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History for coochiee

WPM R3 vs Western Sydney | Fri 3rd December | 9:45pm | SS7/Prime

Current version

Posted December 03, 2021 14:38 · last edited December 03, 2021 18:33

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) and no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Laws's non goal.
https://keepup.com.au/videos/id/press-conference-ufuk-talay/6285014913001

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That WSW side on paper last night was stacked with experienced quality. All 5 visa spots used.

In contrast the Nix team had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes with Sport NZ, and NZ Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get NZ teams playing Aussie teams actually in NZ, from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and would be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team, complete with a new Visa 10. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with the AWs at the March 2022 OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. NZ Football future looking bright. Positive thoughts.

Oh and it still shocks me Hemed is at WSW, given their fanbase. Doing his bit for Israel/Arab relations until the next Gaza invasion. At least polarising figures like him and the Berisha's help raise the profile of the A League.

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Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 18:33

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) and no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Laws's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That WSW side on paper last night was stacked with experienced quality. All 5 visa spots used.

In contrast the Nix team had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes with Sport NZ, and NZ Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get NZ teams playing Aussie teams actually in NZ, from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and would be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team, complete with a new Visa 10. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with the AWs at the March 2022 OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. NZ Football future looking bright. Positive thoughts.

Oh and it still shocks me Hemed is at WSW, given their fanbase. Doing his bit for Israel/Arab relations until the next Gaza invasion. At least polarising figures like him and the Berisha's help raise the profile of the A League.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 18:25

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) and no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That WSW side on paper last night was stacked with experienced quality. All 5 visa spots used.

In contrast the Nix team had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes with Sport NZ, and NZ Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get NZ teams playing Aussie teams actually in NZ, from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and would be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team, complete with a new Visa 10. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with the AWs at the March 2022 OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. NZ Football future looking bright. Positive thoughts.

Oh and it still shocks me Hemed is at WSW, given their fanbase. Doing his bit for Israel/Arab relations until the next Gaza invasion. At least polarising figures like him and the Berisha's help raise the profile of the A League.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 15:01

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) and no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That WSW side on paper last night was stacked with experienced quality. All 5 visa spots used.

In contrast the Nix team had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team, complete with new Visa 10. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with the AWs at the March 2022 OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. NZ Football future looking bright. Positive thoughts.

Oh and it still shocks me Hemed is at WSW, given their fanbase. Doing his bit for Israel/Arab relations until the next Gaza invasion. At least polarising figures like him and the Berisha's help raise the profile of the A League.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 14:57

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) and no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That WSW side on paper last night what stacked with quality. All 5 visa spots used.

In contrast the Nix team had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team, complete with new Visa 10. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with the AWs at the March 2022 OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. NZ Football future looking bright. Positive thoughts.

Oh and it still shocks me Hemed is at WSW, given their fanbase. Doing his bit for Israel/Arab relations until the next Gaza invasion. At least polarising figures like him and the Berisha's help raise the profile of the A League.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 14:56

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) and no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That Nix side last night had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team, complete with new Visa 10. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with the AWs at the March 2022 OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. NZ Football future looking bright. Positive thoughts.

Oh and it still shocks me Hemed is at WSW, given their fanbase. Doing his bit for Israel/Arab relations until the next Gaza invasion. At least polarising figures like him and the Berisha's help raise the profile of the A League.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 14:52

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) but no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That Nix side last night had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team, complete with new Visa 10. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with the AWs at the March 2022 OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. NZ Football future looking bright. Positive thoughts.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 14:48

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) but no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That Nix side last night had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with AWs at the OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with the Oly Whites. Positive thoughts.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 14:44

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) but no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That Nix side last night had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with AWs at the OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. I see he was a travelling reserve to Tokyo with Oly Whites. Positive thoughts.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 14:43

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) but no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That Nix side last night had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ core, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmly embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with AWs at the OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. Positive thoughts.

Unknown editor edited December 03, 2021 14:40

Isn't he from your part of the world, ie the Naki?

I think his dad used to post on here (wave if you are watching). Proud moment for him, and family.

I'm overseas, didn't see the game (3.45am kick off here) but no match highlights I can see yet, apart from the Hemed goal. Clearly should have been disallowed. Talay rightly fuming. But sounds like VAR got it right for Lewi's non goal.

But just quickly on a glass half full note.

That Nix side last night had 7 Kiwi starters, and an 8th came on as a sub. A game where Ben Old by the sound of it announced himself. It was obvious that when the Nix returned to NZ last late season for that Western United game, and chucked him surprisingly into match day squad they rated him.

He'll have his ups & downs over the next few seasons Nixville, but looms already as the next exciting kid to potentially follow the Singh, Cacace line. That should excite fans alone. I was really surprised to read last week that the Academy has 20 staff. That's awesome, and a sure sign this club ain't going anywhere but up. Don't forget even 2-3 seasons ago there will still rumours of the licence being stripped, team relocating to Canberra, Campbelltown or wherever.

Covid has fudgeed Talay's genune title chances the last 2 seasons (likely 3 with this one). But with this solid Aus/NZ base, plus right visa signings they will be real contenders season 2022/23. Right in the mix, with a system firmally embedded, and ability to go to any venue and dominate possession. No more down there with the likes of CCM, Welnix has got bigger ambitions than that now. To me this big investment in the Academy is a clear sign of that.

But then prior tonight you have the launch of the Club's first Women's team, who apparently played bloody well, based off such a rushed buildup and limited time together.

A real positive watershed day for the club in my view.

And I feel it in my waters, that things are happening behind the scenes, Sport NZ, Super Rugby, Breakers & Phoenix to get these teams playing actually in NZ from February onwards. I'm optimistic about that, and will be fantastic to see some big crowds lift the team. Fingers crossed.

Lastly hopefully something can be worked out to get some A League guys involved with AWs at the OFC tourney. And why not send over Old, as part of some a large 30-31 man AWs group. Be great development for him, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Singh, Bell, Thomas, Wood, if just briefly. Positive thoughts.