2012 Preseason Tournaments

2011 Match Reports

• Moreland City News - Round 1 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 2 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 3 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 4 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 5 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 6 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 8 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 9 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 10 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 11 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 12 (pdf)
• Moreland City News - Round 13 (pdf)

2010 Match Reports

Match Report – Round 22

Moreland City Seniors 0 - 1 Port Melbourne
Moreland City Reserves 0 - 2 Port Melbourne Reserves

Moreland City's nine-game unbeaten streak came to a disappointing end on Saturday when they lost 1-0 to Port Melbourne.

The newly crowned NW State League Div 2 Champions went ahead in the first half through Timothy Paton as Moreland failed to make the most of  their chances.

It was an improved performance in the second half from City and their hard work was rewarded when Paul Dickie was fouled in the box to give Kam Simsek the chance to equalize from the penalty spot. Unfortunately the joint-div 2 golden boot winner failed to find the back of the net as Port held on for the narrowest of victories.

Match Report – Round 21

Moreland City Seniors 6 - 3 Sydenham Park

Moreland's rescheduled match against Sydenham Park at Paisley Park on Tuesday night resulted in a fantastic 6-3 win with Kam Simsek scoring the first hat-trick (with four goals) since Ryan Dinse's four goals last year versus Cairnlea. 

There was a large crowd present with Sydenham fighting to avoid relegation (having recently signed a number of new players) and a number of neutral supporters hoping for a Moreland win.

It was a close match for most of the 90 minutes but Moreland never actually went behind. Simsek opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a great run and shot that curled into the top corner before Sydenham hit back through a penalty.

Stuart Hoskins then headed home his first Moreland goal (or so he thought) but apparently it brushed Simsek on the way through (who duly claimed it) to keep Hoskins on his duck.

Alejandro Arregin was the next to get on the scoresheet following up a rebound from a Dinse shot but Sydenham continued to press and made it 3-2 going into the half time break.

Dinse setup Kam for his third shortly after the restart when he foxed his way down the left-hand flank to put a pin-point cross right on Simsek's head to make it 4-2 but Sydenham once again kept the game close when they responded to make it 4-3.

Indeed, they should have drawn equal moments later when they were awarded another penalty but Dan Kelton produced the save of the year when he outfoxed the Sydenham striker with the taunt 'put it to my good side, put it to my good side' ... before diving to his good side and saving it.

It was all Moreland after that with Paul Dickie scoring his first off a missed Simsek penalty. However, Simsek made up for that miss with Moreland's sixth goal of the match, following up on his misjudged chip to rebound the ball in as the Sydenham defender attempted to clear.

James Johnston also made his Senior debut to cap off a fantastic and memorable night for the club.   

Match Report – Round 20

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 0 Altona East Phoenix
Moreland City Reserves 3 - 0 Altona East Phoenix Reserves

Match Report – Round 18/19

Moreland City Seniors 4 - 0 Geelong Rangers
Moreland City Reserves P - P Geelong Rangers Reserves

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 0 Banyule City
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 0 Banyule City Reserves

Match Report – Round 17

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 1 Altona City
Moreland City Reserves 0 - 1 Altona City Reserves

Match Report – Round 16

Moreland City Seniors 5 - 1 Werribee City
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 1 Werribee City Reserves

Match Report – Round 15

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 2 Williamstown
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 2 Williamstown Reserves

Moreland Seniors produced a fantastic second half to secure all three points versus Williamstown at JT Gray Reserve on Saturday. 

The game was evenly poised as both teams went into the main break tied at 0-0 but Paul Dickie broke the deadlock with a great volley from outside the 18-yard box following a great flick-on header from Ryan Dinse.

Match Report – Round 14

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 1 Whittlesea Ranges
Moreland City Reserves 3 - 2 Whittlesea Ranges Reserves

Moreland Seniors had to settle for a point versus Whittlesea Ranges - despite dominating the match for large periods of time at Campbell Reserve. 

Ranges took the lead early in the match through a well taken strike from Daniel Pistininzi but it was all City after that as they gradually worked their way into the match. They finally drew level when Cam Simsek was awarded a penalty for being held in the box. Despite a lengthy injury delay, Ernie Simsek stepped up to smash home the penalty and send the sides into the main break at 1-1.

Match Report – Round 11 / 12 /13

Moreland City Seniors 0 - 5 Port Melbourne
Moreland City Reserves 0 - 0 Port Melbourne Reserves

Moreland City Seniors 0 - 4 Ballarat Red Devils
Moreland City Reserves P - P Ballarat Red Devils Reserves (match to be replayed on the 2nd Sept)

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 1 Brunswick
Moreland City Reserves P - P Brunswick Reserves (match postponed. Details TBC)

Moreland Seniors endured a difficult couple of weeks versus Port Melbourne and Ballarat, coping nine goals and scoring none, before bouncing back with a gritty display to beat Brunswick 3-1. 

Port Melbourne showed why they are the league leaders with five well taken goals. Moreland were competitive for large chunks of the match but poor finishing and poor possession play ultimately proved their undoing.

The Ballarat match was played at Darrabin on a Tuesday night due to Campbell Reserve being unplayable, but the football remained the same with Moreland unable to make the most of some dangerous attacking moves, while the Red Devils made the most of their counter-attacking opportunities. 

City saved their best football for Brunswick with Kam Simsek, Alejandro Arregin and Paul Dickie doing the damage. It was a great display from Moreland who played possibly their best football of the year and make up for their 3-2 loss to Brunswick earlier in the year.

The Reserves maintained their eight-game unbeaten streak with a hard fought 0-0 draw against Port Melbourne but endured a frustrating couple of weeks following that with the Ballarat and Brunswick matches being called off due to the poor state of Campbell Reserve.

The Brunswick match in particular was hard to swallow with the referee calling the match off at 12.50 p.m. after being influenced by the opposition coach and giving the go-ahead on two occasions before that.

Match Report – Round 10

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 0 Sydenham Park
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 1 Sydenham Park Reserves

Moreland City recorded their fourth win of the season with a gritty one-nil win over bottom-placed Sydenham Park.

Playing on the worst pitch in the league so far, Ryan Dinse scored the all-important goal, tapping in a Paul Dickie scuffed shot after the Welshman was unable to make full contact with an Ernie Simsek right-hand cross.  Simsek picked up the ball just inside the attacking half before changing pace and dribbling past 3 defenders only to cut the ball across the six yard line to Dickie.

With a solid back four and a tough takling Stuart Hoskins in front of them, it was never going to be an easy match for the home team.  Moreland had plenty of chances to sure up the result but a string of good Sydenham saves and missed opportunities ensured the match went down to the wire for the full 90 minutes.

In the earlier match, a 10-man Moreland Reserves side made it seven wins in a row with a tough 2-1 victory.

Sydenham scored the opening goal of the with well taken counter-attack goal but Nathan Chapman responded for Moreland with a powerful header (team mates reported they thought a flying rabbit had scored the goal as all they could see was hair ...) following some good work from Engin Tokoglu on the right.

Graham Curtin then put Moreland ahead in the 55th minute with a left-foot screamer that found the top corner of the goal from 25 yards out before Tokoglu was sent off in the 60th minute forcing Moreland to play out the remainder of the match with ten men.

It was a great team effort by all the players with the bench players making a valuable contribution when called upon.

Match Report – Round 9

Moreland City Seniors 0 - 2 Altona East Phoenix
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 1 Altona East Phoenix

Match Report – Round 8

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 1 Banyule City
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 1 Banyule City Reserves

Match Report – Round 7

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 0 Geelong Rangers
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 0 Geelong Rangers Reserves

Match Report – Round 6

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 4 Altona City
Moreland City Reserves 3 - 2 Altona City Reserves

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 2 Werribee
Moreland City Reserves 4 - 1 Werribee Reserves

Match Report – Round 4

Moreland City Seniors 0 - 3 Williamstown
Moreland City Reserves 3 - 1 Williamstown Reserves

It was a disappointing 3-0 loss for the Seniors who were unable to capatalize on their hard-fought 3-1 win the previous week.

It was better news for the Reserves team who wanted to send off their departing coach (Rob Martello) in the right fashion as they started the match with great intensity which had not been seen in the previous two losses.

All three goals were scored in the first half and were of real quality - Tiger whipped a ball into the box for Chapman to volley home, Andrew showing great composure to slot home the ball after a goal mouth scramble and Jack striking home a cracking drive from 25 yards out.

The result leaves the Reserves sitting mid-table in a very competitive league.

Match Report – Round 3

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 1 Whittlesea Rangers
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 4 Whittlesea Rangers Reserves

In a match that will forever go down as one of the club's most famous victories, Moreland held on to an astonishing 3-1 victory over Whittlesea at Epping Stadium on Friday night after playing out the final 15 minutes with eight men and a coach banished to the stands.

The night of high drama started with Ernie Simsek picking up two yellow cards (one for dissent, one for time wasting) while Alex Arregin was the second to go after also picking up two yellow cards only minutes later (one for incorrect bike shorts, one for a late tackle).

Coach Maurice Bisetto was the next to go as he voiced his displeasure at the referee for the two sending’s off. Asked to go back in his technical area, Bisetto made an exaggerated jump back into the dug out which sealed his departure.

And the last man to take an early shower was debutant Stuart Hoskins who was shown a straight red card for an (alleged) two-footed tackle.

In between all this was some world-class saves from Dan Kelton, two goals from Ryan Dinse and a Whittlesea own goal which Paul Dickie tried to claim as his own.

Both teams played out a 0-0 draw heading into the main break but it could've been a different story if Kelton hadn't of stopped a fierce drive heading towards Moreland's bottom right hand corner. The ball appeared like a rocket emerging from a solar eclipse (Lucca Lucchesi's arse) but the keeper reacted perfectly to save the goal-bound shot with his legs

"It wasn't the greatest save I've ever made but the fact that I had luca's Arse to contend with, as well as the shot, moves it up in my estimations," Kelton said when asked about the save.

Dinse first goal came early in the second half while Moreland still had 11 men on the field. Lucchesi broke down the right wing before spotting a forward run from Dinse and slipping it beautifully into his path. Dinse did the rest, brushing off his marker to work it onto his left and calmly slotting it past the oncoming keeper.

Or as Eclipse recalls it ... 'I strode (with urgency) down the wing like a gazelle on heat. Our giant centre forward approached me demanding the ball but I had other plans. In the far distance I saw a miniscule figure carving out a run and with a sharp stab of my right boot, managed to dissect the Whittlesea defense. As Dinse's miss-hit trickled into the back of the net, I knew we were destined for glory.'

Whittlesea's OG came next after Simsek's sending off, with Dickie turning nicely at the edge of the 18-yard box to create room for himself, but his shot cannoned off the keeper's legs into the defender and back into the empty goal. Dickie is yet to open his goal scoring account at Moreland ... (just jokes Dickie - you're looking sharp - Ed.)

Moreland's third goal came against the run of play with the team reduced to nine men by this stage. It started with Kamer Simsek who carried the ball from his own half before playing Dinse in, who broke the Rangers' off-side trap with a clever run. Whittlesea momentarily appealed for offside before trying to track the Scotsman who by this stage was one step ahead of them. As the backline tracked past the Moreland striker, Dinse stopped the ball with his right foot and swiveled around onto his left to strike the ball into the far-hand corner.

It was a fantastic match which the Moreland faithful fully appreciated, cheering on the team and giving the referee heaps to re-create a 'San Siro' like atmosphere in the stands.

It was another disappointing night for the Reserves who lost their second match on the trot. Moreland found themselves down two goals in the first 10 minutes of the match as they came up against a well disciplined Whittlesea side that seemed to want it more.

Going into the second half 3-0 down, Moreland bounced back to make a game of it but eventually lost 4-2. However there were some encouraging signs in the Reserves with a few players starting to find some form and confidence.

Match Report – Round 2

Moreland City Seniors 2 - 3 Brunswick City
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 5 Brunswick City Reserves

It was a disappointing weekend for all concerned as both teams went down to local rivals Brunswick City.

The 5-2 Reserves result was a lot closer than the scoreboard indicates but the Brunswick keeper had a day to remember, making a number of good saves (and even scoring a penalty himself) to always maintain Brunswick's goal advantage.

Christian Bellemo scored on his return to Moreland with a well taken free kick while Lewis opened his campaign for the year with a strikers-instinct follow up goal.

It was a tight affair in the Seniors match with both teams coming off a win the previous week. Kamer Simsek scored two goals in the first half to keep Moreland in the game, as both teams went into the main break at 2-2.

Brunswick managed to get the all-important winner with 10 minutes left and slowed the game down to a stop-start affair which effected Moreland's momentum.

Match Report – Round 1

Moreland City Seniors 2 - 0 Ballarat Red Devils
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 1 Ballarat Red Devils Reserves

Moreland City has started the 2010 Season in sensational fashion with a memorable Party Bus adventure and two great football results away at Ballarat.

The Reserves started the day with a great result - although they had to work hard for it - coming back from a goal down to score a dramatic 2-1 victory.

It was a less-than-ideal start to the match with players being forced to change on the bus and only given a three minute warm up after a longer than expected journey from Melbourne, and as expected a well-organised Ballarat Reserve team controlled the early parts of the match to go into the break one goal up.

However Moreland gradually worked their way back into the match and it was new player Ben ? (last name unknown - that's how new he is!) who opened the scoring in the second half with a sensational Zidane-like turn and shot, following on from a quick Moreland counter attack.

And Moreland thought they had taken the lead when Engin Tokoglu turned in a low shot from Nathan Chapman - only to be ruled harshly off side - but there was a certain sense of justice served only minutes later when Tokoglu scored the legitimate winner. However the strikers celebrations went slightly overboard in the referee's eyes as the big man was given a second yellow card, forcing Moreland to play out the last five minutes with only 10 men.

All eyes than turned to the Senior side as a healthy crowd started to build up. Janusz Podgorski scored his first goal in seven years, floating a free kick from the halfway line into the top corner. 'Did he mean to do that' came the call from the sidelines but Podgorski later confirmed he had told fellow defender Paul Donnelly that the keeper was 'always off his line' when the free kicks were about to be taken. Donnelly confirmed this ...

Debutant Alex Arregin scored the second goal after the main break with a well taken left-foot shot that bounced just in front of the Ballarat keeper. It was just reward for Arregin who worked hard all day. He's combination work with Paul Dickie and Ryan Dinse in the forward line caused Ballarat problems all day and made for some very entertaining football.

With six points in the bag, all the players and fans were in good voice for the two hour journey home. A quick stop via Dan Murphy's only enhanced the atmosphere on the Party Bus with Stan Lee leading renditions of 'Walk On' and 'Ring of Fire' that echoed across Ballarat. Next stop - Brunswick City. Let's hope the result and mood are just as jubilant.

Click on the below images to see more photos from the day

2009 Match Reports

Match Report – Round 22

Moreland City Seniors 2 - 1 North Sunshine Eagles
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 3 North Sunshine Eagles Reserves

Moreland City has capped off an impressive season with a 2-1 victory over North Sunshine to secure promotion into the NW Second Division for 2010.

It was a tight contest with North Sunshine's desperation clearly evident as they needed a win to avoid relegation, but the best chances of the first half fell to Moreland's Steven Sacco who went close to scoring on three different occassions.

The breakthrough came early in the second half when Paul Bossio brought the ball down in the penalty box, before finding a way through the defense to slot home Moreland's first goal.

However the lead was short lived as the Eagles hit back five minutes later with a volley through a crowded penalty area from Durim Ajro.

The scene was set for a tense finish as both sets of supporters found their voice but Ernie Simsek's run from the halfway line, where he beat three defenders, and cutback to goal scorer Gabriel Sarpa Perez silenced the home crowd.

The final siren sent the Moreland faithful into raptures (and Div 2) and a rendition of 'Shake it up Baby' that could be heard all across North Sunshine.

It was a disappointing end to the season for the Reserves going down 3-2 to North Sunshine but they still sung the song to comemorate their Championship-winning season which was wrapped up over four weeks ago.

Marty Mclure scored his first goal of the season with a fine display of finishing (read one of the weirdest finishers ever: through on goal, stop, let defender get back in front of goal, beat him again and roll ball past keeper without actually hitting back of the net). Quality goal and a quality celebration as Mclure ran to the sideline to share the goal with all his fans.

Milli scored the second for Moreland as predictions of 6-0 gathered momentum from the sidelines, but North Sunshine came back with some gritty football to steal the three points.

2009 Seniors Team

2009 Reserves Team

Match Report – Round 21

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 0 Melbourne University Rangers
Moreland City Reserves 4 - 2 Melbourne University Ranger Reserves

The script could not have gone more according to plan for Moreland on Saturday as both teams enjoyed favourable results infront of a passionate crowd made up of past players and supporters.

Moreland Seniors turned in a comprehensive display of football to out play Melbourne University and gain three more valuable points towards 2nd Division promotion.

Moreland's two first-half goals were absolute crackers with Lucca Lucchesi and Ernie Simsek both scoring with super volleys. Lucchesi's goal was the result of a Ernie Simsek throw and Steve Sacoo flick-on which found the unmarked midfielder in the box.

"I pondered my next move - Would I strike it first time, or would I bring it down and torment the opposition in their own box. I opted for the former and thundered in a superbly timed volley. It was reminiscent of Matthew Le Tessier during his glory years at Southampton," Lucchesi said.

Simsek's goal was just as spectacular. Falling to the midfielder 35-yards out, he hit the ball sweetly with his left foot to send his shot dipping over the Melbourne Uni keeper's head into the top-right corner, although Simsek was quick to downplay his long-range effort.  

"Nah, no hero comments here mate - just another week in midfield. I'll leave the hero stuff up to Lucca," Simsek said.

Fighting to avoid relegation, Melbourne Uni came out fighting in the second half and were causing Moreland some concerns, but a Ryan Dinse reflex header from a Paul Bossio shot which crashed off the post killed off the contest.

With one game remaining, Moreland can secure promotion with a win at North Sunshine Eagles next Saturday.

In the earlier game, Moreland Reserves displayed all their Championship qualities to come from behind on two seperate occasions, before running out 4-2 victors. Nathan Chapman scored a lazy four goals for Moreland.

Match Report – Round 20

Moreland City Seniors 2 - 1 Yarraville Glory
Moreland City Reserves 3 - 3 Yarraville Glory Reserves

In an action-packed afternoon at McIvor Reserve, Moreland City took a huge step towards promotion thanks to some favourable results around the league and a dramatic 2-1 victory over Yarraville Glory.

Moreland played some positive football in the first half and got their just reward when Ryan Dinse made a Solskjear-esque run to the back post to finish with the poise and precision of a Cahill and Gerard mutant merseyside love child,  following some good lead up work from Paul Bossio.

That was the way the scoreline stayed as Moreland went into the main break 1-0 up, but Yarraville came out with renewed vigour in the second half and pushed hard for the equalizer. They finally got their break through midway through the second half when a looping cross caused confusion amongst the Moreland defense and was converted by Simon Kalow to setup a tense final ten minutes for both teams.

Moreland heads dropped as the negative language displayed by the onfield moreland players suggested that the possibility of promotion was merely a pipe dream.

ONE MAN - HOWEVER - HAD OTHER IDEAS ...

Wearing the number 11 shirt, Lucca Lucchesi waited patiently at the far post.

Lucchesi himself described the goal as: "another poor corner by Simsek was luckily flicked on to myself as I controlled the ball with consummate ease and punctured the net with a half volleyed humdinger. It was reminiscent of Marco van basten in his prime at AC Milan."

In a surprising result, Maribyrnong Greens lost 2-0 to Melbourne University Rangers which leaves Moreland one point clear in second place with destiny in Moreland's own hands. They will secure promotion if they can beat Melbourne University and North Sunshine Eagles in the remaining two games of the year.

It was also an entertaining game in the Reserves. Already crowned Champions the previous week, Moreland lacked their usual intensity and went behind to three first-half Yarraville goals. But with the wind behind them, Moreland came out with more energy in the second half and gradually worked their way back into the game.

Nathan Chapman scored the first goal in the 70th minute before Mick Cronin added the second minutes later. It was all Moreland from that point on as the Champions started to play some nice football and launched wave after wave of attack at the Yarraville defense. Cronin bagged his second to tie the score at 3-3 but it was virtually the last kick of the game as the home side managed to hold on to share the points.

Match Report – Round 19

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 2 Maribyrnong Greens
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 0 Maribyrnong Greens Reserves

Moreland Seniors suffered a disappointing 2-1 loss in atrocious conditions at Skinner Reserve on Saturday but still remain in the hunt for a promotion spot thanks to some favourable results from other matches around the league, while Moreland Reserves secured the North-West Reserves State League Championship with their respective 2-0 win.

Played in 60 kmh winds on a pitch which had a mixture of sand, tuft grass and a cricket pitch, Moreland went ahead just on the stroke of half time when Ryan Dinse scrambled home a ball past a diving Maribyrnong keeper.

Moreland had further chances to go ahead in the second half but it was the greens who made the most of their chances as Arin Mesinovic looped a header over Ante Raspudic’s head (GK) with Moreland failing to clear their defensive lines and it was the Greens again who made the most of their chances as Husmir Ikanovic caught Moreland on the counter attack to strike home the winner take away the all-important three points.

Once again the ground did the Moreland Reserves no favours as they struggled to find any fluidity in their football, but managed to beat a dogged Maribyrnong outfit thanks to goals from Nathan Chapman and Danny Ward. Franco Saladino was undoubtedly the Man of the Match as he seemed to be the only player on the pitch who was able to read the difficult conditions with consumate ease.

With only three games remaining, Moreland sit 10 points clear at the top of the ladder (+ an additional 3 points for the 4-0 win over North Sunshine Eagles which has yet to be added) to hold an unassailable lead in the North-West Reserves State League Championship. A great effort by the boys as the strong Reserves tradition continues with Moreland having now won the past three of four Reserves Championships.

Match Report – Round 18

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 1 Westvale
Moreland City Reserves 9 - 0 Westvale Reserves

Moreland was unable to celebrate Bobby Murdoch’s 70th birthday with a win on Saturday but battled valiantly to fight back from a one goal deficit to share the points with Westvale.

Westvale went ahead in the 70th minute when a hopeful through-ball unexpectedly bounced over Ante Raspudic’s head (GK) as he came rushing out of goal to clear the danger, but Moreland hit back in the 80th minute when Steven Sacco flicked on a near-post ball to Lucca Lucchesi who dived in at the back post to header home the equalizer.

Moreland Reserves continued their impressive season with a resounding 9-0 win. Moreland dominated from the start with Westvale only able to field eight men. Three more player arrived throughout the match to complete Westvale’s side but all the damage had been done with Moreland leading 6-0 at halftime.

Nathan Chapman (4) and Aaron Ward (3) were the main scoring contributors with singles to Mick Cronin and Graham rounding out the goal fest.

Match Reports - Rounds 14 / 15 / 16 / 17

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 1 Lalor
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 0 Lalor Reserves

Played in 120kmh winds, Ryan Dinse opened the scoring to put Moreland 1-0 up before Lalor hit back to make it 1-1 at halftime. Moreland defended well in the 2nd half against the wind and could have pinched the 3 points with virtually the last kick of the game but Dinse put his shot over the bar from 6 yards out.

The Reserves continued their impressive season with a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Danny Ward and OG.

Moreland City Seniors 7 - 1 Cairnlea
Moreland City Reserves 0 - 2 Cairnlea Reserves

Without doubt Moreland's best performance of the year. Ryan Dinse scored a hat-trick (to wipe his bar slate clean - Jimmy!) with singles to Ernie Simsek & Engin Tokoglu as well as debutants Mick Cronin and Simon 'Tiger' Jokic.

In a surprise result, Moreland Reserves lost only their second game of the year to a determined Cairnlea side. It was not Moreland's day with keeper Dan Kelton sent off in the second half for unsportsman like conduct.

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 0 Geelong
Moreland City Reserves 0 - 0 Geelong Reserves

In yet another blustery day at Campbell Reserve, Moreland put in a solid performance to take out the three premiership points. There could've been a lot more goals but the surface on Campbell Reserve didn't do Moreland any favours.

It was a similar story in the reserves match with a lot of opportunities created but none taken. Danny Ward had a great game and was creating all sorts of havoc up front before being substituted in the second half.

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 1 Hume United
Moreland City Reserves 5 - 2 Hume United Reserves

Moreland made it three wins on the trot with a commanding 3-1 performance. Hume Utd took the lead through a penalty kick before Gabriel Sarpa Perez equalized minutes later. Moreland went ahead 2-1 thanks to an Ernie Simsek penalty and they wrapped up the match late in the second half when Engin Tokoglu flicked on a header to the backpost.

The Reserves put in an outstanding performance to return to the winner's circle. Playing with only 11 fit men for the entire match, Moreland shared the ball around well to create a number of chances. Ollie (2), Danny Ward, Aaron Ward and a cracker from Steve Sacco were the goal scorers who finished off the teams' good work.

Match Report(s) - Round 12 & 13 - 27 June/04 July

Moreland City Seniors 0 - 0 Banyule City
Moreland City Reserves 3 - 0 Banyule City Reserves

Moreland City Seniors 3 - 4 La Trobe University
Moreland City Reserves 4 - 1 La Trobe University Reserves

After battling their way through a hard-fought 0-0 draw for a well earned point against league leaders Banyule City the previous week, Moreland City were unable to build on their performance and suffered a heart breaking 4-3 loss to La Trobe University.

Played on the best pitch of the season at La Trobe playing fields, Moreland were unable to get any fluidity into their game and found themselves 1-0 down at the main break.

La Trobe built on their solid first-half display to add two more goals (one from some dubious hand-ball control in the box) to go three nil up.

To Moreland's credit, they kept on battling with substitute Engin Tokoglu grabbing one back in the 80th minute.

It was Tokoglu again a couple of minutes later, running onto a through ball from Adam Deguara and calmly slotting it past the oncoming La Trobe keeper, and it was all square soon after with Lucca Lucchesi heading home the equalizer at the back-post after a great ball from super-sub Tokoglu.

However it was not to be as La Trobe grabbed the three points on the counter-attack as Moreland pushed hard for the killer goal, breaking Moreland hearts and leaving their promotion-chasing season hanging by a thread.

It was better news for the Moreland Reserves as they quickly put both of the only teams within title-striking distance to the sword, comfortably seeing off challenges from Banyule and La Trobe with easy 3-0 and 4-1 wins.

Trevor Carson (2), Aaron Ward (3), Mick Cronin and Sebastian were the goal scorers over the two legs.

The Reserves now sit five points clear at the top of the ladder.

Match Report(s) - Round 10 & 11 - 13/20 June

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 0 Melbourne University Rangers
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 1 Melbourne University Rangers Reserves 

Moreland City Seniors 2 - 1 North Sunshine Eagles
Moreland City Reserves 4 - 0 North Sunshine Eagles Reserves (Match abandon in 55th minute due to insufficient North Sunshine player numbers)

Moreland City have thrown themselves back into the title race with some hard fought back-to-back victories over Melbourne University and North Sunshine.

Moreland's 1-0 win over Melbourne University on June 13 stopped the rot after three successive losses, although it was far from convincing. Boss man scored the all-important winner in the 20th minute with a tap-in from a near-post flick on.

Boss man was on the score sheet again versus North Sunshine, heading home a Ernie Simsek corner to give Moreland a 1-0 lead at half time. Luca Lucchesi doubled the lead in the second half with a diving header at the back post following some more good work from Simsek down the right wing.

Moreland continued to create a a number of legitimate chances but allowed North Sunshine back in the match in the 65th minute as Besnik Kutleshi rose high to head home a corner and peg back a goal. However Moreland held tight to secure the three points and propel them back into the Championship mix.

Moreland Reserves continued their near-faultless start to the season (the only loss coming in Round 2) scoring their 8th and 9th successive victories, although they were made to earn it against Melbourne University after falling behind to a early goal before finishing the stronger side to win 2-1. Tiger scored the winner with his new boots!

The match against North Sunshine was a fair bit easier with the Eagles only managing to start the match with nine men. A few injuries quickly reduced the away team to only six men causing the match to be abandon.

Next week versus Banyule shapes as a crucial round for both sides. The Banyule Seniors are currently sitting top of the ladder and represent a tough challenge while the Banyule Reserves have only lost twice this year - one of them being versus Moreland in the opening round of the season - and remain one of the few teams who can challenge Moreland for the flag.

Match Report - Round 7 - 16 May

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 2 Westvale
Moreland City Reserves 9 - 2 Westvale

Moreland City suffered their first loss of the season, going down 2-1 to Westvale in blustery conditions at McKechnie Reserve.

Westvale got off to a dream start, scoring both their goals within the opening ten minutes of the match, before managing to hold off Moreland for the remainder of the half.

Moreland began the second half full of intent but was unable to capitalise on the scoresheet. Riley Ulbrich finally managed to score one past the keeper in the 85th minute but time ran out for Moreland as they desperately searched for the equalizer.

It was a 9-2 thumping in the earlier match as Moreland maintained their lead at the top of the ladder.

Gabriel finished with four goals, while young Aaron Ward made an impressive impact off the bench scoring two well-taken goals.

Mic, Chappy and Carson all had singles to round off the demolition.

Match Report - Round 6 - 09 May

Moreland City Seniors 1 - 1 Hume Utd
Moreland City Reserves 2 - 0 Hume Utd

Moreland City maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a hard fought 1-1 draw with league-leaders Hume Utd.

Maribyrnong's 2-0 win over Westvale means Moreland slipped one spot to sit third on the ladder, although they are equal with the Greens on 12 points.

Hume Utd went ahead in the first half after a defensive lapse from Moreland. Ante (GK) made a good survive to deny Utd a one-on-one chance but Burak Ozdemir tapped in the rebound narrowly sliding it under Steven Sacco as he tried to block the shot.

Both teams had further chances to get on the score sheet as the game started to open up but it was Ernie Simsek who scored the all-important equalizer from the penalty spot following a foul on Ryan Dinse in the box. Dinse was grabbed from behind but the referee failed to see it. It was only when the linesman raised his flag did the ref change his mind and award the spot kick. Simsek walked up and confidently buried the ball into the back of the onion bag.

In the earlier match, the reserves scored a 2-0 win over a competitive Hume Utd outfit to keep their four game winning streak intact.

Utd defended well in the first half, clearing three goals off the line to keep the sides deadlocked at the break.

It looked like being a similar story in the second half as they again cleared a Trevor Carson effort within the first five minutes of the re-start, but the break came shortly after as Irish Mic turned in a ball from Tiger at the clubhouse end. Mic has now scored three goals in as many weeks.

The second goal came from the penalty spot with Carson calmly slotting the ball home following a hand-ball in the 18-yard box.

Mo says: "We deserved to get something from the match".

Match Report - Round 5 - 02 May

Moreland City Seniors 2 - 1 Geelong
Moreland City Reserves 4 - 1 Geelong

On a perfect sunny afternoon, played on a beautiful Wembley-esk pitch, Moreland City defeated both teams from Geelong in a highly successful outing

The reserves played some great football in their comfortable 4-1 win. Treveor Carson grabbed the opener, nipping in between the last defender and the keeper to flick home a Simon Jokic cross.

Geelong hit back five minutes later following a defensive lapse from Moreland. The ball was given away twice within a minute to leave Moreland debutant keeper no chance as the Geelong striker (? - commonly known as whathisface) cleverly chipped the ball over Dan's head.

But it was all Moreland in the second half as Carson grabbed his second goal minutes from the re-start, volleying home from close-range, before Nathan Chapman added a third with a vicious shot that dipped and swerved (read: tame shot on target that the keeper stuffed). However the best goal was saved for last as Irish Mic launched himself at a cross to send his diving header into the back of the net, and complete the rout.

The Seniors were hoping to get back into the winners circle after two successive draws. They got off to a flying start with a goal to Ryan Dinse following a low, hard cross from Bossman within the first five minutes.

Dinse described his goal as "a Gary Linekar type run to the front post, which I swept past the keeper on the volley with aplomb - that's how I remember it anyway."

Moreland played some good football but failed to capatilise on the score sheet as Geelong started to work their way back into the match. Indeed it was Geelong who grabbed the equalizer after another defensive mis-communication which saw the ball bounce around in the penalty box like a pinball before Akin, Akin (seriously - according to the FFV website) tapped it in past Ante in goal.

It was looking like another missed opportunity before Boss man managed to score one under the keeper after turning cleverly in the box. It made for some euphoric celebrations and a good prelude to the poker night.

Ernie says: "Here's to a good night (drinking soft drink)".

Coaches Report: First Team Round 4

Moreland City 0 - 0 Cairnlea: 25 April

On a cold and blustery afternoon, Moreland City hosted coach-less Cairnlea. Tough conditions for both sides led to very few goal scoring opportunities. Whilst the hosts had perhaps the better of possession and territory, they never relly threatened the visitor's goal. The home side came closest to scoring in the first half when in form striker, Engin Tokoglu, coming off a brace the week before, headed the ball goalwards. As the air conveyance was about to drop into the onion bag the visitors custodian, looking remarkably like Zorro, got a paw to the ball diverting it away from goal. Ryan . "Ronnie" Dinse was unable to finish the rebound.

Mo says: "we could have played for the 3 days and we wouldn't have scored. On the bright side, we are still undefeated and live to fight another day".

Coaches Report: First Team Round 2

Moreland City 2 - 1 La Trobe University: 4 April

Moreland City continued with its winning start to the season with a hard fought 2-1 at home to Latrobe Uni.

A very hectic start to the game saw both teams keen to assert some sort of authority, but only achieved to nullify each other. It was not until late in the half that Moreland showed some composure, slowing the tempo of the game and getting the ball to feet. The home side's dominance was rewarded when, after a slick move through midfield, Paul Bossio set up Ryan Dinse for the opener. The second goal came just before the long break when Luca Luchessi rose like a salmon amongst the fish to head home from an Ernie Simsek corner. 2-0 at the break and home side appeared to be cruising.

A totally different side came out in the second half that saw the visitors totally dominate and the lead was soon reduced to just one when on 60 minutes a nice through pass resulted in a one on one that was calmly finished by ex Fawkner Blues star Lino Lidestri. The last half hour saw the academics from Latrobe push hard for the equaliser, but penetrating Moreland's defence was more difficult than a multiple choice pop quiz. It ended 2-1 to the home side.

Mo says: "we played ok in patches but we need more consistency if we want to win more games than we lose."

Moreland City v Banyule - 28 Mar 2009

Moreland City has got off to the best possible start with both the Reserves and Seniors' team winning on the weekend.

Played on a lovely pitch on a nice sunny day nice, both teams performed well to take away the maximum six points, with the Seniors winning 2-1 and the Reserves winning 3-2.

2008 Match Reports

Moreland City v Altona East - 6 September

First Team: Moreland City 2 - 1 Altona East

Moreland City won both their fixtures in the final round of the season to give two of their club legends - Steve Radaslovic and Robert Marcen - a fitting send off in their retirement matches.

Fresh from their 3-1 win over Thomastown midweek, Moreland started brightly with Ryan Dinse heading home the opener in the 5th minute after a good knock down from Addis Kablar off a Moreland free kick.

Moreland held onto the lead until the second half when Lester Abalos finished off a nice move from Altona East which involved a number of one-touch passes.

But in a final twist to the match, Moreland were awarded a penalty after Altona East handled the ball in the 18-yard box, trying to stop a Lucca Lucchesi run through the area. With no hesitation, Marcen stepped up to slam home the penalty and give Moreland the three points.

In the earlier match of the day, Moreland started slowly but gradually took control of the game with Tiger scoring a cracker from outside the 18-yard box and Lewis scoring his first reserves goal to give City a comfortable 2-0 lead at half time. Altona East were more competative in the second half but a Chapman goal in the 80th minute killed off the contest.  

In a day of mixed fortunes for the club, Moreland City were officially relegated to the Third Division following a 3-0 loss to eighth-placed Williamstown, while the Reserves team had a slightly better afternoon securing their second Reserves Championship in three years with a comfortable 2-0 win.

Both squads will remain the same for their respective mid-week clashes v Thomastown on Wednesday night.

A dominant Moreland City has destroyed Maribrynong Greens 6-3 in what was possibly the worst pitch of the season so far at Skinner Reserve on Saturday afternoon.

The rout started early with Ryan Dinse opening the scoring in the 5th minute, sliding the ball under the keeper from the six yard box after Robert Marcen found him with a low cross from the right-hand wing.

It was a promising start for Moreland who have rarely scored the opening goal this season but the celebrations were short lived as Arin Mesinovic equalized for the Greens in the 10th minute, turning Steve Radaslovic in the box before poking the ball past keeper Jan Kvasnicka.

But it was all Moreland for the rest of the half as they continued to show better ball use and skill, and they duly went 2-1 up thanks to a Paul Bossio double.

His first was scored in the 36th minute after some more good work from Marcen down the right flank. He’s dangerous ball through the box was delicately controlled by Bossio’s first touch and he made no mistake with his second, smashing it into the back of the net.

His second goal in the 43rd came from another Marcen cross although it was from the left-hand flank on this occasion. The finish was not as clinical as it bobbled off the left shin but the result was the same as Moreland went into the break 3-1 up.

It was a similar story in the second half as Dinse continued to give the Greens’ defence endless nightmares.

In the most bizarre move of the match, Dinse found Lucca Lucchesi unmarked in the 18 yard box only for Lucchesi to play a 1-2 back to Dinse in an off-side position even though he was right in front of goal! However he made up for it moments later heading home Moreland’s fourth after some more good work from Dinse on the right who found him unmarked on the back post.

The locals were starting to get restless at this point and Robert Marcen’s rocket into the roof of the net in the 72nd minute and Tony Stephenson’s great strike from the edge of the 18-yard box in the 80th minute didn’t make things any easier.

Both teams had numerous further opportunities to add to the score sheet as gaps continued to appear. Kvasnicka made some crucial saves to keep the five goals buffer, before Maribrynong managed to grab two consolation goals through Mesinovic and Shareef Chawk.

It was a good solid display from Moreland but it remains to be seen if the earlier 1-0 reverse fixture loss comes back to them haunt with fellow relegation candidates - Altona City – scoring a surprise 2-0 away win against Ballrat Red Devils to maintain a three point buffer.  

A very exciting game despite the nil-nil score line when Moreland hosted Ballarat on the weekend.  The visitors were desperate for a win to reignite their title chase after a couple of disappointing weeks and came out all guns blazing.  A couple of half chances went begging for the visitors and a Shaun Romein free kick that hit the post was the closest they got to scoring in a first half that saw them the better side.  The second half was a different story however and Moreland worked their way back into the game and created a few chances of their own - the closest hitting the cross bar from an Aidy Mathers free kick. 

Despite a frantic final minutes, the game ended without any goals and with both coaches perhaps thinking that it may have been 2 points dropped rather than 1 gained.

Mo says: "Not sure about this one.  Its a bit 50/50.  We could have got the 3 points, but then again we could have lost it.  No disputing the effort the guys put in.  I may have to read Duncan's report on Ballarat's website to get an independent appraisal on how the game was played and how we faired..." (laughing hysterically)

In another close encounter, Moreland City lost 1-0 to the title-chasing Werribee Bees.

It was a tough loss for Moreland who hit the cross bar three times in one succession as they went in search of the opening goal. Robert Marcen connected well from a Christian Bellamo cross only to see it cannon back. He was quickly up on his feet again to have another go, only for the same result before Lukka had a third bite at it with the same result. The half time scores remained 0-0.

With Ryan Dinse a late withdrawal and club debutant Michael T running late, it was always going to be a tough  ask but a lapse in concentration in the 55th minute cost Moreland a truly memorable win as Werribee went 1-0 up through their only shot on goal for the entire match.

Another pulsating encounter at Campbell Reserve this week when Moreland City hosted fellow strugglers Altona City.  Missing several first team players, Altona had the better of the early exchanges, but could not capitalise on some gilt edged opportunities.  The home team rode their luck and worked their way back into the game when they were awarded a penalty after some good work from Ronny Dinse.  However, this is where lady luck bailed, and veteran Rob Marcen had his spot kick saved.

Inspired by the feeling that he had let all his team mates down, Marcen (Foss) proceeded to take matters into his own hands.  Picking up the ball in midfield he slalomed past two defenders and unleased a left foot drive that nestled in the top corner of the net - legendary stuff!

1-0 at half time, the second half saw Altona chase the game, leaving gaps at the back.  Unfortunately, the home side could not capitalise on a couple of chances to ice the game and Altona equalised late in the game for a well deserved point.

Mo says: "A good performance today, perhaps two points dropped, but a good performance nonetheless."

A cracking game at Campbell Reserve between two teams desperate for points.  Moreland City had the better of first half play, but could not capitalise on their chances.  They closest City got to scoring in the first half was a shot from Adis Kablar that hit the post.

They second half was a different story with Cairnlea dominating the play and taking the lead when E Koc was left unmarked to score  a header from a Jose Groba cross. Oscar Crino's men continued to dominate second half proceedings and could have iced the game but for some poor finishing and desperate defending.  The last 20 minutes saw City work their way back in the game and a deserved equaliser came when Luca Lucchesi finished a scrambling goal from close range at the third attempt.

Mo says: "A late point is better than nothing and means we live to fight another day."

Another heartbreaking loss at Campbell Reserve as Moreland City went down 1-0 to local rivals Brunswick City.

In blustery conditions, Brunswick scored the all important goal in the 66th minute through a simple tap-in header from Con Vouloumanos as Jan Kvasnicka failed to collect a hopeful long ball. It was a controversial decision by the referee as Kvasnicka was being held in the lead up play but the appeals fell on deaf ears as Brunswick went one up.

Moreland continued to push for the equalizer right until the 90th minute with the best chance falling to Jonathan Pepe, but the second half substitute was unable to turn his body around in time to get any purchase on the ball after some good lead up play down the wings found him unmarked in the 18 yard box.

It was a difficult loss to take for Moreland who now find themselves on a two game losing streak with a big game coming up this week against the improving Cairnlea.

Mo says: "I didn't do this match report so I'm unable to comment."

Another pulsating game (in the end) at Campbell Reserve as Moreland City hosted the Warriors from North Geelong. With Moreland riding a wave of luck from the last two weeks, the expectations of the ever faithful Moreland supporters was high. It was clear early on however, that luck this week had deserted City and would seemingly play no further part in this contest when visiting skipper, and the warriors most influential player, Mijo Trupkovic, won the toss and elected to kick to the Nicholson Street end.

The first half saw two tentative teams separated only by an early North Geelong strike and the class of Trupkovic, Deak and Cervinski. North Geelong come out in the second half with all guns blazing. Whilst Deak had less impact in the second half and Cervinski was forced to pick up touches deep in midfield, it was Trupkovic that led the visitors from the front and took control of the midfield. This led to another two goals to the visitors bagged by Dragacevic, but created by Trupkovic. 3-0 seemed like game over, but in their usual fashion, City kept fighting till the end and netted two goals of their own from Bossio and Marcen. In the final wash up however, whilst the fight back provided the crowd with some excitement, it proved little consolation to the boys on the park.

Mo says: "A game effort by the lads against quality opposition. They have class all over the park and their skipper Trupkovic was the difference between the two sides in the end. We scored two really nice goals late on to regain some pride."

What a game it was at Campbell Reserve this week when Moreland City hosted the title chasing outfit of Altona East. In what was a pretty one-sided affair, Altona East outplayed their hosts for much of the game and created quite a few chances that they managed to squander. In between some wasteful finishing form the visitors, City did manage to create a couple of gilt edged opportunities of their own which they did not capitalise on. Some confusing decisions between linesman and referee just before half-time added to the drama, and Altona East's frustrations, by disallowing what appeared to be a legitimate goal, then reversing another decision based on the assistant referee. Referees, handballs, drop-balls, off the line, off the bar, off the post, and empty nets, just about sums up East Altona's day.

The visitors did, however, manage to score at around the 18 minutes into the second half when, after some wonderful build up play on the left, Alex Jovicic side footed into an empty net. After the goal, as City took risks going forward, East Altona could have scored half a dozen. Then, just like the Moreland faithful were expecting, the irony that encapsulates this beautiful game of ours rose like a Robbie Marcen header, when in the 90th minute a long throw landed at the feet of substitute Paul Bossio who gave the East Altona strikers a lesson in calm and composed finishing.

Mo says: "They are the best ball playing side I have seen this year. But credit to our boys who never really gave up and snatched a point in a game that, if it was a boxing match, the referee would have finished it early."

Mo says: "I can sympathise with Jacko and the guys at Williamstown, today we rode our luck"

Jan Kvasnicka & Rob Marcen

Addis' goal

Tempers flare

Mo says:

Lucca Lucchesi in action

Coaches Report: First Team Round 8

Moreland City 0 - 1 Pascoe Vale: 24 May

The last 15 minutes of the match was end to end stuff with both sides pushing for an equaliser.  The Red Devils had a couple of good opportunities late on but could not capitalise as Moreland held on for the final minutes with 10 men to share the spoils.

Mo says: "Sound effort by Moreland Saturday away to Ballarat at a ground that will be difficult for away teams to get results. In the end a draw was perhaps a fair result".

Stephenson's Synopsis: Reserves Match Report Round 19 Moreland City 0 - 1 Pascoe Vale: 9 August Irony of ironies - Alannis Morissette could not have scripted this game more ably. The Reserves in solid form throughout the year win the league four games out and by virtue of a series of availability problems go in against their deadly rivals seriously under-resourced - play stoically for 88 minutes and concede an untidy goal with neither the time nor the personnel to make a comeback. The players on the field can hold their heads up - individually they did well enough but the build up was not there. The midfield was too often bypassed which meant Trevor Carson and Danny Ward were not given sufficient opportunities to settle on the ball. Tiger and Aaron Ward tried to hold the ball up to time their passes well and I think they both had very fine games but sadly we seemed to lack that bit of good fortune a kind bounce or error from the defence that Moreland might have benefited from. Our back four was solid and Chris Linnett did well in shielding them. Nathan had another excellent game in goal (- great season Nath!). The highpoint for me was the contribution made by Aaron Ward. He had scored three goals against the Greens the previous week but his performance in this game showed his willingness to roll his sleeves up and get on with the job when things are not going so well. Danny Ward's ongoing battle with the ref was probably unnecessary and may have detracted from his game but credit to the youngsters and Paul Bursich who came in and gave their all! Moreland now travel to Epping Stadium in a fortnight's time to take on second-placed Thomastown Devils in what should be a very competitive match. Three points will ensure Moreland secures the 2008 North West Reserves Championship.

Cavoli's Corner: Reserves Match Report Round 18 Maribynong Greens 3 - 11 Moreland City: 2 August Carson 4, Ward A 3, Cavoli 3, Luchetti Only a miracle will stop Moreland City from clinching its second reserves championship in three years after crushing Maribynong 11-3 in an extraordinary game at Skinner reserve.  This was shaping as a danger game for Moreland with Stephenson promoted, Mastrolambros & Jokic ill, and Carson struggling with back soreness.  But Morelands youth stepped up to reserve level brilliantly to provide one of many highlights the side has experienced this year. Moreland City clinched a thrilling come from behind, last minute win over Ballarat to maintain a 12 point lead over 2nd place Thomastown with only 5 matches remaining.  It is the second consecutive match where the side has fallen behind only to clinch victory in the shadows of injury time.  Moreland had to make a late change with Jokic relegating himself to the bench and enabling Aaron Ward to start his second consecutive match. With coach Martello sadly unable to take part due to broken leg experienced in last weekends Masters match, Paul Bursich took charge.  And within 5 minutes he would have been happy as 15 year old Aaron Ward opened the scoring.  His lame effort bounced unkindly over the keeper to make it 1-0.  But from here Moreland stopped and the Greens were deservedly back on level terms when one time Moreland player Chris Kostov rose above the defence to head home from a corner.  This sparked Moreland back into life and three goals in quick succession effectively killed off the match.  Luchetti turned the ball home after a cut back from a corner, and Carson & Ward were both beneficiaries from Kevin Patersons work in midfeild.  Maribynong pulled another back just before the break thanks to some dubious officiating to make it 4-2 at half time. The second half started much the same as the first when Cavoli, in his last game for Moreland, scored moments after the re-start.  Moreland then fell asleep again and Kostov kept Maribynong in the match.  But the home sides optimism was crushed as Moreland scored the next 6 goals.  Young James & Sammy from Steve Chetcuti's U15s come on as 2nd half subs.  Sam's introduction due to an injury to Luchetti meant that Nathan Gourzelas came onto the field.   I think the less said about that the better... Carson finished with 4, Aaron Ward 3, Cavoli 3 and Luchetti with 1 goal.  Cavoli finishes his final season with Moreland amassing 17 goals.   Moreland now only need 1 point from its remaining 4 games to clinch the title. Cavoli's Corner: Reserves Match Report Round 17 Moreland City 2 - 1 Ballarat Red Devils: 26 July Carson, Mastrolambros Best: Stephenson, Luchetti, Mastrolambros Marshy's quote of the week: "...because Wardy is out this week, we will change to a back three of Vale, Danny & Crane..." Moreland City clinched a thrilling come from behind, last minute win over Ballarat to maintain a 12 point lead over 2nd place Thomastown with only 5 matches remaining.  It is the second consecutive match where the side has fallen behind only to clinch victory in the shadows of injury time.  Moreland had to make a late change with Jokic relegating himself to the bench and enabling Aaron Ward to start his second consecutive match. Moreland found themselves behind after only 5 minutes when Vale slipped in his own area attempting to receive a Donnelly back pass, and allowing the Ballarat winger to cut the ball back along the 6 yard box for the striker to score into an unguarded net.  Moreland soon found rhythm and began to pressure the Ballarat defence while they had possession, causing turnovers in midfield.  While this did not result in any direct goal scoring opportunities, it was the increased team pressure that lead to the equaliser on the stroke of half time.  Gourzelas' long clearances was challenged by Cavoli, who backed up by pressuring the midfielder who picked up the loose ball.  The young Ballarat player then played a poor backpass that was swooped upon by Cavoli who clipped the ball from the right to Carson.  The veteran striker out muscled his opponent and cooly drove the ball home with only the keeper to beat. 1-1 at half time. The second half was a tight tussle, but the Moreland back three of Donnelly, Vale & Pegorin (or Vale, Danny & Crane according to coach Martello) were rarely threatened and provided excellent protection for Gourzelas.  The introduction of Jokic gave Moreland a real spark and he immediately caused problems down the left with two of his crosses creating guilt edged opportunities both involving Cavoli.  His first header was poorly directed over the bar, but his second chance which came from Carson header across goal had a profound influence on the game.  His challenge with the keeper left the young keeper (himself a half-time sub) unable to continue, and with all 3 Ballarat subs used, an outfield player had to take the gloves.  Both the keeper, and his fellow half time substitute were unable to finish the game due to serious injuries. So against 10 men and with only minutes remaining up stood Johnny Mastrolambros to win the game for Moreland.  The goal (his first for 18 months) was the culmination of a move that started when Donnelly drove the ball from the half way line to the edge of the area where Cavoli controlled and then released a barnstorming Mastrolambros who volleyed truly across the keeper from the corner of the 6 yard box sparking wild celebrations. It was just reward for Mastrolambros as he was becoming a greater threat down the right as the game wore on. Moreland are away to Maribynong this Saturday.

Robbie's Rant: Reserves Match Report Round 16 Moreland City 2 - 1 Werribee: 19 July Stephenson, Ward Best: Paterson, Ward Snr, Stephenson, Sonny Having our gun strikers - Joe and Trevor unavailable for the match v Werribee (who have scored more than half Moreland's goals this season) put a huge test on the depth on the squad. The first half was an even affair with Moreland rarely troubled at the back, but also creating very little up front, as the two teams went in nil-all at half time.  It was a cautious start from both sides in the second half with the wind making playing conditions difficult, but it was Werribee who opened the scoring in the 60th minute after capitalizing on a Moreland turnover in the middle of park. Injuries to Tiger and Pedro made Moreland’s task of getting back into the match even harder but good lead up work from Sonny, Mastro and KP in the 70th minute resulted in Tony collecting the ball on the edge of the box, turning and miss kicking a left-footed shot that found its way into the corner of the net.  From that moment on Moreland continued to press for the win, again showing the Moreland two's are never satisfied with the shared points and always fight to the end. With only injury time left to the match, stand in skipper Sonny won the ball and passed it to Tony who played a neat one-two with KP. As per team rules, Tony cut back the ball back to find Wardy Senior unmarked on the front post who hit the roof of the net from two yards out. It was a quality team goal at the death which is one of the reasons Moreland 2's are now 12 points clear on top with six matches to go. Special mention to Wardy Jnr, who started the match for the first time, and James Johnston, who came on at one-nil down to make a positive impact on the match.

Cavoli's Corner: Reserves Match Report Round 15 Moreland City 4 - 1 Altona City: 12 July Cavoli 2, Stephenson, Jokic Best: Paterson, Ward, Stephenson Moreland City thumped Altona City 4-1 in a much anticipated clash at Campbell Reserve.  Moreland's only defeat this season was at the hands of Altona City, and the boys were determined to get one back over their championship chasing rivals. Both teams started well but it was Moreland who looked most likely to score and had good chances through Chapman who lobbed the ball over the bar, and Carson who audaciously tried to catch the keeper unaware from distance.  Moreland did take the lead however when Chapman burst down the right.  The ball found its way to Jokic at the edge of the area and his stunning strike left the Altona keeper with no chance. Moreland soon doubled their advantage when some excellent forward pressure caused a turnover, and the one touch move that started with Stephenson was finished by the same man who fired home from inside 10 yards.  Altona pulled one back from a neat passing move just before the break to give the visitors a chance but Moreland were focussed not to let this one slip. After the break the game opened up and it was Moreland who again looked the more threatening, but it wasn't until the final 20 minutes when Chapman's bursting run and cut back down the left caused havoc in the Altona City 6 yard box. Cavoli finally toe poked the ball home after the goal mouth scramble to make it 3-1. Cavoli was released through the centre soon after by Paterson to cooly finish and make it 4-1 and secure all three points for the home side. All 14 players used by Moreland were outstanding, and coach Martello was pleased with his sides performance. Following Thomastown's loss to Cairnlea on the weekend, Moreland now leads the reserves ladder by 10 points with 7 games remaining.

Robbie's Rant: Reserves Match Report Round 14 Moreland City 4 - 1 Cairnlea: 5 July Chapman 2, Jokic, Frank jnr Best: An all round team performance with the whole squad playing well. Moreland FC two's are still on top by 7 points.  Great News. In saying this wonderful news, we have played below par in a previous few matches by starting slowly and given the opposition reason to be positive.  To our credit, once we get going not many teams can match our quality play and our never say die attitude. MCFC (1st) v Cairnlea (3rd) - Special note: Moreland had 3 under 15's on the bench - Wardy jnr, James Johnston and Jules Siracusa.  The first time since 1981. Finally, Moreland two's started the strongly of the two teams and always looked like the only winner.   After dominating all the play, justice was serviced with a perfect corner by Aaron M (in the two's for the first time for match fitness) to Frank jnr, whose solid header was always going in. 1 Nil to MCFC after 15 min.   Quality build up play by Simon (Tiger) and Chappy, resulted in Chappy cutting in and beating his man on the edge of the box and curling the ball in the top right hand corner, even with the best efforts from Cairnlea's keeper.   2 Nil at half time with many scoring opportunities and Moreland in total control.  In a shock, Nathan (GK) was ill - seeing double and not feeling the best.  Hence, Pedro (Thanks mate) had to keep in the second half.   James Johnston made his debut for the two's (the first of many) at right back at the start of the second half, with James getting better and better by the minute, which will do wonders for his confidence.  James even started the move that resulted in Moreland's 3 goal.  Excellent team work, left Aaron with the keeper to beat, who tried to do a wall pass off the post, which was instead finished by Chappy.   The second half continued like the first half with great team play by KP, Trev, Frank Jnr, Tiger, Aaron and Chappy.  Close to 30 minutes to go, Wardy jnr and Jules Siracusa (another debut for the two's) came on to add more spark to the match and assisted in creating more opportunities.  Tiger's fine finished with the 4th goal that was more than well deserved.   A free kick outside our defensive 18 yard box was deflected in by Sonny with Pedro in unusual territory and against the run of play.

Cavoli's Corner: Reserves Match Report Round 13

Moreland City 6 - 1 Brunswick City: 28 June
Carson 2, Cavoli 2, Chapman 2

Best: Fric, Vale, Pegorin, Chapman

Moreland eventually thrashed Brunswick in a spiteful match at Campbell Reserve. This scoreline is all the more remarkable considering Moreland dished up the most pathetic display of football this pundit has ever seen in the first half hour on Saturday. But despite their dominance, Brunswick failed to capitalise and did not create a clear cut chance in that first 30 minutes. The turning point was when Croatian international Pedro Fric crunched a Brunswick player on the half way line. He was subsequently moved by coach Martello into the centre of midfield where he dominated territory and sparked Moreland into life.

Moreland took the lead when Chapman, started and finished a swift move when he released Cavoli down the right. His early cross caused wasn't properly dealt with by the Brunswick defence as Mastrolambros and Carson finally squeezed the ball out to Chapman who finished clinically. Brunswick were doubly stunned when Mastrolambros won a free kick in a dangerous position. Cavoli's free kick was flicked on by diminutive defender Pegorin into the path of veteran Carson who made it 2-0.

After the break Moreland knew that a third would finish off the young Brunswick side, and Cavoli delivered with a deft lob over the keeper after another early cross from Mastrolambros. Brunswick got one back soon after when the substitute right back launched a stunning drive to leave Gourzelas clutching at space. But Moreland restored the 3 goal advantage when Carson netted his second from a corner. Chapman then expertly took his second goal of the match following some good work from Jokic, Paterson & Carson. Cavoli the added his second when released by young Aaron Ward. Cavoli's original strike hit the post, but returned straight back to him to score into an empty net.

Moreland continue to top the reserves league ladder.

A late winner from veteran striker Trevor Carson subjected the Warriors to defeat in a competitive game at Campbell Reserve. Paul Donnelly was promoted only hours before kick off, but that handed an opportunity to Johnny Mastrolambros at right back who played arguably his best game of the season. He and fellow defenders Vale, Pegorin & veteran Ward were stretched on few occasions in the first half. Moreland looked good early on but again struggled to create guilt edged chances. Cavoli had a goal disallowed after a hand ball by Rokic as he attempted to control the ball but weren't to be denied soon after when Luchetti's deflected cross fell invitingly to Carson who tapped in from 6 yards.

The second half was following a similar pattern to the first as Paterson & Oliver began to have an impact in midfield. Cavoli should have doubled the lead but inexcusably missed his volley from six yards. That miss proved to be costly as North Geelong won a corner almost immediately and the 3ft 2in midget striker introduced at half time, rose above the Moreland defence to head towards goal. Gourzelas could only defect the shot into the far post, where inexplicably no defender was standing. The same midget almost scored moments later as Moreland suffered another 10 min lapse in concentration. Both teams had half chances to win it until 5 minutes from the end when Cavoli failed to control a simple pass from Paterson in midfield only to be handed the ball back immediately. Breaking into space down the right Cavoli's inviting cross was met powerfully with the head of a diving Carson who sealed victory for the hosts.

A double from German international Simon 'Tiger' Jokic handed Moreland City a scrappy win at Campbell Reserve. In a game which failed to reach great heights, Jokic's two first half moments of brilliance was the difference. His first came from probably the best move of the match. An incisive break that released Luchetti down the right. His early cross was met on the volley by Carson who forced a good save from the experienced keeper, but Jokic was on hand to poke the ball home from close range. He added a second just before the break when he was expertly released by Paterson, playing in a more advanced role (ACM in playstation speak). Jokic lobbed the ball over the advancing keeper from the edge of the area to make it 2-0.

After the break, the game turned into a battle of the midfield with few chances to either side. On debut Mark Oliver battled hard with Paterson to gain ascendancy but Moreland struggled to find rhythm in the final third to kill off a plucky Altona East side, and with 5 minutes to go the visitors pulled on back after the striker was allowed to turn in the penalty area. His strike left Gourzelas with little chance. It turned out to be nothing more that a consolation goal as Moreland withstood a last minute onslaught to win 2-1

Moreland has used another get out of jail free card when it disposed a plucky Williamstown side 3-2 at JT Gray Reserve. Moreland had the better of the opening as Pepe, returning from injury, made numerous penetrating runs, one of which, opened the scoring. Bursting down the right channel, Pepe's perfect cross was met powerfully on the volley by Carson who gave Moreland an early lead. From then it was all Williamstown who created a number of chances but only poor finishing and solid keeping from Gourzelas kept Williamastown at bay. Moreland 1-0 up at HT.

After the break the game opened up with both team creating chances. Williamstown continued to pressure and miss opportunities in front of goal and were made to pay on the hour. Tiger's penetrating run down the left lead to a tantalising cross which drew the keeper off his line, but he failed to get near it, and Carson was on hand to direct his header into the empty net to double Moreland's lead. Williamstown's persistent pressure finally paid dividends when Pegorin handled in box and the referee pointed to the spot. Gourzelas was left with little chance as the penalty was expertly converted to make the scores 2-1. Both teams pushed each other hard, but the game was ended as a contest when Cavoli scored his 10th goal of the season with a powerful volley from the edge of the area. Gourzelas had a minor lapse in concentration in injury time which was capitalised by Williamstown but it was too little too late as Moreland continue to top the league ladder.

Moreland City's return to Campbell Reserve ended in a fascinating draw against fellow title challenges Thomastown. Moreland will feel that it was a case of two points dropped as opposed to 1 point gained.

Moreland started brightly with the returning Chapman active early, putting Cavoli through to score in the opening minutes but the goal was incorrectly disallowed for offside in what proved to be a crucial decision. Though it didn't seem to crucial by half time. Chapman did give the home side the lead when he headed powerfully from a Vale free kick. No-one tracked the diminutive striker and he made no mistake.

Scores were level soon after when Moreland failed to clear the defensive lines and Thomastown pounced to score past stand in keeper Trevor Carson. Moreland then looked to have taken the initiative when Luchetti pounced from a goal mouth scramble and then, on the stroke of half time a Thomastown free kick was countered superbly as Cavoli and Chapman broke leading to Cavoli to force a save from the keeper and Chapman to follow up to score his second of the game.

Frankie Jnr stumbles, competes, gets crunched ... and scores

But Thomastown came out firing in the second half and only some excellent work from Carson in goal maintained the margin. In the end there was nothing he could do as Thomastown struck twice, the second from the spot, to level the game. Cavoli was brought down in the area late in the game but his appeals for a penalty were waved away by the poor and inconsistent official.

First-game German import player, Tiger, and Chappy in action

It was Moreland first draw of the season, but despite the initial disappointment, Moreland have only dropped 5 points this season.

Moreland City defeated a talented Pascoe Vale side 1-0 in a season defining win. Batted, bruised and heavily fatigued the experienced MCFC side overcome Pascoe Vale when Cavoli turned and drove a volley through a crowded penalty area into the corner of the old onion bag 5 minutes from time.

It was a classic game of two halves as Pascoe Vale had Moreland rooted to their own 18 yard box in the first half and only desperate defending, good keeping and horrible finishing kept the scores deadlocked. Luck played it part, too, with Pascoe Vale striking the bar on more than one occasion. Moreland were forced into two changes by half time as both Liberona McGlue, on debut, succumb to injury after he fouled from a dangerous late tackle.

In the second half both teams had chances early, but the best chance fell to the home side who were denied spectacularly by Gourzelas when he produced a stunning double save. That was the turning point of the match as the Moreland defence settled, and the altered midfield led by Stephenson and Martello started having an influence on the match. Moreland had chances to go ahead through Carson, Pegorin and Cavoli before the latter finally broke the deadlock. Cavoli had been largely anonymous for most of the match, but kept his composure to give Moreland their seventh win of the season.

Moreland dominated an inexperienced green side with a clinical display at Hosken Reserve. Moreland looked comfortable early on with neat passing and one touch football, but it was route 1 to get the scoring on the board. Gourzelas' long clearance was chased town by Carson who's left foot cross was met by Cavoli who nipped in front of the keeper to open the scoring.

Moreland had a number of chances to double the advantage but it wasn't until Luchetti followed up a rebound after Kablar, on debut, forced a neat save from the keeper. The first half ended with a defensive mix up that nearly cost Moreland a goal.

The second half started much the same as the first with MCFC keeping the visitors interested by failing to take guilt edged chances. But a neat move down the left involving Mastrolambros and Cavoli created the third goal scored by Carson, which opened the flood gates. Luchetti completed his double with a fine strike from 25 yards, and Kablar completed a second half hatrick by walking through the greens defence on each occasion. He then set up Carson to mongrel his second goal of the game off his shoulder to complete the thumping.

It was a tough and tight game in Ballarat which was eventually won late when Danny Vale scored a penalty to secure the win. Both teams played good football and created chances to score but it was Moreland who struck first. Ballarat conceded an unnecessary corner and the set play work a treat as Donnelley climbed highest to knock the ball across to Luchetti to score the opener.

Ballarat soon levelled after some good movement down the left lead to a crossed ball with a mis-communication leading to the Ballarat player lobbing his header over a helpless Gourzelas to tie it at 1-1.

The second half was a battle but again Moreland had the better of the chances. Cavoli forced a good save early and shot wide soon after when Carson was in a better position. But veteran Marcen was the catalyst for the wining goal. His run down the left was ended illegally on the corner of the 18 yard box. Vale's subsequent free kick hit Pegorin, and rebounded onto the arm of a Ballarat defender. The referee had no hesitation pointing to the spot and Vale cooly sent the keeper the wrong way. Moreland held on for a 2-1 win.

Morelands first home game of the season was held at rival's home ground Pascoe Vale as Campbell Reserve continues to recover. Moreland were pushed early. Gourzelas was solid again and had to be as Werribee piled on the pressure early, striking the woodwork from a ferocious volley from the edge of the area. But a good team takes their chances and Moreland proved to be a good team. After holding off the charge, Ward delivered a long diagonal ball into the area which wasn't properly dealt with. Cavoli pounced with a lobbed 'biscuit tin' header that looped over the hesitant keeper to make it 1-0.

Cavoli doubled the advantage soon after when good interplay from Stephenson, Carson and finally Luchetti lead to Cavoli volleying home from close range. Just before half time Cavoli completed his hatrick. Again neat work down the right from Carson and then a cross from Stephenson was controlled by the striker who's volley lobbed the helpless keeper to make it 3-0 half time.

Moreland had chances to increase the advantage through Carson, Cavoli and Pegorin, but in the end Werribee scored a deserved consolation after Paterson was caught in possession with numbers committed forward.

Moreland turned up for 70 out of the 90 minutes as Altona ran rampant in 20 minutes of madness at the start of the second half.

The first was dominated by Moreland with Cavoli having chances and Carson striking the bar from distance. Chapman and Marcen looked dangerous as Moreland looked dangerous with some well worked moves. And at 0-0 at the break the boys were entitled to feel that a good second half who would yield the right result.

But a series of errors at the start of the second half led to three goals in 15 minutes. A shell shocked Moreland was snapped into action, launching numerous attacks but all came to no avail. To add insult to injury, Altona bagged a fourth on the break after a poor corner by Cavoli.

Moreland punished a wasteful Cairnlea side in Melbourne's west with an efficient performance. But it looked shaky early with Cairnlea having the best of the play, and should have scored after Ward conceded a penalty after a swift Cairnlea break. But Gourzelas saved what can only be described as a horrible spot kick. And this seemed to turn the game. Moments later a Gourzelas kick was flicked on by Carson to Cavoli who was fouled on the edge of the area. Cavoli's right footed free kick rebounded off the wall, but his left footed rebound found the net after the keeper made a complete gaff of what was only a half timed shot.

Soon after Stephenson, playing in a more central role, released veteran Marcen who drove the ball into the roof of the net to make it two, and from then on it was Morelands game, and the Cairnlea side lost concentration. Marcen should have had two when released by Carson from a long throw but lifted his lob over the bar.

Moreland continue to dominate in the second half creating good opportunities but failing to deliver with the final ball. The game was finally killed off when Carson's excellent cross from the right was met on the volley by Cavoli. His shot was parried straight into the path of an on rushing Stephenson who launched the ball high into the back of the net. Carson then got one of his own cheaply before another long throw cleared the pack for Cavoli score his second. In between those two a lapse by the Moreland defence allowed Cairnlea to score cheaply and deny Gourzelas a deserves clean sheet.

The ressies won their second game in a row with another commanding performance. Two second half headed goals from first Luchetti and later Cavoli sealed the win. MCFC struggled to settle early against the predictable and ugly long ball game executed by the side in blue. But despite often finding themselves behind, Brunswick never really threatened. The Moreland central defence was sent into chaos when Vale and Donnelly were both substituted due to injury. Pegorin moved into the centre along side 1st sub Ward, and 2nd sub Birch came on into an unfamiliar left back role. But Moreland soon settled and started to actually play. The best chance of a forgettable first half came after a sweeping move from the back involving Ward, Paterson and Carson who laid on Cavoli who was expertly denied by a reflex save from the Brunswick keeper.

After the break it was all Moreland. Carsons long throw early in the half was held up by Cavoli who laid it back to Carson who worked hard to follow up. His first time cross was met perfectly at the back post by Luchetti who scored his first goal of the season. Brunswick pressured Moreland briefly after the goal, but found in form Gourzelas hard to beat between the sticks. The game was over soon after when Chapman lobbed a cross to the back post for Cavoli to score. From there the score could have been anything with Chapman, Paterson, Carson Gonzalez all coming close to adding to the score.

Cavoli's Corner: Reserves Match Report Round 1

North Geelong 1 - 2 Moreland City: 5 April
Cavoli, Chapman
Best: Marcen, Gourzelas, Donnelly

The ressies started a new era under coach Rob Martello with a strong away win in Lara. The boys started well, and had chances from the start, and controversially went in front after Cavoli headed in a neat cross veteran Rob Marcen. Nth Geelong appealed as they thought the ball cut back from Marcen had crossed the by-line, but the referee had none of it, and Moreland were 1-0 up. The goal seemed to steel Nth Geelong who had a purple patch and scored soon after Gourzelas was left one on one with the keeper to tie the scores at 1-1 at half time.

After the break Moreland looked the only team likely to score. The best passage of play for the match was when Cavoli, Chapman and Carson unlocked the Nth Geelong defence with outstanding one touch football on the edge of the are, but Cavoli failed to connect properly and the ball was turned away for a corner. But MCFC were not to be denied as Marcen dispossessed the sweeper deep and went on to round the keeper. His touch took him wide but Chapman was hand to sweep home what proved to be the winner.

Gourzelas was required to keep out North Geelong following a late charge, but MCFC held on for 3 points.