Red, White and You - 2011/12 Memberships Now Available

With only five days to go until our first home match of the season against Perth Glory, there's never been a better time to sign up as a Melbourne Heart FC member.
Building upon an unforgettable, heart-pumping debut, we're back bigger, better and stronger than ever before to fill Melbourne's hearts with pride both on and off the pitch.
Our belief in supporting the local community, our loyal fans and the beautiful game itself runs deep in our veins.
Indeed, our commitment to giving our all for 90 minutes on game day is only rivalled by our commitment to giving back to the local community and helping make football a true passion for generations to come.
Last year over 25,000 school children participated in our self-funded community programs, we took the game to regional areas in a series of unique rural football camps, and we set about fostering grassroots talent we hope will one day go on to play on the planet's biggest stages.
This year we'll continue the drive and, with your support, show we have a passion for football like no other.
MEMBERSHIP FEATURES
With all 13 home matches to be staged at AAMI Park, your membership will guarantee your seat at the best football stadium in Australia, including Derby match-ups against cross town rivals Victory on December 23 and February 4.
Among the highlights of this year's membership campaign is the General Admission Family option, which provides access for two adults and four children to all 13 Melbourne Heart FC Hyundai A-League home matches for only $390!
And following the atmosphere generated by the Yarraside last season, the Active Supporter area has also been doubled in size, ensuring more fans can become part of Melbourne Heart FC's match day pulse.
Click here to head to the online membership portal and join the Red and White in 2011/12

We can't do it without you, so get on board and help us make 2011 a year of RED, WHITE & YOU.
Follow your heart,



Peter Sidwell
Chairman

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EnergyWatch To Power Victory - 1,000 signed balls to be given away‏

Melbourne Victory Media Release

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

EnergyWatch To Power Victory – 1,000 signed balls to be given away

Melbourne Victory is proud to announce EnergyWatch as its new joint Principal Partner, with the energy broker signing a two-year deal, which includes branding on the front of the Melbourne Victory Hyundai A-League and National Youth League ‘electricity’ coloured away playing shirts (images attached).

EnergyWatch is Australia’s number one energy broker and saves people money on both their home and business accounts, by helping them to source a better deal on their electricity and gas.

To celebrate the partnership, EnergyWatch will give the first 1,000 Australians, who switch to EnergyWatch, a signed football if they say ‘Go Victory’.

There will also be 250 Melbourne Victory shirts on offer to businesses who switch to EnergyWatch for a better deal on their energy bills.

The man behind EnergyWatch is 30-year-old founder and CEO, Ben Polis (pictured).

“EnergyWatch is always on the lookout for vibrant, aggressive clubs, who are determined to succeed, and Melbourne Victory is no exception.” Polis said.

“We are thrilled to be associated with a club that has already experienced consistent success.”

“EnergyWatch is diversifying its branding strategy and we will be running TVC’s in other languages to appeal to the people of our great multicultural city. Football has a huge following and EnergyWatch wants to be a part of it.”

“The key to EnergyWatch’s success has been the capacity to reach a mass audience, attracting a diverse demographic through our extensive marketing activities.” he added.

Melbourne Victory Managing Director, Richard Wilson, said it was only fitting that a young and vibrant organization like EnergyWatch sponsor the clubs new adidas ‘electricity’ coloured away strip.

"We're delighted to welcome EnergyWatch to the Melbourne Victory family and see many exciting opportunities ahead over the next two years.”

"It’s obviously a very exciting time for Melbourne Victory. We’ve built a fantastic squad ahead of the upcoming season and to have secured a new joint Principal Partner like Energy Watch is another fantastic coup for our club.” Wilson said.

Melbourne Victory Media Release – Melissa Barbieri

Melbourne Victory’s W-League team announced today that it will not be re-signing goalkeeper, Melissa Barbieri, for the upcoming W-League season, opting instead to name talented young shot-stopper Brianna Davey as the side’s first choice keeper.

It was, says Melbourne Victory W-League head coach Vicki Linton, ‘a very difficult decision’, ironically made necessary by an abundance of talent which she says is an enormously positive sign for women’s football in Victoria.

“Victoria is very lucky in the talent we have here,” said Linton.

“We have a long history of producing world class goalkeepers, from FFA and FFV ‘Hall of Fame’ inductee Theresa Deas, to Melissa Barbieri who has performed outstandingly for Melbourne Victory and the Matildas. I don’t think there’s any question that Brianna Davey has the talent to join that elite group in the very near future.”

Linton, who is also head coach of the Under 16 Women’s National Team, said that while Barbieri was still an outstanding keeper, she believed it was time for Davey to be given a chance at the top level.

“Melissa has been an amazing player at both State and National level, as well as an outstanding ambassador for the game,” said Linton.

“While letting any player go is difficult, we also have to do what we feel is the right thing for Melbourne Victory as a team. Going forward, we really believe it’s time for Brianna to step up to that ‘number one’ position.”

Davey has represented Australia at Under 14 and Under 16 levels and is currently in the Young Matildas squad preparing for the Under 19 AFC Championships. She has been with the Melbourne Victory W-League squad since 2010.

“Brianna is an outstanding goalkeeper and, though she is still young at 16, plays well beyond her years and, importantly, has the potential to get even better as she matures,” Linton added.

“Anyone who has seen her play in the Under 16s, or who had the chance to see her play in the three W-League games she played for Victory last season at the age of only 15, will know what a talented and exciting player she is.”

In farewelling Barbieri, Linton said Victory was delighted to have had such a successful relationship with her.

“She has been an enormous asset to Victory and I am sure she will continue to make an outstanding contribution to the sport in the future and I wish her all the very best.” Linton said.

CANNAVARO WATCHES PERTH GLORY ‏

Fabio Cannavaro, one of the biggest names in world football will be in the stands watching tonight, when Perth Glory take on Al-Ahli from the United Arab Emirates.

Cannavaro is as close to football royalty as it gets, a world cup winning captain and the only defender to win the ballon d'Or, as European footballer of the year in 2006.

The star Italian is in Perth as an ambassador for Al-Ahli, having been forced to retire from the final year of his contract with the club because of injury.

"It should be a good game and one I’m looking forward to watching," Cannavaro said.

Even without Cannavaro, Al-Ahli still has a trio of big name players.

Striker Grafite was the top goal scorer in the German Bundesliga in 2008/09 while Brazilian Jaja Coelho and Chile international Luis Jimenez are top shelf players.

The international friendly will be another important game for Perth Glory in the build-up to this seasons Hyundai A-League which kicks-off in October.

Former Socceroo Chris Coyne returns from an Achilles injury having impressed at training but midfielder Liam Miller has been ruled out with a quad strain.

Having already played Scottish giants Celtic and South African sides Platinum Stars and AmaZulu this pre-season, tonight's game will give Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson another chance to see his exciting new team in action after two months of tough training.

Kick-off at nib Stadium tonight is 8pm.

General admission tickets are $10 and available from Gate 3.

Perth Glory would like to thank Football West and Allia venue management for staging tonight's game.

A photo of Fabio Cannavaro with the Perth Glory jersey is available upon request.

Harry Kewell signs for Melbourne Victory

I had to include the official MVFC Media Release!

Melbourne Victory Media Release

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Harry Kewell signs for Melbourne Victory

Melbourne Victory fans and Australian football supporters will see Harry Kewell in the Hyundai A-League this season playing for Melbourne Victory.

Harry Kewell and Melbourne Victory today announce that an unconditional agreement has now been reached.

Harry Kewell is arguably the most famous footballer Australia has produced with a successful career to date in the English Premiership with both Leeds United and Liverpool and more recently in Europe with Galatasaray. Harry is also regarded as the talisman of the Qantas Socceroos, having captained the side, also clocking up 54 caps for his country and scoring 16 goals.

Anthony Di Pietro, Melbourne Victory’s Chairman is delighted by the news, “Melbourne Victory, as an ambitious club, wishes to bring success and the highest level of talent to the club for our supporters.

“We are delighted to announce that Harry has chosen to play for our club.

“Harry is an Australian sporting icon and will bring not only incredible talent to Melbourne Victory but will attract more fans to football and boost greater interest and participation in the sport in Australia.”

“Our discussions with Harry have been progressing for some time and we are delighted to have completed what is the most significant signing in Australian football and Hyundai A-League history.” Di Pietro added.

Harry Kewell said, “I am delighted to be joining Melbourne Victory. It is a great club whose record in the A-League speaks for itself. I am looking forward to playing in front of the Victory supporters with my new team mates.

“I am proud to be Australian and want to give something back to the game there. It has always been my ambition to play in my home country and I am very pleased to have that opportunity by playing for Melbourne Victory.”

ENDS

eNEWS - RED AND WHITE UNITE

Message From The CEO

Dear Scott,
Greetings from Albury Wodonga, where our Club is currently stationed for leg one of the Westpac Community Football Festival.
The festivals see us decamp to a regional area for three days, hosting clinics, coaching workshops and events which culminate in a friendly match-up against local opposition.
We have been overwhelmed by the welcome received from the local community here on the Victoria-New South Wales border, and are confident our impact will help leave football in a better place.
The countdown to round one of the Hyundai A-League season steps up this weekend as we approach eight weeks until our opening match-up against the Newcastle Jets at Ausgrid Stadium.
It’s certainly been a fruitful off-season for our Club as we bolstered our attacking ranks through the signings of Maycon, Mate Dugandzic, David Williams and Fred, providing Head Coach John van ‘t Schip with significant firepower for this season.
Add the firing Jason Hoffman and Alex Terra to the list and we are certainly in possession of a plethora of avenues to goal as we approach our second ever season.
And all signs bode well that we will be able to reach a fresh plain this season, with a debut finals appearance certainly the goal for all at the Club.
We feel the time is now for our side to paint not only Melbourne but the Hyundai A-League red and white. Our team is driven, motivated and ready to make its mark and I hope you will be able to join us as we embark on this journey during 2011/12.
Memberships are on track to surpass last season’s total, with over 2,000 supporters pledging to make this season one of Red, White and You.
We hope to see you at AAMI Park when we return for our first home match of the Hyundai A-League season on Sunday October 16 against Perth Glory.
Click here to head to the online membership portal and join the Red and White in 2011/12
Keep your eye out on the horizon for future announcements as we place the final finishing touches on our squad ahead of the campaign.
Follow your heart,



Scott Munn
Chief Executive Officer
Member #: 1004
twitter.com/scott_munn

Melbourne Victory Media Release - Statement regarding Harry Kewell‏

Melbourne Victory Media Release

Friday, August 5, 2011

Statement regarding Harry Kewell

In relation to media reports surrounding the deadline, Melbourne Victory Football Club can confirm that it is in the final stages of discussions with Harry Kewell and his management. We expect to be in a position to announce an outcome shortly.

The club will make no further comment until an outcome is reached.

PERTH GLORY PRE-SEASON HEADS TO SOUTH AFRICA‏

Western Australian based Hyundai A-League team Perth Glory will head to South Africa this weekend for an important part of their pre-season program in the build-up to the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League season.

The 16 day camp will begin on Sunday, with a 30 man touring party to be based between elite sporting facilities in Rustenburg and Durban.

The squad will play three games against top flight South African sides Platinum Stars, Amazula FC and a third to be confirmed.

“The main objective for me is to try a few things, experiment with a few positions and personal,” Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson said.

Having prepared his squad for the recent friendly against Celtic FC, Ferguson says the squad have now entered the second phase of pre-season and the most crucial.

“This is when it really starts now.

“With all the new players we’ve recruited, we basically have a new team.

“We now have 12 weeks to get ready for the season, 12 weeks to work and get a team together,” Ferguson added.

Prominent South African focussed resources company Continental Coal Limited and natural resource focussed corporate advisory and capital raising firm Komodo Capital are the two major sponsors for the trip. 

Continental Coal Limited (ASX:CCC : US-OTCQX:CGFAY) is a South African thermal coal producer with a portfolio of producing and advanced coal projects located in South Africa’s major coal fields.

It currently has two operating mines, Vlakvarkfontein and Ferreira, producing 2Mtpa of thermal coal for the export and domestic markets. The company has also commenced, or soon will commence development of two further thermal coal mines in South Africa.

Komodo Capital offers capital raising and corporate advisory services to a range of companies, predominately in Africa and in A-League season 2010/11 was the shorts sponsor for Perth Glory.  

They also recognise the importance of, and are committed to, establishing and maintaining strong relationships with local communities in South Africa.

“South Africa has a strong football culture, enhanced by the recent World Cup, and with the large South African community in Western Australia we believe there are great synergies between Perth Glory and the wider South African football community,” Perth Glory CEO, Mr Paul Kelly, commented.

In addition to the significant playing and training commitments Perth Glory will be undertaking as part of its South African tour it will also be visiting a number of local communities and hosting football skills programs which support and develop opportunities and initiatives for South African youth. 

Continental Coal and Komodo Capital see the local community youth initiatives that Perth Glory will undertake as the key basis for their involvement and support of the tour.

It is expected that Perth Glory will host 3-4 coaching clinics at its training venues, with the participants made up of children from local schools, and will visit local communities at both locations.

During these community visits the players and coaching staff will conduct skills session and provide sports clothing and equipment.

“The sponsorship of the Perth Glory pre-season tour to South Africa, and the various community initiatives that will be undertaken during the tour, is an important part of our community development and social programs,” said Continental Coal Executive Director, Mr Jason Brewer.

“We see this trip as a way of bridging cultural divides and building strong and mutually rewarding relationships with the communities in which we operate and importantly contributing to them in a positive manner,” Mr Brewer added.

With the support of its co-major sponsors for the trip, Continental Coal Limited and Komodo Capital, Perth Glory has also had designed and will play in a special kit – which along with all training apparel taking to South Africa will be donated to local South African communities at the end of the visit.

“While this trip is about football, it is also about exposing our players to other cultures and customs and ensuring that we give something back to the communities in which we visit,” added Mr Ferguson.

Both sponsors see this trip as an opportunity for the Perth Glory and the South African football community to build closer ties, which it is hoped will lead to a regular sharing of resources and personnel over time.

Maycon Joins Heart Samba Brigade

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release

Tuesday 19 July

Maycon Joins Heart Samba Brigade

Melbourne Heart FC’s brigade of samba stars has expanded to three following the signing of Brazilian striker Maycon Carvalho Inez.

The 24-year-old has joined Heart on a one-year deal and becomes the Club’s fifth signing this off-season following the acquisition of fellow Brazilian Fred, David Williams, Mate Dugandzic and Curtis Good.

Head Coach John van‘t Schip says Maycon is capable of playing an important role for Heart during the upcoming Hyundai A-League season.

“We are excited to have Maycon with us and he brings some great technical and striking qualities to the squad,” he said.

“Maycon is more of a traditional number 9 with a good penalty box sense, a very good work ethic and at 24 years of age, a lot of improvement ahead of him.

“With the signings of Dugandzic and Williams, Maycon provides real depth and variety to our attack and another option in the front third.”

Having featured for Nova Iguacu during the recently completed Rio de Janeiro State Championship, widely regarded as one of the strongest competitions in Brazil, Maycon arrives at Heart on the back of a strong season.

Scoring six times throughout the campaign, including against giants Vasco de Gama, Maycon helped guide his side to a mid-table finish behind the likes of Ronaldinho’s Flamengo, Fluminense and Botafogo.

Melbourne Victory Media Release - Surat Sukha returns to Thailand‏

Melbourne Victory Football Club wishes to confirm that defender Surat Sukha has been released today with immediate effect and will join Thai club, Buriram PEA, after a transfer was negotiated with the Bangkok based club.

Sukha, 28, was given permission to return home to Thailand on compassionate grounds.

The Thailand international made 36 appearances over his two seasons in the Hyundai A-League and another 5 in the clubs most recent AFC Champions League campaign – the same competition which first brought him to Melbourne Victory’s attention in 2008.

Melbourne Victory Coach, Mehmet Durakovic, said, “We’d like to thank Surat for his tremendous contribution over the past two seasons and wish him well in the future.

“Surat was hugely popular among the playing group and very quickly became an important part of our set-up due to his competitive nature and versatility at both the left and right-hand side of defence.

“The massive cultural differences between Thailand and Australia made it difficult for his family to settle here in Melbourne, and as a result we reluctantly agreed to transfer him to Buriram PEA.” Durakovic added.

Sukha, who farewelled his former team mates after this morning’s training session, thanked the club for their support, “I enjoyed my time at Melbourne Victory, but it was in the best interests of my family that I return home to Thailand.

“I made some very good friends here in Melbourne and I wish the club every success in the future.” he added.

CELTIC DOWN BRAVE GLORY

nib Stadium was transformed into a sea of purple and green on Saturday as a bumper crowd of over 15,000 turned out to watch Glory’s pre-season showdown with Scottish giants Celtic.

Goals from Gary Hooper and Charlie Mulgrew ultimately steered the visitors to a 2-0 victory, but the hosts more than played their part in a keenly-fought contest.

A stirring rendition of Celtic’s anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone” saw both sets of supporters in full voice moments before the teams took to the field accompanied by a Scottish pipe band and the familiar sounds clearly helped the visitors feel at home.

Starting strongly they penned Glory inside their own half for much of the opening quarter, with Kris Commons making plenty of early inroads down the left flank.
Anthony Stokes twice threatened in the first ten minutes before Danny Vukovic was called into action, producing a stunning save to deny Mark Wilson’s powerful header from a quickly-taken Commons corner.

The green and white tide continued to flow forward, however and on 16 minutes they made the breakthrough. Glen Loovens’ long punt from the back caught the Glory back four a touch flat-footed and Gary Hooper showed the kind of accomplished finishing that earned him 22 goals in all competitions last season by calmly side-footing past the helpless Vukovic.

Rather than open the floodgates, however, the opening goal seemed to jar the hosts into life and with Liam Miller starting to impose himself against his former club, they began to ask questions of the Bhoys’ defence.

On 25 minutes Miller created what proved to be Glory’s best chance of the half, cleverly chipping a 25 metre free-kick over the wall and into the path of Shane Smeltz, but after successfully eluding his marker, the Kiwi striker miscued and the opportunity went begging.

Then shortly before the interval Miller again showed his class to bamboozle several Celtic defenders and get a shot away from just outside the box that looped narrowly over the crossbar and into the ranks of green and white-clad fans behind the goal.

Ian Ferguson opted against making a raft of changes at the break, only introducing Steven McGarry and Adam Taggart for Liam Miller and Shane Smeltz respectively and he saw his side carve out the first opportunity of the second period.
There seemed little danger when Adam Hughes picked up the ball some 30 metres out from goal, but the combative midfielder unleashed a thumping drive that had Celtic ‘keeper Lukasz Zaluska scrambling to his right to palm over the bar.

Celtic’s response to that early scare, however, was swift and clinical. Substitute Ki Sung Yung whipped in a pinpoint free-kick from wide out left and Charlie Mulgrew climbed highest to glance an unstoppable header past Vukovic and into the top corner of the net.

Frustrated by Celtic’s high defensive line, the home sides struggled to force their way back into the contest, although Taggart and fellow substitute Alex Caniglia worked tirelessly to keep their vastly more experienced opponents on their toes.
Taggart twice got the better of Kelvin Wilson in dangerous areas and got a shot away, but neither effort troubled Zaluska.

Caniglia then went close to bagging a dream goal on two occasions as Glory finished on the front foot. On 87 minutes, the youngster flashed a low drive narrowly wide after the Bhoys had failed to clear their lines and on the stroke of full-time he shrugged off the attentions of Loovens, but just failed to get a meaningful headed connection on an inch-perfect corner delivered from the right by Todd Howarth.
Taggart also went close to claiming a consolation goal deep into stoppage time, narrowly failing to convert a through ball from McGarry before referee Peter Green brought the curtain down on a clash from which Glory will have taken plenty of positives both on and off the field.

Perth Glory 0–2 Celtic (Half-time 0-1 )

Saturday 9th July 2011
nib Stadium
Attendance: 15,350
Referee: Peter Green

Perth Glory: 1. Danny VUKOVIC, 2. Josh MITCHELL, 3. Bas VAN DEN BRINK, 7. Jacob BURNS (25. Blamo QUAQUA 85’), 8. Adam HUGHES, 9. Shane SMELTZ (22. Adam TAGGART 46’), 10. Liam MILLER (14. Steven MCGARRY 46’), 12. Scott NEVILLE, 13. Travis DODD (15. Tommy AMPHLETT 83’), 17. Todd HOWARTH, 21. Mile STERJOVSKI (26. Alex CANIGLIA 53’).

Celtic: 24. Lukasz ZALUSKA, 12. Mark WILSON (11. Cha DU-RI 46’), 17. Kelvin WILSON, 22.Glen LOOVENS, 21.Charlie MULGREW, 8.Scott BROWN (2. Adam MATTHEWS 83’), 33.Bayram KAYAL (13. Shaun MALONEY 33’), 16. Joe LEDLEY, 15. Kris COMMONS (18. Ki SUNG YUNG 46’), 10. Anthony STOKES (27. Daryl MURPHY 72’), 88. Gary HOOPER (20. Paddy MCCOURT 64’).

Match report by GARETH MORGAN

THE BHOYS ARE COMING

AUSTRALIA was the destination for the Celtic squad this morning as the team flew out for their pre-season tour of Down Under.

Paddy McCourt was part of the side which visited Brisbane two years ago but with this trip covering three major cities over two-and-a-half weeks, he is looking forward to returning.

The squad will visit Perth (July 9), Sydney and Melbourne, holding open training sessions and playing three friendlies against the cities’ major A-League clubs.

“I’m looking forward to it,” he said before boarding the plane. “It’s a long way away but it’s going to be well-structured. We played in Brisbane last time but it was a bit of a whirlwind trip with a lot of travelling. We’d only been out there two days before we had a game and then came back near enough right after that.

“To have two-and-a-half weeks out there this time, with three games in three different places, gives us a chance to see Australia. It’s three new cities to see and that’s a bonus of playing here - you get to see a lot of the world.

"We’ll have plenty of time to acclimatise and get into a routine of being 10 hours ahead. I think it’ll be even better than last time and be a worthwhile trip.”

The players returned from their summer break last Wednesday and have already been put through their paces at the Lennoxtown Training Centre. But while the work has been a challenge, McCourt has been enjoying it.

“It’s been tough enough but not too hard because everyone knows there’s a long way to go in pre-season," he said. "We’re getting back into it at the minute and it’s been good.”

While the trip will be a good opportunity for the players to get a taste of Australia, it will also allow the supporters to see their heroes in the flesh.

The turn-out against Brisbane in 2009 was impressive, but with even more fans expected to snap up the tickets for the three friendlies, McCourt is looking forward to giving something back to those in the stands.

“The fans were unbelievable the last time we were there,” he said. “There were about 30,000 at the game and it was brilliant.

“Celtic fans, no matter where you go, seem to always appear. They’re all over the world so I’m sure this time it’ll be no different.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if every game is sold out because it was close to it in Brisbane and that’s not as big a city as the likes of Sydney. I’m sure there will be a lot of fans there.”

Perth Glory plays Celtic on Saturday, July 9 at nib Stadium.  The match is only 11 days away.

Secure your seats from www.ticketmaster.com.au

Or call 136 100

DODD SCORES ON DEBUT

Prized recruit Travis Dodd has scored a stunning goal on his debut for Perth Glory this afternoon at Hay Park in Bunbury.

Dodd capped off a classy performance with his 54^th minute strike as Perth Glory defeated Football West First division side Bunbury Force 3-1 in a pre season practice match.

“We got what we wanted out of the game and that was obviously fitness in our first hit-out,” Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson said.

“I was happy with Bunbury, they gave us a very hard game which was good, so I was delighted with that.”

Adam Taggart and Tommy Amphlett also found the back of the net but it was Dodd’s second half bomb that thrilled the crowd of 1500.

With the game locked at 1-all, the former Socceroo unleashed a sweet shot, on his left foot from 25 yards that flew past the Force ‘keeper.

Dodd was also instrumental in the first half with his raids down the right side setting up numerous chances for Perth Glory.

Playing up front in the absence of Shane Smeltz, Taggart opened the scoring on 43 minutes when he neatly tucked away Dodd’s precise cross from close range.

Two minutes later, Taggart was unlucky not to have a second goal when he again got himself onto the end of a Dodd cross, only to see his header crash onto the cross bar.

In total, Ferguson made 8 changes in the second half, as the Glory coach got a glimpse of the future with a handful of teenagers from the National Training Centre getting a chance to impress.

Tommy Amphlett capped of the win for Perth in the 90^th minute when he coolly finished a through ball.

Adam Hughes also impressed on debut in the centre of midfield alongside Jacob Burns while new goal keeper Danny Vukovic was barely tested.

Perth Glory 3                (TAGGART 43’, DODD 54’ AMPHLETT 90’)

Bunbury Force 1          (Fontanille 48’)

Perth Glory line up: 1.Danny Vukovic (James Oakey 82’), 2.Josh Mitchell (Sam Mitchinson 72’), 7.Jacob Burns (c) (Reece Vittiglia 63’), 8.Adam Hughes (Brandon O’Neil 63’), 13 Travis Dodd (Amphlett 58’), 14.Steven McGarry, 17.Todd Howarth (Hanafi Ghazali 72’), 18.Josh Risdon, 21.Mile Sterjovski (Blamo Quaqua 63’), 22.Adam Taggart (Scott Neville 58’), 24.Charlie Comyn-platt.

Williams Signs For The Red and White‏

Melbourne Heart FC’s attacking stocks have received a major boost after signing rising Socceroo David Willams.

Williams joins Heart on a three-year deal after starring for North Queensland Fury last season, joining Fred, Mate Dugandzic and Curtis Good as the newest additions to the Red and White .

An attacking all-rounder who can play anywhere among the Heart’s favoured four man offence, the 23-year-old has been a stand-out performer across the past two Hyundai A-League seasons, cementing his status as one of the league’s most exciting talents.

Head Coach John van ‘t Schip said Williams’ recruitment marks a significant milestone for the Club during this off-season.

“Since the end of the last Hyundai A-League season, we have been searching for an attacker with the pace, skill and technique who can operate successfully within our system. In David, we are supremely confident we have found that player,” he said.

“But while David is a proven performer at this level, we also feel he has the potential to continue growing as a footballer at our Club, which was a significant attraction for us.

“Given his youth, he certainly has his best years ahead of him, and promises to be a fantastic ambassador for the Club over the coming years.”

Having represented Australia from Under 17’s through to senior International level, Williams’ achievements as a footballer belie his years and signify a player on the cusp of taking the next step.

Making 34 appearances in three years at Danish club Brondby, including in the UEFA Cup, where he scored against Finnish club FC Haka, Williams returned to Australia in 2009, signing with North Queensland Fury, where he developed a reputation as a genuine game breaker.

Williams’ speed and blistering shot makes him a threat from anywhere in the final third, adding a unique dimension to the Heart attack for the 2011/12 season.

Profile

David Williams

D.O.B: 26/02/1988

Position: Forward/Winger

Previous Clubs: North Queensland Fury (49 apps 8 gls), Brondby IF (34 apps 4 gls), Brisbane Roar (2 apps)

International Level: Socceroos (2 apps), Olyroos (11 apps 3 gls), Young Socceroos (12 apps 10 gls), Joeys (14 apps 11 gls)

Brazilian Star Fred Returns To Hyundai A-League‏

Melbourne Heart FC has received a massive boost ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2011/12 season by announcing the signing of Brazilian midfielder Fred.

The former DC United and Philadelphia Union star has signed for the Club on a two-year deal, joining Curtis Good and Mate Dugandzic as the latest additions to the Heart roster.

According to Head Coach John van ‘t Schip, Fred’s capture will provide Heart with the ideal creative outlet in the attacking third.

“Fred is a player who the people of Melbourne love and a player we have had an interest in since the club started. He is a very athletic and skilful player who can change a match with his vision and running,” he said.

“Everyone in Melbourne knows his quality and we look forward to his contribution in the Red and White over the coming years.”

An attacking midfielder, the 31-year old is well known to Australian football fans for his exploits in Season 2 of the Hyundai A-League, dazzling with his energy and slight of foot.

Producing four assists in the 2007 Grand Final, Fred’s stellar performance secured his place as one of the most exciting players to ever grace the Hyundai A-League.

And now following a successful five-year stint in the United States’ Major League Soccer, where he was part of the DC side which claimed the 2007 MLS Supporters Shield and 2008 US Open Cup, the Belo Horizonte native will return to the competition where he made his name in Red and White.

The Club would like to thank DC United for their professionalism and cooperation.

Profile

Full Name: Helbert Frederico Carreiro da Silva

Date of Birth: 18/08/1979

Position: Attacking Midfielder

Previous Clubs: DC United (81 apps 11 gls), Philadelphia Union (25 apps 4 gls), Melbourne Victory (17 apps 4 gls), Guarani (35 apps 8 gls), America (80 apps 20 gls), Tupi (10 apps 3 gls)

Victory joins the world’s elite

Melbourne Victory joined some of the biggest football clubs on the planet today by signing a 5-year apparel deal with global sports giants, adidas.

The partnership will see Melbourne Victory play in the world renowned ‘three-stripes’ until at least the end of the 2015/16 Hyundai A-League season, joining the likes of Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid, English champions Liverpool and Chelsea, as well as AC Milan of Italy and German club Bayern Munich.

adidas is not only one of the world’s most recognisable brands, but in football circles it has no peer - boasting apparel deals with over 100 clubs and national teams around the globe. And their support of football doesn’t end there. adidas has long been the sponsor of one of the most high-profile sports people in David Beckham, while the best footballer on the planet, Argentinean Lionel Messi, also sports the three-stripes.

After months of planning Melbourne Victory is excited to unveil its new playing kit, with the home strip featuring the traditional navy blue with white ‘V’, while the electricity of the fluorescent away version is sure to get people’s attention (images attached).

Melbourne Victory players recently took to the streets to give three of their most loyal fans a sneak peak at the newly designed playing strips, ahead of their retail launch in August. Victory players, including Captain Adrian Leijer and star striker, Danny Allsopp, shocked unsuspecting fans with a series of surprise visits to reveal their new kit.

To view the promotional video, click here.

Melbourne Victory Managing Director, Richard Wilson said the finished product was the result of plenty of hard work behind the scenes, “We started working on the new design almost 12 months ago, so to see it all come together with these amazing kits is fantastic.

“Both the home, and the away strips, are striking and we’re certain our fans will absolutely love them.

“adidas is a global brand leader with proven technical experience in football, so we are extremely excited about what the future holds and look forward to a long and successful partnership.” he added.

adidas Australia Managing Director, Greg Kerr said he was delighted to announce the new five year partnership with Melbourne Victory and is excited to welcome them into the adidas family.

“We are delighted to associate our brand with the most successful club in A-League history and we look forward to working closely with Victory leading into the new season and into the future. Football leadership is a key priority for the adidas brand and our partnership with Melbourne Victory is an integral part of this strategy.” Kerr said.

adidas has a longstanding history in football dating back to 1954 when adidas’ founder, Adi Dassler, invented the world’s first screw-in stud boot that was used by the German team in the 1954 FIFA World Cup. Since then adidas has enjoyed ongoing partnerships with some of the biggest organisations in football, including a long and fruitful partnership with FIFA.

The new Melbourne Victory strip and supporter gear will be available in the club store, adidas Sports Performance stores and leading sports retailers from August 2011.

Click here to view Melbourne Victory’s new adidas kits.

Heart July School Holiday Program Schedule

Melbourne Heart FC is running a series of clinics and programs during the July school holiday period designed to help you take your game to the next level.

School Holiday Program

Young footballers from ages 12-16 around Victoria are invited to register for Melbourne Heart FC's 3-Day School Holiday Program from July 5-7 at La Trobe University in Bundoora.

Melbourne Heart FC coaches and high performance staff will present practical and classroom sessions in line with the FFA National Curriculum including:

- Football Skills

- Eating To Play

- Injury Prevention

- Game Analysis

- Recovery Techniques

- Tour of La Trobe University Sports Science facilities and AAMI Park

Participants will receive a training top, shorts, socks, jumper and drink bottle. Lunch and snacks will be provided each day.

For details, click here.

http://www.a-league.com.au/site/_content/document/00002261-source.pdf

Goalkeeper Clinic

Player of the Year Clint Bolton and Goalkeeper Coach Peter Zois will stage a Goalkeeper Clinic at Comets Stadium in Cranbourne on Friday 8 July for players aged 10 - 16.

All participants will receive a pair of limited edition Melbourne Heart FC goalkeeping gloves.

For details, click here.

http://www.a-league.com.au/site/_content/document/00002259-source.pdf

Little Terras Clinic

Children aged 5-12 are invited to the Little Terras clinic in two locations these school holidays to learn from Melbourne Heart FC's Brazilian star Alex Terra.

A clinic will be staged at Action Sport in Ringwood on July 6 and Monbulk Soccer Club on July 13.

Be one of the first to book to receive a free Little Terras T-Shirt.

For details, click here.

http://www.a-league.com.au/site/_content/document/00002260-source.pdf

PERTH GLORY MEDIA RELEASE

PERTH GLORY MEDIA UPDATE

Tuesday, 7 June 2011

DUTCH DEFENDER JOINS PERTH GLORY

Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson says he’s really pleased with his new look squad, following the addition of Dutch defender Bas van den Brink today.

Van den Brink joins Perth Glory until the end of the 2012/13 Hyundai A-League season having spent the last two years with Gold Coast United.

“I have been very impressed with the squad coach Ian Ferguson has assembled, van den Brink said.

“I’m delighted to be heading to Perth and helping the club achieve success this season.

Van den brink is the tenth new signing for Perth Glory this winter as Ferguson reshapes the squad.

“It’s great to have Bas on board,” the coach said.

“He’s another new face into the squad and a quality signing.”

Perth Glory now has 22 players on its roster for the upcoming season which begins at home to Adelaide United on October 9.

“Compared to last season I’m really pleased with the squad.

“I feel that we have more depth now,” Ferguson added.

Van den Brink is one of five foreign players at the cub along with Victor Sikora (Netherlands), Steven McGarry (Scotland), Liam Miller (Ireland) and Branko Jelic (Serbia

Exciting Employment Opportunities at Melbourne Heart FC

Melbourne Heart FC is offering a wonderful opportunity to a developing coach to become part of the Melbourne Heart FC coaching staff and the club’s inaugural NYL Assistant Coach.

The role will involve assisting in the preparation of all aspects of the Melbourne Heart FC NYL Team as well as performing a key Performance Analysis role for the A-League team.

Experience & Qualifications

• Must have a minimum AFC ‘A’ License (or equivalent), or be eligible to receive A-License in 2011. (Applicants should not apply if they do not satisfy this A-License requirement).

• Played or coached football at an elite level in Australia or in another elite national competition.

• High-level IT skills, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint or Keynote.

• Demonstrated capacity to use software for match analysis and, with direction, provide meaningful reports based on this analysis.

• Tertiary qualifications in Coaching or Sports Science preferred.

• Deep and demonstrable knowledge of Youth football in Victoria.

• Deep and demonstrable understanding of the tactical, technical and physical requirements of modern football and operations of a modern, professional football club.

• Demonstrated commitment to coaching as a professional career

Personal Qualities

• Demonstrated leadership qualities as a player or as a coach.

• Tireless work ethic.

• Demonstrated integrity and intelligence.

• Demonstrated team player.

• Willingness to perform all tasks required to assist the NYL Coach prepare the team for training and for matches.

• Willingness to perform all tasks required to assist the General Manager – Football Operations in linking the club to the Melbourne community.

• Willingness to assist in the performance all tasks required to ensure smooth operation of the NYL team, such as logistics, player liaising and general operations & co-ordination.

• Energetic and willing to learn alongside highly-qualified colleagues.

The role will be full-time however we will work with a successful candidate to ensure flexible work hours. The role will commence August 2011 and run through until April 2011 – and will be a 9 month contract.

Please send your application to sally.mcneilly@melbourneheartfc.com.au. Applications close 5pm 23rd June 2011.