NPL GRAND FINAL

Somerset Sharks 3(Liston,Stewart,Johnson) def Ulverstone 2(Conkie,Meanie)

Saturdays Results

NPL

Somerset 6 def Knights 2

Ulverstone 7 def Devonport 2

V league

South Hobart 3 def Devonport 1 in extra time
1 all full time

Finals times and dates

This week will see the semi finals of the top 4 series. With rain being a major factor in the second half of the season FFT have had to cut short the finals with now just semi finals and a grand final.

 Semi final 1 Somerset Sharks v Prospect Knights 2pm Shark Park

 Semi final 2 Ulverstone Reds v Devonport Strikers 2pm Ulverstone Show Grounds

 Both games being played Saturday. Post match report later in the week!!!

Saturdays results

Prospect 1 def Rangers 0 Riverside 5 drew with Somerset 5

More Catch Up Games Today

The second round of catch up games are on today with all games in Launceston. With the game of the round being played at Prospect Park with the winner making up the top 4. The Ranger are taking this game and the finals series very seriously with them bringing 6 or 7 V League starters. They will be Todd Hingston, the Lanu-Atkinson twins. Aiden Rigby and a couplet others. Prospect will be hoping to beat cross town rival at home and will be out to make up for last weeks loss. Riverside host champions Somerset with what should be better conditions at Windsor Park today. Riverside will be looking to scalp as many points as possible with the catch up games to make amends for a sub par season. Today may be the day for Olyipic as Somerset have rested a few senior players allowing the guys who have been on the bench most of the year to start today. What ever team the Sharks put on the pitch they will be posative in taking the points. Launceston City host Launceston United in the other game.

Saturdays results

Prospect 0 lost to Somerset 7 Devonport 4 lost to Burnie 5 Riverside 8 beat Launceston United 2

Let The Catch Ups Begin

This is the first week of catch up games before the finals and with the champions already decided there is still a lot up for grabs. Not only will there be 2 clubs fighting for 4th position over the next few weeks there is also clubs wanting to finish on some highs after sub par results this year. Prospect Knights v Somerset Sharks 3pm Prospect Park Prospect will be out to gain the 3 points this week as their finals hopes are still alive. They have 3 catch up games and winning 2 out of the 3 will see them take 4th spot off the Rangers. The Knights will be fresh after having the bye last week and the previous weeks game called off. They will be with out a few senior players this week with Mark Baker out due to work commitments along with goal keeper Galger Inns. Prospect have shown that they do deserve to be in the top 4 with some strong wins during the year and with the combination of Sean Harris and Andy Compaign up front have scored at least a dozen between the two. Somerset will be looking to continue their runs of wins after being dubbed the 2013 NPL champions. After a hard weekend and Monday of rallying the team resumed training Tuesday in preparation for the catch up games. Somerset will take the same squad to Prospect Park as they did to the NTCA last week. This is starting to cause a few head aches for the coaches as quality players are either sitting on the bench or may find them selves in reserves this week. The side wont be picked until tomorrow and with bogy conditions expected this will play part in the squad being selected. Devonport v Burnie United 4pm Valley Road With the NPL playing after the V League this should be a good contest. As stated in the rules any one in the V League squad can go up but they cant come down. So with the game after the V League Devonport will have to pick wisely who they put into the squad. The Strikers had a good win last week easily accounting for the under par Launceston United. Devonport will want to cement 3rd spot which will see it take on rival Ulverstone in the first week of the finals. With V League coach Chris McKenna now playing in the NPL, They would have to be favourites. Rod Andrews said this” With our Victory League team playing at home, Mal should have a pretty strong team at his disposal. Peter Gilham is unavailable but other than that it looks pretty strong. Last week we fielded an NPL side that would be competitive against some V League teams and while this causes us a few headaches it must be doubly frustrating for our competitors, who don't know whether they will play Under 17 Devonport or Senior Devonport from week to week. Burnie United have had a better second half of the year and will be looking to roll Devonport as they were full of confidence when the game was scheduled to play back in round 14. Key defender Peter VanEk fly’s back in today after trials with Melbourne Hearts youth team and could be a late inclusion to Uniteds squad to play a marking roll on McKenna. Aiden Smith and Brodie Best scored last week and with Trent Potts providing the link United will know they can match the Strikers. Riverside Olympic v Launceston United 2:30 pm Windsor Park In the 1st of 3 catch up games for Riverside they will be out to get maximum points this week end. They had a great fight back last week and may show where people expected them at the start of the year. Riverside have been unlucky with results and weather and will be full of confidence taking on United tomorrow at their home ground. With the pitch being to wide for United and the quality ball game Olympic provide it should be a white(orange) wash. Coach Penfold said this” Last week saw us get our first point in quite a few weeks. It wasn’t looking good early, being down 3-0 inside 10 mins. But to the boys credit they fought back and got back into the game and took the lead twice. Our lack of games in the last month allowed Ulverstone to force the draw. But its that fighting spirit that will be required to take on a hungry Launceston United. Its a battle of the cellar dwellers and it will be a hard fought contest but I fully expect our boys to come away with the 3 points. Its been a disappointing year, but we are determined to finish the year with some good performances.

Saturdays results

NPL

Rangers 1 lost to Somerset 8 (Somerset are 2013 champions)

Ulverstone 5 drew with Riverside 5

Burnie United 2 drew with  Launceston City 2

Launceston United 0 lost to Devonport 6

Round 18 Could Be Full Of Suprises

The so called final round is here. With some interesting fixtures being played this week. I have been informed that there will still be a finals series but now will only run for 2 weeks. I’m gathering semi finals on the 7^th of September and the final on the 14^th of September.

With there being no money for the finals series it will be all about pride and bragging rights, So there is still a lot to play for this week and the following weeks with catch up games.

Ulverstone V Riverside 2pm(fft) Ulverstone Show Grounds

Ulverstone will be looking to finish with a win to keep its every so slight chance of winning the title. At home the Reds will start out strong favorites and with Connor Meanie in damaging form scoring 9 goals in the last 2 games should keep their form rolling. The Reds have shown over this year they are one of the better teams in the  comp and no doubt will be looking to go one further next year and if they keep the same squad with juniors also coming through will be very competitive.

Riverside will be licking their lips knowing that even if it is raining they will have a game still to play because the Ulverstone Show Grounds drain really well. Wayne Penfold should have a very full squad that have been well rested and with no injures fired up to take on the Reds. Its fair to say that Olympic have not had the season they would have liked and will be looking to finish of the final  round with a win. If they do or even produce a draw this will give Somerset the title with out even playing.

Launceston United V Devonport 2:30 pm Birch Ave

With Birch Ave deemed under water Tuesday night it will be interesting to see if the game goes ahead and then another week of catch ups. Launceston will be doing every thing in their will to try and get a win at home as they sit at the bottom of the ladder with out a win. Launceston were looking good at the start of the year in the Hudson cup then lost a lot of their senior players to Launceston City V League, Since then have struggled to get a win.

Devonport will be convinced they can rebound from last weeks loss against the Sharks and will try and cement 3^rd spot. Pete Gilham comes back into the NPL squad and will no doubt try and finish off with the golden boot award, He only leads Kyrone Johnson by 2 and the Sharks have 2 more games to play after this. Gilham has also been included into the NPL squad due to not being available for the next 3 weeks.

Rod Andrews said this”

 Another week, another unplayable ground. Hopefully Birch Avenue isn't underwater and we get to play, although based on last weeks precedent it wont matter if the ground is underwater we will still play , which is all good until someone breaks their leg in half. 

Our young team has performed admirably in recent weeks, and looks a lot stronger on paper. It been a long year for some our underage players and this week we will take the opportunity to give some them a spell before the finals”.

Burnie United v Launceston City Montello 2:30pm

Burnie can make its self a clear spot for 6^th position with a win against City at home. Burnie will still be with out veteran Pete Vanek but will looking to make it 2 wins from 2 games. This is something Burnie haven’t been able to do this year but will be full of confidence going into tomorrows game. Aiden Smith has been outstanding for United after his inclusion to the senior side and is a regular avenue to goals. Along with Trent Potts running the middle of the ground the 3 points should stay at Montello.

City have had an up and down season so far and would be disappointed with their year right across the board. With the club entering the V League this year would be the main source of the problems. Coach Lino Sculli would be asking his troops to finish on a high and scalping the points off United.

If this game is going to be like the last time these clubs met expect a high scoring physical game.

Rangers v Somerset Sharks 3pm NTCA

In another game with a question mark over its head, This should be a cracker if it goes ahead. Rangers will be looking to cement 3^rd spot with a win and Prospect having the bye. Rangers should have a strong NPL side as their V League teams plays strait after. I’m sure the Rangers will be also looking at stopping the Sharks from winning on their home ground as there is pay back on the cards due to Rangers winning both of their recent titles against the Sharks one at Somerset and one at the NTCA. With all due respect that is too….. Brendan Lichtendonk said this”

Going to be touch and go this weekend with the weather,  The grounds wont be closed, thought the Referee's may decide to make a decision during the course of the day, and we can not do anything about this.  There are 6 games to be played across to grounds on Saturday, so fingers crossed.

From a squad point of view, we will need to pull Stefan Hamilton up to the Victory League bench for cover for a few players carrying niggles, and have lost Josh Burk from the squads as well.

We are always confident, though its been a disrupted couple of weeks, coming off the bye and having the game against Prospect canned after 55 minutes, none of which are helpful.

Somerset have a fully fit squad available for this game with Astyn Johnson returning after having a few week off with work commitments. The Sharks are well aware with what’s at stake and will be pushing hard for the win or even a point. But will also be aware of what threats the Rangers can produce especially with the likes of Yitay Townes.

NPL LADDER

 

1	Somerset	13	12	0	1	62	11	51	36
2	Ulverstone	15	11	0	4	47	24	23	33
3	Devonport	14	9	1	4	43	33	10	28
4	Nth Rangers	14	8	1	5	30	26	4	25
5	Prospect	13	7	2	4	33	20	13	23
6	Burnie	14	4	1	9	20	39	-19	13
7	L'ton City	14	3	2	9	22	48	-26	11
8	Riverside	12	3	1	8	16	25	-9	10
9	L'ton United	13	0	0	13	5	52	-47	0

Saturdays Results

NPL

Somerset 7 ( Liston 3, Kyrone Johnson 2 Nettleton 1 Cocks 1) def Devonport 1(lizote)

Ulverstone 5 def Launceston City 1

Launceston United 2 lost  to Burnie United 3

V League

Devonport 1 lost to South Hobart 3

Kingbourough 1 drew with Rangers 1

Will Round 17 Be Washed Out

PLEASE NOTE RIVERSIDE V PROSPECT IS CANCELLED IN ALL LEAGUES

 Round 17 has a big question mark over its head. How many games will actually be played with the weather we have at the moment. Riverside are at home again and with last weeks ground condition and the rain we are having now will that go ahead, Also Launceston United host Burnie in another ground that may be deemed dangerous as well. Then to add the cherry on the cake Somerset have had to move their Under 18s and Reserves to Frederick Street in Wynyard to allow the NPL game against Devonport to go ahead on their home ground.

Launceston United v Burnie United 2:30pm Birch Ave

In a game that both sides would be eager to take the points, This should be a close affair with both clubs improving over the second leg. Even though results haven't gone both their ways they have proven to match it with the top clubs.

Both clubs also will be fresh after Burnie having the bye and Launceston's game called off.

Burnie should take the chocolates this week, After a good result against Rangers away.

Burnie will be with out their solid defender Pete Vanek but welcome back Brodie Best, Tyler

Johnstone and Xavier Smith. Along with Trent Potts and the ever reliable Brad Ryan in goal Burnie should be singing "Nah Nah Nah Naaaah" at 4:30.

Somerset Sharks v Devonport 2:30pm Shark Park

In a do or die game for both cubs this week should be a great game and with bad conditions guaranteed for the game it should level the skill out a bit. Somerset were very disappointed last week not having the game go on as they felt they were in a prime position after the half hour of play.

They have a full squad to choose from and this will allow 2 fresh subs for only the second time this year.

New signing Ash Smith will make his first start for his new club after coming off the bench over the last few weeks.

This will allow gun Kaimon Johnson to push forward with Jeremy DeBomford and create havoc against Devonport.

The Strikers have had a not so great month with results, Injures and V League selections loosing their secret weapon Pete Gilham to the V League, But in saying that you can never write of the young strikers as they are coached well and a very well drilled out fit.

Rod Andrews said this"

injuries have really taken a toll on our NPL side over the past month which has impacted on our ability to win the ball back consistently. That said, both Mal and I have been really impressed with how our Seniors, which is really an Under 17 Team with a couple of exceptions, have continued toSomerset will start clear favorites this weekend, but our boys are really looking forward to the challenge. I just hope that pitch conditions are conducive to a good game....and more importantly Somerset provide good post match food!

play positive creative football. Naturally

Ulverstone Reds V Launceston City 2:30 pm Ulverstone Show Grounds 2:30pm

Ulverstone have been the inform team of late and will be full of confidence after last weeks mauling of their rivals Devonport.

Ulverstone will be favorites at home and will be looking to seal second spot and would be hoping Somerset to slip over the next month as there is still an ever so slight sniff at the title if the Sharks were to loose.

Connor Meanie as i say every week will be the danger man and after snagging 5 last week will be looking to add to that tally.

Launceston City find them selves back where they were at the start of the year with selection problems as the V league side is in Hobart at the same time.

City will be looking to press the Reds all the way and after a win against a much fancied River side a few weeks ago would know with in them selves they have what it takes .

Riverside V Prospect Knights 2:30pm Windsor Park

In a game looking like it is going to be washed out Prospect will be hoping the game goes ahead. If they beat Olympic they will jump into 4th with the Rangers having the bye.
Riverside will be eager to get another win on the bored especially at home. Wayne Penfold said this"

This week we are looking to earn some respect in our game against Prospect Knights. Despite our poor run of form, I believe our game first round against Prospect was our worst 90 minute performance of the year. We didn’t play the way we like to play at all during the match and Knights capitalised on our mistakes to take the victory.

Its been a frustrating couple of weeks with the weather, so the boys are keen to get back on the park and finish what has been a bitterly disappointing season, with a couple of wins.  We head into the game today with our best squad available and are confident of getting the 3 points.

Ladder After Round 16

1	Somerset	12	11	0	1	55	10	45	33
2	Ulverstone	14	10	0	4	42	23	19	30
3	Devonport	13	9	1	3	42	26	16	28
4	Nth Rangers	14	8	1	5	30	26	4	25
5	Prospect	13	7	2	4	33	20	13	23
6	L'ton City	13	3	2	8	21	43	-22	11
7	Riverside	12	3	1	8	16	25	-9	10
8	Burnie	13	3	1	9	17	37	-20	10
9	L'ton United	12	0	0	12	3	49	-46	0

Weekend Results

NPL

Ulverstone 11 def Devonport 3

Somerset 1 were leading Riverside 0 until game called off

Rangers 3 were leading Prospect 0 until game was called off

Launceston City v Launceston United Cancelled

This makes me wonder what FFT will do now as the season has to weeks of catch up games so far with 2 rounds to go.
Another though is for the teams that travell away on the bus and get to the ground and have the game called off. Will FFT subsidies the cost having to travell again or will they just say the winning team at the time takes the 3 points?
Will be interesting few days at the FFT head quarters......

V League

Glenorchy 0 lost to Devonport 2

Tilford Zebras 3 beat Rangers 1

Update for catch up games
It seems that fft are allowing all catch up games to be played. So ATM the season will continue until Saturday the 31st of August pending that there are no mores games called off. At this stage and judging by the weather stations there could be a few more games cancelled. So I am thinking the finals series may be cancelled.
My comments are only hear say so if any one can back what I'm posting or know anything else please keep us all up to date!!!

Round 16 Could Be Full Of Suprises

Round 16 has some very important and dangerous games being played this week with several different out come could change the ladder dramatically. Bad weather and ground conditions will be on all coaches minds and with 3 games scheduled for the Launceston area would be a little worrying as the Meander Valley Council close the ground at the sniff of rain. If they close the grounds again and it is the three grounds that were closed 2 weeks ago will cause headaches for FFT as the rumour is if any more games are called off and catch up games need to be played the finals series will be scrapped. If that’s the case a lot of clubs will be disappointed as they are vying for top 4 and to play finals. Launceston City v Launceston United 12pm Mitsubishi Park Launceston City are starting to show where they should be on the ladder with a few good results over the last month and will be looking to take the 3 points from the winless Launceston United. The NPL game is before the V League fixture so this will strengthen the City squad and if not already now will be favourites. Roger Mies is still showing he has what it takes to compete against the younger guys and one would think if he had great delivery to him like other clubs he would easily be the leading marks man. Knights V Rangers 2:30 pm Prospect Park In a game that would be called a grudge match. These two teams always lift against each other and you a guaranteed a great game. Prospects ground will slow both sides up with all the rain. Prospect have been hit with a few injures over the last 2 months but will be looking to take the 3 points at home. Andy Compainge and Sean Harris have been combining well up front and will look to cause headaches for the Rangers defence. Ray Heald had this to say” Missing this week Sean Harris, Gallager Innis and Pip Atherton, in comes Andy Compagne, Anton Lapolombara and Josh Hartnett Again a must win for us at home if it stops raining, haven’t trained on the ground this week still to wet, council needs to spend some money on drainage Always a close game with rangers, we will be throwing everything at them this week hoping to move into the top four. The Rangers will be looking to open up a gap from 4th to 5th place with a win away. With the V League playing on Sunday this may allow the Rangers to bolster their squad for this game considering how important this game is. The Rangers play a free flowing and fast passing game but maybe the ground will not allow this at all. Brendan Lichtendonk said this” This week its a must win for our Premier League boys, with both Prospect and ourselves fighting for that spot in the top four. We know it will be a tough match. No changes for us from our draw with Burnie, though we may make a few positional changes. Prospect are a good side, better than there position suggests, so we know we are in for a big battle. Ulverstone V Devonport Strikers 2:30 Ulverstone Show Grounds In another do or die battle this has the making for a great game. 2nd spot is up for grabs and both teams will be wanting it. Ulverstone will be looking to get back on the winners list after last week loss and will use that for drive. Shaun Conkie should be back for this match and with Adam and Connor Meanie creating dangerous attacks, This should be a high scoring game. Last week The Reds were with out Matty Hubbored and with his inclusion this week will strengthen their defence. Devonport find them selves back on the track after having 2 weeks off with the bye and ground closures, They would be hoping for another week of as the V League team plays in Hobart and are taking a few of the NPL players. Rod Andrews said this” After a couple of weeks without games and points we are really keen to get a good result against Ulverstone. The Reds have definitely had the wood on us this season and seem to lift every time they play us. We have a few selection uncertainties, and when I left the table last night we were still unsure about V.League debutant and regular Centre Half Jack Dance’s availability, and speedy young winger Mitchell Blake is injured, so these aspects coupled with our V.League team being in Hobart, mean our depth will be truly tested again this weekend. The other battle will be related to the quality of the post game food – and noting what a cold sausage can do to club relations (see previous blogs on this subject), I hope Ulvie can deliver in this area. Riverside V Somerset Sharks 2:30pm Windsor Park Riverside find them selves at home this week facing ladder leaders Somerset. Riverside will be looking to match the Sharks as they know they can. Riverside started very strongly against the Sharks in the last encounter but lost ways after a sending off. Wayne Penfold will have his troops up and about and will be excepting nothing but a win. Sammy Hughs has had a quite season but you can never ride him or Riverside off. Somerset will be looking for a win and a Devonport loss over the weekend which will allow them to have one hand on the prize with a 8 point gap after this round. But the Sharks know Riverside are no easy beat and especially at home. Kevin Considine said this” After a tough win against Ulverstone last week, the Sharks travel to Riverside in what could be a real danger game? Even though Rivers recent form has not been that good, they are a tough team to crack and with the possibility of several key players missing we will need to be at their best to collect the full points. Ladder After Round 15 1 Somerset 12 11 0 1 55 10 45 33 2 Devonport 12 9 1 2 39 15 24 28 3 Ulverstone 13 9 0 4 31 20 11 27 4 Nth Rangers 14 8 1 5 30 26 4 25 5 Prospect 13 7 2 4 33 20 13 23 6 L'ton City 13 3 2 8 21 43 -22 11 7 Riverside 12 3 1 8 16 25 -9 10 8 Burnie 13 3 1 9 17 37 -20 10 9 L'ton United 12 0 0 12 3 49 -46 0

Saturdays Results

Rangers 2 drew with Burnie United 2 (Seymor,C.Parke)

Somerset 3 (Kyrone Johnson 2, J.Nettelton) def Ulverstone 1

Launceston United 0 lost to Knights 2

Riverside 1 lost to Launceston City 2

Round 15

Round 15 may see a new leader at the end of the round due to Devonport having the bye and Somerset having a catch up game to still be played, If the in form Ulverstone roll the Sharks tomorrow it will see them jump Devonport and be equal top with the Sharks. Ground conditions across the North N/W will be not ideal playing surfaces and may cause some headaches.

NOTE: The game between Launceston City and Riverside is now played at Riverside

Launceston United V Prospect Knights 2:30pm Birch Ave

Launceston are at home this week and after hosting a part of the junior cup last week, One does wonder what the pitch conditions are like. Launceston were unlucky in their last game not to take a point against Ulverstone and will be full of confidence taking on the Knights. Both teams will be fresh after missing last week as well.

Prospect will need to win this game to keep pressure on the Ranger s in 4^th spot and will be trying to leap frog them come finals time. Prospect have played some attractive football of late and with Sean(Twang)Harris back at the club they will be a very strong unit coming into these final games. Ray Heald had this to say” Have a few missing this week forwards Andy Compagne, Trent Mitchell, Paul Thomas all injured and Gallager Innis goal keeper interstate for work

Sean Harris and Mark Baker both available this week our young Midfield of Matt Heald, Nathan Butler and Mitchell Dent are improving with each game they play and can be confident that they are now competitive with  the top teams.

Each game we now play is a must win if we are to make the top four, not having a ground to train on for two weeks is also not ideal but assume most clubs are in a similar position, need that turf pitch in the north.

From all reports Launceston were unlucky not get some points against Ulverstone last round so will need to at our best to get the points.

Somerset Sharks V Ulverstone Reds 2:30pm Shark Park

Match of the round for sure. Ulverstone in some red hot form and the Sharks have only dropped on game.

Somerset will be looking to open the gap on the the Reds and Devonport who have the bye. If the Sharks can get over Ulverstone it opens up a 5 point gap over second place. Somersets ground has not been trained on for 2 weeks and will allow both teams to play fast football. With Somerset signing to players over the past week it also bolsters their senior squad with having 2 fresh subs for tomorrows game. Coach Considine said this” The Sharks will need to improve their recent form when they take on “in form” Ulverstone this week. With the likelihood of a boggy pitch, and the unavailability of a few players, this will be another close match but the Sharks are hoping for full pints in their quest for the premiership title.

Ulverstone will be on a hi after last weeks away win to the Rangers, Connor Meanie was in fine form bagging a hat trick. They will be with out their super star Shaun Conkie who has decided to go skiing on the main land but im sure the Red will have some one to replace him. If the Sharks want to win they will have to stop the drive of Meanie and Adam Conkie.

Launceston City V Riverside 2:30pm Winsdor Park (GAME CHANGED DUE TO GROUND CONDITIONS)

This is another game where ground conditions may affect the out come. With the ground being closed all weekend and this week it will be interesting to see if the council close the ground again. Launceston will probably be hoping this as their V League squad is on the road and with injures and suspension have taken more NPL players. Roger Mies  is in out standing form and will be looking to add to his tally of 10 goals already this year.

I really feel sorry for the team that Riverside play when they start playing as well as the team on paper should and it could very well be this weekend. Riverside are long over due for a win and with a depleted city side should take the spoils. Wayne Penfold said this” After 2 weeks off because of a bye and last week’s postponements, we are really champing at the bit to get back on the park. This week’s opponent Launceston City got the jump on us in the previous encounter scoring in the first 15 secs of the game and then a second goal within a couple of minutes. The end result was 4-4 draw and we did well to get back into the contest. Its those fighting attributes that we need to take into this week’s game. City have a young side that is well supported by their veteran Roger Mies and his experience has definitely helped them this year. But we are confident that we can come away with a win by building on our last performance against Rangers.

Rangers V Burnie United 2:30pm NTCA

With the V league side playing after the NPL at the NTCA, Rangers should have a full squad to pick from and will be looking to keep their position in 4^th. Rangers will always be favourite at home as they have turned it into a fortress over the last few years and to even come away with a point you are doing very well. Clubman The Donk said this""A tough game awaits us Vs Burnie United this week.  Disappointing to miss out on the 3 points last week, but we will look to put that behind us and re set our sights against Burnie.
Last time we played them at Montello, we had to fight for the win very hard, we expect nothing different this week, they are physical, we expect that, but physical football doesn't win football games, we know we can prove this again.  There are some injury clouds amongst our line up, so we will have to assess these prior to the game kick off. But as per normal, having the Victory League at home after the premier league, we will be able to use what is left after we account for a growing injury list.
We have proved this year that even without our Victory League players, we are good enough, but we need to be more disciplined, that has cost us the three points last week, we can't let it happen this week.

Thats what the undermanned Burnie side will be hoping to do. With a few regular starters and their number 1 striker still in Melbourne, But im sure who ever takes these boys spots will be able to replace them well. After narrowly loosing to the Sharks and the Reds a week before that, There will be belief with in the team they cam match it with the top sides. Burnie United camp said this” Rangers at ntca will be a big challenge this week for us, Xavier Smith, Tyler Johnstone and Brodie Best  not available, but Josh Dailey Trent Potts  and Dominic Culburt will be back in the squad. We will play a similar game as we did against somerset putting a heap of pressure in the midfield not allowing any space. Dom will play a crucial part in attack trying to take on the ranger defence at pace.

Ladder After Round 14

1	Somerset	11	10	0	1	52	9	43	30
2	Devonport	12	9	1	2	39	15	24	28
3	Ulverstone	12	9	0	3	30	17	13	27
4	Nth Rangers	13	8	0	5	28	24	4	24
5	Prospect	12	6	2	4	31	20	11	20
6	Riverside	11	3	1	7	15	23	-8	10
7	Burnie	12	3	0	9	15	35	-20	9
8	L'ton City	12	2	2	8	19	42	-23	8
9	L'ton United	11	0	0	11	3	47	-44	0

Sundays results

NPL
Rangers 4 lost to Ulverstone 5

DIV 1
Rangers 10 def  Ulverstone 0

V League
Glenorchy 1 lost to Rangers 4

Launceston and Devonport ground closures

The Meander Valley Council have shut Prospect Park,Mitsubishi Park and Winsdor Park for the weekend, Resulting in all NPL and V League game supposed to be played are now catch up games at the end of the year, this also includes the WNPL.
I'm not sure about NTCA yet but will post when found out...
Also the Devonport V Burnie games have now been cacelled as well.
Its pretty pathetic, That in my 25 years of soccer this is the first time it has happened to me. I thought we played a winter sport. Just shows how hard our coucil's really work on the pitches.
Instead of preparing and repairing lets just call games off.

Round 15

Round 15 has some very exciting encounters. There are some many possibilities to come at the end of this round.

Just a note as well, The Devonport V Burnie United game has been changed back to regular times if any one was going to watch that clash.

Prospect V Somerset Sharks 2:30pm Prospect Park

In a vital game for both clubs this should be an absolute cracker. With the Sharks narrowly beating the Knights in round 1, Redemption would be on the cards. The Knights would be full of confidence after a great win over cross town neighbour Launceston City last week demolishing them 5-1. Andy Compaign has found his straps that he is known for and the Sharks will need to keep a close eye on him, But also veteran Shaun Harris has made his return and also was on the scorers sheet last week. Ray Heald said this” We are looking forward to playing top side Somerset this week, our last encounter we were competitive for the first 20 minutes and then fell away which we have worked on as the year has progressed, no injuries from last week leaves us a full squad to pick from apart from Trent Mitchell still missing with a knee injury and Mitch Duffy Out for the season broken Leg.

Last week our first half would be the best football we have played this year  our forwards Andy Compagne and Sean Harris put away most of their opportunities hoping for repeat this week. We haven’t had the opportunity to train on our grounds this  week all closed due to the rain so they could be a little soft under foot come Saturday.

Somerset Sharks are fully aware of the out comes of this weeks game and will be looking to cement the top spot after leap frogging Devonport after loosing last week. The Sharks will be looking to control the midfield battle and supply good balls to their forwards who have found the back of the net on regular occasions this year, Ross Smith has taken a week off to go and see Man United play so this has allowed his spot to be vacant, But Somerset are yet to decide who to play as they can choose from Jimmy Nettleton, Sam Phillips –Crole and also State and NPl Champion Chris Consdine, Who has finally signed and has been included into the squad. Kevin Considine said this”. With several regular senior players missing this week the Sharks travel to Prospect in what will undoubtedly be their hardest match of the season. The Sharks will need to be on top of their game if they are to come away with any points from the highly talented Prospect team that has been ultra-impressive in recent weeks

Riverside V Launceston United 2:30pm Windsor Park

Riverside host the cellar dwellers Launceston United in what should be another fantastic game. Launceston were unlucky not to get a point from the inform Launceston and will be every bit full confidence playing away to Riverside. The only problem for United and Riverside will be licking their lips over that Shannon Rumble has had a major knee injury and may see him out for the rest of the year.

Riverside need to show that their team on paper can be as good on the field, They come off the bye and should be fresh and ready to finish of the year on a high. Riverside on their day are one of the

bench teams in the league and they will be out to prove this tomorrow. Wayne Penfold said this” This week we return after the bye to face Launceston United. In the previous encounter it was a close fought affair and United really took the game up to us and I expect this week to be no different. After a poor run of 6 defeats we are starting to get back to playing some good football and will look to build upon the performance against Rangers a couple of weeks ago.

There will be a few of changes this week due to player unavailability(apparently some team called Man United are here, whoever they are) with Corey Smith and Matt Chapman returning to the side, and the Italian Stallion Maximillian Well makes his starting debut for the Seniors.

Devonport V Burnie United 2:30pm Valley Road

This is definitely the round of great games with another on show here, Burnie the in form team and Devonport looking to rebound hard. Devonport will be keeping their hopes alive for the title this tear but may now rely on other clubs beating Somerset. NPL golden boot leader Pete Gilham will start his first V League game this week with gun Braydem Mann away as well watching Man U. This will be making Burnies mouth water knowing he is away. Devonport have built a fortress at Valley Road over the years and will keep looking to dominate at home against United. Rod Andrews said this.

” The last 2 weeks have been frustrating, as we have played well without getting the results we’d like, and while I wasn’t there last week, word has it we were beaten by a very strong Northern Rangers team. Naturally, we are keen to get some points this weekend. Burnie have had some good results of late, so it should be a tough game – depending on their squad make-up, as rumour has it that somewhere between 2 and 50  members of their NPL Squads are off to watch Man U on the weekend.

Burnie United will be with out a few senior players this week but welcome back solid defender Josh Dailey, I can say my self how much Burnie have improved since round 1 and would know that their style and confidence could them across the line this week. Ray Parke had his boys up and about last week and even though they lost their belief is growing every game. Fred Blogs said this” Another hard game this week at valley road, we played really well last week against Somerset and will be playing a similar style of game against Devonport. Josh Daily is available to play and will be pushing for his spot in the starting line-up. Trent Potts still has an injury cloud over his head and Dom Culbert still has one more week of suspension to serve.

Kick off is at 2.30.

Rangers V Ulverstone 2:30pm SUNDAY

With the Rangers hosting Ulverstone, The Reds find them selves on the road again on a Sunday due to AFL being played at the NTCA Saturday. With both Rangers V League side and NPL side playing Sunday will weaken its NPL side. Rangers had a great win against Devonport last week and will be looking to take the scalp of the in form Ulverstone. Brenden Litchtendonk said this” It is always tough to play when you Victory League side are on the same day at the other end of the state, and with a few injuries mounting up in our Victory League Side, our young players will be called upon to help deliver results.  Chris Collins from our 18s has been playing well, and will most probably be given another opportunity this week.  We are looking to build on a good run of form and continue to push in preparation for the finals.

Ulverstone will be scratching their heads after last week, Even though they took the 3 points the Reds were challenged for the full 90 minutes by United. They will need to be on their game this week to have a chance of taking the points and one would think Shaun Conkie may be back from suspension and Conner Meanie would be available.

This should also be a very high paced and interesting game to watch.

Ladder After Round 13

1	Somerset	11	10	0	1	52	9	43	30
2	Devonport	12	9	1	2	39	15	24	28
3	Ulverstone	11	8	0	3	25	13	12	24
4	Nth Rangers	12	8	0	4	24	19	5	24
5	Prospect	11	5	2	4	26	19	7	17
6	Riverside	11	3	1	7	15	23	-8	10
7	Burnie	12	3	0	9	15	35	-20	9
8	L'ton City	11	2	2	7	18	37	-19	8
9	L'ton United	11	0	0	11	3	47	-44	0

Saturdays results

Devonport 1 lost to Rangers 2 (Collins 2)

Launceston united 0 lost to Ulverstone 1

Burnie 2 (Best, Johnstone) lost to Somerset 3 ( Cocks, Smith, Kyrone Johnson$

Knights 5 def Launceston. City 1

V League

Devonport 1 drew with Tilford 1

Round 13 Lucky For Some

Round 13, Will be lucky for some but not others. There are some critical matches being played tomorrow with some out comes may set the ladder for the rest of the year. There is a jam on the ladder from 3^rd to 5^th with only 1 point separating all teams(according to FFT).

The block buster will be an early game being played at 12 in Devonport followed by some other interesting games kicking off at 2:30.

Devonport V Rangers 12pm Valley Road Devonport

This game is very important for both teams and should be a high paced and free flowing game as both sides play the same structure and have equally the same amount of talent on both sides.

Devonport will be looking to get their title chances back on track after having a hiccup against the Knights last week. With Peter Gilham back in the NPL side this will strengthen the Strikers forward line and will be looking to him to bag a few. The Strikers find them selves only a point  in front of the Sharks and with the Sharks holding a game in hand and Devonport will know a win is the only out come to keep pressure on at the top of the table. Rod Andrews said this”

We have an Under 16 Team returning from the Kanga Cup in Canberra on Saturday which has complicated selections, but we also have our V. League playing at home which helps a bit.

Rangers play good football and can be dangerous on their day, so it's not a game we will take likely.

Rangers on the other hand will also be thinking a win is the only out come as they sit nicely in 4^th spot and a win will see them pressure Ulverstone in 3^rd. Rangers have put some good wins together of late and will be looking to continue this trend. Brendan Lichtendonk had this to say” Devonport away this week is a tricky match for our Premier League side, whilst we have put a nice run of wins on the board now, they have not been that convincing and we are not getting too carried away.  Devonport will be a tough match, but our side will be more settled this week with the Victory League playing on Sunday, giving us the opportunity to play the entire bench from that game in the Premier League.
Its a critical match for both teams, for Devonport if they want to take the NPL title, and for us to try and get ourselves into third place or even higher.

Launceston United V Ulverstone Birch Ave 2:30 pm

Launceston will be fresh coming off the bye and should have a full squad to pick from but they face an up hill battle in hosting Ulverstone. Shannon Rumble will no doubt be superb in between the sticks and will keep United in the game and hold it to a respectable score.

Ulverstone will be missing veteran Shaun Conkie but will have enough fire power to cover him for this week. Brother Adam will be the one to stop if United are a chance to steel the points.

Burnie United V Somerset Sharks Montello 2:30pm

Burnie United are at home this week after having 2 weeks on the road. They host the Sharks in what should be a physical encounter going by previous history. Burnie have been weekend this week with either suspensions or injurys. Dom Culburt is out along with Kye Semour who is coming back through the reserves after injury.

Pete VanEk had this to say”

we got Dom culbert (suspended) josh daily (away) out and trent potts doubtful. We just looking to improve on last round.

Somerset will be looking to continue its form and add to its gaol difference because it may come down to that at the end of the year for the Sharks. Somerset keep its same line up as it did against their 6-1 win over Launceston City. Josh Goodwin keeps his place over the experienced James Nettleton and  Sam Phillips Crole, Kevin Considine said this” The Sharks take on the much improved Burnie at Montello in our local derby this weekend and will need to be at their best for the full 90 minutes to ensure full points in another danger game. The Sharks will be close to full strength, and with assistant coach Sam Cocks sure to have the guys revved up for the match the Sharks should prevail in a close one!

Prospect Knight V Launceston City 2:30 pm Prospect Park

Prospect are at home again this week hosting cross fence neighbours City. In another must win game Prospect they will be up and about with a Chinese import playing his first game for the club. Coach Ray Heald will have his troops up and about after late week near beating ladder leaders Devonport in a game where the club should have won. Ray Heald said this”

Sean Harris in this week  for his first Game thru the reserves new player student  Xuechen Zhang from china signed this week looking forward to see him play.

Launceston city have been very competitive of late although  looking at the score last week against the sharks doesn’t reflect this.

Our last encounter  with city was a draw we had a few players missing from that game, and should have full squad this time around , so looking forward to this one at home.

Last week against Devonport we failed to score when it counted so have worked on this again during the week and hoping we can do better in front of goals in this game

Launceston City will know what they have to do to keep the Knights at bay and with Domonic Rossi back and Will Egan from suspension, City would be confident of matching their opponents. The ever green Roger Mies will be looking to add to his 10 goals for this year so far and Prospect will need to shut him down early to stop this.

Ladder After Round 12

1	Devonport	11	9	1	1	38	13	25	28
2	Somerset	10	9	0	1	49	7	42	27
3	Ulverstone	9	6	0	3	20	11	9	18
4	Nth Rangers	10	6	0	4	19	16	3	18
5	Prospect	11	5	2	4	26	19	7	17
6	Riverside	10	3	1	6	13	20	-7	10
7	Burnie	10	3	0	7	11	28	-17	9
8	L'ton City	11	2	2	7	18	37	-19	8
9	L'ton United	10	0	0	10	3	46	-43