This is the World Game with Stephan Mark thanks to Football Essay bringing South Australian communities together.

This is the World Game with Stephan Mark thanks to Football Essay bringing South Australian communities together.

Yes, good evening, Welcome to the World Game. Of course it is all thanks to Southern Cherry at Morphot Vale and can receive up to six thousand dollars bonus on a Motor E five at Southern Cherry morphont Vale for Cherry Sick and Australian Anniversary.

Yes, good evening, Welcome to the World Game. Of course it is all thanks to Southern Cherry at Morphot Vale and can receive up to six thousand dollars bonus on a Motor E five at Southern Cherry morphont Vale for Cherry Sick and Australian Anniversary.

It's time to talk all.

It's time to talk all.

Things across Australia in the World Game and of course abroad.

Things across Australia in the World Game and of course abroad.

Two which we love to do.

Two which we love to do.

Stephan Mark's our mean for that and he does it every Thursday night.

Stephan Mark's our mean for that and he does it every Thursday night.

Stefan, great to see.

Stefan, great to see.

You mate, Yeah, good to be back here.

You mate, Yeah, good to be back here.

And it was last Thursday we were I think we're just jumping off air as the SOCCERWS team was announced.

And it was last Thursday we were I think we're just jumping off air as the SOCCERWS team was announced.

Obviously there was a lot of probably.

Obviously there was a lot of probably.

Stress and nerves going through me anyway, but I'm sure the players, the coaches and any fan of Australian football and fortunately enough they got the job done in both games. Firstly Indonesia, it started off horribly the first ten minutes. I think the players you could see were nervous and scared. In Indonesia, you know, with a new coach came out of the gates and they were, you know, they were really pressing high. They won the penalty, fortunately for us, they missed unfortunate for them. And then we you know, scored not long after that through our own penalty, and we won the game five to one. You know, you look at the stats and you know it was pretty even. To be honest, they had a lot more possession than us, which I don't know the last time we would have played Indonesia and had less possession. So I don't think that was a tactic from Tony Popovic.

Stress and nerves going through me anyway, but I'm sure the players, the coaches and any fan of Australian football and fortunately enough they got the job done in both games. Firstly Indonesia, it started off horribly the first ten minutes. I think the players you could see were nervous and scared. In Indonesia, you know, with a new coach came out of the gates and they were, you know, they were really pressing high. They won the penalty, fortunately for us, they missed unfortunate for them. And then we you know, scored not long after that through our own penalty, and we won the game five to one. You know, you look at the stats and you know it was pretty even. To be honest, they had a lot more possession than us, which I don't know the last time we would have played Indonesia and had less possession. So I don't think that was a tactic from Tony Popovic.

I think it's the way the game played out.

I think it's the way the game played out.

But in saying that, you know, you score five goals, you only concede one, and you know it was four nilla at that stage as well when you conceded the one.

But in saying that, you know, you score five goals, you only concede one, and you know it was four nilla at that stage as well when you conceded the one.

So overall, that was a really positive performance.

So overall, that was a really positive performance.

And then I think in the next game, the game against China away from home, this was one of the ones that was really going to set us up because if we win that game, and hopefully we will at the moment at the time, we were hoping that Japan and Saudi Arabia were going to draw, or at least Japan would beat Saudi because Japan had already qualified.

And then I think in the next game, the game against China away from home, this was one of the ones that was really going to set us up because if we win that game, and hopefully we will at the moment at the time, we were hoping that Japan and Saudi Arabia were going to draw, or at least Japan would beat Saudi because Japan had already qualified.

That game was a draw. We ended up beating China to nil.

That game was a draw. We ended up beating China to nil.

So it's actually worked out unbelievable for Australia now, and you know, we go into this last round of games, which are tough games. We have Japan in Perth and then Saudi Arabia away and that's going to be in June and that's going to be a very hot.

So it's actually worked out unbelievable for Australia now, and you know, we go into this last round of games, which are tough games. We have Japan in Perth and then Saudi Arabia away and that's going to be in June and that's going to be a very hot.

Period over there, so it's going to be difficult.

Period over there, so it's going to be difficult.

But you know, we only really need to if we draw to Saudi Arabia, that's it.

But you know, we only really need to if we draw to Saudi Arabia, that's it.

We're good.

We're good.

You know, our goal difference is nine goals better than them.

You know, our goal difference is nine goals better than them.

So unless they smash Bahrain in the first one, I'm not saying pop is going to go there and try and draw with them away from home. But Japan have got nothing to play for, they've already qualified. I think we're in a great position. And if it wasn't for those first couple of games under Graham Arnold, when obviously he said that, you know, the fire wasn't there, the spark wasn't there, you know, Bahrain, and I think it was Indonesia potentially away. You know, if we had someone you know, like Popa in control, then maybe it would have been a different story. And you know, everybody was complaining that, you know, he's not doing a good enough job. But you know we could directly qualify, which hasn't been the case the last two cycles. So you know, it's it's exciting and the other groups are wide open. But I'm just happy because I think the soccer rus need to be at a World Cup.

So unless they smash Bahrain in the first one, I'm not saying pop is going to go there and try and draw with them away from home. But Japan have got nothing to play for, they've already qualified. I think we're in a great position. And if it wasn't for those first couple of games under Graham Arnold, when obviously he said that, you know, the fire wasn't there, the spark wasn't there, you know, Bahrain, and I think it was Indonesia potentially away. You know, if we had someone you know, like Popa in control, then maybe it would have been a different story. And you know, everybody was complaining that, you know, he's not doing a good enough job. But you know we could directly qualify, which hasn't been the case the last two cycles. So you know, it's it's exciting and the other groups are wide open. But I'm just happy because I think the soccer rus need to be at a World Cup.

If we can qualify directly for the World Cup, it gives.

If we can qualify directly for the World Cup, it gives.

Us a good chance over the next you know, twelve months to play friendly games against European, South America, North American, different oppositions. He can test out players, bring some new players in, maybe some of the boys from Adelaide. You united to get a gig and that's I guess the most exciting part about it.

Us a good chance over the next you know, twelve months to play friendly games against European, South America, North American, different oppositions. He can test out players, bring some new players in, maybe some of the boys from Adelaide. You united to get a gig and that's I guess the most exciting part about it.

Yeah, you've spoken very really well about that. So Australia thirteen points at the moment, Japan a top of twenty, so they're well and truly in. But Saudi Arabia on ten points just behind US, Indonesia nine and Bahrain China at the bottom with six. So those two teams, Bahrain and China look like they're sort of fighting for that second chance now, which still looks a little far off for them, but Indonesia and Saudi Arabia are the ones to look out for. It's Saudis that mainly concern us. As you said, we just need to draw. We play them away in the last game, so that'll really will come down to that, because I don't think we expect to beat Japan, even though it's on home salt. We'll give ourselves an absolute chance, but you kind of don't expect if you can walk away with one point, yes, that's all you need.

Yeah, you've spoken very really well about that. So Australia thirteen points at the moment, Japan a top of twenty, so they're well and truly in. But Saudi Arabia on ten points just behind US, Indonesia nine and Bahrain China at the bottom with six. So those two teams, Bahrain and China look like they're sort of fighting for that second chance now, which still looks a little far off for them, but Indonesia and Saudi Arabia are the ones to look out for. It's Saudis that mainly concern us. As you said, we just need to draw. We play them away in the last game, so that'll really will come down to that, because I don't think we expect to beat Japan, even though it's on home salt. We'll give ourselves an absolute chance, but you kind of don't expect if you can walk away with one point, yes, that's all you need.

You look at like they're obviously having played there, having seen them and watched them, and now probably more specifically, I like watching them and looking at the players they're they're just so stacked. So realistically, their coach may say, Okay, the players that played, you know, these previous eight games, I'm not even going to call you up for the next camp. I want to look at new players. So the second eleven, the third eleven, the fourth that they have so much depth, so many players from Jay one or even in Europe that aren't even getting a gig, may be called up because he wants to have a look at them, and they can do that. Absolutely, they've earned the right you know, you look, they've scored twenty four goals and they've got two goals against.

You look at like they're obviously having played there, having seen them and watched them, and now probably more specifically, I like watching them and looking at the players they're they're just so stacked. So realistically, their coach may say, Okay, the players that played, you know, these previous eight games, I'm not even going to call you up for the next camp. I want to look at new players. So the second eleven, the third eleven, the fourth that they have so much depth, so many players from Jay one or even in Europe that aren't even getting a gig, may be called up because he wants to have a look at them, and they can do that. Absolutely, they've earned the right you know, you look, they've scored twenty four goals and they've got two goals against.

It is.

It is.

It is incredible and the sometimes the worrying part is when a team doesn't have anything to play for, they're going to be coming. The only positive is is at the end of the season for European players, the Japanese boys will be in the middle of their season right, so hopefully the European boys are a bit you know cooked at the end of the season. They don't have that real drive. But having worked with a lot of Japanese players, they don't have that. They don't know how.

It is incredible and the sometimes the worrying part is when a team doesn't have anything to play for, they're going to be coming. The only positive is is at the end of the season for European players, the Japanese boys will be in the middle of their season right, so hopefully the European boys are a bit you know cooked at the end of the season. They don't have that real drive. But having worked with a lot of Japanese players, they don't have that. They don't know how.

To switch off.

To switch off.

They want to work more as batter. There's no such thing as is less in their culture. So either way, you know, it's a good opportunity.

They want to work more as batter. There's no such thing as is less in their culture. So either way, you know, it's a good opportunity.

For us in Perth.

For us in Perth.

I'm sure it will be a sold up crowd there at up the stadium to support the soccer us and if we can get a win, that's massive.

I'm sure it will be a sold up crowd there at up the stadium to support the soccer us and if we can get a win, that's massive.

Blats set a.

Blats set a.

Draw's okay, Saudi Arabia more than likely will beat bah Rain, but that's not an easy place to go.

Draw's okay, Saudi Arabia more than likely will beat bah Rain, but that's not an easy place to go.

But then bring them level with us. And as you said, if we draw with Saudi Arabian, we're level on points, it doesn't matter exactly, so that's that's a good thing. But here's the coach Tony Popovichi spoke after the win on Tuesday night.

But then bring them level with us. And as you said, if we draw with Saudi Arabian, we're level on points, it doesn't matter exactly, so that's that's a good thing. But here's the coach Tony Popovichi spoke after the win on Tuesday night.

The main point for us was we're in front when we started this window. Can we stay there at the end of the window.

The main point for us was we're in front when we started this window. Can we stay there at the end of the window.

So we did our part.

So we did our part.

We've got six points, extended our lead to three, so we're in a good position.

We've got six points, extended our lead to three, so we're in a good position.

It's in our hands.

It's in our hands.

And certainly is in their hands right now. So in terms of the rest of the World Cup frame, right now, with two games left in this third round stage, who's qualified who hasn't?

And certainly is in their hands right now. So in terms of the rest of the World Cup frame, right now, with two games left in this third round stage, who's qualified who hasn't?

Can you let us in around that?

Can you let us in around that?

Yeah, Iran of qualified in Group A, so they're on twenty points and just behind them Waszbekistan on seventeen points as well. So you would assume those are the two teams automatically going through, and just behind.

Yeah, Iran of qualified in Group A, so they're on twenty points and just behind them Waszbekistan on seventeen points as well. So you would assume those are the two teams automatically going through, and just behind.

Them you've got Ua and Quitar.

Them you've got Ua and Quitar.

So you know the third and fourth place playoffs as we've spoken about before, So it's the one and two from the three groups, so six teams automatically go through, and then you have third and fourth from the three groups. They go into another playoffs, so then they get it two groups of three. The top teams from each of those also go through, which makes eight teams going through automatically, and then the second place team will play off and then the winner of that will then play a team I believe it's from South America or North America. So we've got eight point five spots. And Australia last time around played Peru for that one and one in penalties and when Andrew Redmain became a hero and the wiggles Man. So there's still a lot to play for, you know, for a lot of these teams, and I think it's I don't like that they've expanded the World Cup in terms of you know, it was so hard to make it, which meant it was more precious. But you know, if you can get you know, an Indonesia for example, if they.

So you know the third and fourth place playoffs as we've spoken about before, So it's the one and two from the three groups, so six teams automatically go through, and then you have third and fourth from the three groups. They go into another playoffs, so then they get it two groups of three. The top teams from each of those also go through, which makes eight teams going through automatically, and then the second place team will play off and then the winner of that will then play a team I believe it's from South America or North America. So we've got eight point five spots. And Australia last time around played Peru for that one and one in penalties and when Andrew Redmain became a hero and the wiggles Man. So there's still a lot to play for, you know, for a lot of these teams, and I think it's I don't like that they've expanded the World Cup in terms of you know, it was so hard to make it, which meant it was more precious. But you know, if you can get you know, an Indonesia for example, if they.

Can qualify for a World Cup.

Can qualify for a World Cup.

You saw the other day in Sydney they had more fans I think at the game than what we had, which is embarrassing from Australian point of view, but they love it. There was eighty thousand you know when we played them away. They're just a football mad country. The population they're probably the fourth or biggest in the world, I reckon, and that's I think why FIEF has done it. They want these nations with big populations your Indonesia's.

You saw the other day in Sydney they had more fans I think at the game than what we had, which is embarrassing from Australian point of view, but they love it. There was eighty thousand you know when we played them away. They're just a football mad country. The population they're probably the fourth or biggest in the world, I reckon, and that's I think why FIEF has done it. They want these nations with big populations your Indonesia's.

If you can get India in there, you get China in there. That's money. At the end of the day, that's money.

If you can get India in there, you get China in there. That's money. At the end of the day, that's money.

That's money for FIFA because sponsorship goes through the roof because of TV viewership.

That's money for FIFA because sponsorship goes through the roof because of TV viewership.

And everything like that.

And everything like that.

So I understand it's not the best because it means, you know, maybe some of the games will be diluted in the quality, but this is the reality of it. It's still not easy to make it, and a lot of these countries now are just putting in more money because it's realistic.

So I understand it's not the best because it means, you know, maybe some of the games will be diluted in the quality, but this is the reality of it. It's still not easy to make it, and a lot of these countries now are just putting in more money because it's realistic.

And we know FIFA love money, don't they.

And we know FIFA love money, don't they.

All Right, let's just quickly move on because during this international window break few yourself and your Adelaide United side and the rest of the A League.

All Right, let's just quickly move on because during this international window break few yourself and your Adelaide United side and the rest of the A League.

I've had a bit of a spell. You've had the week, so can.

I've had a bit of a spell. You've had the week, so can.

You let me in on what you've been doing with your time off last week or two.

You let me in on what you've been doing with your time off last week or two.

Yeah, so we've just been training, obviously no games and that's probably come I think, probably a good time because after that mccarthur game, I think a.

Yeah, so we've just been training, obviously no games and that's probably come I think, probably a good time because after that mccarthur game, I think a.

Lot of the boys were pretty pretty deflated, you know, losing five to four.

Lot of the boys were pretty pretty deflated, you know, losing five to four.

We actually played pretty well, I thought, and tried to fix a few of the issues, but the reality is if you don't.

We actually played pretty well, I thought, and tried to fix a few of the issues, but the reality is if you don't.

Win, you know it's not well.

Win, you know it's not well.

And I think in the last eight games we'd only won one, so it was a time where we've kind of worked on a few different things in the way we want to play with the ball. I don't think there's a lot we need to change because we are so good with the ball. We scored I think the second or third most goals. That's not really our issue. But defensively is an area obviously conceding so many goals we need to be You know, we don't want to change the way we play completely because our biggest strength is also our biggest weakness. So it's kind of just understanding, Okay, how can we protect ourselves a little bit better. Yes, we want to be on the front foot, we want to be proactive with the ball without the ball, but sometimes we know we need to be more disciplined in our shape.

And I think in the last eight games we'd only won one, so it was a time where we've kind of worked on a few different things in the way we want to play with the ball. I don't think there's a lot we need to change because we are so good with the ball. We scored I think the second or third most goals. That's not really our issue. But defensively is an area obviously conceding so many goals we need to be You know, we don't want to change the way we play completely because our biggest strength is also our biggest weakness. So it's kind of just understanding, Okay, how can we protect ourselves a little bit better. Yes, we want to be on the front foot, we want to be proactive with the ball without the ball, but sometimes we know we need to be more disciplined in our shape.

And it's not the work rate.

And it's not the work rate.

Because our numbers in the GPS are great. It's just the timing of it. It's the smarts, and it's that's that's really something that we've worked on. So obviously, without giving too much away because you never know who's listening. I doubt there's anyone from Melbourn Victory listening to this, but if.

Because our numbers in the GPS are great. It's just the timing of it. It's the smarts, and it's that's that's really something that we've worked on. So obviously, without giving too much away because you never know who's listening. I doubt there's anyone from Melbourn Victory listening to this, but if.

They are, every popular show, I think so it's it's something that I think.

They are, every popular show, I think so it's it's something that I think.

You know, you'll see a difference hopefully in the way we play, but you know, we still want to be on the front foot. We want to be pressing teams, we want to be dominant with the ball, and you know, it's just about winning the games and if we can concede, you know, only three instead of.

You know, you'll see a difference hopefully in the way we play, but you know, we still want to be on the front foot. We want to be pressing teams, we want to be dominant with the ball, and you know, it's just about winning the games and if we can concede, you know, only three instead of.

Five, well we've got to score four goals.

Five, well we've got to score four goals.

But yeah, it's it's something that we worked on and we needed to work on, and everyone's brought in. We had a few boys away with the under twenty threes as well, so Aligitch, Dukley and Cox were all away. Duckally actually got named player of the Tournament for that that tournament, which was amazing to him. So we'll get them back and pretty much we have a fit squad. So this is the first time, I reckon in a long time we've had so many fit players, which is now a tough tough one for the coach. The best eleven. Then after that you know you're six or seven boys on the bench. It's going to be a lot of upset boys.

But yeah, it's it's something that we worked on and we needed to work on, and everyone's brought in. We had a few boys away with the under twenty threes as well, so Aligitch, Dukley and Cox were all away. Duckally actually got named player of the Tournament for that that tournament, which was amazing to him. So we'll get them back and pretty much we have a fit squad. So this is the first time, I reckon in a long time we've had so many fit players, which is now a tough tough one for the coach. The best eleven. Then after that you know you're six or seven boys on the bench. It's going to be a lot of upset boys.

Great problem to have though.

Great problem to have though.

All Right, we are just about up against the ad break very shortly because it is a doubleheader against Melbourne Victory away on the weekend. We will speak to Dylan Holmes, who's of course from the Adelaide United women's side, will go through their match. They're flying as well this season too, so they're in the box seat for a really great postseason run. But if you like to get along to Adelaide United's next home game, which isn't too far away, We take on Sydney FC next Saturday, the fifth of April eight double two to three, double O double five. Call in now we've got two grand stand tickets. Great thanks to our great friends at City Discount tires Port Adelaide. We'll always get the best advice and price on tires and mechanical Make sure you go to them City Discount.

All Right, we are just about up against the ad break very shortly because it is a doubleheader against Melbourne Victory away on the weekend. We will speak to Dylan Holmes, who's of course from the Adelaide United women's side, will go through their match. They're flying as well this season too, so they're in the box seat for a really great postseason run. But if you like to get along to Adelaide United's next home game, which isn't too far away, We take on Sydney FC next Saturday, the fifth of April eight double two to three, double O double five. Call in now we've got two grand stand tickets. Great thanks to our great friends at City Discount tires Port Adelaide. We'll always get the best advice and price on tires and mechanical Make sure you go to them City Discount.

Tires Port Adelaide. So first call of three can have those tickets.

Tires Port Adelaide. So first call of three can have those tickets.

We'll take a quick break, come back with some more local talk and we'll chat to Dylan Holmes.

We'll take a quick break, come back with some more local talk and we'll chat to Dylan Holmes.

The world game with Stephen mork on five double a.

The world game with Stephen mork on five double a.

Welcome back to the world game of course thanks to Southern Cherry where you can get yourself a fantastic deal six thousand dollars bonus on a Motor E five at Southern Cherry Vale for their second Australian anniversary. Stephan time to chat to yourn X gift.

Welcome back to the world game of course thanks to Southern Cherry where you can get yourself a fantastic deal six thousand dollars bonus on a Motor E five at Southern Cherry Vale for their second Australian anniversary. Stephan time to chat to yourn X gift.

Yeah, Dylan Holmes Adelaid younited midfielder style player. She's been kind enough to join us and obviously they've been flying at the moment. The recent game which was I guess at pretty big game for you girls against.

Yeah, Dylan Holmes Adelaid younited midfielder style player. She's been kind enough to join us and obviously they've been flying at the moment. The recent game which was I guess at pretty big game for you girls against.

Brisbane Raw and you're one nil down.

Brisbane Raw and you're one nil down.

When I was watching, I had to leave.

When I was watching, I had to leave.

My son was throwing a tantrum at about I think, just as you scored the equalizer.

My son was throwing a tantrum at about I think, just as you scored the equalizer.

So how was that game? Firstly, obviously it was.

So how was that game? Firstly, obviously it was.

A big comeback one nil down to come back and win three to one.

A big comeback one nil down to come back and win three to one.

Yeah, no, it was a really fantastic game for the girls. It was a really important one for us. If we had won that game, that cemented third spot for us at the very least. So it was a really good day. And to conside the way we did and find the resilience to come back I think will lead us really well going into finals in the next few games.

Yeah, no, it was a really fantastic game for the girls. It was a really important one for us. If we had won that game, that cemented third spot for us at the very least. So it was a really good day. And to conside the way we did and find the resilience to come back I think will lead us really well going into finals in the next few games.

Yeah, you've obviously had a few players. Different players get injured throughout the season. Obviously easy the captain's been injured for a long period of time. I think Aaron Heally's out at the moment. Fiona Wats has also been injured, I know. So it seems like you've got a really good group together where you know, probably in the year's gone past, maybe it was the starting eleven that was good and then it dropped off. But why do you think that's the case that so many players have stepped up when you've had injuries.

Yeah, you've obviously had a few players. Different players get injured throughout the season. Obviously easy the captain's been injured for a long period of time. I think Aaron Heally's out at the moment. Fiona Wats has also been injured, I know. So it seems like you've got a really good group together where you know, probably in the year's gone past, maybe it was the starting eleven that was good and then it dropped off. But why do you think that's the case that so many players have stepped up when you've had injuries.

I think we have the most depth I've ever experienced at Adlaid United. It's been really nice to have a lot of players that are more than capable of playing at this level. And we have a really deep squad. So when we're missing key players like Aaron or Fiona or Chelsea like, we have other players that can step up and fill those roles. So I think that gives us a lot of confidence in games. And I think everybody's contributed this year, so it's been a real team effort. And yeah, that depth has taken us a long way.

I think we have the most depth I've ever experienced at Adlaid United. It's been really nice to have a lot of players that are more than capable of playing at this level. And we have a really deep squad. So when we're missing key players like Aaron or Fiona or Chelsea like, we have other players that can step up and fill those roles. So I think that gives us a lot of confidence in games. And I think everybody's contributed this year, so it's been a real team effort. And yeah, that depth has taken us a long way.

Yeah, and obviously going forward to this weekend's game, the doubleheader obviously with us as well, so that will be it will be nice. I'm sure if we staying in the same hotel, so I'll see you.

Yeah, and obviously going forward to this weekend's game, the doubleheader obviously with us as well, so that will be it will be nice. I'm sure if we staying in the same hotel, so I'll see you.

Before the game.

Before the game.

But victory, obviously we hate all Melbourneians, but especially Melbourne victory. For you girls, this game means a lot. Obviously they're two points ahead of you, You've played an extra game than them, so this really is a massive game if you want to push for that top two spot, which obviously guarantees you the home semi final. I guess has there been anything extra spoken about or anything Stences trying to use his motivation or you're all pretty psyched for this one.

But victory, obviously we hate all Melbourneians, but especially Melbourne victory. For you girls, this game means a lot. Obviously they're two points ahead of you, You've played an extra game than them, so this really is a massive game if you want to push for that top two spot, which obviously guarantees you the home semi final. I guess has there been anything extra spoken about or anything Stences trying to use his motivation or you're all pretty psyched for this one.

I think we're all pretty psyched for this one. I think there are enough South Australians in our squad to know that we really love beating Melbourne Victory especially and to go to Amy and to win there would be very very special and given the context of the season, and that would at least temporarily put us in second spot, I think would be a huge statement. So I don't think Stance needs to give us any more motivation other than that, I think we're ready to go and hopefully we can get a good result and really push for that top two automatic semi final place would be amazing.

I think we're all pretty psyched for this one. I think there are enough South Australians in our squad to know that we really love beating Melbourne Victory especially and to go to Amy and to win there would be very very special and given the context of the season, and that would at least temporarily put us in second spot, I think would be a huge statement. So I don't think Stance needs to give us any more motivation other than that, I think we're ready to go and hopefully we can get a good result and really push for that top two automatic semi final place would be amazing.

Yeah, for sure.

Yeah, for sure.

And then obviously after that you've got Western United and Sydney FC. And Western United who are coming in fourth obviously so they can't catch you, but obviously it's going to be a tough game because I'm sure they're trying to secure fourth spot and Sydney FC, who have been a powerhouse recently a struggling so you're probably set up.

And then obviously after that you've got Western United and Sydney FC. And Western United who are coming in fourth obviously so they can't catch you, but obviously it's going to be a tough game because I'm sure they're trying to secure fourth spot and Sydney FC, who have been a powerhouse recently a struggling so you're probably set up.

In a pretty good position and hopefully victory.

In a pretty good position and hopefully victory.

You know, they've got Western Sydney after you girls, and then Central Coast and Brisbane Raw, so fingers crossed. They dropped some points obviously in those games, but most importantly you need to win. You need to win this Saturday night. And I guess the last thing before.

You know, they've got Western Sydney after you girls, and then Central Coast and Brisbane Raw, so fingers crossed. They dropped some points obviously in those games, but most importantly you need to win. You need to win this Saturday night. And I guess the last thing before.

I'll let you go is have you you know as a group last year was such a tough year.

I'll let you go is have you you know as a group last year was such a tough year.

I'm sure for you all and the coaching staff and the club with the women's squad because you know, there was obviously hopes that you will be pushing for finals and it was a bit of a disaster.

I'm sure for you all and the coaching staff and the club with the women's squad because you know, there was obviously hopes that you will be pushing for finals and it was a bit of a disaster.

That's just the reality of it. Sometimes it happens.

That's just the reality of it. Sometimes it happens.

Did you speak about this preseason, how you were going to kind of rectify the problems that came up last year, and did you have any goals as a group for this season.

Did you speak about this preseason, how you were going to kind of rectify the problems that came up last year, and did you have any goals as a group for this season.

Yeah.

Yeah.

I think that was probably more so in the off season. I think when we came into this season we wanted a fresh start, and the it was more the off season where we spoke about what we needed to do on an individual level and a team level to ensure that we didn't we weren't in the same position again this year. And and credit to the club, they've they've really listened to the players and listened to everybody's taking feedback really well. And I think, you know, even from the get go, we had an extra three weeks of pre season, which set us up really well going into the year and gave us a chance to gel with the players they brought in. But I think at the heart of it, we just have a really good group of people through the staff and the playing group. I think everybody gets along really well and everybody's trying to bring out the best in each other. So it's it's a really nice environment to be in this year. And I think you can see that when we're on the field and we're playing together, we really fight for each other, and I think there's just good chemistry through the group. So definitely, we spoke about it a lot in the off season, but I think once we got into pre season, it was full focused on this year and what we could do to win as many games as possible.

I think that was probably more so in the off season. I think when we came into this season we wanted a fresh start, and the it was more the off season where we spoke about what we needed to do on an individual level and a team level to ensure that we didn't we weren't in the same position again this year. And and credit to the club, they've they've really listened to the players and listened to everybody's taking feedback really well. And I think, you know, even from the get go, we had an extra three weeks of pre season, which set us up really well going into the year and gave us a chance to gel with the players they brought in. But I think at the heart of it, we just have a really good group of people through the staff and the playing group. I think everybody gets along really well and everybody's trying to bring out the best in each other. So it's it's a really nice environment to be in this year. And I think you can see that when we're on the field and we're playing together, we really fight for each other, and I think there's just good chemistry through the group. So definitely, we spoke about it a lot in the off season, but I think once we got into pre season, it was full focused on this year and what we could do to win as many games as possible.

Yeah, no, I guess that's it's probably great that it was, you know, a little bit player led, like what you were talking about. Obviously making sure you come back in the best shape, but at the same time, you know, obviously you know, I'm not going to hammer the club or anything, but you know, if they're not giving you the right resources, is very hard, very difficult for the coach of stuff and the players to obviously go out there.

Yeah, no, I guess that's it's probably great that it was, you know, a little bit player led, like what you were talking about. Obviously making sure you come back in the best shape, but at the same time, you know, obviously you know, I'm not going to hammer the club or anything, but you know, if they're not giving you the right resources, is very hard, very difficult for the coach of stuff and the players to obviously go out there.

And do their job.

And do their job.

So it's something that I think the club's been really good at for the women's and the men's program this year is listening to that feedback. You know, both of us struggled last year and we're both in pretty good positions. You girls doing a little bit better than us, so it's amazing to see fingers crossed we both.

So it's something that I think the club's been really good at for the women's and the men's program this year is listening to that feedback. You know, both of us struggled last year and we're both in pretty good positions. You girls doing a little bit better than us, so it's amazing to see fingers crossed we both.

Get the three points.

Get the three points.

We come back to Adelaide with six points, in the bag and you girls need to, I guess, worry about the finals and beating Melbourne City who were undefeeded at the moment. So it's you know, I think you only lost four to three was it the other week against them?

We come back to Adelaide with six points, in the bag and you girls need to, I guess, worry about the finals and beating Melbourne City who were undefeeded at the moment. So it's you know, I think you only lost four to three was it the other week against them?

So they're obviously good.

So they're obviously good.

But you know, if you're losing four three, it's showing that you know you're doing something right. So I'm looking forward to watching you girls for the rest of the season. Good luck for this weekend's game, even though I'm sure I'll say it again in person, and thanks for jumping on the show.

But you know, if you're losing four three, it's showing that you know you're doing something right. So I'm looking forward to watching you girls for the rest of the season. Good luck for this weekend's game, even though I'm sure I'll say it again in person, and thanks for jumping on the show.

Thanks for having me and good luck. Thank you well for Saturday.

Thanks for having me and good luck. Thank you well for Saturday.

Bill and Holmes from Adelaide United Women's side, so best of luck to them against the victory and of course I'm in the double heater.

Bill and Holmes from Adelaide United Women's side, so best of luck to them against the victory and of course I'm in the double heater.

Back to back.

Back to back.

Should be a fantastic day on Saturday. Let's get local though the NPL. We are about a month into the season now, aren't we, Stefan, So where's it all looking right now for our local league?

Should be a fantastic day on Saturday. Let's get local though the NPL. We are about a month into the season now, aren't we, Stefan, So where's it all looking right now for our local league?

Well, we've we've finally had a win at Campbelltown and this is this is something that we needed. Dan Mullen we haven't spoke to him obviously since he was first on the show before their first game, and I was actually speaking about this with a few of the boys in the physios in the physio room the day of that game on Friday morning. I was just saying, you know, at that level, you only need like one star player to pomp up and Mark Mariner scores a hat trick and that's what they've got the quality at Campbelltown. And he literally did that ninety scored hat trick and he's got an unbelievable thing third goal as well, and the composure that he had to slot at bottom corner, and that's obviously why you get these experience and you probably pay them the most because they're going to deliver. He's someone that I think is it's too good for the competition. He's probably in that in between of you know, he needs to be in the second division if that had been around, and he could have worked his way back up to the A League. But you know, hopefully in years to come, players like him, you know, don't have to drop down to semi professional football.

Well, we've we've finally had a win at Campbelltown and this is this is something that we needed. Dan Mullen we haven't spoke to him obviously since he was first on the show before their first game, and I was actually speaking about this with a few of the boys in the physios in the physio room the day of that game on Friday morning. I was just saying, you know, at that level, you only need like one star player to pomp up and Mark Mariner scores a hat trick and that's what they've got the quality at Campbelltown. And he literally did that ninety scored hat trick and he's got an unbelievable thing third goal as well, and the composure that he had to slot at bottom corner, and that's obviously why you get these experience and you probably pay them the most because they're going to deliver. He's someone that I think is it's too good for the competition. He's probably in that in between of you know, he needs to be in the second division if that had been around, and he could have worked his way back up to the A League. But you know, hopefully in years to come, players like him, you know, don't have to drop down to semi professional football.

Because there is that second division.

Because there is that second division.

But the reality is that's how it's been and he's been performing very very well for a long time in that competition and around the grounds as well. Adelaide's City a four to three win against Playford, and Playford had been on fire and they're three to two up in this game, I think in the eighty eighth minute probably thinking another three points, we're looking pretty good here, and then they lost for to three.

But the reality is that's how it's been and he's been performing very very well for a long time in that competition and around the grounds as well. Adelaide's City a four to three win against Playford, and Playford had been on fire and they're three to two up in this game, I think in the eighty eighth minute probably thinking another three points, we're looking pretty good here, and then they lost for to three.

So it's an.

So it's an.

Absolute killer and I guess, you know, from what I've seen, there's not really a standout team. I've seen bits and pieces of a lot of the games. And White City, who I don't think had won a game yet they beat Metristars who run defeed it two to one.

Absolute killer and I guess, you know, from what I've seen, there's not really a standout team. I've seen bits and pieces of a lot of the games. And White City, who I don't think had won a game yet they beat Metristars who run defeed it two to one.

So I think it's so even.

So I think it's so even.

Across the board and that's what makes it exciting. And because there is the second Division, the Australian Championship, the winner of the league, as we've said before, you know, not the final series, but the winner of the league will qualify for that tournament, which is going to be held from October to December. There's a lot more at play with that. So our United youth team won three two as well, And that was a question I actually put out on on X yesterday is if they win this tournament, can they qualify for this you know, second Division kind of concept and a lot of the replies they got there's a lot of hate in the replies, that's for sure. But I think the answer was no or people were just saying no because they didn't want them to. But I understand why they couldn't be in it, but it's also if you want, you know, they want promotion, relegation. They would an open pyramid if they win it. I think they should be able to go in it. I don't really understand why we shouldn't be able to go in it, because if they're good enough to win the league, they're good enough to go in it. They're not playing in the A League from it.

Across the board and that's what makes it exciting. And because there is the second Division, the Australian Championship, the winner of the league, as we've said before, you know, not the final series, but the winner of the league will qualify for that tournament, which is going to be held from October to December. There's a lot more at play with that. So our United youth team won three two as well, And that was a question I actually put out on on X yesterday is if they win this tournament, can they qualify for this you know, second Division kind of concept and a lot of the replies they got there's a lot of hate in the replies, that's for sure. But I think the answer was no or people were just saying no because they didn't want them to. But I understand why they couldn't be in it, but it's also if you want, you know, they want promotion, relegation. They would an open pyramid if they win it. I think they should be able to go in it. I don't really understand why we shouldn't be able to go in it, because if they're good enough to win the league, they're good enough to go in it. They're not playing in the A League from it.

I think you're absolutely spotify.

I think you're absolutely spotify.

But football say, you might have other things in Football Australia who are obviously organizing this one, and probably the clubs won't like it, but the reality is if they're the best team, they should qualify for it.

But football say, you might have other things in Football Australia who are obviously organizing this one, and probably the clubs won't like it, but the reality is if they're the best team, they should qualify for it.

Well, you're promoting the state, you're promoting the league, you're putting your players, that's right, and you want players to be attracted to your clubs so that they can fight for that position in a different legue.

Well, you're promoting the state, you're promoting the league, you're putting your players, that's right, and you want players to be attracted to your clubs so that they can fight for that position in a different legue.

I'm with you, Steve. I think it's a good thing.

I'm with you, Steve. I think it's a good thing.

Yeah, but we'll see, maybe we'll get someone that will let us know exactly how it is. But going forward to this weekend, there's a break in the league and they've actually got the Cup, so the High in Australia Cup the round four fixtures, so all of the big teams now come in. They got the first round off for all round three off sorry, and a couple of the biggest games that you know, the Color against Adelaide City, which is actually tonight at seven pm. That's a massive game because obviously, you know you want to this is another way to qualify for the round of thirty two, you know, when you get to play against the A League team, so you need to come.

Yeah, but we'll see, maybe we'll get someone that will let us know exactly how it is. But going forward to this weekend, there's a break in the league and they've actually got the Cup, so the High in Australia Cup the round four fixtures, so all of the big teams now come in. They got the first round off for all round three off sorry, and a couple of the biggest games that you know, the Color against Adelaide City, which is actually tonight at seven pm. That's a massive game because obviously, you know you want to this is another way to qualify for the round of thirty two, you know, when you get to play against the A League team, so you need to come.

I think it's the final to make that top.

I think it's the final to make that top.

Two teams qualify, so they're playing each other tonight.

Two teams qualify, so they're playing each other tonight.

Tomorrow night.

Tomorrow night.

You've got Common to be Para Hills, which is another big game which you would expect obviously Commets to probably comfortably win that one because it's Para Hills East actually in that game, and then Adelaide Hills one of the lower teams West Adelaide, so it's you know, there's some great games going through the whole weekend. So if you've got nothing to do. Obviously, we're playing away, the women's teams playing away. If you want to get down watch some local football Vipers of the Cumberland on Sunday at Saint Clair Oval in my neck of the woods not far from me at Henley Beach, so I might actually have to go down there and watch that. I've got some family playing for Vipers, So yeah, it's great to just get around and see local players.

You've got Common to be Para Hills, which is another big game which you would expect obviously Commets to probably comfortably win that one because it's Para Hills East actually in that game, and then Adelaide Hills one of the lower teams West Adelaide, so it's you know, there's some great games going through the whole weekend. So if you've got nothing to do. Obviously, we're playing away, the women's teams playing away. If you want to get down watch some local football Vipers of the Cumberland on Sunday at Saint Clair Oval in my neck of the woods not far from me at Henley Beach, so I might actually have to go down there and watch that. I've got some family playing for Vipers, So yeah, it's great to just get around and see local players.

Of all levels.

Of all levels.

And this is the only tournament I believe in all sports that connects grassroots in terms of your amateur semi pro teams all the way to the professional team. So it's a great initiative that came in what is it ten plus years ago, and it's something that I think needs to keep on building on the traction, and you know, it's an amazing thing for these players to be able to hopefully get to you know, the fine and it's been done before with semi pro team. So let's hope one day it's an Adelaide team, you know, maybe it's an Adelaide City of the Adelaide United in the final and they will bring back some memories, I'm sure for a lot of Adelaide City fans.

And this is the only tournament I believe in all sports that connects grassroots in terms of your amateur semi pro teams all the way to the professional team. So it's a great initiative that came in what is it ten plus years ago, and it's something that I think needs to keep on building on the traction, and you know, it's an amazing thing for these players to be able to hopefully get to you know, the fine and it's been done before with semi pro team. So let's hope one day it's an Adelaide team, you know, maybe it's an Adelaide City of the Adelaide United in the final and they will bring back some memories, I'm sure for a lot of Adelaide City fans.

Wouldn't that be great? Stephan?

Wouldn't that be great? Stephan?

I wish we could talk about this for longer, but we have run out of time. We've got to rush off to Marvel Stadium because Thursday night football is upon us here on five Double A, Port Adelaide and Eastman coming up straight after this break.

I wish we could talk about this for longer, but we have run out of time. We've got to rush off to Marvel Stadium because Thursday night football is upon us here on five Double A, Port Adelaide and Eastman coming up straight after this break.

Thank you so much for joining us once again. We'll done, Steffan, great stuff.

Thank you so much for joining us once again. We'll done, Steffan, great stuff.

We'll see you next Thursday again here on our earwaves, but for now we're off to the foot.

We'll see you next Thursday again here on our earwaves, but for now we're off to the foot.

You have a great night.

You have a great night.