ELIMINATION SEMI-FINAL (SEPTEMBER 7, 2019)
vs SOUTHERN ETTALONG
FIRST GRADE (LOST 0-2)
A disappointing end to Wyoming’s first season back in the top league since 2016 but one that indicated that they will once again be serious title contenders in the next few years. They could not have got off to a worse start conceding what is believed to be the quickest goal in BPL history. It came just 11 seconds after the opening whistle with James Caban sending a long ball down the left wing which Keith Gumbs ran onto and sent a first-time cross into the Wyoming goalmouth. The attempted clearance by a Tigers defender skewed off his boot off the crossbar and down into the path of Caban who scored.
If there’s one consolation about conceding an early goal it’s that you have plenty of time to recover - 89 minutes in Wyoming’s case – and they did so to such an extent that they dominated possession and territory for much of the first hour of the match. Both teams used the width and field quality of Pluim to play some attractive team football with the Tigers launching numerous attacks down the wings through Pat Mills and Ben Farrell but unable to capitalise through excellent defensive work by Sam Matthews and Josh Caban with keeper Luke Carnevale dominant in the air.
Wyoming’s task became even harder with the dismissal of defender Andrew Watts in the 61st minute although they did continue to threaten while keeping the ever-dangerous Keith Gumbs in check. Eventually the numerical disadvantage together with constant pressure had the Lions dominant and they eventually doubled the lead in the 82nd minute with Todd Balneaves volleying into the Wyoming goal from a corner kick. Shortly afterwards they looked set to go 3-0 from the penalty spot but James Caban struck the crossbar. Late in the match Wyoming were reduced to nine men with Jared McNee sent off.
The result and that from Sunday’s Qualifying final sets the scene for a repeat of last season’s Minor Semi-Final between Southern-Ettalong and Terrigal with the Lions looking for revenge on their 1-4 scoreline in that match. They play on Saturday, kicking off at 6pm.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #22 (AUGUST 25, 2019)
vs KANWAL
FIRST GRADE (WON 4-2)
As is frequently the case in late season matches the two clubs went into their match day at Wadalba with slightly different aims. Kanwal, out of contention for the first grade play-offs but safe from relegation, were concentrating on their reserve grade team which had already qualified for the semi-finals. Wyoming, guaranteed a play-off spot, needed to balance their chance of reaching third place while protecting some key players sitting on four yellow cards.
After an even first half hour with a few chances at either end Wyoming broke through in the 33rd minute when a perfectly-flighted corner from 16-year-old Conor Fitzpatrick in his first starting match in the top grade found Pat Mills to score. Five minutes later winger Ben Farrell ran onto a perfect through ball from midfielder Keelan Austen and curled his shot just inside the left post to double the lead. A third goal inside that 10-minute period effectively sealed the match with Mills running onto another pinpoint through ball to side-step the keeper and score his second of the match and 14th of the season much to the consternation of his two card-carrying teammates (Messrs Hall and McNee) sitting on the bench who had led him by one going into the match.
Wyoming went 4-0 up through Sam Dooley in the 60th minute before falling away as Kanwal countered with two goals by central defender, later striker, Ryan Oehm who managed to snatch a share of the Bulls Golden Boot from Ryan Walker.
By finishing fourth Wyoming will be playing sudden-death football from now on starting on Saturday evening when they will be looking for a third win over Terrigal. Although disappointed with their season overall Kanwal did finish the season quite strongly and have the consolation of their Reserve Grade team in the play-offs.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #21 (AUGUST 18, 2019)
vs KILLARNEY DISTRICT
FIRST GRADE (WON 3-2)
The largest crowd for many years at Alan Davidson Park was on hand for what was a crucial match for both teams with Wyoming still needing points to guarantee a finals spot while Killarney, depending on the result between Woongarrah and Southern, could wrap up the league championship with a win.
Killarney had the best early chances with a couple of free kicks within scoring range from set-piece specialist John Whelpdale either being saved by Wyoming keeper Tom Coventry or striking the defensive wall. The Tigers then countered with Matt Hall and Jared McNee having half chances saved before breaking the deadlock in the 15th minute with McNee passing to Ben Farrell who in a replay of their opening goal against Terrigal the previous week the young winger beating one defender and crossing to Pat Mills to score from a wide angle. Three minutes later Wyoming doubled their lead, this time with a corner from Ian McAndrew finding an unmarked McNee to head the ball into the Killarney net.
The match then became an arm-wrestle with both teams playing quality attacking football mixed with tenacious defence. Twice in the first half Killarney were denied goals after desperate goalmouth clearances while the speedy Farrell was a constant threat for Wyoming creating a number of chances that could well have sealed the match. Instead the next goal came at the other end of the field in the 59th minute with Killarney’s Matt Hall heading in after a corner kick. With the momentum now clearly swinging the visitors’ way the same player had a chance to equalise just two minutes later only for Coventry to save the shot. Killarney’s pressure eventually told in the 85th minute when substitute Daniel Rodger scored from close quarters after another goalmouth scramble. Just on the 90th minute Killarney went down to 10 men with Daniel Moffett getting a straight red card for swearing at the referee. Then three minutes into added time Pat Mills capped an excellent match with a typical weaving run inside the Terriers box where he was tackled and a penalty award leaving the ever-reliable Matt Hall to clinch the win in front of the ecstatic home crowd.
The win cemented Wyoming’s place in the semi-finals joining Woongarrah – the first time ever that both promoted clubs have qualified for the play-offs in their first season up. The challenge now is to try and escape the sudden-death Elimination Semi-Final. To do so they’ll need to beat a confident Kanwal outfit next Sunday at Wadalba who have won three of their past four matches including a big win over Berkeley Vale and then hope that others results go their way.
While Killarney’s big goal difference ensures that can’t finish lower than third they will be desperate to bounce back from the loss here and defeat Woongarrah to claim their fourth straight League Championship. Although it’s the Terriers home match it has been transferred to Pluim Park.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #20 (AUGUST 11, 2019)
vs TOUKLEY
FIRST GRADE (WON 2-1)
A crucial match for both clubs but for different reasons with Wyoming trying to consolidate their place in the top five and Toukley desperately searching for club championship points to stay in the Premier League in 2020. As they’ve done previously the Gunners spread their talent across the three grades and it paid off with wins in both U21s and Reserves. Indeed, into the last quarter of the First Grade the full 18 points were in their sights.
The game was played in bitterly cold and windy conditions on the small Harry Moore field making it difficult for either team to play constructive football. Both teams had chances during a relatively even first half with Toukley looking to have earned a penalty in the 34th minute only to see it reversed with the assistant signaling for off-side.
Toukley shocked the visitors two minutes after the break with Troy Runge catching the Wyoming defence on the back foot on a run from near halfway and giving keeper Thomas Coventry no chance to save. The game remained in the balance for the next 20 minutes before Wyoming eventually equalised with Jared McNee scoring from a corner kick. As the Toukley players, several of whom had played earlier, began to tire the elements then played their part with the sun coming out and the wind dropping and allowing Wyoming to dominate the middle of the field. The constant pressure eventually paid off with Pat Mills being brought down in the box allowing Matt Hall to score from the resultant penalty although a second penalty, this time with replacement Sam Dooley brought down, was saved by Gunners keeper Jake Purches.
The win together with Avoca’s loss to Terrigal leaves Wyoming in clear 5th place three points ahead of the Sharks, effectively four points with their 16-goal better goal difference. They are back home at Alan Davidson Park next Sunday in what will be vital match against Killarney District with plenty on the line for both clubs. With their wins in both lower grade matches against Wyoming the Gunners now only trail The Entrance by six club championship points but face a tough task in their two remaining matches against Terrigal and Southern-Ettalong who are currently sitting third and second respectively in the club championship standings.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #19 (AUGUST 4, 2019)
vs TERRIGAL
FIRST GRADE (WON 2-1)
They say what goes around comes around in sport and so it proved for Wyoming at Alan Davidson Park. A fortnight earlier, at the same venue, Keith Gumbs had broken the Tigers’ hearts with a last minute goal to win the match for SEU. This time around the situation was reversed with Sam Dooley snatching a late winner to seal a vital win for his team.
The match was the focal point of a highly-successful Charity weekend for the Wyoming club, one that was promoted and well-supported by Terrigal United FC, the Central Coast Mariners and a number of local organisations and that raised more than $8000 for Zaidee’s Rainbow Foundation.
The match opened at a frantic pace with was pretty well maintained throughout the first half with both teams having chances. The breakthrough came Wyoming’s way in the 15th minute with Ben Farrell using his blistering pace down the right wing to run onto a perfect through ball from Ian McAndrew and then sending a perfect cross that found Pat Mills in position to score his 11th goal of the season. The celebrations had barely ceased when the scores were level with Cameron Wilkinson converting from the penalty spot and the score remained locked at 1-1 until the half-time break.
Wyoming gradually built pressure throughout the second half with Terrigal’s cause not helped by injuries to Beycan Irmako and Erik Riquelme. Both teams had some scoring chances drawing excellent saves from the respective goalkeepers. Wyoming’s clinching goal was similar to their opening one with Pat Mills being sent wide down the left wing, beating the advancing goalkeeper and crossing to substitute Sam Dooley to score inside the far post.
The result saw Terrigal drop from third to fourth place while Wyoming remained in fifth spot on goal difference. Terrigal will be back at their Duffys Road home next week against a Berkeley Vale side that could well be playing for their season after their loss to Southern- Ettalong saw them drop to seventh place. Wyoming will need to remain focused when they travel north to Harry Moore Oval to play a Toukley club that is desperate to avoid relegation.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #18 (JULY 28, 2019)
vs THE ENTRANCE
FIRST GRADE (WON 7-1)
Wyoming went into the match on the end of a three-match losing streak that saw them drop from second to sixth place and things then got worse when they went behind in the 15th minute to a well-taken goal by The Entrance’s 16-year-old rookie Mahkye Brownlie. Wyoming didn’t panic but resumed their steady build up before eventually equalising through player/coach Ian McAndrew shortly before the break. The match was then transformed in the second half with the Tigers scoring three times inside the first nine minutes of the second half. The first came from McAndrew who found Pat Mills on the right wing with the striker beating two defenders and crossing for Matt Hall to score. Three minutes later Mills found McAndrew for an easy-tap-in followed by a through ball finding Jared McNee to take the lead to 4-1. The Sea Eagles defence had no answer for the Wyoming pressure and three more goals came between the 70th and 80th minutes the first from Matt Hall to complete his brace followed by a first-ever Premier League goal to substitute Lachlan Fenton and then one to co-captain Matt Gravas who capped off an excellent all-round match with his first of the season.
The win kept Wyoming in equal fifth place and, with the contest for the top five places so tight the six-goal winning margin could prove invaluable if the final decision goes down to goal-difference. Next Sunday’s match against Terrigal at Alan Davidson Park will be crucial to the Tigers hopes of reaching the play-offs in their first season back in the top league.
At the other end of the scale The Entrance are just six club championship points ahead of Toukley in the battle to avoid the second relegation spot. The do have a slightly easier draw than the Gunners and will be hoping to pick up vital points in next Sunday’s match against Kanwal at Pat Morley Oval, which incidentally has easily the best surface of any of the Council fields that we’ve seen recently.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #17 (JULY 21, 2019)
vs WOONGARRAH
FIRST GRADE (LOST 0-2)
With their mid-season mini-slump behind them Woongarrah have shown once and for all that they are a serious Premier League club with this hard-fought win over Wyoming in the battle of the Big Cats at Hamlyn Terrace.
Woongarrah dominated from the kick-off and mounted a series of attacks down both wings. The breakthough came in the 21st minute from inside the penalty box when Sam Bettison played on following a strong penalty shout and pounced on the loose ball to score. The second goal, scored seven minutes from the break, came in a similar positional manner with a missed clearance from the Wyoming defence falling for Chris Gavin to score from pointblank range. The Wildcats should have extended their lead but a combination of wayward shooting and several excellent saves by Tigers’ keeper Thomas Coventry kept the score at 2- 0 until full-time. Wyoming did control play for the last quarter of the match but, apart from a big unsuccessful penalty shout, the Woongarrah defence held firm.
Hamyln Terrace is proving to be a fortress for the Wildcats with just two losses and three draws in the past three seasons and just one loss (to Killarney) and a draw (with East Gosford) in this, their first Premier League season. With three or their remaining five games at home form could prove vital in their hopes of reaching the BPL play-offs in their first season. They will certainly be confident next Saturday when they meet Gosford City at Gavenlock Oval. After three straight losses the Tigers will be desperate to get back to winning ways when they travel north to play The Entrance at Pat Morley Oval.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #16 (JULY 14, 2019)
vs SOUTHERN ETTALONG
FIRST GRADE (LOST 0-1)
The match coincided with Wyoming’s annual Reunion Day and so attracted a number of former players from both clubs many of whom played against each other in the 1970s and 80s when the two clubs dominated the local competition. While both clubs have had boom periods in the intervening years this is the first season that both have been serious title contenders swapping second place in the last couple of rounds.
The fans were greeted by a high-quality evenly-contested match although it was all Southern for most of the opening 20 minutes with a number of good chances either being struck wide, hitting the goal frame or being saved by Tigers goalkeeper Thomas Coventry. Wyoming fought back creating a number of attacking opportunities only for the last touches to let them down. The Lions had another great chance in the 38th minute when Keith Gumbs outpaced Coventry who had left his box only for his wide-angled shot to hit the post and deflect out. The final chance of the half then fell to the Tigers pacy winger Ben Farrell who had a one-on-one with SEU keeper Luke Carnevale closing the angle and saving.
The second half started much like the first with Southern on top for the early minutes followed by a series of Wyoming attacks none of which could be converted. The Tigers then had their best chance of the match when Jared McNee made a brilliant run down the right wing then cut back, beat several defenders and passed to his unmarked player/coach Ian McAndrew whose shot went over the bar. Both sides continued to chase maximum points into added time with the clinching goal coming with about a minute remaining. No surprise who scored it with the “usual suspect”, Keith Gumbs, sprinting onto a through ball, wrongfooting the last Wyoming defender and clinically slotting away what was his 17th goal of the season.
Wyoming now travel to Hamlyn Terrace desperate to hold onto their top-five spot against a Woongarrah team that is rebuilding momentum after a mini slump between rounds 9 and 12. Southern-Ettalong return home for a match against The Entrance fresh from a one-week break following their third win of the season.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #15 (JUNE 29, 2019)
vs AVOCA
FIRST GRADE (LOST 5-7)
Pluim Park 2 was abuzz after what was easily the stand-out match of the season to date – indeed many seasons. Those with longish memories recalled The Entrance’s 7-4 win over Berkeley Vale in the 2014 Grand Final although that didn’t have the quality of most of the 12 goals that were scored here. As the score updates were being sent around the BPL SMS network during the match comments were coming back such as “How many players on the pitch?”, “Do they both have goalkeepers” and “Are both teams playing a 1-2-7 formation?” The answers to which were”22”, “Yes” and “No”.
Avoca’s seven goals were all sensational with most scored from at least 20 metres out and most from wide angles. The pattern of the match was set when Wyoming struck the Avoca crossbar in the 9th minute and the Sharks immediately countered with their shot wide. Two minutes later Stuart Adams opened the scoring with a superb strike in the 11th minute from wide on the left into the top corner. Wyoming then equalised in the 21st minute with a penalty from Jared McNee and then took a 2-1 lead five minutes later with a perfect freekick from Ian McAndrew that wrong-footed Avoca keeper Brendan Avis. The play then settled for a short while before Ben Green decided that anything his teammate Adams could do he could do just as well with an identical strike from exactly the same spot for 2-2. Shane Knight then tried to join the party with what was arguably the best shot of the match only to be greeted by the save of the match from Wyoming keeper Thomas Coventy. Ben Farrell then restored the Tigers lead slicing through the defence and finishing clinically. Wyoming 3- 2 up … but not for long with Nixon Jowett making it 3-3 with yet another superb strike two minutes before the break.
Half-time provided a breather for players, officials and fans alike. What proved to be the pivotal point of the match came with Avoca’s Roan Brown sending over a perfect cross that was volleyed on the full by Ben Green for his second goal followed almost from the kick off with a second by Stuart Adams after a typical weaving run through the Wyoming defence and neat finish. Adams then looked to have decided the result in the 67th minute with a perfect free-kick to give his team a 6-3 lead and a personal hat-trick. But almost from the kick-off Wyoming hit back with Ian McAndrew finding Ben Farrell to score his second goal. Having scored previously from a Roan Brown cross Ben Green now returned the favour by setting up the young Shark for his second goal of the season. Yet again another goal followed within a minute with Farrell breaking down the right wing and crossing for Pat Mills to score the final goal in a sensational match.
Capping off a memorable game was that it was played in excellent spirit and sportsmanship between two teams with a great deal of respect for each other. And for the record no blame for any of Avoca’s magnificent seven goals could be placed on Wyoming keeper Thomas Coventry. Matt Ryan could have been there and they would all still have gone in!
Searching for consolation Wyoming have claimed a 13-9 aggregate win from the two clashes between them and Avoca this season! 22 goals in two matches is surely a Premier League record.
Avoca now have the ultimate ‘hard act to follow’ when they take on Toukley next Sunday although it is on their home turf at Pluim Park. Wyoming should have a big and vocal crowd when they host traditional rivals Southern-Ettalong in their annual Reunion Day at Alan Davidson Park.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #14 (JUNE 23, 2019)
vs GOSFORD CITY
FIRST GRADE (WON 1-0)
Wyoming have moved into a season-high second place after this hard-fought win over a tenacious Gosford City side. The kick-off was delayed by 15 minutes, started in overcast but dry conditions but then deteriorated rapidly with heavy rain during the last 10 minutes of each half the match finishing almost in darkness. It was a great credit to the perseverance of the players and the two officials that the match was completed.
As was to be expected given their respective positions on the table, and their significantly greater experience, Wyoming dominated possession throughout the match but the combination of the weather and field condition together with the 90-minute commitment and enthusiasm of the young Dragons Seeing the result in doubt right until the final whistle blew … at 4:47pm. The only goal came from the penalty spot in the 50th minute with Matt Hall taking his goal tally to nine and joining teammates Jared McNee and Pat Mills in equal third place in the race for the Battlewin Golden Boot trophy. Hall’s strike was the only one to get past Gosford’s in-form goalkeeper and Man of the Match Jack Arigho.
The win, together with SEU’s loss to Terrigal moved Wyoming up to clear second place in the first grade ladder and, by taking all 18 points in their match up to fourth in the club championship. Their next opponents are Avoca at Pluim Park on Saturday night where the Sharks will be hell-bent on getting revenge after their 8-2 loss to the Tigers in the previous match.
In any previous season Gosford would only be two matches away from getting above the relegation zone however, with the club championship now the determining factor they’re already 53 points behind third-last place and needing a miracle to survive in the top grade.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #13 (JUNE 16, 2019)
vs EAST GOSFORD
FIRST GRADE (WON 3-1)
If ever there was a ‘game of two halves’ this was it with East Gosford dominating the first half but unable to extend a 1-0 lead before going into the sheds at half-time and then Wyoming swamping them in a stunning second-half revival.
East Gosford started strongly and were rewarded when a Wyoming player handled the ball inside the 18-yard box leaving dual Golden Boot winner Rob Walton to convert with a typically strong and precise shot. The Rams continued to control the play for most of the half against a disjointed Wyoming team that were able to hang on until the break at 1-0 down.
It was hard to believe that it was the same two teams in the second half with Pat Mills and Keelan Austen each mounting fast attacks down the left but unable to beat East’s goalkeeper Beyhan Irmako. The Tigers pressure continued and the break eventually came when Jared McNee played a perfect lob just over Irmako and into the net in the 51st minute to make the breakthrough and equalise. With the momentum now firmly with Wyoming they narrowly missed a second goal when Mills headed a McNee cross over the bar but in the 56th minute Mills sprinted through to mount pressure on Irmako who fumbled and saw the ball rebound towards the goal with the Wyoming goal poacher tapping in to give his team the lead for the first time.
The rampant Tigers then had several chances to extend the lead including a strong penalty shout that was turned down in the 62nd minute and a shot that deflected off the post in the 71st minute. Wyoming coach Ian McAndrew who had been nursing an injury brought himself onto the field with 15 minutes to play and made an immediate impact putting a perfect lobbed pass that found Mills who was brought down inside the box and this time a penalty was awarded. Set-piece specialist Matt Hall then had his dot-shot parried by Rams keeper Beyhan Irmako but fortunately the ball fell free for Hall to score *. Although the Rams fought hard for the remainder of the match and put plenty of pressure on the Tigers goal the home team held on for another valuable win.
Rams’ coach Chris Powell commented “We played really well in the first half but knew that one goal was never going to be enough. We lost the game in a 15-minute period in the second half when we buckled under Wyoming’s pressure and gave away a couple of fairly cheap goals”.
Coach McAndrew agreed: “We were poor in the first half and let East Gosford put us off our game. We had a good chat at half-time, knew what we needed to do to correct the problems and executed the plan perfectly”.
Wyoming certainly won’t be relaxing next Sunday when they take on traditional rivals Gosford City at Alan Davidson Park. The Rams will also be at home on the same day against Avoca.
The Tigers tireless midfield general later quipped that, tired of being ribbed by teammates about so many of his 8 goals this season coming from penalties or free kicks, he deliberately hit the Rams keeper so that he could claim a goal from general play. Hmmm?
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #12 (JUNE 9, 2019)
vs BERKELEY VALE
FIRST GRADE (WON 2-1)
Although Wyoming have been out of the BPL for the past couple of seasons these two clubs have had a terrific rivalry for most of the previous decade and, although most of the personnel has now changed, the same passion was there in this match at Mingara Club Oval.
Neither team went into the match at full strength with the Wombats missing key attacking players in Michael Tawyer and Troy Mumford although they did welcome back one of their best-ever defenders in Pat Dalton. Wyoming were without striker Pat Mills, midfielder Matt Hall and defender Kevin Woodbridge, the latter offset by the return of Todd Johnson.
Wyoming took an early lead through Sam Dooley who finished a solid attack with a shot into the right edge of the Berkeley net in the 7th minute. Darren Cooper was a constant threat against his old club and he eventually equalised in the 26th minute when he broke clear down the right wing, cut back infield and, although his shot was saved by Tigers ‘keeper Thomas Coventry, the ball rebounded for a tap-in goal. Cooper was again involved with a couple of chances late in the first half but the score remained at 1-1 at the break.
The eventual game-breaker came in the 68th minute when Wyoming’s exciting young left winger Ben Farrell sent a long, curving cross from just inside his own half that found Jared McNee on the right edge of the Berkeley 18-yard box. With goalie Steve Grimmett and the Wombat defence bearing down on him McNee headed the ball over the keeper just beating the last ditch attempted clearance of Alex Burrell and into the net.
Not to be denied Berkeley Vale launched a series of attacks with Andrew Watts, Ian McAndrew and Coventry all making last ditch clearances or saves to get their side home for three crucial points.
Tigers coach Ian McAndrew commented: “It was a tough game and although we played very well in patches I think on balance Berkeley were marginally the better side on the day. We’ve been working hard on our defensive structure and were able to break down all but one of their attacks. With that as a platform we know we’ve got five reliable goal scorers up front.”
Berkeley Vale coach Mark Pratt shared that view on the intensity of the match in general but in contrast said: “We’re strong in defence and are controlling the play in most of our matches but are struggling to make advantage of the opportunities that are being created.”
Wyoming return to Alan Davidson Park for the next two Sundays looking to cement their top three spot in back-to-back local derbies against East Gosford and Gosford City. Berkeley Vale now look forward to their ‘away’ match against Avoca at Pluim Park next Saturday night before hosting The Entrance at Mingara the following Sunday.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #11 (JUNE 2, 2019)
vs KANWAL
FIRST GRADE (WON 3-1)
Wyoming have bounced back from their defeat to Killarney District with a hard-fought win over Kanwal at Alan Davidson Park. After a tight first half-hour the visitors opened the scoring when they pounced on a loose ball in the midfield and sent Ryan Walker through, his shot was deflected but fell to the Bulls livewire winger Joey Liddle who scored his second goal in as many matches.
A more committed Wyoming team came out after the break. The pattern throughout the second half was virtually unchanged with the Tigers controlling the midfield and launching continuous forays into the opposition half through both wings only to be stopped by the typically disciplined and well-organised Bulls defence who then launched a series of counter attacks. The breakthrough eventually came in the 63rd minute with Jared McNee scoring from a wide angled free-kick. The Wyoming assault continued and the next turning point came in the 70th minute when Ben Farrell broke through the Kanwal defence only to be brought down on the edge of the penalty box by defender Nick Jelbart who was deemed to be the last man and red-carded.
Desperate to get maximum points and despite being a man short Kanwal now began to press forward leaving some gaps in their previously impregnable defence. Despite this the match looked headed for a draw before Wyoming grabbed two late goals, the first to Sam Dooley in the 87th minute and the second, inside added time, to Zac Hall.
For the Bulls it was a serious case of déjà vu all over again being the fourth time this season that they’ve dropped points inside the last few minutes of matches with six of their defeats being by a single goal. Moving into the second half of the season they’ll be looking for a change in luck starting next Sunday when they take on Southern-Ettalong at Wadalba. For Wyoming their BPL comeback season has reached new heights as they moved into third place on goal difference. Having said that they’re only one point ahead of sixth place making next week’s match against Berkeley Vale at Mingara another must-win for them.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #10 (MAY 26, 2019)
vs KILLARNEY
FIRST GRADE (LOST 0-2)
The Killarney Terriers have seen off their latest challenger with a workmanlike 2-0 win over Wyoming in their match at EDSACC North.
Both sides went into the match with makeshift backlines with Wyoming especially hard hit after losing two of the defensive line that had strung together four straight clean sheets and a third at half-time. Despite this the Tigers were well in contention for most of an even first half although the first cracks began to appear just before the break with goalkeeper Thomas Coventry making a superb save and then having another Killarney strike hitting the post and running along the goal line before being cleared.
From the start of the second half it became clear that Wyoming would struggle to stay in contention and the breakthrough eventually came in the 55th when an excellent cross from Lachlan Moffett into the box saw Tim Knight score what was the first goal conceded by the Tigers in nearly 7 1/2 hours of football. The clincher came nine minutes later when after constant attack Wyoming conceded a penalty duly converted by Terrier Matt Hall. Unfortunately the day ended badly for Tiger Matt Hall who was sent off for a second bookable offence a few minutes from full-time.
It was an entertaining match where the obvious respect between the two sets of players ensured that it was played in a fine spirit throughout.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #9 (MAY 19, 2019)
vs TOUKLEY
FIRST GRADE (WON 6-0)
Wyoming continues to build momentum with another dominant performance here securing their fourth straight win and moving them into a season-high fourth place on the ladder. Once again the platform for the win was built on a rock-solid defence with goalkeeper Thomas Coventry, behind a back four led by player/coach Ian McAndrew, keeping a clean sheet for the fourth match in a row..
Toukley began strongly mounting a number of attacks however by the 10th minute Wyoming had taken control and would dominate for the remainder of the match. After a couple of missed opportunities, a superb through ball from Sam Dooley found Ben Farrell who slotted home a neat goal. With the tireless Matt Hall controlling the midfield and feeding Jared McNee down the left wing the Gunners defence was under threat and it was his combination that led to Farrell’s second goal in the 38th minute. Only a brilliant save by Toukley’s young goalkeeper Bailey Viset kept his team’s deficit to two at the break..
As they’d done in the first half the visitors attacked early in the second term before the Tigers again took over with Viset again keeping his team in contention with another fine save in the 63rd minute. Shortly afterwards though the constant pressure told and a goal to Sam Dooley from a goalmouth scramble gave Wyoming the comfort of a 3-0 lead further settled when the Gunners went down to 10 men with Jarrod Bowman sent off for a second bookable offence. A superb long ball from Ian McAndrew then found the speedy Farrell who beat Viset one-on-one to complete his first-ever top-grade hat-trick. Wyoming have a number of talented youngsters in their BPL squad and 16-year-old substitute Conor Fitzpatrick showed his class sending a through ball to Matt Hall who found Dooley to complete a well-deserved brace before Jared McNee capped off an outstanding match with his sixth goal of the season just before full-time..
In spite of his team’s recent good form Wyoming coach Ian McAndrew still has his feet firmly on the ground. “At the start of the season our first challenge was to avoid relegation and if you’d told me we’d be in the top half of the club championship ladder nearly halfway through I’d have been delighted. But as well as we’ve played so far we’ve only beaten one of the main contenders and despite a couple of hiccups Killarney are obviously still clearly the benchmark against which we’ll be judged.”
Wyoming now travel to EDSACC North next Sunday for their biggest test to date, against competition leaders Killarney District while Toukley face a Saturday night match with Terrigal.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #8 (MAY 12, 2019)
vs THE ENTRANCE
FIRST GRADE (WON 2-0)
After a stuttering start to their season the new-look Wyoming team are starting to hit their straps with three wins in seven days all built around a defensive line that has been transformed from one which conceded 15 goals in their first five matches to become the only team this season to string together three straight clean sheets. The 4-0 win over East Gosford on Wednesday night was arguably the Tigers best overall performance of the season with a margin that could have been much greater but for a number of missed scoring chances. The four goals were shared around between Matt Hall (penalty), Jared McNee, Sam Dooley (his first since re-joining the club) and Ben Farrell.
With The Entrance close to full strength the Sunday match was always going to be a tough encounter and so it proved. The pivotal points of the match came within the first few minutes of each half with Jared McNee slicing through The Entrance defence to score a superb individual goal in the third minute and then in one of the first plays of the second half Tigers winger Ben Farrell was brought inside the box by Sea Eagles ‘keeper Adam Parkinson leaving Matt Hall to convert the resulting penalty and give Wyoming the 2-0 lead that they preserved for the balance of an evenly-contested second half with the defences led by two of the best in the business, Matt Page and Ian McAndrew, cancelling each other out.
Wyoming will be hosting Toukley at Alan Davidson Park next Sunday and certainly won’t be taking anything for granted against the tenacious Gunners. The Entrance are still three matches away from ending their home ground suspension although they won’t be travelling far when they meet Killarney District next Sunday at EDSACC North.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
FROM THE DEN ...
Big day today again at the Den. Our U21s maintained their unbeaten streak with a 1 all draw against a spirited Entrance side. Man of the match James Holwell
Reserves played well in patches but could not find the back of the net consistently enough given the chances created today going down 2-1. Stick together Bhoys things will come right. Man of the match Bryce Duxbury.
Firsts continued their forward march with a dominant 2 nil win. Goal scorers Jocks Glen McNee with another great goal and skipper Matt Hall clinical from the penalty spot.
Special mention goes to U18 Jamie Fussell for making his first grade debut today as a late substitute, and also scoring yet to have his goal ruled offside and disallowed.
Congratulations also to 16 year old Conor Fitzpatrick for also making his debut. A super talent, even better young man with fabulous parents. No doubt they are very proud today.
Our future is bright with our senior players and young guns.
(Written by: Scott Snodgrass)
ROUND #2 [RE-SCHEDULED] (MAY 8, 2019)
vs EAST GOSFORD
FIRST GRADE (WON 4-0)
Half-Time: 1-0. Goals: Matt Hall, Jared McNee, Sam Dooley, Ben Farrell.
ROUND #7 (MAY 5, 2019)
vs TERRIGAL
FIRST GRADE (WON 1-0)
A crucial win for Wyoming, their first from four matches to date against top-five teams. After conceding eight goals in their previous two matches the Tigers clearly had defensive problems, ones that coach Ian McAndrew addressed midweek both on the training field and in team meetings. The turnaround could not have been more marked with the team getting their first clean sheet of the season against one of the competitions best attacks and away from home.
Terrigal went into the match without a number of key players who hadn’t fully recovered from their FFA Cup match against Blacktown City as well as coach Martyn Griffiths who was still overseas. The only goal in the match came midway through the first half with Jared McNee making a break and finding Golden Boot pacesetter Pat Mills who scored with a left foot shot from the edge of the Terrigal penalty box.
While acknowledging that the midweek FFA Cup match didn’t help his team’s cause acting Terrigal coach Dan Murace was full of praise for Wyoming. “Our lads were a bit flat but Wyoming was definitely up for the game. We had our chances with Daniel Bird hitting the crossbar but Wyoming’s overall work rate was exceptional and their defensive structure was outstanding. They thoroughly deserved the win”.
Wyoming will be hoping that the win sets a platform for the remainder of the year. Indeed the next fortnight could well define their season with their deferred Round 2 match against East Gosford on Wednesday night to be followed by back-to-back home games against The Entrance and Toukley. Terrigal have a tougher draw starting with one of the most anticipated matches of the season against Killarney on Saturday night at Pluim Park and then taking on Berkeley Vale at Mingara the following Sunday.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #6 (APRIL 28, 2019)
vs WOONGARRAH
FIRST GRADE (LOST 3-4)
One of the matches of the season to date between the two promoted clubs played in a fast open and entertaining but intense manner. Wyoming dominated the first half, leading 2-0 after 22 minutes through a headed goal to Jared McNee and one directly from a corner by Matt Hall. The Tigers should have had the match sewn up but for a series of missed opportunities, rebounds from the posts and desperate Woongarrah defence which kept the lead at two. Then that ‘dangerous 2-0 lead’ syndrome came into play with goals to Kane Woolston and Ashley Henderson in the 39th and 43rd minutes swinging the momentum the Wildcats way.
A pair of bookmark penalties, both for handballs inside the respective boxes, saw Wyoming regain the lead in the 53rd minute through Matt Hall but then surrender it almost immediately with Alex Govorcin converting for the visitors. Then before the Tigers could regroup they were down 4-3 with Henderson scoring his second goal within two minutes. Both teams continued to play quality team football with Woongarrah’s defence remaining tight together for the remainder of the match despite a series of Wyoming attacks. Wyoming almost snatched a late point when a powerful drive from Ian McAndrew was brilliantly tipped over the bar by ‘Cats goalkeeper Matt Wilson with what was effectively the last play of the match.
It was another frustrating loss for Wyoming, their third from three matches to date against top five teams with another one set for next Sunday when they take on Terrigal at Duffys Oval. By contrast Woongarrah, who now sit in equal third spot, will be looking to at least consolidate that position, ideally even improve on it, when they meet Toukley in their local derby – the first between the two clubs since 2015 - at Harry Moore Oval on Saturday night.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #5 (APRIL 21, 2019)
vs SOUTHERN ETTALONG
FIRST GRADE (LOST 2-4)
The battle between two of the BPL Big Cats with the Southern-Ettalong Lions hosting the Wyoming Tigers at James Browne Oval. SEU made all the early running attacking strongly and earning three free-kicks within scoring distance inside the first 10 minutes. The constant pressure eventually told with the awarding of a penalty in the 15th minute which was taken by Keith Gumbs but saved by Wyoming ‘keeper Thomas Coventry. It was to be the only lapse by the former St Kitts international who proceeded to dominate the match making a mockery of his 46 years with a brace of goals, a goal assist, covering every inch of the field in the process including dropping back to defend.
While Coventry’s penalty save sparked Wyoming into action they did fall behind with Gumbs on hand for a 32nd-minute tap-in goal after a strong SEU attack down the right wing. That was the only goal in the opening half although Wyoming could have equalised six minutes later when they were awarded a penalty only to see Southern’s goalie Luke Carnevale save Matt Hall’s shot. As it was Wyoming did eventually level the score through a brilliant 30- metre strike from Jared McNee. The next 10 minutes proved crucial with the home team attacking strongly. Only a sensational diving save from the Tigers Man of the Match Coventry kept the scores level before a defensive error allowed James Steer to see the Lions regain the lead. It was quickly followed by a second goal from Gumbs on the hour-mark which gave his team what proved to be a match-winning lead.
Wyoming weren’t finished though and a foul on Pat Mills on the edge of the box saw Matt Hall score from a typically powerful free kick. The clinching goal appropriately enough was set up by Gumbs whose perfect cross allowed James Caban to restore his team’s two-goal margin with five minutes to play.
It doesn’t get any easier for the Tigers as they go into another catfight next Sunday against Woongarrah at Alan Davidson Park while Southern-Ettalong will be looking to consolidate their clear second spot when they take on the improving Entrance outfit in an ‘away’ match at James Browne Oval.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
ROUND #4 (APRIL 14, 2019)
vs AVOCA
FIRST GRADE (WON 8-2)
After an opening round loss to Berkeley Vale the new-look Wyoming Tigers are gathering momentum with back-to-back wins, this one their biggest winning margin since a 10-3 win over Kanwal on their way to winning the 2013 premiership. The goal onslaught began early with Pat Mills scoring in the second minute before Avoca struck back with 16-year-old Jackson Carr on target for his first ever Premier League goal. The match was balanced until a second goal by Mills midway through the half restored Wyoming’s lead then three further goals to the 2018 Division One Player of the Year between the 38th and 43rd minutes had the Tigers go to the sheds with a 5-1 lead.
A pall was cast over the match during the break when Mills and Wyoming teammate Matt Gravas were told that a very close mutual friend, 28-year-old James Booth, who had been in hospital awaiting a lung transplant, had just died. The resumption of the match was delayed as a mark of respect with a minute’s silence being meticulously observed by players, match officials and spectators.
To their credit Avoca fought hard throughout the second half and but for goals to Ben Farrell and Matt Hall in the 56th and 58th minutes were able to hold out until Mills’ scored his sixth goal just on the 90-minute mark and then grabbed a consolation goal, scored by Nixon Jowett, right on full-time.
Pat Mills’ six-goal tally is a new Wyoming club goal-scoring record overtaking the previous mark of five goals shared by Marc Falzon and Michael Payne. It is also the most on record in any BPL match since Killarney’s Tim Knight scored seven against Wyoming in the 2016 season.
Avoca coach Neal Hide was full of praise for the Wyoming performance, “They were far too good on the day. No excuses from our side”.
Ian McAndrew commented: “Clearly this was our best performance of the season and one we’ve been building towards. Patty Mills was right back to his best and showed tremendous courage to play on after the terrible news about James. The boys rallied around both him and Matt as did the Avoca lads and the officials which we really appreciated”.
The two teams head in opposite directions next Monday for away matches, Wyoming to the peninsula for what should be a solid test against Southern-Ettalong at James Browne Oval and Avoca to Harry Moore Oval looking to take points from Toukley.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
FROM THE DEN ...
Our BPL U21s vs Avoca FC were not at their best but as a young side showed a great will to win triumphing 2-1.
Similarly our Reserve Grade team, did it tough but got the result 2-1 with Jayden Logan scoring the winner.
First Grade started quickly with Patty Mills scoring early but Avoca equalising soon there after. From there on though the Yellow Bhoys dominated scoring another 7 goals - with Pat Mills scoring a double hat-trick. Two matchballs! Benny Fazz and co-skipper Matt Hall with a goal a piece. Final result was Wyoming 8, Avoca 2.
(Written by: Scott Snodgrass)
ROUND #3 (APRIL 7, 2019)
vs GOSFORD
FIRST GRADE (WON 3-0)
This was the second big derby match of the round but one with a difference in that the composition of the two teams was virtually unrecognisable from that of last season. Back in BPL after two seasons in Division One Wyoming is made up of a mix of continuing players and a large number of experienced ones who followed new coach Ian McAndrew to the Tigers. Likewise Gosford’s new coach Errol Baker had a number of players follow him from his previous club Woy Woy and merged with returning Dragons’ players.
In front of a big crowd the young Gosford team put plenty of pressure on early without seriously threatening the Wyoming goal. Matt Hall made the breakthrough with a perfectly placed free-kick from 35 metres in the 18th minute for the only goal of the first half. The experience of the Tigers told and they exerted control from the start of the second term with the result effectively decided when Ben Farrell capped an excellent match with a well-taken goal just on the hour mark. Some good saves from Gosford ‘keeper Jack Arigho and a lack of composure by Wyoming in front of goal kept the scoreline at 2-0 until Pat Mills scored just on full-time.
Wyoming coach Ian McAndrew commented on the match: “It was a hard-fought, typical derby match for much of the first half. Gosford defended well but seemed to tire late. We played patiently and stuck to our game plan throughout. Matt Gravas who’s dropped back to our defensive line was excellent as were Matt Hall and Todd Johnson in the spine of the team. It was good to get maximum club championship points and set a platform for the rest of the season”.
Wyoming play their first home match of the season at Alan Davidson Park next Sunday against an Avoca team that will have gained confidence from their first win of the season. Gosford City travel to the peninsula for what should be a tough match against a re-invigorated Southern-Ettalong at James Browne Oval.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
FROM THE DEN ...
Job done congratulations to all three BPL grades for securing the win and bringing home 9 points. A fantastic day and a brilliant atmosphere made for a hugely successful Derby. Massive crowd! Thankyou Gosford City Football Club for hosting a fantastic day.
Congratulations to MOTM Jayden Logan U21, Scott Lester/Andrew Morris Ressies and Matt Gravas Firsts. Some brilliant performances in all three grades so very hard to single out just one player this week.
See you all for the next one on June 23rd at Alan Davidson Oval.
(Written by: Scott Snodgrass)
ROUND #1 (MARCH 24, 2019)
vs BERKELEY VALE
FIRST GRADE (LOST 0-3)
A tough opening match for Wyoming on their return to Premier League after two seasons in Division One. It’s a very different looking Tigers squad with new coach Ian McAndrew returning to his former club and bringing a large number of experienced ex-Gosford players with him. By contrast Berkeley Vale are carrying much the same personnel that took the club to within one match of winning the premiership last season but with the important addition of former Australian youth international and A-League player Reece Caira.
Wyoming began strongly and could easily have scored at least one goal inside the first 20 minutes. Instead Berkeley Vale took the lead in the 24th minute when defender Alex Burrell scored from a corner kick for the only goal in the first half. The Wombats exciting young winger Michael Tawyer was a constant threat to the Tigers defence and he eventually doubled his side’s lead eight minutes into the second half, the goal also coming from a corner. Although they continued to attack strongly Wyoming couldn’t break through and Brenton Westley settled the result in the 75th minute with a well-constructed goal.
Both clubs will have midweek FFA Cup matches with Wyoming up against tough opponents in leading Illawarra Premier League club Bulli FC at Pluim Park on Wednesady night. Berkeley Vale travel to the west of Sydney to take on Blacktown Association club, Marayong FC at Harvey Park.
Both clubs play their Round 2 BPL matches at Pluim Park on Saturday night with Wyoming up against East Gosford on Field 3 and Berkeley Vale taking on Avoca on Field 1.
(Written by: Alistair Kennedy)
