, the president of the Squadron, ordered his supporters to pull a massive gold flag over the heads of about 600 supporters.
The gold flag, about 60 meters square, had the symbolic blue star in the centre and made the flags of the Central Coasts' flags look insignificant in comparison.
Fans from both sides were mesmerised by the size of the flag, most wondered where it started and where it finished. Tim Verscheldon's mother, Helen Verscheldon, helped make the flag and said it was a lot of work, "It took five women six weeks to sew together, but it was worth it."
Another Jets fan had a cheeky homemade flag that read, "They built the F3 to bypass the Central Coast."
Tim Verscheldon was still bursting with excitement just after the game, "We were going nuts. This was our biggest game we've ever played. It was great to see." The impromptu chat outside the gates of the SFS erupted into screaming as Con Constantine marched through the gates triumphantly holding the A-league trophy above his head.
However, the night was not victorious and inspiring for everyone. One Mariner player, defender Nigel Boogaard, emerged from the Central Coast change room, "I'm obviously devastated," he said in a quiet and gloomy voice. "We were the better team all year and we just couldn't clinch it in the grand final, one off game and too many of us didn't turn up and it cost us in the end."
When asked what "turn up" meant, the dejected defender explained, "They were just in the game, they looked a little bit hungrier and they got the result."
The game ended in controversy and was a sore point for the Mariner, "There was a bit of a dispute where there was a handball and should have been a penalty but obviously they didn't give it in the end and that happens," said Nigel Boogaard.
Jets fans quickly forgot that difference of opinion as the excitement built outside the SFS. After being mobbed, Con Constantine escaped the loyal fans and explained how he felt, "Mate, I'm on another planet. How good is this? How good was it tonight? It was a dream come true," he said answering his own questions.
"Newcastle has done it. Maybe we went the long way to get there but we done it, we took the long road. Mate, how good was that," He shouted to everyone, but no one in particular.
"No one can take that away from us," He yelled holding up the trophy, "This is going back to Newcastle and they can say anything they like, this is Newcastle's. New-cast-le, New-cast-le." Con Constantine broke into a chant as he strode toward waiting family and friends.
But it was not the last time fans would celebrate with him on the night. One of the more peculiar sites of the evening was Con Constantine brandishing the A-league trophy out the window of his car to every other vehicle heading up the F3 freeway, Jets and Mariners alike.
Now affectionately known as the "toilet seat", because of its unusual shape, the A-league trophy made its way to the Newcastle United Sports Club at Adamstown where Con Constantine proudly, positioned on the bar to the delight of waiting fans.
The triumphant team were greeted on stage with a thunderous Newcastle welcome of about two and half thousand fans to the sound of "We are the Champions". The only thing that the fans were unsure about now was where they would celebrate with their team next.
Article source: http://www.abc.net.au/newcastle/stories/s2171818.htm?nsw
Gary: Tactics Won Us The Trophy
by Kevin Airs
JETS coach Gary Van Egmond reckoned he'd won the battle of tactics to claim the A-League Championship - and played The Beautiful Game on the way.
"I thought we at times played some really attractive football," he said after the game.
"I thought it would open up and Joel Griffiths, playing as a shadow striker off Bridge, would have the opportunity to run Mile Jedinak around.
"We wanted to play out the back and that was very important to us. Hutchinson didn't know whether to push on or stay with Musialik. That was a fairly important part of the game for us in terms of keeping possession.
We practised that early during the week. It was important the Tarek and Adam D'Appuzo went high so as not to invite Kwasnik and Greg Owens on."
The Jets refused to take a step backwards in the face of the Mariners onslaught - and wouldn't bow down before any alleged bullyboy tactics after the last game.
"A couple of times, they intimidated out boys [in their last meeting], not illegally, but we weren't going to let that happen tonight" insisted Van Egmond.
"If anything untoward happened on the pitch, everyone ran in - not that we wanted to create a ruckus, just that we want everyone supporting each other.
"It's very important in these kind of games. It's a one-off. You need to win these types of games.
"You obviously have to not only play with your head, but with your heart as well..and I believe that our boys did that tonight."
Van Egmond believed the Jets' two gruelling matches on the way to the Grand Final played in their favour.
"I thought the mariners had the worst preparation in that they had only played two games in the last four weeks," he said.
"You don't know what the best thing to do is under those circumstances. Do the players need more rest or do you need to push them during that period of time?
"It's a real difficult one and I'm sure Lawrie had a feel things go through his head in that period."
He added: "For us, we were battle-hardened and we had a lot of momentum, euphoria and jubilation from the win [over Queensland Roar] and that really carried on to this game."
The Jets wrote off the handball claim that could have given the Mariners a vital late equaliser as simply the run of luck.
"There was an allegation of a handball in the box, but that's football,"said Van Egmond. "Sometimes you get it, sometimes you don't.
"We had the same thing last week. We were in the 90th minute and we had a penalty against us, but you have to get on with it.
"Obviously they were pretty disappointed because it was pretty close to the last throw of the dice for them and emotions spill out.
"On occasions like this, there's going tobe a winner and a loser and luckily for us, we were on the right side of the ledger."
Article source http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/70738,gary-tactics-won-us-the-trophy.aspx
JETS coach Gary Van Egmond reckoned he'd won the battle of tactics to claim the A-League Championship - and played The Beautiful Game on the way.
"I thought we at times played some really attractive football," he said after the game.
"I thought it would open up and Joel Griffiths, playing as a shadow striker off Bridge, would have the opportunity to run Mile Jedinak around.
"We wanted to play out the back and that was very important to us. Hutchinson didn't know whether to push on or stay with Musialik. That was a fairly important part of the game for us in terms of keeping possession.
We practised that early during the week. It was important the Tarek and Adam D'Appuzo went high so as not to invite Kwasnik and Greg Owens on."
The Jets refused to take a step backwards in the face of the Mariners onslaught - and wouldn't bow down before any alleged bullyboy tactics after the last game.
"A couple of times, they intimidated out boys [in their last meeting], not illegally, but we weren't going to let that happen tonight" insisted Van Egmond.
"If anything untoward happened on the pitch, everyone ran in - not that we wanted to create a ruckus, just that we want everyone supporting each other.
"It's very important in these kind of games. It's a one-off. You need to win these types of games.
"You obviously have to not only play with your head, but with your heart as well..and I believe that our boys did that tonight."
Van Egmond believed the Jets' two gruelling matches on the way to the Grand Final played in their favour.
"I thought the mariners had the worst preparation in that they had only played two games in the last four weeks," he said.
"You don't know what the best thing to do is under those circumstances. Do the players need more rest or do you need to push them during that period of time?
"It's a real difficult one and I'm sure Lawrie had a feel things go through his head in that period."
He added: "For us, we were battle-hardened and we had a lot of momentum, euphoria and jubilation from the win [over Queensland Roar] and that really carried on to this game."
The Jets wrote off the handball claim that could have given the Mariners a vital late equaliser as simply the run of luck.
"There was an allegation of a handball in the box, but that's football,"said Van Egmond. "Sometimes you get it, sometimes you don't.
"We had the same thing last week. We were in the 90th minute and we had a penalty against us, but you have to get on with it.
"Obviously they were pretty disappointed because it was pretty close to the last throw of the dice for them and emotions spill out.
"On occasions like this, there's going tobe a winner and a loser and luckily for us, we were on the right side of the ledger."
Article source http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/70738,gary-tactics-won-us-the-trophy.aspx
Football raises voice over competing din
SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
by Andrew Stevenson and Jacquelin Magnay
FOOTBALL flexed its muscles yesterday, with an impassioned crowd of 36,354 giving yet another reminder of the domestic code's popularity and the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, throwing his support behind a bid for the 2018 World Cup.
The A-League's showpiece grand final began with a rugby league-style challenge and ended in pushing and shoving as the Central Coast Mariners searched in vain for an equaliser, with the Newcastle Jets heading back up the freeway 1-0 winners.
But football - with a Prime Minister on the bandwagon and close to the chairman of Football Federation Australia, Frank Lowy - can claim the greater victory, despite the celebrations by Jets' fans.
Two out-of-town teams could have fallen flat. An Australia-India limited overs game at the SCG could have stolen some thunder. Instead, it did not make a dent, with football more than holding its own in the battle for column inches and television minutes leading into the match.
But, a week after the AFL signalled its intention to strike into rugby league's western Sydney heartlands, football raised its own voice in self-celebration. The city's sporting battles will only get more competitive.
The crowd was a marketing executive's dream: young, female-skewed (for a men's grand final, certainly) and bedecked in their team colours and in loud voice.
Rugby league, union and AFL have a mortgage on winter sport. Cricket is said to own summer but, on yesterday's display, it will need to permanently sub-let space to the roundball code.
Questions might still be raised about the quality of domestic football, but it is the theatre in the green that counts - and the intensity of spectator involvement, typified by the owner of the Jets, Con Constantine, high-fiving his fans as he sought a passage onto the ground in the moment of victory.
The Jets' Korean youth international Jin-Hyung Song was the first to find space after the fiery opening, his presence no doubt giving added satisfaction to Hyundai, which is about to extend its sponsorship of the A-League. But it also points to a richer future, with clubs peopled by players on the way up, rather than down.
John Aloisi and Tony Vidmar, both playing with the Mariners, are definitely not from that category. Aloisi had one great opening for a header but could not find the net while Vidmar, playing his last match, made a horrible gaffe in the 64th minute. With both teams struggling to make chances on goal the defensive stalwart was dispossessed by the 22-year-old Newcastle striker Mark Bridge who drilled the ball past his close friend, the Mariners' goalkeeper, Danny Vukovic.
A player on the way up beats one on the way out. A portent, perhaps, of football's future.
Meanwhile, PricewaterhouseCoopers is conducting an urgent review of facilities and costings that may be involved in Australia's proposed bid for the 2018 World Cup, with the report expected to form the backbone of the bid's formative stages.
Officials from Football Federation Australia and the Prime Minister's office will meet next week to formulate the next step in the process.
Early funding will come from a previously committed grant of $32 million, promised by Labor to support national soccer teams, before the federal election, Mr Rudd said yesterday.
Clearly the bidding costs - which could be about $35 million - will be spread around the country and it has been included on next month's agenda of the meeting of federal, state and territory leaders.
A serious bid - which could run to $100 million - would also address some shortcomings in the sizes of Australia's stadiums. The host of the World Cup in 2010, South Africa, has spent more than $750 million building stadiums.
But none of that mattered at yesterday's A-League grand final. Football fans were unanimous in their support.
Critically the federation will have to have the strategy in place by May when the top officials from 208 nations arrive for a FIFA congress in Sydney.
It will be a key opportunity to lay out Australia's bid plans and start the intensive lobbying process.
Article soruce: http://www.smh.com.au/news/football/football-raises-voice-over-competing-din/2008/02/24/1203788145350.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1
Durante has pros and Cons to consider
SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
by Andrew Stevenson
NEWCASTLE Jets defender Andrew Durante stood up to the most potent strike force in the A-League last night and, for all the gesticulating, complaining and finger-pointing of John Aloisi, it was clear who took the points.
The Joe Marston medal around his neck confirmed the judgement, with Durante chosen ahead of striker Mark Bridge and right winger Song Jin-Hyung as the grand final's man of the match.
Next week, Durante has a similarly challenging assignment - although this time he'll be sitting down, face-to-face with the A-League's ultimate maverick, Jets owner Con Constantine.
On the table is a generous offer from the Wellington Phoenix for next season. Holding his heart in Newcastle is his girlfriend, Sarah Hogan. The question for Constantine to answer is whether Durante, 25, deserves a raise.
The player's future sits in the owner's hands. "Definitely," said Durante. "He calls the shots at the club. If he wants to pay a certain player a certain amount of money, that's his call and there's no board of directors to argue with. Whatever Con says goes."
Last night, Con was having the time of his life, with the rugged defender deserving plenty of the credit. The twin medals around his neck won't hurt Durante's cause when he sits down with Constantine.
"You'd like to think so," Durante said. "But he's a pretty hard man when it comes to negotiations so I'm not expecting anything too drastic. Hopefully I've done enough to get a bit more money."
Durante joined the Jets for their inaugural A-League season, but suffered a badly broken leg in a horror tackle during the team's first trial match against, you guessed it, the Mariners.
It was the second such injury of Durante's career, and it nearly did his head in.
"After the second break, I did question if it was all worth it - coming back and doing all the lonely rehab on your own," he said. "But you know there's a light at the end of the tunnel and tonight is what everyone dreams of and plays for. I knew if I did the hard work back then one day I'd get my rewards, and tonight is the greatest thing that's happened to me.
"I knew if we won it would be an unbelievable feeling, but it's bigger than anything I expected."
If Durante remains in the Hunter, then he'll have Aloisi and his strike partner Sasho Petrovski to thank. Not only did Aloisi finish the game with a yellow card, Petrovski rarely seemed to be on the same park.
Durante, playing in the centre of a reshaped back three, was a major contributor in that, with the attacking pair providing the pre-match psyche-up.
"They gave us a bit of stick in the papers, saying if we defended against them they way we did against Queensland, then they would punish us," he said. "That probably fired us a bit more, gave us a bit of firepower in the changeroom. It was a bit of egg on their face because I thought we defended quite well."
Jets coach Gary van Egmond paid tribute to his defender - as effective off the field as a man as he is on it as a player. "If we lose 'Duro', it would be a real detriment to the club," he said.
Durante has put off making a decision, but knows he can't do so for much longer. "Obviously it's no secret I've had a fairly attractive offer from Wellington," he said. "I didn't want to make my decision until after the grand final.
"I'll have a think about it during the week. If I do end up leaving, I gave everything to this club and the club's been fantastic to me, and if I do end up leaving, there's no bad blood between us. I've got to sit down and think about the pros and cons."
"Mostly the Cons," chipped in van Egmond
by Andrew Stevenson
NEWCASTLE Jets defender Andrew Durante stood up to the most potent strike force in the A-League last night and, for all the gesticulating, complaining and finger-pointing of John Aloisi, it was clear who took the points.
The Joe Marston medal around his neck confirmed the judgement, with Durante chosen ahead of striker Mark Bridge and right winger Song Jin-Hyung as the grand final's man of the match.
Next week, Durante has a similarly challenging assignment - although this time he'll be sitting down, face-to-face with the A-League's ultimate maverick, Jets owner Con Constantine.
On the table is a generous offer from the Wellington Phoenix for next season. Holding his heart in Newcastle is his girlfriend, Sarah Hogan. The question for Constantine to answer is whether Durante, 25, deserves a raise.
The player's future sits in the owner's hands. "Definitely," said Durante. "He calls the shots at the club. If he wants to pay a certain player a certain amount of money, that's his call and there's no board of directors to argue with. Whatever Con says goes."
Last night, Con was having the time of his life, with the rugged defender deserving plenty of the credit. The twin medals around his neck won't hurt Durante's cause when he sits down with Constantine.
"You'd like to think so," Durante said. "But he's a pretty hard man when it comes to negotiations so I'm not expecting anything too drastic. Hopefully I've done enough to get a bit more money."
Durante joined the Jets for their inaugural A-League season, but suffered a badly broken leg in a horror tackle during the team's first trial match against, you guessed it, the Mariners.
It was the second such injury of Durante's career, and it nearly did his head in.
"After the second break, I did question if it was all worth it - coming back and doing all the lonely rehab on your own," he said. "But you know there's a light at the end of the tunnel and tonight is what everyone dreams of and plays for. I knew if I did the hard work back then one day I'd get my rewards, and tonight is the greatest thing that's happened to me.
"I knew if we won it would be an unbelievable feeling, but it's bigger than anything I expected."
If Durante remains in the Hunter, then he'll have Aloisi and his strike partner Sasho Petrovski to thank. Not only did Aloisi finish the game with a yellow card, Petrovski rarely seemed to be on the same park.
Durante, playing in the centre of a reshaped back three, was a major contributor in that, with the attacking pair providing the pre-match psyche-up.
"They gave us a bit of stick in the papers, saying if we defended against them they way we did against Queensland, then they would punish us," he said. "That probably fired us a bit more, gave us a bit of firepower in the changeroom. It was a bit of egg on their face because I thought we defended quite well."
Jets coach Gary van Egmond paid tribute to his defender - as effective off the field as a man as he is on it as a player. "If we lose 'Duro', it would be a real detriment to the club," he said.
Durante has put off making a decision, but knows he can't do so for much longer. "Obviously it's no secret I've had a fairly attractive offer from Wellington," he said. "I didn't want to make my decision until after the grand final.
"I'll have a think about it during the week. If I do end up leaving, I gave everything to this club and the club's been fantastic to me, and if I do end up leaving, there's no bad blood between us. I've got to sit down and think about the pros and cons."
"Mostly the Cons," chipped in van Egmond
It's party time for Hunter's faithful
NEWCASTLE HERALD
THE last time Novocastrians converged on Sydney with such high hopes and in such vast numbers was October 1, 2001.
And just as the travelling hordes headed north that night on the F3 the best part of Sydney with spirits uplifted and tears of joy in their eyes, so too will they forever remember February 24, 2008, as a landmark occasion in Hunter Region history.
Some will say yesterday's grand final was just a game.
But to the thousands of fans chanting "New-cas-tle, New-cas-tle" just as they did when the Knights won their two titles the Jets' 1-0 A-League triumph against arch rivals Central Coast was something to cherish.
The region's footballing fraternity, a long-suffering mob who have seen more lean times than good since the formation of KB United 30 years ago, can now stand proudly and say their team is the best in the land.
And as was the case with the Knights at the same venue in 1997, yesterday's decider at Sydney Football Stadium will live long in the memory as much for the on-field drama as the full-time result.
Just as the Knights, led by a ferocious Paul Harragon, refused to take a backward step against Manly's high-profile Silvertails, so the underdog Jets ripped in and gave the title favourites a lesson in aggression.
Just 10 seconds into proceedings, Jets glamour boy Joel Griffiths was on the seat of his pants after a rude body check from Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson.
Griffiths was immediately back on his feet and snarling in Hutchinson's face, and teammates Matt Thompson and Adam D'Apuzzo arrived simultaneously to deliver their two bob's worth.
Ten minutes later Griffiths responded in kind with a crunching tackle on Mile Jedinak, earning a yellow card and sparking a melee in the process.
Jedinak then fouled Griffiths, collecting his own yellow card, and reviving memories of "Chief" Harragon's legendary stoushes with Mark Carroll back in 1997.
Not to be outdone, Griffiths's twin, Adam, was also booked late in a simmering first half.
At the break, the scoreline was nil-all, but the Novocastrians had delivered a blunt message: they would not be bullied, as they were in the 3-0 major semi-final loss to the Mariners two weeks ago.
"We spoke about that and did a bit of DVD analysis," Jets coach Gary van Egmond said afterwards.
"We had a look at it, and there had been a couple of times where they intimidated a few of our boys not illegally of course but they put themselves about and we weren't going to let that happen tonight.
"We ensured that if anything untoward happened on the pitch tonight, everyone ran in.
"Not that we wanted to create a ruckus, but we wanted to make sure everyone was supporting each other. In games like these . . . you not only have to play with your heads but your hearts as well."
When Newcastle were not inflicting pain on their opponents, they were producing deft touches and clearly playing the better football.
Scoring chances were few and far between, and it became increasingly obvious that one goal might be all that was required to clinch the trophy.
That duly arrived in the 64th minute, when Newcastle striker Mark Bridge stole possession, broke away from the defence and shot unerringly past his good mate, Mariners keeper Danny Vukovic.
Bridge has struggled at times this season for form, distracted by contract talks and speculation that he is joining Sydney FC, but that goal alone will assure him of immortality in the town he currently calls home.
Bridge's strike gave Newcastle a priceless psychological advantage, and as the minutes ticked away, the pressure compounded on Central Coast.
Eventually they imploded.
Veteran striker John Aloisi hysterically demanded a penalty, abusing the linesman, then there was mass uproar after referee Mark Shield missed an apparent handball by Newcastle tyro James Holland.
Vukovic was sent off for violent conduct, striking a match official, and there was a distinct whiff of sour grapes in the air.
But just as few Novocastrians bothered to spare a solitary thought for luckless Manly in 1997, so too was there no time or mood for sympathy towards their derby rivals last night.
The Newcastle faithful were more interested in the fairytale . . . then getting the hell out of Sydney and heading home for the type of party they have seen only twice before.
Article Source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/its-party-time-for-hunters-faithful/1189203.html
THE last time Novocastrians converged on Sydney with such high hopes and in such vast numbers was October 1, 2001.
And just as the travelling hordes headed north that night on the F3 the best part of Sydney with spirits uplifted and tears of joy in their eyes, so too will they forever remember February 24, 2008, as a landmark occasion in Hunter Region history.
Some will say yesterday's grand final was just a game.
But to the thousands of fans chanting "New-cas-tle, New-cas-tle" just as they did when the Knights won their two titles the Jets' 1-0 A-League triumph against arch rivals Central Coast was something to cherish.
The region's footballing fraternity, a long-suffering mob who have seen more lean times than good since the formation of KB United 30 years ago, can now stand proudly and say their team is the best in the land.
And as was the case with the Knights at the same venue in 1997, yesterday's decider at Sydney Football Stadium will live long in the memory as much for the on-field drama as the full-time result.
Just as the Knights, led by a ferocious Paul Harragon, refused to take a backward step against Manly's high-profile Silvertails, so the underdog Jets ripped in and gave the title favourites a lesson in aggression.
Just 10 seconds into proceedings, Jets glamour boy Joel Griffiths was on the seat of his pants after a rude body check from Mariners midfielder John Hutchinson.
Griffiths was immediately back on his feet and snarling in Hutchinson's face, and teammates Matt Thompson and Adam D'Apuzzo arrived simultaneously to deliver their two bob's worth.
Ten minutes later Griffiths responded in kind with a crunching tackle on Mile Jedinak, earning a yellow card and sparking a melee in the process.
Jedinak then fouled Griffiths, collecting his own yellow card, and reviving memories of "Chief" Harragon's legendary stoushes with Mark Carroll back in 1997.
Not to be outdone, Griffiths's twin, Adam, was also booked late in a simmering first half.
At the break, the scoreline was nil-all, but the Novocastrians had delivered a blunt message: they would not be bullied, as they were in the 3-0 major semi-final loss to the Mariners two weeks ago.
"We spoke about that and did a bit of DVD analysis," Jets coach Gary van Egmond said afterwards.
"We had a look at it, and there had been a couple of times where they intimidated a few of our boys not illegally of course but they put themselves about and we weren't going to let that happen tonight.
"We ensured that if anything untoward happened on the pitch tonight, everyone ran in.
"Not that we wanted to create a ruckus, but we wanted to make sure everyone was supporting each other. In games like these . . . you not only have to play with your heads but your hearts as well."
When Newcastle were not inflicting pain on their opponents, they were producing deft touches and clearly playing the better football.
Scoring chances were few and far between, and it became increasingly obvious that one goal might be all that was required to clinch the trophy.
That duly arrived in the 64th minute, when Newcastle striker Mark Bridge stole possession, broke away from the defence and shot unerringly past his good mate, Mariners keeper Danny Vukovic.
Bridge has struggled at times this season for form, distracted by contract talks and speculation that he is joining Sydney FC, but that goal alone will assure him of immortality in the town he currently calls home.
Bridge's strike gave Newcastle a priceless psychological advantage, and as the minutes ticked away, the pressure compounded on Central Coast.
Eventually they imploded.
Veteran striker John Aloisi hysterically demanded a penalty, abusing the linesman, then there was mass uproar after referee Mark Shield missed an apparent handball by Newcastle tyro James Holland.
Vukovic was sent off for violent conduct, striking a match official, and there was a distinct whiff of sour grapes in the air.
But just as few Novocastrians bothered to spare a solitary thought for luckless Manly in 1997, so too was there no time or mood for sympathy towards their derby rivals last night.
The Newcastle faithful were more interested in the fairytale . . . then getting the hell out of Sydney and heading home for the type of party they have seen only twice before.
Article Source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/its-party-time-for-hunters-faithful/1189203.html
Impossible to put dollar value on charismatic club owner's ultimate A-League conquest
NEWCASTLE HERALD
By James Gardiner and Brett Keeble
WHAT Con Constantine promised, Con Constantine delivered.
The charismatic Jets owner, who has pumped $15 million into his sporting baby since 2000 and lost an estimated $2 million this A-League season, realised a dream for himself last night and his adopted home town of Newcastle.
No one at the Sydney Football Stadium could have been prouder or happier after the Jets eclipsed sworn enemies Central Coast 1-0 in the A-League grand final.
The eccentric multimillionaire stormed the pitch immediately after full-time, running to the sea of gold at the southern end and bowing down to the thousands of ecstatic Jets fans.
They repaid in kind when Constantine took to the dais, commandeered the microphone, and he led the Jets faithful in a rousing rendition of "New-cas-tle, New-cas-tle, New-cas-tle".
Constantine then turned his affections to the players, embracing them one by one and joining them on their lap of honour.
Considering how much time, energy and, most importantly, money he'd poured into his pet project, who could begrudge him basking in their limelight.
"It's a feeling that you never will forget in your life. It's a dream come true," Constantine said. "What's happened here tonight, for Newcastle, we made it happen!
"A lot of people underestimated us but we did it, I don't know what else to say. "What can you say? How good was that?"
Though it might have cost him some of his many millions, Constantine said a grand final win was priceless.
"Regardless of how much money we've put into the game, tonight we all saw something special something that you can't buy," he said. "Remember one thing, all the money in the world can't buy you a grand final, it can't buy you a trophy, but we did it.
"We did it with heart; we did it with heart and soul."
Constantine was not the only member of the Jets family to allow their emotions to run rampant. Korean import Song Jin-hyung threw his boots into the crowd before disappearing up the tunnel and uninhibited right wing-back Tarek Elrich gave away all of his playing strip except for his "skins" protective undergarments.
Article Source : http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/impossible-to-put-dollar-value-on-charismatic-club-owners-ultimate-aleague-conquest/1189204.html
Stu's words from heart lift mates to triumph
NEWCASTLE HERALD
HOME-TOWN hero Stuart Musialik delivered a heartfelt speech to his teammates on the eve of the A-League grand final but found it hard to speak after the Jets recorded their history-making win.
The Novocastrian's pre-match words were so moving, Jets teammate Adam D'Apuzzo said, "It made the hair on the back of my neck stand up."
A passionate Novocastrian, Musialik has long dreamed of winning a championship with his home-town team.
"I can't really explain it, it's just an unbelievable feeling," Musialik said last night.
"To do what we've achieved, especially in my home town, and be one of the first local boys to win an A-League medal for Newcastle, I can't explain it.
"It means so much to me, and I'm lost for words at the moment."
During the team's final pre-match meeting on Saturday, Musialik told his fellow players what winning the A-League title meant to him.
"I just told the boys what they already knew about how I felt," Musialik said.
"I said it's hard to explain unless you've grown up in Newcastle, but coming from bigger cities, say if Sydney or Melbourne wins the A-League, then everyone jumps on the bandwagon but then sort of forgets about it the next day and goes on to the next team.
"But in Newcastle we have got the Knights and the Jets, and that's all it is, and it's not often that something like this can happen, and it doesn't just get forgotten the next day.
"It means a lot to the town, and it's going to be remembered for years to come."
Musialik put a stop-start season behind him to play an integral role in the Jets 1-0 win over the Central Coast.
The 22-year-old Olyroo struggled through the majority of the season with stomach complaints but was in fine form for Newcastle during their finals campaign.
"It's been a very frustrating year, but to end it like this, on such a positive note, no one really remembers the bad," Musialik said.
"This is what's going to be remembered."
Musialik is one of several players off contract, and at one point it looked like he would be leaving town.
But his management held a positive meeting with Jets director of football Remo Nogarotto last week, and both parties were confident of striking a deal to keep the home-grown product in Newcastle.
"Of course I'd love to stay in Newcastle, and my manager has had talks with Newcastle and they've been very positive," he said. "Newcastle is my main priority, and hopefully we can get the deal done."
Article Source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/stus-words-from-heart-lift-mates-to-triumph/1189205.html
HOME-TOWN hero Stuart Musialik delivered a heartfelt speech to his teammates on the eve of the A-League grand final but found it hard to speak after the Jets recorded their history-making win.
The Novocastrian's pre-match words were so moving, Jets teammate Adam D'Apuzzo said, "It made the hair on the back of my neck stand up."
A passionate Novocastrian, Musialik has long dreamed of winning a championship with his home-town team.
"I can't really explain it, it's just an unbelievable feeling," Musialik said last night.
"To do what we've achieved, especially in my home town, and be one of the first local boys to win an A-League medal for Newcastle, I can't explain it.
"It means so much to me, and I'm lost for words at the moment."
During the team's final pre-match meeting on Saturday, Musialik told his fellow players what winning the A-League title meant to him.
"I just told the boys what they already knew about how I felt," Musialik said.
"I said it's hard to explain unless you've grown up in Newcastle, but coming from bigger cities, say if Sydney or Melbourne wins the A-League, then everyone jumps on the bandwagon but then sort of forgets about it the next day and goes on to the next team.
"But in Newcastle we have got the Knights and the Jets, and that's all it is, and it's not often that something like this can happen, and it doesn't just get forgotten the next day.
"It means a lot to the town, and it's going to be remembered for years to come."
Musialik put a stop-start season behind him to play an integral role in the Jets 1-0 win over the Central Coast.
The 22-year-old Olyroo struggled through the majority of the season with stomach complaints but was in fine form for Newcastle during their finals campaign.
"It's been a very frustrating year, but to end it like this, on such a positive note, no one really remembers the bad," Musialik said.
"This is what's going to be remembered."
Musialik is one of several players off contract, and at one point it looked like he would be leaving town.
But his management held a positive meeting with Jets director of football Remo Nogarotto last week, and both parties were confident of striking a deal to keep the home-grown product in Newcastle.
"Of course I'd love to stay in Newcastle, and my manager has had talks with Newcastle and they've been very positive," he said. "Newcastle is my main priority, and hopefully we can get the deal done."
Article Source: http://theherald.yourguide.com.au/news/sport/soccer/stus-words-from-heart-lift-mates-to-triumph/1189205.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)