News 2017/18 — Historical Archive

News 2017/18

Peninsula Strikers Soccer Club is seeking expressions of interest for the position of Reserve Coach for the upcoming 2019 season.

Peninsula Strikers will be competing in State 2 South East and are looking for a suitable person to be Reserve team head coach.
The position offers a great opportunity to work with predominately an U-23 squad.

• Applicants must have prior coaching experience.
• Strong Communication skills
• Minimum C licence or willing to obtain

The successful applicant will be expected to work with our senior coaching staff and assist with the development of our young players into senior football
.
Email applications to: president@peninsulastrikers.com
Applications close 5pm Monday 19th November 2018

AGM
Sunday 28th October 1pm
@ Peninsula Strikers FC - McClelland Drive

Club Announcement
Thursday 1 November

Peninsula Strikers would like to invite all existing and potential new
players to a meet and greet session with new coaches
Danny Verdun and Neil Standish.

As well as meeting the guys, we would also like to outline the clubs
intentions for pre season and season 2019.

If you think you want to be part of our club, make the effort to get along
and meet the guys and see what’s in store for the coming season.

Peninsula Strikers would like to announce and welcome Danny Verdun as senior coach
and Neil Standish as his assistant. Both come with a great track record and we wish them all the success in 2019.

2018 Award Winners
Seniors
B&F Oscar Marsden
Players Player Alex Van Heerwaarden
Coaches Award Oscar Marsden

Reserves
B&F Ash Hupe
Players Player Ash Hupe
Coaches Award Austin Sporys

Women
B&F Demi Johnson
Players Player Demi Johnson
Coaches Award Jennifer Carter

Senior Club presentation Night 2018
September 22nd 7.00pm till late
Come celebrate the year and the remarkable turnaround it was.
With live entertainment and a 2 course meal, it is sure to be a great night.
Dress to impress. Strictly no denim
RSVP: is a must by Thursday 6th September with payment.
Tickets are $40 per head and available at the club this Tuesday and Thursday.
Payment can also be made via Bank transfer if required.
Please include reference eg: T Johnston-Pres
BSB: 013494
ACC: 100621437

Lets finish off what's been a difficult year in style.

Come join our Sponsors/Past players day on August 11th from 2pm-5pm. Be part of a great day watching the senior boys take on Doveton Soccer Club.
Enjoy a full Lamb Spit roast with Free Beer Wine and Soft drink as well as $3 basic spirits.
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by contacting Trevor on 0412 760 038 or Scott 0450 629 342.
Lets get sharing and get as many past players back to the club as we can.

A bit of Strikers history on the weekend v Knox City with the Reserves playing on the back pitch for the first time ever.

Match Report v Old Scotch
JAMIE Skelly has nine games left to save Peninsula Strikers from relegation from State 2 South-East.

The revolving door at Centenary Park was spinning once more after Casey Comets shot themselves in the foot by sacking Skelly as head coach
last week and inadvertently giving Strikers a lifeline.

Within hours of his sacking Skelly had agreed to join Strikers on the proviso that Trevor Johnston remain as president.

Johnston had resigned the previous night but the chance to rescue his club’s faltering season proved too good to resist and a back flip was duly performed.

Skelly became Strikers’ seventh coach in 12 months following in the footsteps of Craig Lewis, Billy Buchanan, Willie Raines, Andy O’Dell, Jamie Paterson
and Lenny Greenan.

Skelly had previously coached Strikers in 2012 and was unveiled as new head coach last Tuesday and a player exodus from Comets was evident with
Alex van Heerwarden, George Whiteoak, John Prescott and Liam Ryan joining Strikers with more players expected to arrive from Comets Stadium this week.

Skelly also lured his Comets assistant and former Strikers player Joe Donaghy to Centenary Park as well as long-time friend Ben Caffrey
who had been assistant playing coach at Frankston Pines.

Strikers also completed the signing of goalkeeper Dylan Mery and winger Sayed Fatemi from NPL club Kingston City last week but Fatemi
dislocated his shoulder at training and was sidelined last weekend.

But the Skelly effect wasn’t immediate as Strikers failed to overcome fellow relegation candidate Old Scotch who came away from Centenary Park
on Saturday with a precious 1-0 win.

The pivotal moment in the contest came in the 11th minute when a slick counter-attack and a stunning finish caught Strikers on the hop.

Jonathan Beamish on the left played the ball inside to Sam Shearer whose first-time lay-off sent Kurt Emery clear and he saw that Mery had come too far
off his line and struck the ball over his head and under the bar for the winner.

The extent of the Achilles injury that forced Whiteoak off at half-time will be determined this week but it forced a reshuffle with big Dave Selan who
had struggled to contain Jack Branagan in the first half switching from left back and linking with van Heerwarden in defence.

It wasn’t long before van Heerwarden was sent up front and although Strikers pressured Old Scotch they couldn’t find a way past visiting keeper
Hugh-James Thomas, who was excellent.

Thomas had smothered at the feet of Ryan Thompson in the first half but he should have been beaten in the 57th minute when Ryan blew a great chance to
level by striking his shot across the keeper and just wide of the far post when well positioned.

Strikers are now nine points from safety at the foot of the table with the league’s worst goal difference but Prescott is available after being suspended for the
Old Scotch match and is certain to bolster Strikers’ attacking options.

The scene is set for a stirring derby battle on Saturday when Strikers go to Monterey Reserve to face fellow State 2 side Frankston Pines who lost 4-0 away
to title contender Mazenod last weekend.

The Limited Edition Strikeforce1 jackets are now in. To be part of the exclusive (15) get in touch with TJ asap to reserve yours.
Included in the package is:
$100 drink card for game days
Free entry to all home games
Sponsors day invite to catered function
Free entry to all club functions including presentation night

$30 per adult

Finger food provided plus drinks at bar prices in the fabulous Chairman’s Lounge

$10 betting voucher per person plus a further chance to win a $20 betting voucher.

Child friendly area & activities

Free glass of champagne on arrival for the ladies.

A bus to and from the track

Chance to play the new ‘Day of the Dog’ gameshow!
Fun activities between clubs to determine finalists with cash prizes of $10,000!

Come and support the club it should be a great day!

Please register your interest with this form as we need 25 to get the bus

https://form.jotform.co/81358274555868

Sponsor Opportunity- to get involved with our club

The Strikers are seeking new sponsors for season 2018 and beyond.
After a massive pre season on and off the field our clubs in a fantastic position to promote your business.
With a brand new renovation to building and ground, the opportunity to have highly visible ground and clubroom exposure is great.

With onfield success comes a larger supporter base and a huge opportunity to have your brand front and centre to all.
With this also comes social media (facebook/instagram) and website exposure

We want you to become an intergral part of our club and be part of our success not only this year but in years to come.

Contact Trevor Johnston on 0412 760 038 and we can send you our fantastic options available.

Those wantting to be part of the Strikeforce and Strikeforce 1 this year, please also contact Trevor.
Strikeforce1 will include an exclusive jacket, scarfe, season drink card and other goodies.

The Reverse Raffle function will begin at 7.30pm.

$50 entry fee will include beer wine and soft drink as well as basic spirits at $3 for two hours and finger food will be provided.

SENIOR PAID PLAYERS: 2 Tickets must be purchased

RESERVE PLAYERS, WOMEN, CELEBRITIES, METRO 5: Compulsory attendance by player tickets be sold on Thursdays and Saturdays for next 4/5 weeks.

Tickets for the draw will initially be 1-100.

More numbers will be available if the 100 numbers are sold. Which will increase prize money.

A magnificent performance by the lads today recording a 4-0 win away to Old Scotch. First half hat trick from Ryan Thompson and a second half goal from Femi Orenuga.

Great performance all round

Onto next week!

Up the strikers!

Ryan Thompson is the 22nd player to score a hat trick and the 39th for the club.
The other players who have scored a hat trick are Gary McMullin (3), Gary scored the clubs first hat trick in 1994, Russell Black (1), Steve Keenan (1),
Joe Donghy Snr (2), Terry Wogan (7), Craig Lewis (6), Boni Botha (1), Gary Cochrane (1), Willie Raines (1), Trevor Johnston (1), Jamie Skelly (1),
Simon O’Donnell (2), Nagus Henry (1), Sait Uygur (2), Murat Demirkol (2), Nicholas Lekakis (1), Blake Hicks (1), Matt Hames (1), Amir Osmancevic (1),
Matt Morris-Thomas (1) and Paul Presti (1)

Great mark of respect from both sides today in our FFA Cup clash for our club legend Andy McKenna. RIP Legend

It is with great sadness that we learn the recent passing of club legend and allround great guy Andy McKenna.
Andy was a fierce leader on the park and a great guy off it.
He played 117 First team games at Strikers scoring 1 goal from his beloved left back position and always left nothing in the tank each and every game. He fought to the end as we all knew he would.
He is a special guy and will be greatly missed by all.
We extend your sympathy to his family and friends in this sad time offer our support in any which way we can.
RIP good mate xxx

Funeral is Fri 16th at 2:30pm at Bunurong Memorial Park
790 Frankston Dandenong Rd in the Cumulus Stratus Chapel xx

E.O.I
Strikers are once again running the exclusive Strikeforce this year with 2 options for consideration.
The Strikeforce has been set up for many many years to ahelp ssit with the signing of top quality marquee players
but in 2018 we have made some slight changes allowing our great club to challenge for the title.
Sponsorship is getting more and more difficult each year and this is a great way our true supporters and members
can help contribute to team and club success. Marquee players names and details will be discussed in private upon request due to privicy reasons.

The two tier strike force has been set up to assist the club in attracting top quality marquee players which will no doubt not disappoint.
We are super excited what is to come.

Strike Force 1- Exclusive member

• Your Business listed in home game match day program- 11 issues
• Exclusive Club Strikeforce 1 Game day Jacket
• Free entry on game day
• 1x ticket to all club functions inc Presentaion night and sponsors day
• $100 drink card (for use game day only)and
• 2018 social membership.

Strike Force- Social Member
• Free entry on game day; and
• 2018 social membership.

If you think this is something you want to be part of, please contact either myself on 0412 760 038 or Scott Buchanan on 0450 629 342.
Your continued support will go a long way and is much appreciated by all

TJ
President

Click here for 2018 State League Structure

For those who are not aware Pre season starts for our seniors and reserves on January 9th.
We welcome all new and existing players to the club.
With extensive changes at all levels and a vibrant proactive committee, our club has never looked better.
Further notice to our women's trail dates will be published in the coming days.

Frankston Open Mic

Frankston Open Mic Night might have to have a name change given that it is now held on Sunday afternoons.

Established over 2 years ago to give local artists a stage on which to perform, the event was originally held on alternate
Fridays at the Peninsula Strikers Soccer Club, McClelland Drive, Frankston.

The venue is the same but the date has been changed. Now held on the second Sunday of the month the venue provides a PA,
drums, a bass combo (guitarists are notoriously precious about using their own amplification) and someone to connect it all together.

Performers then add their name to the whiteboard to book a 20 minute slot. Bands, duos, solo performers are all welcome and the music varies from rock,
to blues through folk to classics.

The recently renovated clubhouse is family friendly so why not come along with some friends and listen to the wealth of local talent.
The doors and bar open at 2.00pm with a planned finish of 6.00.

The next event will be on Sunday 10th Dec. Take a look at the Frankston Open MIc Night Facebook page
or if you want further information call Tim 0437 291 169

2017 Award Winners

Club Announcement:

It's with great pleasure we would like to announce the signing of Andy O'Dell as head coach of our club for season 2018.
Andy is highly regarded in the football community and will be a great asset to our club. He has had a decorated career both as a player and coach, winning titles just about everywhere he has gone. Last season Andy coached Altona City whilst winning the league and state cup, so success is never far away from him.
Being able to attract someone like him is a massive boost for our club and we look forward to seeing what he can bring in 2018

Welcome aboard Andy

Well what a season of mixed emotions. Where do I start?

As I am sure, like everyone associated with the club, I am extremely disappointed with the on field results and the gut wrenching reality of relegation that happened on Saturday. At the start of the year and looking over our playing list, we certainly had our sights set to be a promotion candidate and not be in this horrible situation but as they say……….Life goes on and we must continue on!

That been said, there has been some great positives throughout the year.
Our club got a great female friendly renovation and has made a great difference to the whole aesthetics of the club. We have created a very family orientated environment around the club and it has been fantastic to see so many kids and families hang around after the games for long periods of time. Your continued support has been much appreciated. The club off the park and financially is in a great position, never better and has a great starting platform for next year and beyond.
I would like to thank a few people who without them I would be lost and none of this possible.
Firstly to Bianca, without you, I am not sure I would have been able to do what I do. You have been my rock and a great help not only as Treasurer but everything else you do and I promise to spend more time with our family now it’s over. lol
To the coaches, managers and committee, thank you for all your efforts. I know it can be a thankless job, but I appreciate your efforts throughout the year.
I would also like to thank the sponsors whether great or small. Without you, any club does not survive so I thank you so much and hope you all continue to support us in our quest to get this great club to where it rightfully belongs.
In the off season, there will be some big changes on and off the park. You will see some extensive works going on around the club once again. There are plans in place to bitumen the carpark with 130-150 spaces.There are also plans to get both grounds a much needed make over with better drainage on the main park.
The AGM is pencilled in for Wednesday October 11th at 7:30pm and we welcome all people to join and assist our club in striving forward. Remember many hands make light work.
There will be further details to follow.

Presentation Night is going to be a great night also. Tickets are selling fast. If you have not got your tickets and are wanting to come. Please text ,email or ring me. I will also be up the club Thesday and Thursday this week.

Another turning point
A fork stuck in the road
Time grabs you by the wrist
Directs you where to go.......
Peninsula Strikers this Friday (22nd).
Open mic night. Door and bar open 7.00 with the opening act on at 8.
Bring some friends and join the fun. See you there.

AGM
Its that time of year again when all positions are open.
Come join our Annual General meeting and we openly invite you to have your say within the club.
As you are well aware, a club needs plenty of volunteers to assist the day to day runnings so dont just be that voice from the outside,
get onboard and support your local club.
Meeting will be Wednesday October 11th at 7.30pm sharp and will be held at our Clubrooms on McClelland Drive.
We look forward to seeing you there.

A great result from the Strikers on the weekend regaining
the Steve Taylor Memorial Trophy

Come join us for our 2017 Reverse Raffle and Ladies Day.

Ladies please join us for a wonderful meal at the club with a glass of wine on arrival to celebrate our ladies day only 15pp.

Not to forget its Derby day against our local rivals Seaford where we will hopefully regain the Steve Taylor Shield.

Reserves at 1pm
Seniors at 3pm

The canteen will be open from 12pm.

The Reverse Raffle function will begin at 7.30pm.

$50 entry fee will include beer wine and soft drink as well as basic spirits at $3 between 7.30pm 10.30pm and finger food will be provided.

SENIOR PAID PLAYERS: 2 Tickets must be purchased

RESERVE PLAYERS, WOMEN, CELEBRITIES, METRO 5: Compulsory attendance by player tickets be sold on Thursdays and Saturdays for next 4/5 weeks.

Tickets for the draw will initially be 1-100.

More numbers will be available if the 100 numbers are sold. Which will increase prize money.

$50 per number

PRIZES:

1st number out the draw: $50+
3rd last number out: $250+
2nd last number out: $750+
Last number out: $2000+

Spot prizes at 25th, 50th, 75th 90th tickets out.

Numbers that will be auctioned on the night; 40,60,70,80 & 95.

EVERY PLAYER AT THE CLUB IS EXPECTED TO SELL 1 NUMBER it can be bought by yourself or someone else.

Ticket sales are open now so if you want to buy a ticket contact Tommy Hawkins and he will arrange the tickets and draw numbers.

Contact Tom Hawkins on Facebook or 0473640646 or message the Facebook page.

Make sure you join us next Saturday the 22nd of July for what promises to be a fantastic day.

????We have Ladies day which starts at 1pm.... it would be great to see old and new faces at the club on this day dedicated to our better halves.
For only $15 you will receive a meal and a glass of wine on arrival ????

THEN we have what promises to be a BLOCKBUSTER local derby against our fiercest rivals
Seaford United where the boys try to regain the Steve Taylor shield.

After all this we have the MAIN EVENT our 2017 Reverse Raffle

WE ONLY HAVE 9 NUMBERS REMAINING

Peninsula Strikers are delighted to announce that Willie Raynes has agreed to become senior coach for the remainder of the 2017 season.

Willie is a former player of Peninsula Strikers having made 48 appearance scoring 24 goals
he also has a decorated background as a footballer in England having played for Wolves and Rotherham United.

Willie also played for Heidelberg United and coached alongside Adam Jamieson at Frankston Pines and Mornington SC

The committee would like to wish Willie the best of luck in the role.

Frankston Open Mic Night

There's a place for us,
A time and place for us.
Hold my hand and we're halfway there.
Hold my hand and I'll take you there........
Peninsula Strikers Soccer Club
Friday 30th June for Frankston Open Mic night.
Doors open at 7 with live music from 8-11.
Come along with a bunch of friends and join in or just sit and listen to local musicians. See you there.
Somehow.
Someday.
Some WHRERRRRRRRRRRR.......

Thanks
Tim

Strikers v Eltham
by CRAIG MACKENZIE

Peninsula Strikers drew 1-1 away to State 2 South-East leader Eltham on Saturday and earned praise from gaffer Craig Lewis.

“It was a strong performance and we were unfortunate not to take all three points having hit the post and having one cleared off the line,” said Lewis.

“Young Aiden McKenna is just 16 and he had an excellent game at left back.”

Strikers were without defensive linchpin Chris McKenna, who was working in Sydney, and Tom Hawkins who was suspended after accumulating five yellow cards.

And gun striker Aziz Bayeh was forced off with a hamstring injury after 22 minutes and was replaced by Trevor Johnston.

An own goal in the 59th minute gave Strikers the lead but Eltham substitute Peter Koskos equalised in the 81st minute.

Frankston Open Mic Night

You know it's really not my habit to intrude
And I hope my meaning won't be lost or misconstrued
But I am willing to repeat myself
At the risk of being rude
But OPEN MIC NIGHT IS THIS FRIDAY. (16th)
Yes the heating is installed and hot enough to melt man made fabrics
so normal service is resumed. Doors and bar open at 7.00 till 11.
See you at the Strikers

Strikers v Mazenod United
by CRAIG MACKENZIE
Peninsula Strikers finished all over Mazenod United to record a 3-1 home win
in their State 2 South-East fixture last weekend.
Chris McKenna’s excellent re-enactment of the Stevie Gerrard slip set up Mazenod’s Adam Neou in the 35th minute
and he neatly lobbed the ball over the head of stranded Strikers keeper Colin McCormack.
Two minutes from half-time Robert D’Angelo, one of three brothers in Mazenod’s starting line-up,
shrugged off the attentions of Conor Keeley only for McCormack to spread himself well
and smother D’Angelo at close range.
McCormack again had to come to Strikers’ aid when Vicente Vasquez broke through in the 53rd minute
but the Irish stopper was off his line in a flash to block superbly.
Four minutes later Aziz Bayeh broke onto a long clearance and held off a defender before slotting the ball
past helpless Mazenod keeper Nicholas Van Hattum to make it 1-1.
A momentum shift was evident in the second half and Bayeh gave Strikers the lead in the 75th minute.
Tom Hawkins intercepted the ball on the right and played it into the path of Bayeh who turned his man inside out
before thumping a close-range shot past Van Hattum and inside the near post.
In the 86th minute central midfielder Sam Scott chipped the ball down the right for Bayeh
whose cutback found Scott charging into the area and his low first-time strike settled the issue.
Strikers were well served by Swiss holding midfielder Raphael Stulz whose workrate was immense.
Head coach Craig Lewis was unavailable due to illness so assistant Billy Buchanan
and reserves coach Graham Watson stepped into the breach.
The win was celebrated with gusto and the players dedicated their success to club legend
Clayton Lee whose 70th birthday party was held on Saturday night.

Prepare to be amazed. We hope you can join us for what promises to be a great night on Saturday 26th August! The amazing Bizarre Gazzard takes to the stage

Tickets $40 per person.

Let's make this a fantastic night.

See Bianca Rich, Trevor Johnston or Tom Hawkins for tickets.

Bianca:- 0408384155
Tom:- 0473640646

Come join us for our 2017 Reverse Raffle and Family Fun Day.

Bring the kids there will be plenty to keep them entertained including jumping castle and face painting.

Not to forget its Derby day against our local rivals Seaford where we will hopefully regain the Steve Taylor Shield.

Reserves at 1pm
Seniors at 3pm

The canteen will be open from 12pm.

The Reverse Raffle function will begin at 7.30pm.

$50 entry fee will include beer wine and soft drink as well as basic spirits at $3 between 7.30pm 10.30pm and finger food will be provided.

SENIOR PAID PLAYERS: 2 Tickets must be purchased

RESERVE PLAYERS, WOMEN, CELEBRITIES, METRO 5: Compulsory attendance by player tickets be sold on Thursdays and Saturdays for next 4/5 weeks.

Tickets for the draw will initially be 1-100.

More numbers will be available if the 100 numbers are sold. Which will increase prize money.

$50 per number

PRIZES:

1st number out the draw: $50+
3rd last number out: $250+
2nd last number out: $750+
Last number out: $2000+

Spot prizes at 25th, 50th, 75th 90th tickets out.

Numbers that will be auctioned on the night; 40,60,70,80 & 95.

EVERY PLAYER AT THE CLUB IS EXPECTED TO SELL 1 NUMBER it can be bought by yourself or someone else.

Ticket sales are open now so if you want to buy a ticket contact Tommy Hawkins and he will arrange the tickets and draw numbers.

Contact Tom Hawkins on Facebook or 0473640646 or message the Facebook page.

The History Wall is back
Have a look at our History, check out players who have played for the club, who has scored our goals, which team we have played the most against,
our best result, our championship teams and much more, you might even be able to help fill some gaps.

Karingal United Soccer Club Reunion
Saturday 2nd September
For more information contact
Martin Moore 0447 536 316
or online using the following bank account
NAB 083-29424-286-9542
Put your surname as reference
or buy tickets at the club

Beaumaris v Strikers
Strikers dump Parrella over Werribee move
CRAIG MACKENZIE
May 22, 2017
Leandro Parrella has played his last game for Peninsula Strikers

Leandro Parrella and Peninsula Strikers have parted company over the Italian’s pending move to NPL2 club Werribee City.
Parrella was one of three players Strikers imported for this season through player agency Soccer Smart but his association with the club has ended on a sour note.
“As far as we’re concerned Leandro is trying to engineer a move so he will never play for us again,” said Strikers gaffer Craig Lewis.
It was at training last week that Parrella told Lewis of his intentions and the 30-year-old is expected to sign for the NPL2 outfit this week.
Parrella has an impressive CV having spent 11 years at Vicenza Calcio in Italy’s Serie B.
He started in the club’s academy squad and eventually served a two-year apprenticeship before advancing to the senior squad.
Parrella spent two seasons playing with the under 21s and reserves before joining fourth-tier outfit Mezzocorona and helping it win promotion to Serie C.
He was signed by Sambonifacese in Serie D and helped it win promotion in his first season.
He had two more seasons with Sambonifacese before joining Domegliara in Serie D, his last Italian club prior to his move to Strikers in January.
The other big news from Centenary Park is that the club is negotiating with a player from Panama.
He can play wide left or up front and looms as a readymade replacement for the talented Vladimir Kosovac from Goulburn Valley Suns.
Kosovac joined Strikers in April but suffered a serious hamstring injury at training and is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the season.
Strikers lost 1-0 away to Beaumaris on Saturday with the sides separated by a Grant Davies own goal as he was attempting a clearance in the first half.

Strikers v Old Scotch
By Craig MacKenzie
Peninsula Strikers had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Saturday’s State 2 South-East home game against Old Scotch.
Strikers featured new signing Sam Scott and the former Langy and Clifton Hill midfielder impressed Strikers’ coaching staff.
“Sam’s an exceptional footballer and he brought another dimension to our game,” said Strikers’ head coach Craig Lewis.
The home team suffered an early setback when Old Scotch swung in a free kick from a wide position
and Chris McKenna’s attempt to head clear went in off Piotr Korczyk.
Strikers created enough chances to win comfortably but their dominance of possession couldn’t be translated into goals.
Their sole reply came in the 68th minute when Trevor Johnson was at the back post to head home following a Tom Hawkins’ cross.
A few minutes later Strikers’ fans watched in dismay as the referee produced a straight red for Strikers’ midfielder Danny Brooks.
“That’s the best we’ve played all year. To create that many chances and to look solid defensively were pleasing aspects,” said Lewis.
The Strikers’ boss wouldn’t be drawn into comment on the Brooks send-off but was clearly upset by the decision.

Frankston Pines V Strikers
By Craig MacKenzie

FFV’s war on common sense raged unabated prior to Saturday’s State 2 South-East derby between Frankston Pines and Peninsula Strikers at Monterey Reserve.
As Strikers warmed up the referee told team manager Matt Bennett that his players had to change their socks otherwise he was abandoning the match.
This was in spite of the fact that the opposing sets of tops made it impossible for any confusion to arise in terms of identifying the combatants.
Bennett initially stood his ground pointing out that there was a reserves match underway and the reserves referee didn’t share the senior ref’s sock fixation.
Bennett soon discovered he was facing a level of intransigence that would test the patience of the Dalai Lama
so he departed the referees’ room and shortly after Strikers’ president and first team player Trevor Johnston arrived to take up the cudgels.
Johnston can be a feisty character and he believes in standing his ground but the best he could negotiate was that the 3pm kick-off would be waived for 30 minutes to allow Strikers time to fetch an alternative set of socks.
Enter a beacon of common sense in the form of Pines coach Billy Rae who had a simple solution to the standoff and not long after his intervention Strikers were running onto the pitch for the senior match wearing socks borrowed from their opponent.
Eventually the match got underway and Strikers prevailed 1-0 with the pivotal moment arriving in the 68th minute.
Johnston should have put Strikers ahead a minute earlier but struck the far post and Pines were still trying to get organised at the back when Johnston was again in a scoring situation and he made no mistake this time smashing the ball past Pines keeper Alfonso Cardinale from close range.
Johnston’s elaborate celebration took him towards the stand in the outer where Strikers senior coach Craig Lewis and assistant Billy Buchanan were serving one match touchline bans for being sent off the previous week against Seaford United.
They also were fined $500 each and there’s a chance that Lewis may feature in FFV’s annual report as one of the federation’s major income streams.
But back to the football. Pines had created the best two chances of the first half.
In the 6th minute Strikers keeper Colin McCormack was forced to smother after Jack Wrobel had broke through on the right and in the 20th minute Graham Hill should have at least got his free header on target following a corner to the back post.
The closest Strikers came was from Danny Brooks’ 12th minute free kick that forced Cardinale to dive down low and tip the ball wide of the far post.
Luke Murray’s second caution in the 60th minute ended his involvement in the contest and Hill joined him in injury time with a second yellow card.
Inbetween McCormack was forced to parry a sizzling long-range strike by Ben Millward and Leandro Parrella wasted a fine overlap from substitute Tom Hawkins on the right by blasting his shot over from 10 metres.
There may be news on the transfer front from Centenary Park later this week.

Seaford v Strikers
By Craig MacKenzie

Peninsula Strikers broke through for its first league win of the season on Saturday, a 2-0 derby triumph against Seaford United at North Seaford Reserve.
A superb Chris McKenna ball sent Aziz Bayeh through in the 15th minute but he shot straight at Seaford keeper Harrison Burgess.
Two minutes later a Danny Brooks free kick on the left was headed wide by Trevor Johnston.
In the 21st minute Seaford midfielder Paul McGuire sent Alex Roberts clear on the left and he played the ball across the face of goal but Troy Williams slid down and cleared.
The deadlock was broken in the 24th minute when Seaford failed to deal with Johnston’s long throw and Brooks hammered home the loose ball from close range.
Tom Natoli crossed from the right in the 36th minute and Roberts’ spectacular overhead kick sailed just wide.
A minute later the home team was staring down the barrel when a defensive blunder enabled Bayeh to skip clear on the right and his cutback was met by Alex Hopson who took a touch before striking a low shot that eluded Burgess to make it 2-0.
A weak shot by Mitch Lander in the 41st minute was the first time Seaford was on target but a minute later Lander forced Strikers’ custodian Colin McCormack into a fine low save.
Lander was thwarted by McCormack again in the second half as was Seaford teammate Tom Natoli while Roberts blew a gilt-edged chance by blasting high and wide from close range.
Strikers’ head coach Craig Lewis and assistant Billy Buchanan were sent off in the second half while Seaford remains anchored to the foot of the ladder with just one point.

Stevenson pulls out, Strikers turn to McCall

By Craig MacKenzie

Kirkintilloch Rob Roy defender Sean McCall is on Peninsula Strikers’ radar.

Former Hearts attacking midfielder Ryan Stevenson has changed his mind at the 11th hour and scuppered his planned move to Australia to join Peninsula Strikers.

He was hours away from boarding a flight at Glasgow Airport and Strikers officials had arranged to meet their star import at Melbourne Airport tonight (Monday).

The 32-year-old attacking midfielder or striker has played over 400 games as a professional in Scotland and England and had just arranged his visa and international clearance and the club had registered him as a Striker’s player.

Stevenson is from the former mining village of Drongan in Ayrshire and began his professional career as a youth player with English giant Chelsea.

He returned to Scotland in 2002 and joined St Johnstone before switching to Ayr United, initially on loan before making the move permanent in 2007.

In 2010 Stevenson started the first of two spells at Hearts, joined English outfit Ipswich Town in 2012 then transferred back to Hearts that same year.

Since then he has had stints with Partick Thistle, Ayr United, Dumbarton and Raith Rovers and ended his professional career last month when he signed for Troon in the West of Scotland Super League Premier Division.

Stevenson’s professional career highlights include scoring both goals in Hearts’ 3-2 loss to St Mirren in the 2013 Scottish League Cup Final, scoring for Hearts in wins over Glasgow giants Rangers and Celtic and Edinburgh rival Hibs and being called up to the Scotland squad in 2011 for a friendly against Cyprus.

State 1 North-West outfit Preston Lions last week made a cheeky bid to prise Stevenson from Strikers’ clutches.

It is believed that Preston offered Stevenson $700 a game but the Scot rejected their overtures and phoned Strikers’ coach Craig Lewis to tell him what had happened.

“Ryan rang me as soon as Preston tried to sign him and said that he told them he had agreed with Strikers and that he would honour his word,” said Lewis.

The latest twist to the Stevenson story took Strikers completely by surprise and the club was still coming to terms with his change of heart as this story went online.

“I received a text from Ryan just hours before he was due to board a flight to Australia saying that he wouldn’t be coming here as it was too big a move away from his two young sons,” said Lewis.

“He has pulled out of the move. It’s completely off and to say I am devastated is an understatement.”

Strikers last week ended negotiations with another Scottish midfielder, Cowdenbeath’s Brian Ross, and have now turned their attention to 22-year-old defender Sean McCall who joined Kirkintilloch Roy Roy last August from Tower Hearts.

It is unclear whether or not the club will reopen negotiations with Ross now that the Stevenson deal has fallen through but Lewis will hold a Skype session with McCall this week and hopes to entice the Scot to Centenary Park.

Lewis has also been active on the local market with the capture of 18-year-old former Bentleigh Greens midfielder Emmanual Brima and late last week completed the signing of left winger Vladimir Kosovac from Goulburn Valley Suns.

Kosovac, 22, was with Serbian club OFK Beograd in 2016.

English central defender Michael Nugent is training with Strikers and is expected to sign. Nugent was a teammate of Mornington star Ryan Paczkowski at Harworth Colliery in the Central Midlands League North.

Don’t be surprised if Strikers make a bid to sign big English striker Gino Defeo who severed ties with Mornington last weekend.

Defeo and Aziz Bayeh would make a formidable attacking option.

The need to strengthen Strikers’ squad was emphasised on Saturday as the club lost its fourth straight league game going down to a 22nd minute Gethin Jones goal at home to State 2 South-East rival Doveton.

Danijel Buhic of Doveton was sent off in the 50th minute.

Ryan Stevenson to join Peninsula Strikers
By Craig MacKenzie

Peninsula Strikers have pulled off the transfer coup of the season by clinching the signature of Scottish star Ryan Stevenson.

The 32-year-old attacking midfielder or striker has played over 400 games as a professional in Scotland and England and will fly to Melbourne as soon as his visa and international clearance are arranged.

The Centenary Park outfit is hopeful that Stevenson will arrive this week and be the first of a number of clutch signings it hopes to make in the next fortnight.

Among them is former Bentleigh Greens midfielder Emmanuel Brima, 18, who has been training with Strikers after recently returning from a 12-month involvement with AC Milan’s youth system.

English central defender or right back Michael Nugent is expected to train with Strikers this week and former Langwarrin midfielder and current Cilfton Hill player Sam Scott is firmly on Strikers’ radar.

The club is in talks with two other local players but it may take another couple of weeks before they reach a decision.

The local game has rarely seen such an influx of visa players and Strikers have outdone every other club in the area with the capture of Stevenson.

The stunning signing may not have come about had Strikers’ head coach and former Glasgow Rangers striker Craig Lewis not been such an avid reader of the online version of Scotland’s national daily tabloid the Daily Record.

“I came across Ryan’s story last month when he retired from professional football and a couple of weeks later I was talking to an ex-teammate, Rab MacKenzie, who was over on work,” said Lewis.

“I asked Rab if he knew of any junior league players back home who might be interested in coming over and he mentioned Ryan.

“He said he didn’t know Ryan that well but if we could get someone like that it would completely blow everyone away.

“I searched out Ryan on Facebook and sent him a message asking if he’d be interested in coming to Australia for the rest of the season for a change of environment away from the hounding of the press and he got straight back and said he’d be over on the first available plane!

“It’s evolved extremely quickly and we’ve spoken to him every day since.

“To be honest I was chancing my arm but the response Ryan gave us meant we had to act quickly and get this done.

“It will change the face of the game on the peninsula that’s for sure especially if we can start attracting players of his calibre.

“He was really keen from the outset and told me that he’s got a mate who came over a couple of years back and told him that it was the best move he’d ever made and that he should get over here the first chance he got.”

Stevenson is from the former mining village of Drongan in Ayrshire and began his professional career as a youth player with English giant Chelsea.

He returned to Scotland in 2002 and joined St Johnstone before switching to Ayr United, initially on loan before making the move permanent in 2007.

In 2010 Stevenson started the first of two spells at Hearts, joined English outfit Ipswich Town in 2012 then transferred back to Hearts that same year.

The thought of Stevenson linking with ace striker Aziz Bayeh is a mouth-watering prospect for Strikers’ fans and if the club is successful with its other targets it will have a formidable line-up.

“We know what we want to achieve this season and we’ve got off to a terrible start and need to strengthen,” said Lewis.

“We want to turn our season around and I’m confident that we can.”

Strikers lost their third straight game of the State 2 South-East season when they went down 6-3 away to Doncaster Rovers last Friday night with four individual errors leading to Rovers’ goals and emphasising the need to add to the squad.

Stevenson will be the club’s fourth import for 2017 following in the footsteps of English midfielder Danny Brooks, Italian midfielder Leandro Parrella and Swiss central defender Raphael Stulz.

(Photo from Wikipedia commons)

Peninsula Strikers head coach Craig Lewis is considering whether or not to walk away from the game after Saturday’s controversial FFA Cup loss to South Springvale.
The decorated former player is so frustrated with officialdom that he could quit the sport that has played an integral role in his life since childhood.
Strikers lost 4-2 to South Springvale at Centenary Park after extra time.
The home side put on an impressive performance against their more fancied State 1 opponent only to come undone in the final minutes of normal time after ending up on the wrong end of a decision that turned the contest.
Strikers had gone into this clash without suspended duo Raphael Stultz and Aziz Bayeh and injured right back Scott Buchanan but two goals in the opening half-hour from Langwarrin recruit Michael Turner had the home team in control.
Turner’s second goal in the 26th minute was a gem, a stunning first time volley into the top corner from just inside the area.
Clearly Turner enjoyed the moment for the next day at Lawton Park the wee man gave a vivid account of the biomechanics of his wonder strike even providing a demonstration.
It took South Springvale until the 85th minute to hit back with a goal from Sajad Mohammadi but substitute Nathan Fenech’s 89th minute equaliser was met with disbelief from Strikers’ fans.
“Danny Brooks was felled inside our area and everyone stopped waiting for the free kick but one of their guys just kicked the ball across goal in frustration and another one of their players put it in and the referee awarded a goal,” said Lewis.
“Players from their dugout ran onto the pitch when they scored and none of them were booked but when I asked the referee to explain why he didn’t give us the blatant free kick he sent me off the bench.
“I never swore at the referee. All I did was ask for an explanation of why he didn’t see the free kick. I’m allowed to do that as the senior coach and so is my captain.
“Even South Springvale’s coaching staff and some of their committee came up to me after the game and told me we were robbed.
“I’ve never seen anything like that before. His decision was absolutely baffling but it’s got to the point that we don’t have a voice in the game anymore because you can’t speak to referees nowadays.
“I feel like I have been put in the dock because of his poor decision.
“Our players were outstanding and they didn’t deserve what they got.”
Substitute Marcelo Arapis scored four minutes into extra time and a second controversial goal by Fenech in the 119th minute rounded off the 4-2 scoreline.

Peninsula Strikers are looking to fill the all important position and roll of Club Treasurer.
You would be working with a new and vibrant committee as well being part of our
new look club and its renovations.
If you think you have the skills and want to be part of an exciting time at our club,
please don't hesitate to contact me for further details

Trev
0412 760 038

Just to let everyone know, we have 3 new players coming from overseas to join our club in the coming
month for season 2017 and we are looking for assistance with some short term housing. If anyone knows
anybody looking for a housemate or has room to accommodate a player for the first month of his stay
here. Please get in touch with me as we'd love to hear from you. The 3 boys, 1 English, 1 American and 1
Italian are all quality lads and are going to be a great asset to the club.
Spread the word and see if u can help us out for a month

Dear all,

2017 Pre season begins at Peninsula Strikers this Sunday the 8th January. Start time 11am. All current and
new players welcome to attend. Please bring Boots AND Runners to ALL pre season sessions.
Games scheduled during pre season is as follows:
Intra Club Game - Home 15th January 11 am
Intra Club Game - Home 19th January 7pm
Knox City 21st January - Home 4pm & 6pm
Intra Club Game - Home 26th January
Mornington Peninsula Cup 28th January at Mornington - All Day
Morwell Pegasus - 4th & 5th February - Away (pre season Camp) KOTBD
St.Kilda Celtic - 11th February - Home 3pm & 5pm
Beaumaris 18th February - Home 4pm & 6pm
Mornington 23rd February - Home KOTBD
Intra Club Game 25th February - Home 2pm & 4pm

Cheers,

The coachng staff Peninsula Strikers.

Guys the pre season is fast approaching and it's now time to start thinking about pre season preparation.
Getting yourself into the best shape ready to tackle a busy schedule ahead.
This is the year of the Strikers, so get onboard what will be a massive year for us.
Senior pre season matches penciled
21st Jan - vs Knox
28th Jan - Peninsula Cup @ Mornington
4th Feb - pre season camp/trip plus game against Morwell at Morwell
11th Feb - vs StKilda @ home
18th Feb - vs Beaumaris @ home
23rd Feb - vs Mornington @ home
FFA Cup Rd 2. 4/5 March
FFA Cup Rd 3. 11/12 March
FFA Cup Rd 4. 18/19 March
2017 Season commences 25 March.
Preparation starts now.
Can't wait

Pre-season will commence on Sunday January 8th. This seasons pre-season training will be shorter and sharper than last season so we can peak at the business end of the year. We felt that we faded towards the latter part of the season, hence the later start. We have a series of games scheduled for Mid/late January so the games will be on us pretty quickly. The start time for the first session will be 11am. On this day we shall have a 2 hour session followed by a briefing of the pre-season program and a bbq. Look forward to seeing everyone there for what is shaping up to be a huge year with the launching/opening of the new club. Cheers. Trevor Johnston (President)

Women's Pre-Season will commence on Thursday January 17th
Any quieries contact Martin Moore on 0447 536 316