THE painful memories from the last time Gold Coast United met Sydney FC are yet to fade and will be used as extra motivation for Miron Bleiberg’s men this Sunday when the two sides go head-to-head again, this time at Skilled Park.

Back in round five Gold Coast led 2-0 early in the second half, but Sydney fought back to claim all three points thanks to a highly controversial penalty awarded in the dying seconds of the game.

The fallout from the dramatic match lasted for weeks and is still fresh in the minds of Bleiberg’s troops who are not only more determined than ever to snap their recent run, but also angry enough to exact their revenge on the sky blues.

According to the Gold Coast Head Coach, the time for talk is over and the actions must begin.

“It’s time for our actions to speak louder than words and for us to get a win on Sunday. We are all feeling the burning desire to win. I feel it and the players feel it,” Bleiberg said.

“We also want to get some sort of revenge for what happened last time we played Sydney. The memory of that 93^rd minute penalty they got, and the euphoria that followed it, has hurt me and if the players feel only 10% of what I feel then they will run amok on Sunday.”

Bleiberg also revealed he will field a strong and experienced line-up for the visit of Vitezslav Lavicka’s men with the return of Dutch duo Paul Beekmans and Peter Jungschlager a welcome boost to United’s midfield. Both were sidelined for last weekend’s trip to Perth with Beekmans nursing a foot injury and Jungschlager suffering from an ankle knock he picked up against Melbourne Victory.

Bleiberg said: “Both Peter and Paul will be back and both will play. Peter is not 100% with his injury, but at 98% he is fine to play.

“The bottom line is that we will have the strongest and most experienced side that we can put out. Everybody is ready and everybody is keen. We’ve all had enough of not winning and not getting points, so we will be doing everything in our power to change that on Sunday.

“If all those things combine and everyone plays to their maximum ability giving 100% effort, then there can only be one result,” he declared.

Also back in the provisional squad is towering defender Ante Rozic who earlier in the week was expecting bad news on his knee problem. However, scans have revealed improvement in his condition and he was cleared to resume full training, although Bleiberg says he may elect to give him a full 90 minutes in United’s Youth Team on Saturday to build his match fitness.

“Ante was feeling pain, but the scans and the doctor have confirmed that there his knee is very much improved. However, because he hasn’t played for a while he will be a bit rusty so we may prefer to give him a full game with the youth team rather than 10 minutes with the senior team off the bench.”

YOUNG striker Golgol Mebrahtu is hoping his impressive display against Melbourne Victory last week will secure his place in the Gold Coast United starting eleven against Perth Glory at nib Stadium on Saturday night. 

Mebrahtu’s frightening pace and quick feet were a constant threat and it was the 21-year-old who won United’s penalty late in the first half when he lured Diogo Ferreira into a clumsy challenge. 

The speedy youngster remembers well his last visit to the west when Gold Coast overcame Glory 2-1 at the tail end of last season. Mebrahtu won United a penalty but injured his shoulder in the process, ruling him out for the remainder of the campaign and sparking a horror run of injuries that have hindered his game time until just recently,

“That game (in Perth) was a bitter-sweet to say the least. No player wants to get injured but if it’s going to happen then I guess winning a penalty in the process does help the team out,” Mebrahtu said.

“I had a good pre-season this year then three days before the first game I injured my ankle. I recovered from that only to pick up a back problem a few weeks later. So for me to get back out there against Melbourne Heart and then to start last week against Victory has been a real boost.

“The word everyone uses when they talk about injuries is frustration, and that’s exactly how it feels. The main thing is that I’m back on track now and I’m looking forward to playing as much as I can. Thankfully I’m over my injury issues now.”

Mebrahtu, a devout Christian, says his faith not only helped through the rough times on the treatment table, but also inspires him to make the best possible use of his natural talents as he looks to build on a promising start to his career.

“I thank God for the fact that I’m where I am in both my career and my life. During the injury period I just kept persevering and hopefully it’s starting to pay off now,” he said.

“Confidence is a big thing and of course it builds when you do some good things during the game. You have to have self-belief and I also believe that God gave me my abilities so it’s up to me to use them in the best way possible. 

“As time goes by you get experience and that makes you more comfortable on the field. Miron has given me freedom to play the way I play and the rest of the squad has been very supportive,” he added.

United flew to Perth earlier than normal this week with the team departing first thing Wednesday morning to give the players as much time as possible to recover from the arduous journey and prepare for what is a vital match.

On the plane were young forward James Brown and defender Dylan McGowan who both returned from Olyroos duty at the start of the week. But injury doubts hover over Dutch duo Paul Beekmans (foot) and Peter Jungschlager (ankle) with the pair picking up knocks in last weekend’s visit to Melbourne.

Jonas Salley is set to continue in the centre of the park and defender Ante Rozic is back in contention for a starting place despite a minor reaction to his knee troubles at training yesterday.

The two sides in Saturday’s clash will also compete for the Iron Ore Cup, a perpetual trophy between the two teams created by Gold Coast owner Clive Palmer and Glory owner Tony Sage. United currently have possession of the cup after overcoming Perth 2-1 the last time the two clubs met.

Hyundai A-League Week 9 - Saturday 3 December 2011
PERTH GLORY v GOLD COAST UNITED

At nib Stadium, Perth
Kick off: 9.00pm QLD, 7:00pm local
Referee: Strebre Delovski

Twitter: HALpggcu

TV Broadcast: Fox Sports 1

Gold Coast United Squad:
1.Glen Moss [gk], 3.Michael Thwaite (c), 4.Zac Anderson, 5.Kristian Rees, 6.Paul Beekmans, 7.Golgol Mebrahtu, 12.Dylan Macallister, 13.Ante Rozic, 14.Ben Halloran, 15.Adama Traore, 16.Maceo Rigters, 17.Chris Harold, 18.James Brown, 20.Jerrad Tyson [gk], 21.Daniel Severino, 22.Peter Jungschlager, 23.Dylan McGowan, 24.Jonas Salley, 29.Mitch Bevan.
*four to be omitted*

In: 18.James Brown, 23.Dylan McGowan (return from international duty), 21.Daniel Severino (promoted), 4.Zac Anderson (promoted).
Out: None.
Unavailable: 9.Joel Porter (calf – 3 weeks), 19.Chris Broadfoot (ankle injury – 6 weeks).

Perth Glory squad:

1.Danny Vukovic[(gk], 2.Josh Mitchell, 3.Bas van den Brink, 4.Billy Mehmet, 5.Steve Pantelidis, 7.Jacob Burns (c), 8.Adam Hughes, 9.Shane Smeltz, 10.Liam Miller, 14.Steven McGarry, 15.Tommy Amphlett, 17.Todd Howarth, 18. Jesse Makarounas, 19.Josh Risdon, 21.Mile Sterjovski, 25.Trent McClenahan, 27.Andrezinho, 30.Lewis Italiano [gk]
**three to be omitted**

In: 5.Steve Pantelidis (.returns from injury), 10.Liam Miller (returns from suspension), 18.Jesse Makarounas (promoted), 21.Mile Sterjovski.
Out: None.
Unavailable: 6.Chris Coyne (achilles – 3 months), 11.Victor Sikora (hip – long term injury list), 12.Scott Neville (knee), 13.Travis Dodd (hamstring - 2 weeks),16.Evan Berger (hamstring – 5-weeks), 20.Neil Young (abdominal).

Head-to-Head: All matches (played 6): Perth Glory wins 0, Gold Coast United wins 4 (2 draws)

TALISMAN James Brown was back with the Gold Coast United squad today after his stint with the Olyroos and the young attacker is determined to provide the spark that ignites a win for his side against Perth Glory on Saturday.

Named as the NAB Young Player of the Month for October before he took off on international duty, Brown has been United’s most lethal marksman this term, registering an impressive four goals in just six appearances.

Spectacular strikes against Wellington and Central Coast Mariners, along with a slide-rule finish in the 3-1 win over Newcastle, shot the local youngster to prominence early in the 2011/12 campaign. A favourite with team-mates, fans and pundits alike, Brown’s return to club action could not have come at a better time for United as they aim to take their frustrations out on Ian Ferguson’s Perth side.

His ability to unlock defences and sneak unnoticed into goalscoring positions will be valuable tools in United’s quest for the points against a side who head into the match with their own form troubles. Perth have lost four of their previous five outings and the last player they will want to face is a rampant James Brown.

Although naturally enjoying his time with the Olyroos, Brown admitted today that he was desperate to get back into the Gold Coast side and pick up where he left off before he departed to wear the green and gold for Australia.

“It’s been really good to be away with the Olyroos because it’s always an honour to represent your country, but at the same time a little frustrating for me that I haven’t been here to help the team out,” Brown said.

“But if I’m selected to play this Saturday against Perth then just like the rest of the side I’ll be giving it everything I’ve got to get us back to winning ways. We need the points and we all believe we can go over there and get them.

“I’m really glad to be back and we’re all determined to prove that we’re a good team. There’s plenty of depth here and plenty of competition for places, so nobody is taking their spot in the team for granted.

“We’ve worked really hard at training this morning and will be doing the same this afternoon; just as we will every day before the match. We’re fired up for the game and we know a win will change everything for us and start the ball rolling.

“It’s not as if we haven’t been playing well enough to win matches – we have, but a few things haven’t gone our way to say the least. It’s still early in the season though and the mood is very positive in the camp because we know that we can go over to Perth and get the result we need,” he declared.

FORMER rugby league great Martin Lang was a new face at Gold Coast United’s training session today as he put Miron Bleiberg’s men through their paces with some additional fitness work.

During his career with Cronulla Sharks, Penrith Panthers and Queensland’s State of Origin side, Lang was renowned for his never-say-die attitude. After helping the Panthers take out the premiership in 2003, the prop hung up his boots the following year and ventured into the world of fitness training.

Although drafted in to assist with United’s conditioning work, Lang will also be using his motivational skills to help Gold Coast overcome their recent run of results and get back to winning ways.

While the round ball code is slightly foreign to him, the 36-year-old is certain he can incorporate his tough style of play into United’s training regime, saying one of the key ingredients for improving mental toughness - sticking together as a team - was universal in any sport.

“It’s good physically and mentally just to do something different to what they’ve been doing,” Lang said.

“But their fitness levels are certainly very good, they all stuck together and bought into it; I didn’t hear too many complaints,” he added. 

Over the next couple of months Lang will be keeping the boys on their toes as he pushes them through some challenging speed and endurance training.

The retired athlete will also be drawing on his decade of professional rugby league to encourage and advise the United side in any way possible.

Lang said although his involvement was small in the scheme of things, but he would be doing his utmost to inject something fresh into the squad. 

“I’m certainly not the answer or the fix or anything like that, but they’re not that far away from doing really well; they’ve lost some really close games,” he said.

“So basically my involvement is just some extra fitness training and motivation so hopefully that helps them out enough to maybe spark something on the weekend.”

RED tape is again conspiring against Gold Coast United’s prize striker Maceo Rigters with the Dutch import sweating on one final piece of paperwork from England before he can be cleared to make his debut for the club.

Documents from Holland arrived earlier in the week to complete part of the bureaucratic exercise, but time is running out for the whole process to be concluded before Saturday’s round two match against Central Coast Mariners in Gosford.

Gold Coast Head Coach Miron Bleiberg was naturally frustrated, but remained both hopeful and pragmatic about the situation, declaring faith in the depth of his squad should Rigters be ruled out again.

“Unfortunately on the eve of the game we are still waiting for the final piece of paperwork that will satisfy all the visa requirements, but although time is ticking there is still a chance that it will come through and he can play. It’s a wait and see situation and that’s all we can do,” he said.

“We want Mace to play of course, but last week James Brown came in for him and we all saw what happened there. It was almost a given that James would score the goal because that’s how football often works.”

Bleiberg received better news about another of his Dutch imports this morning though with midfielder Paul Beekmans passing a fitness test on a sore ankle. Beekmans sat out two training days this week and the rest period worked its magic so the dynamic Dutchman will travel with the squad this afternoon and take his place in the side.

“Paul (Beekmans) has a bit of tightness in his ankle which is due to him not being used to the harder grounds here in Australia. We gave him Wednesday and Thursday off training and there was dramatic improvement, so he trained fully today and he is fine to play,” Bleiberg said.

Both United and the Mariners are chasing their first three-pointer of the new campaign in what promises to be an open match at Bluetongue Stadium. Gold Coast fashioned over 20 attempts at goal against Wellington in last week’s clash at Skilled Park and will again be confident of posing an attacking threat against Graham Arnold’s men.

Central Coast’s season began with a 1-0 loss to reigning champions Brisbane Roar and Bleiberg believes that result will give the home side additional motivation.

“I would’ve preferred to play the Mariners after a win to be honest, not coming off a loss and chasing their first victory of the season, he said.

“Last week Wellington were something of a wounded animal after everyone writing them off and some of their off-season dramas, so they played out of their skin. The same will apply to the Mariners who are a proud club and are playing at home after a loss.

“But to lose away to Brisbane Roar is certainly nothing to be embarrassed about and not too many sides will take three points from Suncorp Stadium this season, so Central Coast shouldn’t take it to heart.”

But even if striker Rigters is ruled out of the visit to Gosford, the United boss says he will adopt an attacking approach against one of this season’s title favourites.

“This year we have so many new players, either from our youth team or from overseas, and they’re not overly familiar with the ins and outs of the Hyundai A-League. That makes my job a little easier in that I can just tell them to go and express themselves without worrying in advance about how difficult the match might be.

“We are going down there for three points and we have already said that this season we will play without fear.”

Target man Dylan Macallister is set to lead the line once again for Gold Coast and for the second week running will face one of his former clubs.

Hyundai A-League Week 2

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS v GOLD COAST UNITED

At Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford

Kick-off: 4.30pm QLD,5.30pm local

Referee: Peter O’Leary

Twitter: The official hashtag for this Saturday’s clash with the Mariners is #aleague #HALccmgcu

Gold Coast United Squad:

1.Glen MOSS [gk], 2.Josh BRILLANTE, 3.Michael THWAITE (c), 5.Kristian REES, 6.Paul BEEKMANS, 8.ROBSON, 9.Joel PORTER, 10.Tahj MINNIECON, 12.Dylan MACALLISTER, 13.Ante ROZIC, 14.Ben HALLORAN, 15.Adama TRAORE, 16.Maceo RIGTERS, 18.James BROWN, 20.Jerrad TYSON [gk], 21.Daniel SEVERINO, 22.Peter JUNGSCHLAGER, 23.Dylan MCGOWAN.

*three to be omitted

In: 2.Josh BRILLANTE, 5.Kristian REES, 7.Golgol MEBRAHTU, 16.Maceo RIGTERS (all promoted).

Out: Nil

Unavailable: 19.Chris BROADFOOT (ankle injury – 6 weeks).

Central Coast Mariners Squad:

1.Mathew RYAN [gk], 2.Daniel MCBREEN, 3.Joshua ROSE, 4.Pedj BOJIC, 5.Brad PORTER, 6.Patrick ZWAANSWIJK (c), 8.Rostyn GRIFFITHS, 9.Bernie IBINI, 10.Adriano PELLEGRINO, 11.Oliver BOZANIC, 12.Troy HEARFIELD, 14.Michael MCGLINCHEY, 15.Brad MCDONALD, 16.Trent SAINSBURY, 17.Michael BAIRD, 19.Matthew SIMON, 20.Justin PASFIELD [gk], 21.Sam GALLAGHER, 23.Adam KWASNIK.

*four to be omitted*

In: 9.Bernie IBINI, 15.Brad MCDONALD, 16.Trent SAINSBURY, 21.Sam GALLAGHER (all Promoted)

Out: Nil
Unavailable: 7.John Hutchinson (on loan), 13.Stuart Musialik (adductor – 1 week), 18.Alex Wilkinson (forearm – 1 Week), 22.Mustafa Amini (groin – 4 weeks).

THE Gold Coast United Youth Academy kicked off last night at Southport Tigers with 20 eager youngsters put through their paces by Miron Bleiberg, Mike Mulvey, Michael Thwaite and Jake Barker-Daish.

The invited group were identified at recent youth trials with each local club encouraged to put forward their best players who were eligible by age for United’s National Youth League (NYL) squad.

While players like Palm Beach’s Chris Lucas were offered a deal for the coming NYL season, others who impressed were issued with invites to attend the United academy and continue their development.

Head Youth Coach Mike Mulvey, who has delivered two NYL Championships in two seasons, said the club’s inaugural academy was a great step forward as he looks to prepare the next generation of Gold Coast United youngsters from local stocks.

“I think last night was a very important moment in the short history of our club and is further demonstration of our commitment to creating pathways for local young players,” Mulvey said.

“They all arrived full of hopes and dreams which is exactly what we wanted to see. It also gave our players a good opportunity to do some coaching under our watchful eye and both Michael and Jake did a great job.

“We gave them drills to perform so that Miron and I could see the kids in action and overall it was a fantastic night. We’re all looking forward to the coming weeks so we can see these players develop their skills and understanding of the game.”

Aside from the technical side of the coaching session, both Mulvey and Head Coach Miron Bleiberg spoke to the young hopefuls at length about having the right mentality to make it to the professional ranks.

Mulvey in particular highlighted the need for the players to bring the right attitude in terms of commitment, standards and fair play.

“Before the training session began we had a good talk to the players to let them know what we expect from them. One of the things we spoke about was the attitude they have to bring with them,” Mulvey said.

“Attitude is fundamental to making it as a professional player. If you have a good attitude then you have a good chance; if you have a bad attitude you have no chance and that was something we drummed into them from the start.

“They all seemed to understand that and it certainly showed through in the session.”

The Gold Coast United Academy will continue for the next eight weeks with selected players then invited periodically to continue their progress by training with this season’s National Youth Team squad.

GOALKEEPER Glen Moss and Dutch import Paul Beekmans will be Michael Thwaite’s lieutenants for the new season with the pair both named as Gold Coast United’s vice captains today.

Leaders by nature, Moss and Beekmans have been influential in United’s pre-season campaign and will now shoulder additional responsibility for the new season which kicks off this Sunday with a home fixture against Wellington Phoenix.

Head Coach Miron Bleiberg said that while there were several strong candidates for the vice captaincy, Moss and Beekmans have been stand-outs in terms of leadership during the last couple of months.

“I like to have a leadership group so as everyone knows Michael (Thwaite) is captain and he will be accompanied by Glen (Moss) and Paul (Beekmans). I selected these players for their status in the squad and their ability both on and off the field,” said the United Head Coach.

“They all have good personalities, good characters and they are winners. To be captain or vice captain of any football team is an honour and I know they will live up to the responsibility,” he added.

Also recognised among the younger generation of players were Jerrad Tyson and James Brown, who have been appointed to the leadership group to prime them for future responsibilities.

New Zealand international Moss backed the move, saying the concept will work well, especially as United have a large number of young players on their roster this term.

“I think it’s a good idea to have some younger players in the leadership group – it’s a good pathway for them,” he said.

“I remember as a young player myself I was sometimes nervous about approaching the coach with certain things, so for our youngsters to have that outlet is great for them and encourages everyone to have a voice.”

Dutch midfielder Paul Beekmans is no stranger to leadership and responsibility but was visibly excited to have been honoured with the vice captaincy at United in his first season.

After arriving in Australia in late June, Beekmans has been a model professional on and off the field, taking time to pass on his words of wisdom and experience to United’s young brigade at every opportunity.

“I have been a captain before in Holland so it’s very nice for me to be named as part of the leadership group in my first time here in Australia. I’m excited about it and will do my best for the team,” Beekmans said.

“I hope to bring so different thoughts about the game and to help the younger players as much as possible. If the young players listen to the older ones we could have a very good season.”

With less than a week before the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League season finally gets underway, United have begun their tactical fine-tuning with retired Socceroo Craig Moore dropping in to assist with today’s training session.

AFTER two consecutive National Youth League titles and a successful graduation of young talent into the senior roster, Gold Coast United are primed to ensure a production line for the future with the launch of the club’s first Youth Academy next month.

The invited group of 22 players (20 outfield and 2 goalkeepers) will begin their training with United on October 11^th for a period of nine weeks with the best performers in the group set to be offered the chance to continue their progress by training with the club’s highly talented youth squad.

Head Youth Coach Mike Mulvey, a former head of the men’s football program at the Queensland Academy of Sport, explained the reasoning behind the new venture.

“The club is very committed to both the local community and creating pathways for young players in the region; this is further evidence of that,” Mulvey said.

“We invited all local clubs to nominate two of their best young talents in the 16 to 20 age range and 67 players came to train and trial with us. There were four days of trials and two days of games.

“It was excellent and as I’ve said before we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the players that came to us. So much so that at least two, possibly three, will join our National Youth League squad for next season.

“The 22 players selected to form the first academy group were taken from the original 67 and the best of those – the ones that perform really well - will be invited to join in with our youth team training later in the year to further their development.

“We think it’s really important that we connect with the football community in this way and this will really embrace that principle, and of course create excellent development pathways for local youngsters.”

With two National Youth League championships already in the bag and several of those title-winning youngsters promoted to senior contracts, Mulvey says the goal is to populate both of United’s squads with as much local talent as possible.

“The long-term vision is to make the senior team sustainable with local talent as much as is possible, and these are the first steps towards that ultimate aim.

“It creates the production line for the future and we have already demonstrated that we will move our young players forward into the senior ranks.

“This is the start of something that we are confident will be very exciting for local football on the Gold Coast and very exciting for Gold Coast United,” he said.

Southport keeper claims his prize

MAN of the match in the recent Clive Palmer Community Cup, Southport Warriors’ goalkeeper Andreas Eikum, collected his prize today as he began his week of training with Gold Coast United.

Rewarded for his impressive performance against Miron Bleiberg’s men, the tall Norwegian journalism student gave a good account of himself in an intense training session that saw him face some fearsome shooting practice.

But 22-year-old Eikum held up well under the pressure and showed exactly why his scintillating form for Southport raised more than a few eyebrows this season.

For clues on that form look no further than his history and pedigree. Eikum is a former youth international for his native Norway and was a professional player in his homeland, turning out for first division side Moss FK before a serious knee injury stalled his career.

After moving to Australia to study, Eikum got together with the Warriors and impressed United’s coaches and players during a pre-season friendly against Miron Bleiberg’s men in late July. He shone again in the Clive Palmer Community Cup two weeks ago and earned his week with the professionals.

“It’s been great fun today and a good opportunity for me – I want to perform as well as possible and I might even impress the coaches; you never know. I’m still a young keeper so I have plenty of time,” Eikum said.

“After winning the local Premier League Grand Final we (Southport) got to play Gold Coast United again in the Clive Palmer Community Cup and after they gave me ‘man of the match’ I was told I could come to train for a week.

“I want to make the most of it. The standard is very high; fantastic actually – a very high tempo. I think the A-League is underestimated and I’ve been very impressed today. I’m looking forward to the rest of the week,” he said.

United Head Coach Miron Bleiberg watched Eikum thwart his troops on many occasions during the two friendly matches against Southport and believes the Norwegian youngster could have a rosy future in the game.

“He’s a good goalkeeper and that’s why he’s got his chance. He has lots of ability and is still young, so his future could be bright. To be honest, if he wasn’t a visa player we would give him serious consideration,” Bleiberg said.

“Perhaps he will meet a nice Aussie girl and become an Australian citizen!”

ONE of the toughest training weeks of the pre-season regime came to an end in a light-hearted beach session on Sunday morning as the Gold Coast United squad mixed with hundreds of eager locals at Burleigh Heads beach.

With typically warm Gold Coast weather drawing a big crowd of Sunday beachgoers, United’s troops joined in with ‘nipper’ races from Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park Surf Life Saving club and challenged locals to games of head tennis before taking off on a five kilometre run to shake the heavy week out of their legs.

They were joined on their run by dozens of locals who took the opportunity to have a jog and a catch-up with their favourite players along the way.

Assistant Coach Mike Mulvey said the exercise was a huge success, both for the community and the players, especially after such an intense few days on the training paddock.

“It was a very big week for the players – lots of sessions, lots of fitness work and an internal game on Saturday morning, so the boys have really put in the hard yards,” Mulvey said.

“To get a run on the beach, mingle with local Gold Coast people and have a lot of fun was great for everyone involved and I thought the whole exercise was fantastic. The beach at Burleigh Heads was absolutely packed and the response from everyone around us was brilliant.

“We had players doing impromptu races and relays with the ‘nippers’ who were going through their surf lifesaving training and others having games of head tennis and volleyball with anyone who fancied a game – it was great interaction, very relaxed and every face I saw had a smile on it.

“As part of our recovery session we went for a run on the beach and everyone could see us coming with many joining in for the fun of it – we were very visible and we definitely scored a goal yesterday.

“We finished a head tennis tournament and a barbeque right in front of the surf club and there was a big crowd watching that, so all in all it was a great success and something I’m sure we will do more of in the future.

“A big thanks has to go to Burleigh Heads Surf Life Saving club who were very helpful and made it a great day for everyone,” he said.

With the start of the new Hyundai A-League season coming up fast, Mulvey and Head Coach Miron Bleiberg will now begin their final preparations as they look to get the team off to the best possible start.

Wellington Phoenix are the visitors to Skilled Park on Sunday 9 October (4.00pm) and Mulvey says all thoughts are now geared to securing three points from the opening fixture.

“With less than two weeks to go now before the first game we’ll be starting to really sharpen our focus towards that match. From now on it will be about fine-tuning and getting everyone ready both mentally and physically for game one,” he said.

“To be playing at home is a big advantage for us and we must capitalise on that and get off to a good start.”

AFTER two National Youth League (NYL) championships in two years, Gold Coast United’s Head Youth Coach Mike Mulvey is close to finalising his young squad for this season’s title assault.

United have retained the core of last year’s group, but with the likes of Zac Anderson, Chris Harold and others being handed senior contracts, opportunity knocked for the next wave of up and comers.

With a vision of creating pathways for local Gold Coast youngsters, United last month invited each club in the region to identify two talented under-20 players and send them along for trials.

Out of the sixty-plus who attended, at least two, and potentially a third, will be featuring in Mulvey’s squad for the upcoming NYL campaign, which kicks off in late October.

The full Gold Coast United Youth Squad will be revealed soon once all paperwork and administration matters are finalised, with Mulvey saying he was delighted to be able to give more opportunities to local players.

“This season we have given the local clubs a lot of involvement in our recruitment by asking them to recommend two of their best young players,” Mulvey said.

“The idea was to open those pathways and show some of these players what preparing for professional football was all about and I was pleasantly surprised by the general standard of those who came to train with us.

“From those trials we have selected at least two, and probably a third, to join us this season and replace the players who have gone on to our first team.

“We have been monitoring one of those players for a while, but even so, it was evident by the quality of the players who came along that the Gold Coast is certainly punching above its weight when it comes to developing youngsters.

“The whole exercise has really paid off in many ways. The local clubs have been part of our selection process and this has been superb in terms of building on those relationships, plus we have been able to create career pathways for more local players to pursue their dream of becoming a professional footballer for their home town club.

“The ultimate aim is to have a National Youth League squad that is made up entirely of players who were born and bred in the Gold Coast region,” he concluded.

In preparation for the new NYL season, United’s youngsters will play a trial match tonight (Thursday) against a Gold Coast Select XI at Surfers Paradise Soccer Club (Lex Bell Oval, Gibraltar Drive, Isle of Capri). Kick-off is at 7.00pm.

United announce $5.00 tickets for children

A NEW ticketing initiative has been announced by Gold Coast United that will make attending Hyundai A-League matches at Skilled Park more affordable than ever.

In the Eastern Stand adults will be able to purchase general admission tickets for only $20.00 with children’s tickets just $5.00 (children under 14-years-old).

The $5.00 kid’s ticket also extends to all other categories around Skilled Park, making the game even more accessible to Gold Coast youngsters who want to watch their local team in the country’s top football competition.

“It’s apparent and there is evidence wherever you look that the Gold Coast region is still suffering from the effects of the financial crisis and there are families who are doing it tough,” said Gold Coast United CEO Clive Mensink.

“The entertainment dollar is harder to find and we wanted to provide an opportunity for everyone to come along and support their local team in the Hyundai A-League.

“We have a fantastic group of players this year and we are confident of another successful season. We want as many people as possible to be able to watch the team, and of course the players will benefit by having more support behind them at Skilled Park.

“The $5.00 children’s ticket is representative of our increased links with the grassroots of football on the Gold Coast and is great value. It provides an opportunity for all young football fans to come and watch their local heroes, along with helping us to establish a broader fan base for the future.

“Naturally, we want to encourage as many people as possible to support this initiative, support their club and support the game,” he said.

United skipper Michael Thwaite said he was thrilled with the ticketing initiative and looked forward to the football community throwing their support behind the team from day one of the new season.

“The Gold Coast community can help the team get off to a great start against Wellington Phoenix if they get behind us in numbers by taking advantage of these new ticket prices,” he said.

“The new season is coming up fast, we have a lot of new faces in the squad and it would be fantastic to see a lot of new faces in the crowd as well.

“Our fans have always been brilliant and for anyone who has not been to a match before this is a great incentive to start coming along to Skilled Park and enjoying some terrific football action,” he said.

Tickets for United’s opening fixture of the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League season against Wellington Phoenix at Skilled Park on Sunday 9 October (4.00pm kick-off) go on sale from 12.00pm today through the Ticketek website or by phoning 132 849.

DESPITE a fine performance from Southport Warriors goalkeeper Andreas Eikum, Gold Coast United eased to a 6-0 win in the inaugural staging of the Clive Palmer Community Cup at Mualla Drive on Thursday night.

The hosts were still handed the cup for safe keeping in their trophy cabinet in recognition of their local Premier League Grand Final triumph last weekend, but on the field it was a one-sided contest as United moved comfortably through the gears.

Miron Bleiberg’s men took an early lead when Sami Tesfagabr capitalised on a defensive mix up to slot into the empty net after just five minutes.

Steve Beever’s troops resisted United’s forward thrusts for another half an hour, but by half time it was 3-0 thanks to goals from Robson and Golgol Mebrahtu.

Strike of the night was claimed by Tahj Minniecon just after the restart with his 30-metre effort curling beautifully into the top corner to make it four for Gold Coast.

Chris Harold’s pace was too much for the home defence late on when he burst free to make it 5-0, then ten minutes from time Mitch Bevan completed the scoring when he prodded home from just inside the box.

Warriors’ Norwegian goalkeeper Eikum earned the man of the match award for his sterling performance and will now spend a week training with United as his reward.

Head Coach Miron Bleiberg paid tribute to Southport who provided unrelenting resistance for the entire ninety minutes, giving his side the tough hit out they needed ahead of the big kick-off on October 9th.

“Steve Beever has done a great job with Southport and he has built a very good side here,” Bleiberg said.

“He was one of the local coaches who spent a lot of time with us last season – attending training sessions and matches – so hopefully we have contributed a little bit to his success.

“But they again played very well tonight against us and it wasn’t easy, despite the scoreline. Southport had nothing to play for and yet they never stopped running and competing.

“Their goalkeeper Andreas Eikum did very well and we are looking forward to having him along to train with us when he gets back from their end of season trip.

“Overall the night was a good exercise, with a good crowd, a good game and a great start to the Clive Palmer Community Cup, which we hope will be a tradition in the coming years,” he said.

KRISTIAN Rees will play his first competitive match in over six months on Thursday evening when Gold Coast United face local Grand Final winners Southport Warriors in the Clive Palmer Community Cup at Mualla Drive (7.00pm).

After undergoing knee surgery 12 weeks ago the big stopper will make his long-awaited return to match action just in time to up his pre-season regime ahead of the big kick off on October 9^th against Wellington Phoenix.

31-year-old Rees will only play in a portion of the match, but he says it will still be a pivotal moment for him after being forced to watch from the touchline for the entire pre-season campaign.

“It might only be a friendly game but I’m really excited and looking forward to playing some part in the match,” Rees said.

“After any injury all you want to do is get back onto the pitch and get stuck into it again, so for me it will be a big moment after being on the sidelines for so long during pre-season.

“Obviously, there’s a lot of excitement and a few nerves as well. After being out for so long there’s bound to be some anxiety even though I know everything will be fine with my knee.”

Rees first noticed a problem with his knee when United returned for pre-season training back in May. Scans and surgery came soon afterwards, followed by a lengthy and frustrating rehabilitation program.

“Once we got back for pre-season training my knee started swelling up and that’s when we had the scans done to reveal exactly what the problem was, then obviously surgery after that,” he said.

“It’s been the longest time I’ve ever been out with an injury and a long road back to full fitness through my rehab program, but all the frustration that it causes will be worth it once I’m back on the park for a bit on Thursday night.

“I’ve never taken football for granted and ever since I was young I’ve appreciated being able to play the game. However, when you get a long-term injury it puts everything into perspective and makes appreciate even more what a privilege it is to play football for a living.

“During the rehab process you can get a bit impatient and want everything to happen a lot faster than it does. The important thing is to stay positive and for me at least I could feel that the injury was improving all the time, so that certainly helped.

“Our physio, Karyl Peyrolle has been great with me, holding me back a bit when I was keen to do more than I was ready to do, etc, so he’s been excellent and played a big part in getting me back into shape as quick as possible without any setbacks.

“It’s a credit to all the medical staff because it’s not easy for them to hold back a football player when all they want to do is play.

“Now that it’s all behind me I can look ahead and concentrate on building some match fitness for the new season. The hunger for football has always been there for me but now I’m hungrier than ever.”

THE winners of last Saturday’s local Premier League Grand Final, Southport Warriors, will get their chance to take on Gold Coast United this Thursday evening (15 September) in the inaugural staging of the Clive Palmer Community Cup at Mualla Drive.

In what is hoped will become a local tradition over the coming years, Miron Bleiberg’s men will face off against the local champions for a trophy donated by the Gold Coast United owner and Chairman, Clive Palmer.

As well as having the chance to get their hands on more silverware for the trophy cabinet, Southport’s best player in the clash will be offered the opportunity of a week’s training with the professionals at Gold Coast United.

The brand new community event further strengthens links between Gold Coast United and the local football fraternity following United’s recent sponsorship of the Gold Coast Premier League.

United’s Head Coach said his line-up for the Clive Palmer Community Cup will be much stronger than what was used in trial matches over the last few months.

“We want this to be an added incentive to the local Grand Final winners and the idea is to make this fixture an annual event to form a tradition over the next few years,” Bleiberg said.

“In our training matches against local sides this pre-season we have used many trialists and youth team players, but this will be different in that it will be our senior players only.

“It’s a great chance for Southport’s players to show how good they are and the man of the match for them will be invited to come and train with us for a week.

“Southport are a good side and this match will be very useful to us for our Hyundai A-League preparations. This will be the last time we play a training match or trial game on the Gold Coast before the season starts, so hopefully the local community will come and enjoy a good match,” he said.

After a thrilling Grand Final win over Broadbeach on Saturday the Warriors’ players will be on an understandable high heading into the game. The match was tied at 3-3 after extra time before Southport prevailed in a nerve-shredding penalty shoot-out.

MATCH DETAILS

Thursday 15 September 2011

SOUTHPORT WARRIORS v GOLD COAST UNITED

At Mualla Drive, Southport.

Kick off: 7.00pm