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

---

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

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.

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)

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

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.

Zahra Targets Melbourne Derby Comeback

Melbourne Heart FC rising star Adrian Zahra has earmarked week three’s meeting against Melbourne Victory at Etihad Stadium as his comeback match following the announcement of the Hyundai A-League 2011/12 competition draw.

The Red and White will renew its rivalry with the blue half of Melbourne on Saturday October 22 in the eagerly awaited latest instalment of the Hyundai A-League’s only cross-town derby.

 

After splitting the fixtures one apiece last season, the encounter will provide Melbourne’s two tribes with a chance to edge ahead in the head-to-head stakes in a match-up which has already developed into one of the most hotly contested in Hyundai A-League history.

And as one of the key players during the inaugural Melbourne Derby series last season, Zahra is keenly anticipating his return to action from injury against Heart’s local counterpart.

“It’s definitely an exciting prospect to potentially return to action against the team and at the ground where I sustained my injury in January,” Zahra said.

 

“While my rehabilitation is going very well and is ahead of schedule, we certainly aren’t rushing the process. I’m simply focusing on my target of returning during week three of the season.”

Heart will host Victory at its home ground, AAMI Park, on Friday December 23 in a Christmas blockbuster before meeting for a final time during the regular season on Saturday February 4.

 

After opening the previous Hyundai A-League campaign at home, Heart has again been bestowed with the honour of helping to usher in the latest season of Australia’s top flight in the Hunter Valley.

 

The Red and White will travel across to Ausgrid Stadium in Newcastle to face the Jets in the opening match of the season on Saturday October 8 before staging the first of 13 home matches the following week against Perth Glory on Sunday October 16.

 

A notable feature of the 2011/12 fixture is the introduction of a regional match; which will see Heart take on the Central Coast Mariners at a to-be-determined venue on Wednesday January 25 in an initiative set to further strengthen football’s ties with the grassroots community.

 

Chief Executive Officer Scott Munn is pleased with the outcome of the Hyundai A-League 2011/12 draw, stating the reduction in the number of midweek matches will enable teams to field their strongest sides each week.

“With 13 home matches and the addition of a regional round, the new fixture has ensured the Hyundai A-League draw will be equitable among all Clubs, which is a fantastic step forward for the competition,” Munn said.

“The scheduled series of regional matches is another wonderful initiative which much like our Westpac Community Football Festivals will enable us to spread the word of football by bringing the Hyundai A-League to new frontiers.

 

“The draw most certainly represents a significant progression in all areas and we look ahead with anticipation to the first match of the season in 130 days time.”

Melbourne Heart FC Hyundai A-League 2011/12 Fixture Highlights

 

· 10 of 13 home matches at family friendly weekend kick-off times

· Heart never away from home for more than two weeks in a row

· Two Melbourne Derby match-ups to be staged at home – December 23 and February 4

· Club to face Central Coast Mariners at regional venue

· Red and White to host Adelaide United during innovative Hyundai A-League marathon on January 4

04-05-2011: Melbourne Heart vs Geelong Representative team

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release

Bolton Claims Inaugural Player of the Year Award
(Skoko comes second!)


Melbourne Heart FC’s Clint Bolton has capped off an outstanding season in goal by claiming the Club’s inaugural Player of the Year award during tonight’s gala event at Studio 3 in the Crown Entertainment Complex.



Bolton held off a challenge from joint runners-up Wayne Srhoj and Josip Skoko to secure the crown in a tightly fought contest, with Aziz Behich and Matt Thompson rounding out the top five.



Head Coach John van ‘t Schip said Bolton, who produced seven clean sheets in 30 appearances, was a deserved recipient of the Player of the Year award, which seeks to recognise consistency and excellence throughout the Hyundai A-League season.



“Clint has been a great example for the group in what it means to be a professional,” van ‘t Schip said. “He takes care of himself, is very thorough in his preparation and despite possessing a significant level of experience, has still showed a great eagerness to learn.”



“During the season, Clint performed well in a number of matches and was a great stabiliser at the back. His attitude and approach make him a model of what we want from our players and I hope he will enjoy an even better season next year.”



Awarded to the individual who recorded the highest cumulative performance rating during the season, the Player of the Year is the ultimate accolade for a member of the Heart squad.



At the conclusion of each match, participating players received a rating from the Heart coaching staff, with the best 20 scores across the season calculated before contributing to an overall aggregate total.



The Player of the Year wasn’t the only prize distributed on the evening, with Behich named Supporters’ Player of the Year and John Aloisi, recipient of the Golden Boot for leading goal scorer and the Clubman Award, which honours the player who has best embodied the spirit, character and values of the Club, both on and off the field.



Team Manager Ben Coonan was the recipient of the Chairman’s Award, which recognises the staff member whose work has best reflected the ethos of the Club, while former National Soccer League referee Eugene Brazzale received the Volunteer of the Year award for his tireless work during Heart’s inaugural season.



Awards Summary

Player of the Year – Clint Bolton

Supporters’ Player of the Year – Aziz Behich

Clubman Award – John Aloisi

Golden Boot – John Aloisi

Chairman’s Award – Ben Coonan

Volunteer of the Year – Eugene Brazzale

JAY JAY TRAINS WITH THE STARS

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release - Beauchamp Released By Mutual Consent‏

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release

Wednesday 20 April

Melbourne Heart FC advises it has released defender Michael Beauchamp from the final year of his contract by mutual consent.

The Club agreed to part ways with Beauchamp after the 30-year-old received a multi-year offer from fellow Hyundai A-League side Sydney FC.

Head Coach John van ‘t Schip thanked Beauchamp for his contribution to Melbourne Heart FC during the Club’s inaugural season.

“Michael has been a great professional and made an important contribution to Heart both on and off the field over the last year,” he said. “Even during periods when he didn’t feature in the first team, Michael was the ultimate teammate and a fantastic presence in the dressing room.

“Given the opportunity that presented itself at Sydney FC, we feel that we had an obligation to allow Michael to grab the chance to play first team football and secure his long term future as a professional.

“We would like to thank Michael for his efforts at Heart and wish him well for the future.”

Beauchamp made 19 starting appearances for Heart throughout its debut campaign after arriving from Al-Jazira in the United Arab Emirates.

Registrations Open For Little Terras Holiday Clinics

Melbourne Heart FC advises registrations are now open for the Club's Little Terras Holiday Clinics in April.

The clinics, which will feature an appearance from Heart's Brazilian star Alex Terra will take place in Bundoora and South Kensington.

The first 200 people to register for a clinic will receive a limited edition Heart T-Shirt to mark their participation in the event.

Details

Date: Wednesday 13 April
Time: 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Location: La Trobe University Sports Fields
Car Park 2a
Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora
-----------------------------------------------------
Date: Thursday 14 April
Time: 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Location: JJ Holland Park
Altona Street, South Kensington

Cost:
Heart Members - $35
Non-Members - $45

To register, download and complete a form from here and send to community@melbourneheartfc.com.au.

http://www.a-league.com.au/site/_content/document/00002139-source.pdf

Employment Opportunity - Personal Assistant

Melbourne Heart FC has an exciting opportunity for a Personal Assistant.

Reporting to the CEO and Coach, this role will offer you the opportunity to display your strong organisational skills and love for PA/Administration support, whilst maintaining a positive and team orientated attitude.

This diverse and very demanding role will involve you in all areas of PA/Secretarial administration, managing reception, including diary and email management; board meeting agendas and minutes; reviewing, preparing and maintaining event and game day plans; preparing spreadsheets; typing correspondences, contacting suppliers, managing office supplies, screening phone calls and taking messages, maintaining filing systems and general ad-hoc duties.

This role will suit someone who thrives in a busy environment, can maintain strict confidentiality and who enjoys a challenge. You will have exceptional organisational skills, excellent attention to detail, with expert level working knowledge of MS Office packages. You will be enthusiastic and flexible and enjoy the challenges of the Sports industry.

The ability to meet tight deadlines and to work under pressure is imperative as is a ‘can-do attitude’. You will be professionally presented as you will be based at reception, represent Melbourne Heart FC on Game Day and at various Events.

To register your interest in this immediate start opportunity please send your resume to sally.mcneilly@melbourneheartfc.com.au.

Melbourne Heart FC Goalkeeping Clinic In April!

Are you a young goalkeeper on the rise?

Melbourne Heart FC invites you to register for its inaugural Goalkeeping Clinic at the La Trobe University Sports Fields in Bundoora this April.

With specialist coaching from Heart shot-stopper and former Socceroo Clint Bolton, Goalkeeping Coach Peter Zois and Assistant Coach Ante Milicic in addition to World Cup and Champions League veteran Joey Didulica, the clinic promises to be an amazing opportunity to learn from goalkeepers who have played at the highest level of football.

The clinic will be restricted to limited numbers to ensure each participant will have optimal access to the coaches in attendance.

Details
What: Melbourne Heart FC Goalkeeping Clinic
When: 19-20 April
Where: La Trobe University Sports Fields
Who:
Clint Bolton – Melbourne Heart FC No.1 Goalkeeper and former Socceroo
Peter Zois – Melbourne Heart FC Goalkeeping Coach
Ante Milicic – Melbourne Heart FC Assistant Coach
Joey Didulica – Former Ajax Amsterdam Goalkeeper, FIFA World Cup and UEFA Champions League veteran
Cost: Heart members $160 inc GST
Non-Members $180 inc GST

Each participant will receive a pair of special edition Melbourne Heart FC Goalkeeping gloves.

Click here to download a registration form.

http://www.a-league.com.au/site/_content/document/00002138-source.pdf

Melbourne Heart FC Media Alert - Player Signing Announcement TOMORROW‏

Melbourne Heart FC Media Alert



Monday 28 February



Player Signing Announcement TOMORROW



Media are invited to attend the announcement of Melbourne Heart FC’s newest signing at the AAMI Park Theatrette TOMORROW at 11:10am.



Head Coach John van ‘t Schip will also be in attendance.



Please note, photo and vision opportunities will be available on AAMI Park after the announcement.



Details

What: Player Signing Announcement

When: Tuesday 1 March

Melbourne Heart Soccer & Futsal Clinic

Futsal Geelong in partnership with Melbourne Heart will be hosting a free soccer and futsal clinic on March 12 at the Leisuretime Centre from 12pm.

The clinic is open to all budding young football stars aged between 5 and 10 years. The clinic will be run by the best coaches that Futsal Geelong has to offer as well as at least one Melbourne Heart player!

The clinic is a great opportunity for kids to learn some fresh new skills and learn how to get involved in the upcoming Futsal Stars development program. No registration will be required before the event, just come along and enjoy the fun!

Anybody looking for more information can email ngeary@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release - Socceroo Legends Denied Fairytale Farewell‏

Socceroo legends Josip Skoko and John Aloisi were denied a fairytale farewell as Melbourne Heart FC was held to a 2-2 draw by Sydney FC in the Blue Ribbon Cup at AAMI Park.

After falling behind to a penalty from Nick Carle just after the half hour mark, Heart once again demonstrated its trademark spirit to claw its way back into the game as Dutchman Rutger Worm claimed an equaliser before half time.

And 15 minutes into the second stanza, it appeared the dream result would materialise as Aloisi slammed home from inside the penalty area to emphatically send the home side in front.

But Heart’s hopes of sending off Aloisi and Skoko in style were dashed as Carle popped up to score his second goal of the match in the dying stages.

While Skoko admitted he hoped to bow out with a win, the former Premier League star was philosophical about the result.

“We would have liked to go out on a good note but it doesn't always have to end perfect - it ends how it ends,” Skoko said.

Aloisi meanwhile said the day was one of mixed emotions, revealing his delight at calling time on his professional career in front of family and friends.

“I'd had a tear in the eye all day. I'd never felt like this before. I can't thank the Melbourne Heart people enough. It was a good way to go out. To end it like that with family and friends here, it was good,” Aloisi said.

Despite a place in the finals being out of reach, Heart was on the attack early as the side sought to provide Skoko and Aloisi, in addition to the departing Gerald Sibon, with a farewell befitting of their contribution to the game.

Skoko’s midfield partnership with Wayne Srhoj once again laid the foundation for Heart’s early dominance as the duo dictated terms in the centre of the park.

And it was Aloisi who was nearly the beneficiary of the early dominance, twice coming close to setting the contest alight with an early goal.

But it was Sydney that ultimately took the lead as Carle converted from the spot after Hirofumi Moriyasu was brought down in the area.

Heart bounced back nearly immediately though as Worm latched onto a clever ball from Sibon before blasting past Liam Reddy from the angle.

However, the home side’s joy was short-lived as Sibon was harshly handed his marching orders after picking up a second yellow card, marking an end to the former Ajax and PSV star’s stint down under.

Sydney looked to grab the momentum after the break but it was Heart that surged ahead as Aloisi capped off a marvellous career with a deserved strike, pouncing on a loose ball in the area before applying the finish with trademark panache.

Aloisi’s effort appeared to be enough to secure Heart all three points, but Carle intervened with two minutes of normal time remaining to ensure honours and the inaugural Blue Ribbon Cup were shared.

…..ENDS.....

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release - Aloisi Eagerly Anticipating Final Match‏

Aloisi Eagerly Anticipating Final Match

Retiring Melbourne Heart FC star John Aloisi says he is looking forward to stepping onto the pitch one last time during Saturday night’s Hyundai A-League match against Sydney FC at AAMI Park.

The Australian football legend will call time on his playing days following the

encounter, bringing an end to a 20-year professional career which has yielded over 27 goals in 55 international appearances, making Aloisi the second highest goal scorer in Socceroo history.

Having joined Heart on a one-year deal with a view to making the transition into coaching next season, when Aloisi will take charge of the Club’s inaugural National Youth League side, the 35-year-old striker said he always intended for the 2010/11 campaign to be his last as a professional.

“When I initially discussed signing with Melbourne Heart FC, I wasn’t 100 per cent sure I wanted to play on. But John van ‘t Schip guaranteed me he would do everything possible to make it an enjoyable year and felt I still had what it takes to play one more season,” he said.

“I decided on playing on but I knew it was going to be my last year. I did everything possible to ensure my body would be right when I had to play, but it’s a lot of hard work that happens off the pitch that people can’t see, and I couldn’t handle doing another year of that, so I thought this will be it.”

Aloisi has proven to be a shining light through his final season, leading Heart’s scoring charts with seven goals in only 16 starting appearances to reinforce his reputation, while ensuring his legacy at the Club by scoring three times against Victory, including the inaugural Derby showdown.

Head Coach John van ‘t Schip said Aloisi was an outstanding performer throughout his final campaign as a player.

“John has a very positive energy around him, and this season, he produced more than what we believed his body would allow him to achieve,” he said.

“He worked incredibly hard to ensure he was fit for this season and was very influential throughout the year, scoring some unbelievably important goals, such as the last minute winner against Adelaide United in December.

“We are delighted to have him on our coaching staff for next year as he’s an exceptional player and person, but we are certainly going to miss his presence on the field and in the dressing room.”

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release - Heart Held By Mariners At AAMI Park‏

Melbourne Heart FC Media Release
Friday 4 February

Heart Held By Mariners At AAMI Park
Melbourne Heart FC’s Hyundai A-League finals hopes remain in the balance after the side was held to a 1-1 draw by the Central Coast Mariners at AAMI Park.



After braving an hour long delay due to torrential rain, Heart’s hopes of climbing back into the top six temporarily were dashed as the Mariners Daniel McBreen swept home from close range only a minute after Matt Thompson opened the scoring in bizarre fashion via free kick from inside his own half.



While Head Coach John van ‘t Schip said Heart would now be forced to rely on external results to reach the finals, the former Dutch international refused to relinquish hope.



“After opening the scoring, to then concede a goal soon after meant we had to start all over again which wasn’t good for the confidence,” he said.



“It’s happened often this season and it’s something we will have to look at and analyse, but mathematically we are still alive. We just have to hope that all the results go our way and we also defeat Sydney next week.”



Undeterred by the late kick-off, Heart immediately made its intentions known in the opening stages of the match, moving the ball fluently through the midfield.



With securing a win important to applying pressure on the Club’s rivals for a finals berth, Heart appeared to be on the charge, as the retiring Josip Skoko once again emerged as a key barometer, dictating terms with his trademark poise.



And it was a corner from Skoko which produced the opening chance of the contest, combining with fellow former Socceroo John Aloisi, who flashed a header wide.



Aloisi was denied again minutes later as Mariners’ stopper Matt Ryan produced a stellar save to parry his header after a cross from Aziz Behich.



Named as the January nominee for the Young Footballer of the Year award, Behich was in ominous form on the left flank, attacking with intent as Heart sought to exploit the Central Coast down the flanks.



The best chance of the opening half fell to Alex Terra, with the Brazilian attacker unable to direct his effort on target after latching onto a delightfully lofted Gerald Sibon ball before prodding wide.



But after the break, Heart secured a deserved opener, albeit in rather bizarre circumstances as Thompson launched a free-kick from inside his own which caught the Central Coast’s ‘keeper out of position, bouncing over his head before it was bundled over the line.



However, the lead was extraordinarily short lived as McBreen equalised just over 60 seconds later after Joshua Rose did remarkably well to force his way to the byline and play a dangerous ball into the box.



The goal prompted a period of dominance for the Mariners, who ventured forward in search of the breakthrough which would keep them in the race for the Premiers Plate.



McBreen had a chance to double his tally for the match just before the hour mark, but Heart’s Clint Bolton was up to the task, producing the save.



Entering its final stanza, the contest developed into an end-to-end affair, but it was Heart who produced the best opportunity to claim all three points, Wayne Srhoj side-footing his effort high after combining splendidly with Aloisi.