PlayStation 4 NPL Victoria Media Guide: First edition

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PlayStation®4 NPL Victoria 2015 MEDIA GUIDEFirst editionPublished 2015 by FFV MediaEdited by Alen DelicWith thanks to Sean EllicottPhotographers: Mark Avellino, Graeme Furlong, Roberto Filitti, Matt Johnson, Skip Fulton, Steve Grey

Published by FFV Mediaa division of Football Federation VictoriaLevel 3, 436 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

For all enquiries, contact:Alen DelicMedia and Communications Coordinator0435 225 [email protected]

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a brief overviewTHE 2015 edition of the PlayStation 4 NPL Victoria promises to be one of the most exciting seasons in state league football this state has ever seen.

14 clubs will compete for top honours in the PlayStation NPL while 20 teams in the NPL 1 division below will fight it out to earn their spot in the top tier next year.

The biggest change in 2015 is the addition of a three-week finals series involving the top six in the league.

Not only does that mean the season will be extended, but the interest levels will remain high well into September.

The competitions have also been complicated by the additions of two A-League teams in Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory’s youth contingents into the second tier. Many of the clubs have lost their brightest young talents and have been left to fill the voids left on their teamsheets.

Victoria’s second division was recently split into two conferences – NPL 1 East and NPL 1 West – to accommodate for six new additions: Eastern Lions, Moreland City, Nunawading City, Murray United, Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City.

In the NPL 1, along with the two A-League sides, it will be the first time a team from the Albury Wodonga region competes against the best in Victoria.

Each NPL 1 team will play every team in its conference twice, and teams in the opposing conference once. The champions of each conference will contest the NPL 1 Grand Final on September 18-20.

The runners-up of each conference will meet at a similar date, with the winner to come up against the 12th-placed NPL team on September 25-27 for a spot in the top division in 2016.

2015 truly promises to be a long and exciting season in Victorian football.

Avondale Heights..................4Bentleigh Greens...................6Dandenong Thunder.............8Green Gully.........................10Heidelberg United...............12Hume City...........................14Melbourne Knights.............16Northcote City....................18North Geelong Warriors......20Oakleigh Cannons...............22Pascoe Vale..........................24

Port Melbourne...................26South Melbourne................28Werribee City......................30Box Hill United...................32Dandenong City..................34Eastern Lions.......................36Goulburn Valley Suns..........38Kingston City......................40Melbourne Victory..............42Murray United....................44Nunawading City................46Richmond SC.....................48

Springvale White Eagles......50Ballarat Red Devils..............52Bendigo City FC.................54Brunswick City...................56FC Bulleen Lions................58Melbourne City...................60Moreland City.....................62Moreland Zebras.................64St Albans Saints...................66Sunshine George Cross........68Whittlesea Ranges...............70

contents

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A BRIEF HISTORY

SIX years ago, the club known as Avondale Heights won its first promotion.

Fast forward to 2015 and the newly-rebranded Avondale FC has achieved five promotions in the last six years, including back-to-back promotions over the last three years.

It’s also a club that is looking to grow off the field, having developed a strong relationship with both corporate partners and local council.

THE YEAR PRIOR

LAST season capped off an extraordinary 30th year of existence for Avondale FC.

The club will compete in Victoria’s top-tier for the first time ever after its third successive promotion in as many years.

It finished on top of the table with a solid defensive record, conceding the second-least amount of goals in the NPL 1.

Avondale FCPresident: Anthony Warden | Coach: Anthony Barbieri

Home Ground: Doyle St Reserve, Avondale Heights

Media contact: Anthony Nuzzacco | 0421 963 578 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Anthony SARICAnthony STRANOZoran PAJICAnthony FALLONEMichele-Emanuele CRAZIABurakhan KOCAJason PRINCIPATOAndrew LE PAGEOleksiy KHRAPKOPhillip RICCOBENEDomenico MARAFIOTISimon TOLLIChristopher IRWINJulien CANNIZZAROJonathan MUNOZJeff FLEMINGFrazer SIDDALResit CULCULOGLUJungho KIMAydin ABDI

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 1st in NPL 1, Round of 32 in Dockerty Cup

NPL 1: 17 wins, 4 draws, 5 losses 47 goals for, 25 against, +22 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Aleksiy Khraphko (11 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THE Ukrainian-born striker is your achetypal big, strong centre-forward.

He’s a goalscorer, and does so with little fuss, but can also bring his teammates into play.

Khrapko will be handful for NPL defenders as he looks to prove himself in the top-flight.

ALEKSIY KHRAPKO

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PHOTO: graeme furlong

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7

A BRIEF HISTORY

BENTLEIGH Greens was established in 1987 through the work of a group of Greek Cypriots who saw sport as a way of bringing their love of football to their new adopted country, Australia.

Recently, the club has focused on junior development and, in conjunction with its new technical director of coaching, is working on developing a consistent curriculum across all junior age groups.

THE YEAR PRIOR

THE SIDE rose to national prominince in 2014 as apart of the inaugural FFA Cup, bowing out in the semi-final to Perth Glory after a remarkable campaign.

John Anastasiadis’ squad also fared exceptionally well on the domestic front given its circumstances, finishing fourth on the table following a raft of mid-season depatures.

bentleigh greensPresident: Con Bios | Coach: John Anastasiadis

Home Ground: Kingston Heath Soccer Complex, Cheltenham

Media contact: Sean Ellicott | 0420 298 600 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

1. Ryan SCOTT (GK)2. Thomas MATTHEWS4. Troy RUTHVEN5. Jack WEBSTER6. Liam McCORMICK7. Jamie DE ABREU8. Wayne WALLACE (C) 9. Chris LUCAS10. Tyson HOLMES11. Dion KIRK12. Dimitar MITKOV18. Matt THURTELL19. Daniel VISEVIC20. David CARDAMONE21. Alastair BRAY (GK)23. Austin WONG24. Luke PILKINGTON26. Marinos PANAYI36. Steven TOPALOVIC

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 4th in NPL, Semi Finals in Dockerty Cup, Semi Finals in FFA Cup

NPL: 12 wins, 7 draws, 7 losses 48 goals for, 35 against, +13 goal difference

Top goalscorer: David Stirton (11 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THE former Gold Coast United forward arrives in Melbourne with a devastating reputation, scoring a staggering 35 goals in 26 games for Palm Beach Sharks in 2014.

Lucas also claimed NPL QLD’s Golden Boot and Gold Medal equivalent.

Chris Lucas

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A BRIEF HISTORY

THIS year Dandenong Thunder celebrates 50 years as a club at George Andrews Reserve; it was initially founded as South Dandenong

In 2001, the club name was changed to its current name, Dandenong Thunder SC.

The club’s proudest achievement is the historic treble winning season in 2012 where Thunder won the VPL minor premiership, Dockerty Cup and VPL grand final at AAMI Park.

THE YEAR PRIOR

AFTER a promising start - sitting as high as third position for a number of weeks - Thunder slipped down the table to finish on the better side of a relegation battle in ninth.

After losing a number of players to A-League sides, the club is now in a rebuilding phase, with its sights set on developing younger players in line with FFA and NPL objectives.

DANDENONG THUNDERPresident: Ferman Zekirija | Coach: Stuart Munro

Home Ground: George Andrews Reserve, Dandenong

Media contact: Sezar Jakupi | 0450 266 799 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Zaim ZENELIFeston AZIZIBrendan ELMAZOVSKISermin SADIKOVSKIJarryd BARNESRamazan TAVSANCIOGLUSahki Zada FAISALAdam PETKOAlan MULCAHYAbdirahman AHMEDLewis FOSTERVeton KORCARIDeji OMOBOYEIlir PALIGideon SWEETFitim IBRAIMIAriel RITZViktor MUJEDINOVSKIJoshua CARUANADillon JAKUPI

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 9th in NPL, Round of 16 in Dockerty Cup

NPL: 9 wins, 5 draws, 12 losses 34 goals for, 47 against, -13 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Matthew Millar (7 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

DANDENONG’S former skipper returns to the club following a spell with Oakleigh Cannons last season.

An experienced and influential playmaker, Korcari will lend an experienced head to an otherwise youthful squad.

Veton Korcari

Yusuf AHMEDMichael GERACEAlex TABOR

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PHOTO: mark avellino

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A BRIEF HISTORY

SINCE its first competitive year in 1964, Green Gully boasts the record as one of the most decorated clubs in Victoria, winning nine State League/Premier League cups, and the Dockerty Cup on five occasions.

The 1980s saw Gully enjoy its most successful period, captivating a trio state leagues crowns while spending a three-year period in the NSL , known as Green Gully Ajax.

THE YEAR PRIOR

GULLY finished in tenth position, only three points away from relegation.

The side won 4-0 in Round 1, but went on to lose the next four, setting the tone for an inconsistent year..

Despite its problems, Gull was lethal in front of goal finding the back of the net 45 times, fifth most in the competition last year.

GREEN GULLYPresident: Charles Farrugia | Coach: Bob StojcevskiHome Ground: Green Gully Reserve, Keilor Downs

Media contact: Katie Lambeski | 0403 748 209 | [email protected] | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Kieran GONZALESDaniel JONESJem BERKANTMatthew REIDRodrigo VARGASMatthew SANDERSAaron COHENRinor MURIQIRani DOWISHANathan FOXAlon BLUMGARTAmadu KOROMABerkan YURDAKULDaniel TRAJKOSKIAnthony MARAFIOTI Matthew BREEZENikola MARKOVSKIThomas MURPHYLuc JEGGO

QUICK STATS



Top goalscorer: Matthew Sanders (11 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THE Macedonian forward has carved a career across the top divisions in both his homeland and Greece.

The 27-year-old comes to Australia with a host of individual accolades, taking the honours as the MVP for Greece’s fourth tier.

Nikola Markovski

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A BRIEF HISTORY

FOUNDED in 1958, the Heidelberg United Football Club has been an integral part of the football landscape in Victoria, and instrumental in the development of the game nationally as a founding member of the National Soccer League (NSL) in 1977.

From its humble beginnings in the Victorian Metropolitan Leagues in the late 1950s the club managed to work its way up to the football ladder and along the way it grew into a formidable force.

THE YEAR PRIOR

IT was an exceptional return to the top flight for Heidelberg United, finishing the year in third.

Dan Heffernan and Kaine Sheppard shared 28 goals between them as one of the league’s most lethal strikeforce, as George Katsakis’ side impressed on all fronts.

HEIDELBERG UNITEDPresident: John Dimtsis | Coach: George KatsakisHome Ground: Olympic Village, Heidelberg West

Media contact: John Lioupas | 0400 572 291 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

James CUMMINGLeslie DOUMBALISGriffin McMASTERDaniel HEFFERNANLuke BYLESAndrew CARTONAS John LAZARIDISSteven PACEDaniel VASILEVSKIJonathan VOULGARISJames GOULOPOULOSDean JANCEVSKIKen ATHIUReuben WAYKaine SHEPPARDJack PETRIEJacob WILLIAMSKostas KANAKARISAndreas GOVASChristopher MAYNARD

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 3rd in NPL, Round 4 in Dockerty Cup

NPL: 12 wins, 8 draws, 6 losses, 55 goals for, 33 against, +22 goal difference.

Top goalscorer: Dan Heffernan (18 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

HEFFERNAN narrowly missed out on last year’s Gold Medal by suspension.

Despite the disqualification, he was still one of the most lethal strikers in the NPL, bagging 18 goals for the year, and finishing second in the race for the Golden Boot.

DANIEL HEFFERNAN

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HUME CITYHUME CITYHUME CITYHUME CITY


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A BRIEF HISTORY

HUME City FC was originally formed in 1974 by a group of working class migrants at a cafe in the back streets of Kensington.

After gaining promotion into the Victorian Premier League in 2007, the club was almost relegated that year but for a 93rd minute header by local hero Tansel Baser against Frankston Pines.

The Club’s home ground, Valley Park, recently underwent a redevelopment of four playing and training fields, a 580 seat stadium, a social club with a commercial kitchen and bar, along with eight change rooms, medical rooms and a gym.

THE YEAR PRIORLOUIE Acevski’s men finished the 2014 PS4 NPL campaign in sixth position with 12 wins next to their name.

The club missed out on FFA Cup qualification at the final hurdle, bowing out in the Dockerty Cup quarter-finals to South Springvale.

HUME CITyPresident: Steve Kaya | Coach: Louie Acevski

Home Ground: Broadmeadows Valley Park, Westmeadows

Media contact: Tom Pollock | 0410 393 218 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Nicholas HEGARTYIsiyan ERDOGANChris OLDFIELDPetar FRANJICShane REXHEPINikos JACKSON-TSEREXIDISShaun TIMMINSJoseph FRANJICTom BANFIELDIlhan ALTUNTASMatthew HENNESSEYDeang AGUEKAaron TURNERJai INGHAMIvan PAVLAKDean TOMESKICalvin MBARGAMarcus SCHROENLiam NEWMANReis AYGUN

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 6th in NPL, Quarter Final in Dockerty Cup

NPL: 12 wins, 2 draws, 12 losses, 33 goals for, 33 against, 0 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Nick Hegarty (6 goals)

MAN TO WATCh

FORMER Brisbane Roar forward Jai Ingham landed at Hume City for the 2015 campiagn after two seasons in the Hyundai A-League.

An exciting, attacking player, the 21-year-old brings plenty of speed and skill to Hume’s frontline.

Jai Ingham

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A BRIEF HISTORY

AS one of the most accomplished clubs in Australia, boasting more than 60 years of history, Melbourne Knights Football Club kicks off 2015 eyeing further success.

With two national league titles and three Victorian crowns to its name, Melbourne Knights is accustomed to success.

THE YEAR PRIOR

SILVERWARE found its way back into the trophy cabinet at Somers Street in 2014 courtesy of a famous Dockerty Cup triumph.

2014 also saw Knights compete on the national stage once again via the inaugural FFA Cup, where Andrew Marth’s side bowed out in the Round of 32 to Olympic FC.

But inconsistency plagued Knights on the domestic front, finishing fifth on the table.

MELBOURNE KNIGHTSPresident: Simun Samardzic | Coach: Andrew MarthHome Ground: Knights Stadium, Sunshine North

Media contact: Don Sutherland | 0448 332 022 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Jacob COLOSIMOAnthony COLOSIMOAndrew BARISICBen SUREYChristopher TALAJICIvan GRGICLuis COVARRUBIASTomislav USKOKMrijan CVITKOVICMilan BATURJoshua BERRIOSJoshua BREKALOStipo ANDRIJASEVIC James McGARRYChristopher MAYMichael OFARRELLNikola SRBINOVSKILuke JURCICAlexander DAOAnthony KATIFORIS

quICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 5th in NPL, Dockerty Cup winner


Top goalscorer: Stipo Andrijasevic (6 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

BACK for his fourth assignment in a red jersey, the local hero returns after a spell abroad in China and India.

The 28-year-old striker brings a wealth of experience having also had spells in Germany and in the A-League with Gold Coast United.

Andrew bARESIC

Adrian DEL MONACO

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EST. 1953

MELBO

URNE KNIGH

TS FC


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A BRIEF HISTORY

NORTHCOTE CITY was founded in 1960 by a group of Greek migrants.

Over its history, the club achieved varying degrees of success with a number of cups to its name.

But its coup de grâce came in 2013 when Northcote City claimed both the VPL minor premiership and the grand final.

THE YEAR PRIOR

A MID-TABLE finish welcomed Northcote at the end of the 2014 season as it fell agonisingly short of an FFA Cup berth, suffering a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to St Albans in the Dockerty Cup semi-final.

They’ll be hoping for a better start to the season than in 2014, when it lost its first three games on the trot. Despite that, they managed a respectable seventh-place.

NORTHCOTE CITYPresident: Theo Kalifatidis | Coach: Goran LozanovskiHome Ground: John Cain Memorial Reserve, Darebin

Media contact: Peter Kotsiris | 0420 600 987 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Nicholas BAVCARMitchell BISSINGERJonathan BOUNASHayden D’AGOSTINOThomas DEMELISChristopher DI BARTOLOJacob ELIOPOULOSMarino GASPARISJason HAYNEMason INTERLANDIJames KALIFATIDISNicholas KOKOLAKISEvan KOUNAVELISGregory LOMBARDOAminta MAKALOVSKIIsmael MOHAMEDAnthony RAMZYChristopher THEODORIDIS-PETROPOULOSPhillip VAIOPOULOS

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 7th in NPL, Quarter Final in Dockerty Cup

NPL: 10 wins, 6 draws, 10 losses, 38 goals for, 39 against, -1 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Wade Dekker (9 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

MATURE beyond his years, the former Melbourne Heart youth proved to be a vital cog in the heart of midfield for Goran Lozanovski’s charges.

A strong presence, Bounas is also equipped with excellent distribution.

joNATHaN BOUNAS

Aaron WARDJordan WILKES

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A BRIEF HISTORY

ORIGINALLY named North Geelong Croatia, North Geelong Warriors Football Club was founded in 1967.

Led by former A-League coach Branko Culina, the side won promotion into the Victorian Premier League in 1991, taking out the minor premiership and championship the following year.

THE YEAR PRIOR

FOLLOWING a 17-year-absence, North Geelong Warriors returned to the state’s top flight in 2015.

Micky Čolina took the reigns after former coach Ante Skoko stepped down in June.

He led the side to 13 wins in his 16 games in charge, culminating promotion after a 1-0 win over St Albans Saints in the penultimate round of the NPL 1.

NORTH GEELONG warriorsPresident: Andrew Jurković | Coach: Micky Čolina

Home Ground: Elcho Park, Lara

Media contact: Anthony Banovac | 0412202984 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Michael ANDERSONTonio BARESIC-NIKICVito SIMON CICHELLOAnthony BANOVACMatija DRAGOVICMichael GRGICJuso JULARDZIJANicholas JURCICNikola JURKOVICDarren LEWISNathan LONGReardo LUKAMark PALEKAJoshua PUGHMatthew TOWNLEYTomislav TRBUHOVICRobert ZADWORNYDaniel ZILIC Hamish FLAVELL

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 2nd in NPL 1, Round of 32 in Dockerty Cup

NPL 1: 17 wins, 1 draw, 8 losses 57 goals for, 20 against, +27 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Mark Paleka (12 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THE number 10 arrived at the club in 2009, taking out the club’s Best and Fairest and top goalscorer accolades the following year.

After missing most of 2013 through injury, the pacey winger retruned to full fitness in 2014, guiding the club to promotion.

Robert Zadworny.

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NORTH GEELONG

PHOTO: roberto filitti

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A BRIEF HISTORY

ORIGINALLY founded in 1972 as South Oakleigh Football Club, Oakleigh Cannons has been playing in Victoria’s top flight since 2004.

Still chasing its elsuive first state title, Oakleigh has finished runner-up on three occassions, most recently in the inaugural 2014 PS4 NPL Victoria season.

THE YEAR PRIOR

MIRON Bleiberg’s side finished the 2014 campaign as runners-up, seven points adrift of champions South Melbourne.

But the side was impressive, playing good football and boasting the best attacking and defending records in the league.

Over 26 games, they scored 61 times and conceded only 19 goals, giving them an average of 2.35 goals per game for, and 0.73 goals conceded.

OAKLEIGH cannonsPresident: Stan Papayianneris | Coach: Miron Bleiberg

Home Ground: Jack Edwards Reserve, Oakleigh

General manager and media contact: Aki Ionnas | 0418 550 033 | [email protected] | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Aron WILFORDDominic D’ANGELOGeorge KROMMIDASGoran ZORICEvan CHRISTODOULOUBrian VANEGAKristopher KIOUSSISDean PIEMONTEDusan BOSNJAKAdriano CHIAPPETTATremayne SADLERLambros HONOSLouis PARASKEVASJohn BLACKBen CLARKEJohn HONOSLiam BOLANDSteve PANTELIDISJake McLEANAdam LE CORNU

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 2nd in NPL, Round 4 in Dockerty Cup

NPL: 18 wins, 5 draws, 3 losses, 61 goals for, 19 against, +42 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Dean Piemonte (16 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

D’ANGELO arrived at Oakleigh in 2014 and quickly solidified himself as one of the club’s most valuable players.

The 28-year-old is one of the most versatile players at Bleiberg’s disposal, and was a key part of Oakleigh’s engine room in last year.

Dominic D’angelo

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A BRIEF HISTORY

PASCOE Vale Soccer Club was formed in 1965 by a group of immigrants from the town of Nizopole and joined the VSF (FFV) the following year.

The club was used as a vehicle to keep the community together through football.

Today, it is now one of the largest clubs in the north,with strong council and local government relationships in place.

THE YEAR PRIOR

A mid-table finish welcomed Pascoe Vale at the conclusion of the 2014 NPL season, with the eighth-place a vast improvement on its tenth-place finish the year prior.

After consolidating over the last two years, Vitale Ferrante’s side will be aiming to use that as a strong platform for its third consecutive year in the top flight.

PASCOE VALEPresident: Jim Tona | Coach: Vitale FerranteHome Ground: CB Smith Reserve, Fawkner

Media contact: Athena Babo | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Stefaan SARDELICTomislav MILARDOVICAlvaro CARRILLO Adrian TALARICOMark PISTININZIMichael FERRANTECarl RECCHIADavey VAN’T SCHIPJoseph YOUSSEFJake NAKICAdam NAKICThomas BLACKLuca SANTILLIMatthew LAZARIDESAlistair DUNLOPAlexander PAVLIDISNathen MEGICConnor KASSJake HALLIDAYMatthew LAURIA

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 8th in NPL, Round 4 in Dockerty Cup

NPL: 9 wins, 7 draws, 10 losses, 30 goals for, 34 against, -4 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Jake Nakic (11 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

MAINLY deployed as a right winger, Voulgaris is a creative outlet capable of playing right across midfield.

Quick across the park, Voulgaris is eqipped with a dangerous ball and he ability to turn a game.

JONATHON VOULGARIS

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PHOTO: matt johnson

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A BRIEF HISTORY

FORMED in 1968-69 by Greek immigrants, the club steadily grew throughout the 1970s and 1980s, largely playing the state’s lower leagues before gaining promotion to the Victorian Premier League in 1994.

Between 1994 and 2003, Port Melbourne won two minor premierships without claiming the big prize in the grand final.

THE YEAR PRIOR

PORT MELBOURNE narrowly escaped relegation with a 95th minute equalizer from Connor Reddan on the final day.

The dramatic 1-1 draw with Werribee City gave them enough to escape relegation and finish the season just one point above the drop zone.

Had they lost that game, they would have gone down due to a poorer goal difference.

PORT MELBournePresident: Nicki Zapantis | Coach: Eric Vassiliadis

Home Ground: JL Murphy Reserve, Port Melbourne

Media contact: Shaun Moran | 0405 241 966 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Michael STARKConor REDDANTrent RIXONTimothy PATONChris GROSSMANAndrew VIOLAKamal IBRAHIMJames RICCOBENEAlan KEARNEYErhan YALAZRyan OPPERMANNNicholas KROUSORATISAndrew MILICEVICStjepan GALNick TZOULISBrent FISHERShaun KELLYJosh WILKINSJulius DAVIESLisandro PAZ

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 11th in NPL, Round 4 Dockerty Cup


Goals: Kevin Braniff and Lampros Honos (5)

MAN TO WATCH

THE former Melbourne Heart and AIS product was a shining light in an otherwise unimpressive year for Port Melbourne.

The busy winger exceeded on all fronts with electrifying pace, quick feet and skill in the final third.

KAMAL IBRAHIM

28

A BRIEF HISTORY

ESTABLISHED in 1959, South Melbourne FC is Australia’s most successful club, having captured nine state league championships and four national titles.

In 2000, South represented the Ocenia Confederation at the World Club Championship in Brazil, playing against the likes of Manchester United.

Ten years later, the club was named as the OFC’s Club of the Century by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics.

THE YEAR PRIOR

SOUTH Melbourne added a ninth State League title to its cabinet in 2014, finishing seven points clear of second place in a near perfect campaign.

Chris Taylor’s side were then once again welcomed on the national stage, reaching the semi-final of the NPL Finals series.

SOUTH MELBournePresident: Leo Athanasakis | Coach: Chris TaylorHome Ground: Lakeside Stadium, Albert Park

Media contact: George Kouroumalis | 03 9645 9797 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Shpetim MALAMichael EAGARBonel OBRADOVICNicholas EPIFANOMilos LUJICDavid STIRTONBradley NORTONIqbal JAWADIDane MILOVANOVICCody MARTINDALEPeter GAVALASNikola ROGANOVICAndrija KECOJEVICLeigh MINOPOULOSStephen HATZIKOSTASMathew THEODOREKristian KONSTANTINIDISAndy BRENNANJake BARKER-DAISHLuke ADAMS

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 1st in NPL, Quarter Final in Dockerty Cup


Top goalscorer: Milos Lujic (22 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

JOINING 2014 Gold Medal and Golden Boot winner Milos Lujic in attack, the Tasmanian comes back to Melbourne with a frightening reputation, bagging 25 goals last season for South Hobart.

This is the second stint in Victoria for the 21-year-old, having played for Bentleigh in 2013.

Andy Brennan

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A BRIEF HISTORY

WERRIBEE City F.C was founded in 1969 by the local Italian community of Werribee, and is now a part of the Italian Sports Club of Werribee Inc.

The club is proud of its heritage and the diversity that it has introduced to the local community.

Its mission statement focuses on the continued efforts to promote the opportunities of sport, particularly soccer, to individuals and the wider community.

THE YEAR PRIORWERRIBEE fate came down to the final day of the season in 2014, and it survived after earning a point against Port Melbourne.

Aside from a theatrical round 26 showdown, Werribee failed to replicate its promising start to the season, finishing two points above safety, and the second-worst goal difference in the NPL.

WERRIBEE cityPresident: Giovanni Inserra | Coach: Nino Ragusa

Home Ground: Galvin Park, Weribee

Media contact: Jayne Klapsas | 0401 679 805 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Ryan FILIPOVICSteven CUDRIGArturo YMERIRobert NAUMOSKIDaniel CHAABANIAnthony RAGUSAJulien CASSANOBobby VIDANOSKIAngus MARTINSimon ZAPPIAMichael SIMMSMilan SAVICFrano SARICSimon COLOSIMOJosh JOKICNicola CARAFIGLIOEvan BATSIS

QUICK STATS



Top goalscorer: Steven Cudrig (5 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THE 26-year-old former Socceroo and championship winning A-League centre-half returns to the NPL with Werribee City after spending half of 2014 with GVS.

Werribee will be hoping the 36-year-old Colosimo can add some stability to the ranks.

simon colosimo

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A BRIEF HISTORY

SINCE 2010, the club has steadily established itself into the top echelons of Victorian football.

Box Hill continues in its ethos of promoting and encouraging youth in a progressive and inclusive club environment.

A proud history since its foundation in 1922, the club aims to be a welcoming environment for visitors off the pitch, but is hungry for success on it.

THE YEAR PRIOR

BOX HILL United finished an impressive third in 2014, only four points adrift of promotion.

They did it playing their trademark brand of attractive, possession-based, attacking football.

This year is expecting a challenging year in 2015, needing to consolidate with a new coach and some major changes to the playing roster, having lost some big names to other NPL clubs.

BOX HILL unitedPresident: Alex Palmos | Coach: Alfredo Constantino

Home Ground: Wembley Park, Box Hill

Media contact: Nicholas Tsiaras | 0419 302 706 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Stanislav GOLDBERGPatrick THIAKANEAlexander CONNELLAdrian DEL MONACOAlexander SCHROENJarrod DEL MONACOAaron PORCAROChristian LARImran SANKOHNikola SURDOSKISevag GHAZARIANJoey CALDERONEMichael GODFREYFrac CARAFALucas JOHNSJhoan BARREROTravis CHALK-HATTONGirolamo COSTANZACaleb LUDLOWSam GRIGG

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 3rd in NPL 1, Dockerty Cup Round 4.

NPL 1: 14 wins, 6 draws, 6 losses, 48 goals for, 23 against, +25 goal difference.

Top goalscorer: Rinor Muriqi (15 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THIAKANE arrives to Box Hill after playing semi-professionally for a number of years in France.

Quick, skillful and adept with both feet, the attacker is comfortable as either a number ten or as striker and is expected to deliver a touch of class to the pacy forwards at the club.

Patrick Thiakane

Luca PRESUTTI

34

A BRIEF HISTORY

IN 2008 Dandenong City Soccer Club merged with Chelsea Hajduk Soccer Club, basing itself at Frank Holohan Soccer Complex in Endeavour Hills.

The club has one of the most prestigious youth production lines in the state, laying claim to 2015 Asian Cup squad member Eugene Galekovic, and former Socceroo Ljubo Milicevic to name a few.

In 2011 the club was crowned champions of Victorian State League Division 2 South East.

THE YEAR PRIOR

DANDENONG’S first season in the inaugural NPL saw it finish in a disappointing thenth place.

The club has however re-signed 2014 NPL1 Player of the Year Sean Seavill who re-committed for the 2015 PS4 NPL 1 East campaign.

DANDENONg CITYPresident: George Sabljak | Coach: Aaron HealeyHome Ground: Frank Holohan Soccer Complex

Media contact: Paul Robic | 0422 902 079 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Damir SALCINAlex ROJASJohn CARROLLKeegan ZIADADario MATKOVICAshley CATTERMOLEShaun FILIPOVICGoran JOZELJICDavid DI LORIOSimon STOREYDaniel BUHICChris SANITASenahid TOKALICRaymond LAYAnthony CASSETRobert WYNNEBradley CLARKEAndres JEREZRicardo GONZALES

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 10th in NPL 1, Round 3 of the Dockerty Cup

NPL 1: 9 wins, 5 draws, 12 losses 46 goals for, 54 against, -8 goal difference

Top goalscorer: Dario Matkovic (12 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

MATKOVIC is a former Melbourne Knights NSL midfielder and returns to Dandenong City after a solid 2014.

The creative midfielder was City’s top goalscorer last year, managing to net 12 goals from the middle of the park.

dario matkovic

35

PHOTO: roberto filitti

36

PHOTO: steven gray

37

A BRIEF HISTORY

NOW in its 53rd year, Eastern Lions has the spent majority of its history competing throughout State League Divison Two, and most recently in State League One.

Originally named as Waverley City, the club has spent its entire history playing in the FFV.

THE YEAR PRIOR

EASTERN Lions roared to promotion last season, taking out the State League One South-East title with a better defensive record than most NPL teams.

The occassion marked Eastern Lion’s seocnd league crown in three years, with coach Jimmy Williams incorporating a successful mix of youth and experience.

The club could have been another fairytale story in the FFA Cup. but was knocked by qualifiers St Albans snatched victory in the final minutes.

EASTERN LIONSPresident: Norm Wilcox | Coach: Jimmy Williams

Home Ground: Gardiners Reserve, Burwood

Media contact: John McPhee | 0407 899 994 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Philip AJAOMunyaradzi NYADZAYOMatthew PARRYMitchell BEAMISHWilliam ELLISLouis RAZUKIThomas FALCONERJarrah CLEARJordan HORNShaun KENNYAndrew LIGHTFOOTDavid McKESSYCameron PAINZiggy RAZUKIDaniel RODRIGUESAndrew WILLIAMSYianni FROSSYNOSRobert HAVERCROFTMohammed FOFANAHYianni TOUMANIDIS

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 1st in State One South-East,Round of 32 in Dockerty Cup


Top goalscorer: Philip Ajao (20 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

ARRIVING to Eastern Lions as 15-year-old, the goalkeeper progressed through the ranks to now be the club’s number one ‘keeper.

A tall and strong shotstopper, Lightfoot played a pivotal role in a tremendous defensive record on 2014.

ANDREW LIGHTFOOT

Christopher PAGE

38

A BRIEF HISTORY

FOUNDED in 2013, Goulburn Valley Suns became one of the two regional clubs to compete in the inaugural National Premier League.

The region has a proud footballing history, having developed a number of notable footballers over the yeras.

The Shepparton-based club struggled during its debut season, accumulating ten points in 2014, finishing last on the table.

THE YEAR PRIOR

DESPITE starting 2014 with a list of former big-name players like Kristian Sarkies and Naum Sekulovski, the Suns struggled in their debut year.

Forwards Craig Carley and Ben Clarke were the only shining lights in an otherwise difficult season for the regional side, who were relegated with four rounds to spare.

Goulburn Valley SunsPresident: Geoff Dobson | Coach: David Davkovski

Home Ground: McEwan Reserve, Shepparton

Media contact: Michael Crisera | 0427 239 871 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Nikolaos KALAFATISCraig CARLEYPhillip PETROVSKIConnor CAMPBELLJake KEATINGCody SELLWOODGreg NASHJamie ENGLANDNaum SEKULOVSKIRiley HAMILTONJustin CIRILLODeclo BISIMWAJoseph HOGARTYJordan MONTAGNERSean ELLISVladimir KOSOVACFahad ALGHAZALYShaun KANELiam MOLLERAdam SCOTT

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 14th in NPL


Top goalscorer: Craig Carley (14 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

ONE of the few positives to come out of 2014 for Goulburn Valley was striker Craig Carley.

The diminutive striker was lethal in front of goal, leading from the front, and bagging 14 goals in the process, the fourth most in the competition.

Craig Carley

39


40


41

A BRIEF HISTORY

THE club was established in 1974 in the south-eastern Melbourne suburb of Clarinda by members of the local Greek Australian community.

Originally called Liverpool Soccer Club, in 1982 the club moved to its current home ground, The Grange in the neighbouring suburb of Clayton South, Victoria, and in 1998 was renamed Kingston City Soccer Club.

In 2006, Kingston City were Victorian Premier League finalists.

THE YEAR PRIOR

AN inconsistent 2014 saw Kingston City finish the year in eighth position.Nick Toloios’ side showed plenty of promise in the final third, booting 54 goals, led by Max Etheridge and Gino Defeo who both registered in double figures.

KINGSTON CITYPresident: Con Nitsikas | Coach: Nick ToliosHome Ground: The Grange Reserve, Clayton

Media contact: Con Nitsikas | 0409 799 948 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Nicholas STAMATIOUNicholas MODAFFARINicholas TEICHMANNJames KARVELISKemal CURANStelios KONSTANTINIDISBenjamin OSEI-SAFOSean McILROYJamie DE SMITGeorge STAVRIDISAndrew DOIGFraser MACLARENLaurent CORALIEGino DEFEOTasos AGAPITOSJohnny ANDRINOPOULOSDamian IACONISJoshua KWEIFIO-OKAIDouglas LINDBERGDeniz SABANOVSKI

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 8th in NPL 1, Round 4 in Dockerty Cup


Top goalscorer: Max Etheridge (15 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

A classy and reliable defender, the former South Melbourne and Melbourne Victory youth has committed to Kingston for another season.

The centre half is an exceptional reader of the game and is just as comfortable with the ball at his feet.

James Karvelis

Peter KOUNDANIS

42

A BRIEF HISTORY

DERIVED from of the National Youth League team, Melbourne Victory begins a new era competing in the state’s premier competition.

With an existing NYL title to its name, Melbourne enter the NPL with the aim of producing first team footballers - as well as being able to have up to 46 talented young players involved in its training and playing programs for up to 12 months.

A host of talented names have emerged from Melbourne’s youth ranks, including the likes of Socceroos Mitch Langerak and Connor Pain as well as an established A-League contingent.

A young squad in comparison to most, coach John Aloisi’s list is complied of the 2013 NTC championship winning side and star youngsters across last season’s NPL.

The side has had a difficult time in the NYL in 2014/15, struggling to find any consistency and currently sit in sixth spot.

MELBOURNE VICTORYChairman: Anthony Di Pietro | Coach: John Aloisi

Media contact: Andrew Holmes | 0411 024 405 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Andre JANNESEAndre MCNAMARAAnthony DUZELBrendan GONANOChristian CAVALLODamien MISKULINGeorge HOWARDJoseph KATEBIANJohn MACLEANJonathan VAKIRTZISKieran DOVERLucas DERRICKLucas SPINELLAMilos RIDESICNicholas GLAVANPatrick AVICEReeve CALDECOURTStefan NIGROThomas DENGThomas LAKIC

QUICK STATS

N/A

MAN TO WATCH

THE forward dominated NPL1 last season, sharing the Golden Boot with Richmond’s Tom Cahill after amassing 26 goals.

Making the switch to Victory’s youth team, the Katebian has continued his impressive form throughout the National Youth League.

joey katebian

43

PHOTO: skip fulton

44

PHOTO: Peter Merkesteyn / the border mail

45

A BRIEF HISTORY

MURRAY United was born from a passion in the development of football in rural Victoria and New South Wales, where the club was established in 2014 for the purposes of participating in the Victorian NPL.

Based in Albury-Wodonga, Murray United represents the region of Victoria’s North East as well as the New South Wales Riverina.

Murray’s vision is to develop talented players and provide opportuities for them to excel and represent the region at the highest levels of the game.

It’s a region which has been yearning for a team to compete in the upper tiers of the Australian football pyramid.

It has a history of producing talented footballers, with Melbourne Victory striker Archie Thompson just one to come out of the region, along with Melbourne City forward Josh Kennedy.

MURRAY UNITEDPresident: Mark Byatt | Coach: Mick Richards

Home Ground: La Trobe University Playing Fields, Wodonga

Media contact: Daniel Pendleton | 0432 714 741 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Josh FLUSSBenjamin RUSSELLDylan BALMFORTHDaniel CISNEROSJames COUTTSJayson FERGUSONRyan GILESBenjamin CHAFFEYMathew HASLERMichael JESSUPHudson MAGERSTEINDaniel MILLYNNJoshua MULCAHYHussein NTAKIRUTIMANAJoshua O’BRIENSean PYEKade RIXONJesse STEPHENSZac WALKERAdam WALTERS

QUICK STATS

N/A

MAN TO WATCH

22-YEAR-OLD Walker joins Murray United after a devestating season with local side Twin City Wanderers. booting a record 42 goals last season - 15 short of his own league record.

The forward has also played in the VPL with Dandenong Thunder and Oakleigh Cannons.

Zac Walker

46

A BRIEF HISTORY

NUNAWADING were awarded an NPL licence in 2014, with the club officially to commence its involvment in 2015.

The club has a committed focus and pioneering success in youth development, most recently producing Young Socceroo and Liverpool signing Jake Brimmer.

Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou actually had a hand in the club’s development of its junior structure..

THE YEAR PRIOR

DESPITE finishing last in State League Two South-East last season, 2015 presents a new challenge for the club.

With an exceptional accademy and reputation in developing young players, the club’s vision is to be recognised as a Development Centre of Excellence.

NUNAWADING cityPresident: Arthur Kioussis | Coach: Nick Dimitrakis

Home Ground: Mahoneys Reserve, Forest Hill

Media contact: Leo Bevacqua | 0432 481 620 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Keegan COULTERPeter EVANGELAKOSTrung LUUBen ROBINSONSpencer EGAN-TANNERAnthony GIANNOPOULOSSam MAZZOLINIStefan PAPAGEORGIOUIvan SKORICHMing-En CUIDavid MOROVICJack GOWDaniel PATTERSONDavid ANTEQUERALeon ANEZAKISJack LOUZIOTISJordan TEMPLINJon-Luc SILVESTRIChristopher GURREthan MCGLINCHEY

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 12th in State League Two South-East, Round 4 of the Dockerty Cup

State League Two: 1 wins, 4 draws, 17 losses, 31 goals for, 67 against, -36 goal difference.

Top goalscorer: Jon-Luc Silvestri (7 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

IN his second year as Nunawading City, the 19-year-old Templin has been appointed captain 2015, recognising both his football and leadership qualities.

The attacker’s development has already seen him attract overseas attention.

jordan templin

48


49

A BRIEF HISTORY

ESTABLISHED more than 60 years ago by German immigrants, Richmond SC is a team with a proud history in Victorian football. The side enjoyed a lengthy spell in the state’s top flight, winning the Victorian Premier League in 2010 before relegated to the second tier in 2013.

THE YEAR PRIOR

RICHMOND fell four points adrift of promotion last season, finishing 2014 in fourth spot after an inconsistent start to the year.

Coach Rich Mensink took the reigns midway through the season after Richmond parted ways with ex-Victory player Grant Brebner.

Mensink turned around a sinking ship, steering the side to fourth spot, while playing some good football in the process, and easily matching it with the top teams in the competition.

RICHMOND SCPresident: David Foster | Coach: Rick Mensink

Home Ground: Kevin Bartlett Reserve, Richmond

Media contact: John Petropoulos | 0413 095 632 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Christian ROSSIMatthew WATERSJosh VALADONAndrew GOFFPeter SAWANHamlet ARMENIANJoshua KNIGHTThomas CAHILLMatthew COLLIERMichael CATALANOLiam FLYNNSamuel CATHERINEMate ETEROVICAndrew SKOULLOSRyan LAMBERTDaniel PIOVESANChristopher DAVISTimmy PURCELLMichael GROENEWALDJay KELLY

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 4th in NPL 1, Quarter Final in Dockerty Cup


Top goalscorer: Tom Cahill (26 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

FRESH off a contract extension, Cahill claimed the league’s Players’ Player Award for the season which also saw him share the Golden Boot with 26 goals.

Agressive from the front, the Englishman’s capability is second to none.

Tom Cahill

50

A BRIEF HISTORY

BASED in Keysborough, Springvale’s objective since obtaining an NPL license has been to promote and develop youth.

So far, they’ve done just that. They’ve unearthed talent which has already attracted attention elsewhere.

Boasting one of the youngest squads across the NPL, the club is aiming to provide a stable foundation to work with in 2015 and beyond.

THE YEAR PRIOR

2014 marked the first year of a prolonged strategy to ensure Springvale White Eagles FC is successful in the NPL and in the years to come.

With one of the youngest squads in the NPL, 2014 proved to be a difficult campaign for Springvale, who finished the season in 12th spot.

Despite this, their kids proved to be a shining light and will continue to impress this year.

SPRINGVALE white eaglesPresident: Peter Veljovic (acting) | Coach: Zlatko Mihajlovic

Home Ground: White Eagles Stadium, Keysborough

Media contact: Peter Veljovic | 0417 509 525 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Nebojsa VUJICZarko MILOJEVICSlavisa SARICStojan MILOJEVICSimo JOVANOVICStephane LEBLONDSebastian LECAROS CAMPOSANOHernan DE RITODejan ERAKOVICKeletso MTHEMBUHamish MILLARAbel FESSEHAScott MILLARNemanja SALAMANDICVedran TANASICJordan BALLERINIMarcus HOLMESRyan ANTHONEY DON PAULJamie DE SMITMilan JOVANOVIC

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 12th in NPL 1, Round of 16 in Dockerty Cup


Top goalscorer: Vojislav Milojevic (10 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

A versitle, strong, mobile and courageous player, the utility is capable of playing in any role, leading from the fore.

White Eagles are predicting a successful 2015 with its talisman on the pitch.

STOJAN MILOJEVIC

51


52

PHOTO: ballarat courier

53

A BRIEF HISTORY

THE club was established in 1968, playing the first of its six seasons at Llanberris Park Reserve before movingto Trekardo Park in 1973.

Ballarat joined the inaugural NPL competition last season following the $15 million redevelopment of Morshead Park Stadium. The stadium now boasts one of the best surfaces in Victoria.

Ballarat has won three lower-league titles in its history, the last of which in 2007.

THE YEAR PRIOR

THE Red Devils were painstakingly relegated on the final day of the 2015 NPL competition following a 2-0 defeat to Oakleigh Cannons.

Despite a late season revival, the odds seamed to have consipred against the Red Devils with a stoppage time equaliser - in another fixture - sinking James Robinson’s side.

BALLARAT red devilsChairman: Duncan Smith | Coach: James RobinsonHome Ground: Morshead Park Stadium, Ballarat

Media contact: Duncan Smith | 0409 535 259 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Miles BAKERAdrian CURTAINJames DOWNEYCallum FERGUSONDaniel FIRTHLiam HARDINGPatrick KARRASCharles KINGDavid KINGScott LAMONTSimon MURPHYAaron ROMEINJoshua ROMEINShaun ROMEINNelson SALVATOREDominic SWINTONDaniel TINKERMichael TRIGGERMichael MULLINSJames KING

QUICK STATS



Top goalscorer: Paul Harvey (8 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

BALLARAT’S prized signing arrives following spells in the A-League with Perth Glory, North Queensland and Wellington Pheonox.Capable as either a winger or full back, Downey has represented Australia at U20s level.

Jimmy downey

54

A BRIEF HISTORY

A NEW addition to the NPL1 set-up in 2015, Bendigo City FC succeeds FC Bendigo as the region’s NPL side.

The club has risen from the ashes and as such, is a new entity, starting from scatch this year.

Bendigo City has has received an enourmous amount of community support to ensure the club will be different to its former iteration.

Technical director Fabrizio Soncin - former Melbourne Victory Women’s and Bulleen Lions coach - and the senior squad have moved to Bendigo embracing the club’s local brand.

With backing from the Bendigo Bank and City of Greater Bendigo, preparations are in full swing to ensure the world game is alive and kicking at the highest level in Central Victoria.

The side has instilled a local philosophy, and has publicly stated they want the squad to live and work in Bendigo.

BENDIGO city fcPresident: Corey Scoble | Coach: Greg Thomas

Home Ground: Epsom Soccer Complex, Bendigo

Media contact: Louise McColl | 0406 397 984 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Gian MARCO D’ORIORiley DILLONJason SHADERylan SADLERDaniel REESCorey SLEVINKarl SLEVINGeorge MCHEILEHGeorge SLEFENDORFASJordan SEETOPrince QUANSAHGreg THOMASDaniel PURDYKeegan SMYTHGodwill BASHAJosh DWYERSt. Ares GILARDIJoseph WILLIAMSSam SCOBLEEhsoo SHE

QUICK STATS

N/A

MAN TO WATCH

RECRUITED from Brisbane’s Premier League, Slevin arrives with an impressive CV having played for Australia at U17s level.

Corey signs alongside brother Karl, with the duo adding some fire power to Bendigo’s list.

corey slevin

55

PHOTO: bendigo advertiser

56


57

A BRIEF HISTORY

FOUNDED in 1970 for recreational purposes, Brunswick City has grown immensely to become of the biggest clubs in the northern suburbs.

Now competing in the NPL, Brunswick City’s key philosophy involves youth development which it aims to feed through the club’s ranks to ensure it stays competitive, and ensures long-term success on the pitch.

THE YEAR PRIOR

2014 was a consolidation year for the club, focussing its efforts on improving the infrastructure and foundations at the club, to help implement its philosophy in 2015 and beyond.

The squad struggled in the league, only amassing ten points in 2014, scoring an average of a goal a game, but conceding almost an average of four goals a game.

BRUNSWICK cityPresident: Peter Kryiopoulos | Coach: Jason Farrugia

Home Ground: Dunstan Reserve, Brunswick

Media contact: [email protected] *Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

George MARKELISDimitri VITHOULKASAhmet TURERJames DUVCEVSKIJack DOVEYYack BOLLucas AOUNMichael VARKOPOULOSJose PORTILLOAnthony LANCHELLOAlessandro VERRATTIFasile ADENMatthew MURONECameron WILLIAMSJoshua D’MONTEKouat MANONDamir MARUSICAmara KROMAHMatthew MURPHY Jack CAMINITI

QUICK STATS



Top goalscorer: Dimitri Vithoulkas (5 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

PORTILLO, while unbeknownst to some, is a striker who comes to Brunswick City with an excellent touch.

Coming from a futsal background, he he is excellent on the ball in tight areas and has great vision, as well as the ability to score.

Jose Portillo

58

A BRIEF HISTORY

SINCE the mid-1970’s when the first Bulleen squad was assembled wearing the Maroon and Gold, the Veneto Club has been the spiritual home of football in Bulleen.

Despite going through a number of name changes over its history, FC Bulleen Lions continues to thrive with record player participation and superb playing facilities.

THE YEAR PRIOR

FC BULLEEN LIONS found the back of the net the most times out of any NPL club competing across the state, scoring 64 goals over the course of the 2014 campaign

Joey Katebian - now at Melbourne Victory - netted 25 of those goals, the equal most in the competition.

The side’s goalscoring prowess was a testament to the attractive brand of football it played.

fc BULLEEN lionsNPL Chairperson: Karyn Barrasso | Coach: Dominic Barba

Home Ground: David Barro Stadium, Bulleen

Media contact: Karen Daley | 03 9850 4121 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Dean ROMASWilliam ABBOTTSamuel BORGHESILewis WADDELLMatthew BANOVICLuke GALLOMatteo BALLANBardhi HYSOLLITakanori NISHIMOTOGianna DE NITTISMatthew DIMECHDean LORENZIEdison PONARIJoshua SABIDUSSIDylan BRESOLINBilly ROMASAnton NADELLAFelix ROSMANRaza HUSSAINIJames CONVERSANO

QUICK STATS



Top goalscorer: Joey Katebian (26 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

QUICK and dangerous in the final third, the midfielder has developed a reputation as one of the most devastating players in the league.

The Japanese maestro played a role in a number of goals for his side last year, whether it be conjuring chances or finding the back of the net.

TAKANORI nishimoto

Eli LUTTMERAndrew MULLETT

59


Eli LUTTMERAndrew MULLETT

60

PHOTO: skip fulton

61

A BRIEF HISTORY

MELBOURNE City will kick off its 2015 NPL 1 campaign primed for success.

The side is currently perched on top of the Foxtel National Youth League table, having won nine of its fifteen games, and scoring the most goals in the NYL.

Former Northcote youngster Wade Dekker leads the goalscoring charts this season with nine goals to his name.

What is not yet known is who will be coaching Melbourne City in the NPL, with Joe Palatsides not announced to be at the helm.

The side recently put out advertisements looking for a new boss to lead the side, with applications recently closing.

One thing that is certain is that whoever takes charge at Melbourne City will have one of the most talented groups of youngsters in Australian history to work with, largely plucked from last year’s NPL.

MELBOUrnE CITYChairman: Khaldoon Al Mubarak | Coach: TBA

Media contact: Julius Ross | 0400 731 427 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Nicholas SYMEOYHernan ESPINDOLAWade DEKKERMarko STEVANJATyler JAMESPhilip PETRESKILuka PRELEVICAnthony RIZKYaren SOZERMatthew MILLARBaki EFEHaris STAMBOULIDISAnthony TARANTOLeo ATHANASIOUStefan ZINNITrey O’SULLIVANTomislav FADLJEVICJoseph MONEKLuke GALLOMichael YOSESKI

QUICK STATS

N/A

MAN TO WATCH

FORMER Northcote City striker Wade Dekker has had a breakout season in the NYL this year, scoring nine goals in 15 games.

He had a similarly strong year in the 2014 NPL, managing nine goals for Northcote as the side finished in seventh spot.

WADE DEkker

Ratip CILELI

62

A BRIEF HISTORY

MORELAND City was established as Coburg in 1916, and is one of the oldest serving clubs under the Football Federation Victoria banner.

A number of mergers between Coburg, Moreland and Park Rangers since 1916 has formed the club as it stands today, Moreland City Football Club.

Moreland City has won four Dockerty Cups and have been runners up on three other occasions.

THE YEAR PRIOR

IN 2014 Moreland City won its second straight championship, the latest of which in State League 1 North West resulting in an invitation to apply to join NPL1.

City cleared Preston Lions by three points, securing its spot in NPL 1 on the final day of the season.

MORELAND CITYPresident: Albert McCormack | Coach: Adrian Mathers

Home Ground: Campbell Reserve, Coburg

Media contact: Pedro Fric | 0409 401 369 | [email protected]*Squad a draft and not submitted for player points regulations evaluation at time of writing

SQUAD*

Ozan KARALiam BRIANOrhan KARANathan GOURZELASShane CARRChristopher NICHOLASMuhammed KURUCU Kamer SIMSEKThomas FRAWLEYJulien DOS SANTOSGareth RICHARDSLiam FRANCISBlaine BURRELLQuinn McDONALDOsman KOSEYing CHENBrandon GALGANORichard FERGUSONNejdet SAHINRoberto BAZZANO

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 1st in State League 1 Noth-West, Round 4 in Dockerty Cup

State League 1: 14 wins, 3 draws, 5 losses, 47 goals for, 26 against, +21 goal difference.

Top goalscorer: Adam Orme (9 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THE midfielder arrived at Moreland in 2012, winning two league titles over the next two years. A combative midfielder, with an eye for goal, Carr wrote himself into the club’s folklore with back-to-back Best and Fairest awards.

SHANE CARR

65

A BRIEF HISTORY

FORMED in 1948, the club was a foundation member of the inaugural National Soccer League, competing under the name of Brunswick United Juventus.

A series of mergers and name changes has seen the club re-branded throughout the years but nevertheless boasts a proud and successful history, incorporating one national league championship, nine state league titles and five Dockerty Cup crowns.

The club too has been a famous breeding ground for Socceroos with Mark Bresciano and Paul Wade emerging through the ranks.

THE YEAR PRIOR

2014 marked a relatively modest season for Moreland as a slow start saw the Zebras eventuate to a seventh place finish, and relative mid-table obscurity.

MORELAND ZEBRASPresident: Joseph Sala | Coach: Danny Gnijidic

Home Ground: CB Smith Reserve, Fawkner

Media contact: John Ruffino | 0418 121 125 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Lucas RUFFINOMile MEDJEDOVICJoel NIKOLICSimon SYMEOYJoshua McMONAGLE-IHASZAdam CENTOFANTIBradley MURRAYJames PAPADIMITRIOUAleksander STOJANOVSKIDanny CHARALAMBOUSJohnny CRIVELLISteve MARTINDaniel PETROVKliment DIMITRIESKIBaggio YOUSIFBale MICOVSKIChristopher TRIANTAFILOPOUSAdem TURCANWilliam NUTTALLNikola KOSTADINOVSKI

QUICK STATS



Top goalscorer: Nick Symeoy (12 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

SIGNING for Moreland after a prolific 2014 with Whittlesea Ranges, the exciting talent bagged 10 goals in his inaugural NPL 1 campaign.

Deployed largely as a number ten, Moreland is predicting a big 2014 with its new signing.

kliment dimitrieski

66

A BRIEF HISTORY

A STALWART of Victorian football, St Albans has spent the majority of its existence competing across the state’s top tiers, with its 1998 Victorian Premier League premiership the club’s crowning achievement.

Established by Croatian-Australians, the club has produced a host of successful players who have progressed to the elite level, including Tom Pondeljak and Branko Culina.

THE YEAR PRIOR

FROM Victoria’s second tier to the national level, 2014 was a whirlwind year for the Saints, with the side’s biggest achievement a spot in the Round of 16 of the FFA Cup.

A far cry from an underwhelming sixth place finish in NPL 1, St Albans was eliminated by A-League leaders Perth Glory in front of 3 500 spectators at Knights Stadium.

ST ALBANS saintsPresident: Ivan Maric | Coach: Joe KovacevicHome Ground: Churchill Reserve, St Albans

Media contact: Keti Barisic | 0423 962 752 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Stuart WEBSTERBarry DELVINNicholas SARBINDaniel SWEENEYTrent WATERSONBen SHARPERRoss HARVEYAnthony BORASNicholas SCERRIYUSUF YUSUFKonrad DOBRASZKIEWICZMatko BUDIMIRTedros YABIOAnte KOZULJohnny SCOLLODamien PETERSMichael PAULNana Yaw OTUO-ACHEAMPONGChris SIKETARyan McGUFFIE

QUICK STATS

2014 SEASON: 6th in NPL 1, Round of 16 in FFA Cup.


Top goalscorer: Barry Devlin (9 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

THE Scot made a name for himself in his homeland, scoring in the 2006 Scottish Cup Final and playing in the country’s top flight.

Signing for the club in 2014, he was appointed captain and led the club through its remarkable FFA Cup campaign.

Ryan mcguffie

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A BRIEF HISTORY

THE product of Maltese immigrants in the 1940s, Sunshine George Cross spent several years in the National Soccer League, reaching the finals in 1984.

An old powerhouse of Victorian football, the club has a proud history with one Australia Cup to its name, accompanying three Dockerty Cup championships and a Premier League crown in 1977 in its trophy cabinet.

THE YEAR PRIOR

SUNSHINE had to settle for a middle-of-the-table finish in ninth spot, after a patchy 2014 campaign.

Despite the side’s inconsistency, they scored more than a goal-and-a-half a game throughout the inaugural NPL season.

2015 presents a strong platform to consolidate and improve upon for Tony Ciantar’s side.

SUNSHINE george crossPresident: Jamie Chetcuti | Coach: Tony Ciantar

Home Ground: Chaplin Reserve, Sunshine

Media contact: Rosemaree Wardle | 0428 685 465 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Slaven VRANESEVICMatthew OGHANNAJacob ATTARDLeon OSEIRobert SANTILLIBrandon ZAFFINAMartin MASONChristopher DIBAdamson AJAYISamuel ANTONIADISAnthony CASSARBrandon SCERRIEddie CETKINJoseph SIEHAdrian LOGOZZOChristopher ANTONIADISDamian RASTOCICBaran KOCKAYANemanja LOJANICAFabio Rogerio ALBUQUERQUE JUNIOR

QUICK STATS


NPL 1: 10 wins, 5 draws, 11 losses, 43 goals for, 55 against, -12 goal difference.

Top goalscorer: Manuell Sadik (7 goals)

MAN TO WATCH

AN EXEMPLARY leader and commendable club man, the captain delivered a serviceable 2014 between the posts for his club.

A goalkeeper with all the right attributes, Santilli’s experience has been vital for the younger members of the squad

rob santilli

Bozidar LOJANICAZiyad MARKOUS

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A BRIEF HISTORY

AFTER years of mergers and name changes since its establishment as Thomastown Epping Lalor SC in 1971, the board in 2009 decided to ensure that the history of the club would remain symbolic to the area, re-intoriducing the founding colours under the name Whittlesea Ranges FC.

THE YEAR PRIOR

IN early 2014 Whittlesea Ranges FC was successful in obtaining a licence for the NPL, representing the northern corridor of Melbourne, and ensuring that a pathway would be created for up-and-coming elite players within the community.

Whittlesea finished 2014 second-last on the NPL1 table, ahead of Brunswick City.

Despite finishing on top of them, Brunswick was the Ranges’ bogey team, losing both encounters.

WHITTLESEA rangesPresident: Sam Cuteri | Coach: Vinko Buljubasic

Home Ground: Epping Stadium, Epping

Media contact: Serge Costanzo | 0413 179 312 | [email protected]*Squads still subject to passing of player points regulations

SQUAD*

Gian TAPIADianoush RASOULZADEH-SEYSANAndrew TAYLORDaniel SOTIROPOULOSMohamed MOHAMEDSami NOURMario PIRAINOStefan BARICEVICDaniel PELUSOMatthew IULIANOMatthew CUNDARIAdem MUSTEDANAGICPavle DURKICRami MUSTAFOSKIJohn REALEMatthew KUNDEVSKIDaniel GICEVSKIRidvan SAGLAMDamien MORELLAtilla OFIL

QUICK STATS



Top goalscorer: Kliment Dimitrieski (10)

MAN TO WATCH

BORN in Germany from an Italian background, the 20-year-old arrives to the NPL from lower league German outfit FV Löchgau.

Recruited as one of Whittlesea’s internationals, the striker will be expected to deliver goals that were missing for Rangers last season.

Giosue (Jo) Tolomeo

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PlayStation 4 NPL Victoria Media Guide: First edition

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