POHANG STRIKER STEELS THE LIMELIGHT

In the shadows of the big spending Chinese teams and FC Tokyo's demolition of Chonburi FC, a man called Shim, Dong-woon scored a stunning hat-trick in the Asian Champions League's final play-off fixtures.

Shim's Pohang Steelers were expected to beat Vietnamese club Hanoi T&T comfortably but were it not for the 25 year old forward, things may have been a little different. Playing on the left of a front three Shim struck first with a superb volley worthy of a Champions League fixture, on any continent.

Shim had made an unchecked run into the centre of the pitch, where he met a long ball at the edge of the box and redirected it into the back of the net. [watch the goal and highlights on this link]

Pohang's pocket rocket then went on to score in the 62nd and 84th minutes. The win put his team into Group H of the ACL alongside Guangzhou Evergrande, Urawa Reds and Sydney FC.

It's hard to imagine a tougher or more glamorous group in the Asian Champions League. The only team in Group H not to have won the ACL is A-League outfit Sydney FC.

Pohang with their three titles as Asia's number one club (most recently 2009), will battle reigning champs Guangzhou Evergrande on 24th February. The Koreans are at home for their next two matches, and though Shim, Dong-woon is not renowned for his goal-scoring, the killer instinct he showed in the ACL play-off could be enough to guide his club through a tough group.

Most are predicting a battle for second place in this Group H. An in-form forward could be all that separates 2nd from the also rans.

NO DAY TRIP FOR CHONBURI THIS YEAR

Chonburi FC of Thailand.

Reports have emerged from Chonburi FC's Asian Champions League camp that there will be no down time for the team in Japan, unlike last year.

When Chonburi got to the play-off stage last year they faced Japan's Kashiwa Reysol. Unfortunately, when players were given some down time they took full advantage, and the coaching staff forgot the team's jerseys.

Last year Chonburi took well credentialed Kashiwa to extra time despite only five players showing up to the first training session in Japan.

On the shirt-front, it has been reported that the Sharks had to have new jerseys made up on the day of the game after coaching staff failed to pack the kit for the trip. In 2016 the management have wisely outlawed day trips.

http://www.sponichi.co.jp/soccer/news/2016/02/07/kiji/K20160207011994340.html

ADELAIDE UNITED v SHANDONG LUNENG: ASIAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PLAY OFF

Adelaide United have been in impressive form in the A-League of late, with 7 wins from their last 10 outings (+ 3 draws). Manager Guillermo Amor had to fend off some flak early in the season when the Reds limped to 3 draws from 8 games. But things have changed.

The criticism for straying from predecessor Josep Gombau’s easy on the eye, tiki taka style has now been silenced. In all truth, Amor’s Adelaide is only a slight departure, with players less likely to be stubbornly attempting to pass out of impossible situations.

In the January transfer window Adelaide lost passing midfielder Jimmy Jeggo and Osama Malik, but gained Stefan Mauk. The 20 year old midfielder is one of those rare Australians that looks comfortable on the ball and is reportedly being courted by clubs in Holland, Belgium and Germany. Adding to the ins, is the acquisition of former fan favourite Sergio van Dijk. The experienced striker is back from stints in Indonesia and Thailand. 

Poignantly Adelaide manager Amor emphasised the importance of the match for the locals in yesterday's press conference. "It's a big day for us, for Adelaide, the club and our supporters, and for Australian football in general," he said.

On the other hand, Shandong Luneng form part of the brave new world of Chinese soccer. Led by former Brazilian national team manager Mano Menezes, the east coast club were 6-0 victors last week in their first Asian Champions League play-off against Indians Mohun Bagan. 

As is standard with Chinese Super League clubs, Shandong have a bevy of foreigners at their disposal. Most well known would be Argentine international Walter Montillo in midfield. Amongst their Brazilian contingent is 27 year old Aloisio. The former Sao Paulo player picked up 22 goals as Shandong nudged Beijing Guoan out of 3rd place in last year’s CSL. 

Another one to watch in the orange team is Chinese national team midfielder Hao, Junmin. The 28 year old received a football education in Germany at Schalke 04 between 2009 and 2012, and he made an impression in the 2015 Asian Cup with his precision passing.

For neutrals this is probably the pick of the play-off matches in the east side of the Asian Champions League. Look out for Marcelo Carrusca, Adelaide’s midfield maestro whom a close friend of mine says is, “too good for the A-League.” Powerful Bruce Djite will be a thorn in the sides of Shandong's less physically imposing defenders. Throw in fleet-footed fullback Tarek Elrich and the home side should just have enough to join Hiroshima, FC Seoul and Buriram in Group F of the Asian Champions League. 

Betting: Adelaide United $2.60 Draw $3.40 Shandong Luneng $2.60

FC TOKYO v CHONBURI FC - ASIAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PLAY OFF

FC Tokyo found their way to the Asian Champions League play-off via a 4th place finish in the J-League. After a great start to 2015, the loss of Yoshinori Muto severely impacted the club.

New FC Tokyo manager Hiroshi Jofuku has been quick to 'shoosh' any fans anticipating something big from the Gas Men in the play-off saying, "Getting the league title is the club's biggest aim." Their trial form has been somewhat concerning also, with a recent loss to 2nd tier Tokyo Verdy (30/1/16) and a draw with 3rd tier Ryukyu (24/1/16).

Young midfielder Shoya Nakajima is likely to be rested due to his recent commitments to the Japanese U/23s team. Of interest for outsiders will be new purchase Ha, Dae-Sung from South Korea and Aussie Nathan Burns. Ha, Dae-Sung had a trophy-less stint at Beijing Guoan, while Burns will be hoping to get more game time under the new manager.

Chonburi FC have the benefit of a 'real' match under their belts after a close shave with Yangon United in last week's round of ACL play-offs. The Thai club was forced to extra time by the Myanmar outfit. Not an impressive result but they're now battle hardened.

Word is the many new faces in the Chonburi line-up are still to gel. Amongst the new starting members are three midfielders, so it's not surprising that cohesion was lacking in the Yangon clash. Tuesday night will represent another chance for the Sharks new arrivals to impress manager Therdsak.

With so many unknowns (two new managers, pre season form, new signings) this clash is a good one for punters to steer clear of. Chonburi won't be lacking motivation after falling at the hands of Japanese opponents Kashiwa at the same stage last year, but will that be enough against their more acclaimed rivals?

Betting: FC Tokyo $1.22  - draw $6 - Chonburi FC $11

SYDNEY FC UNVEILS ASIAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE VALUE DEAL FOR FANS

The A-League's 2014/15 runners up Sydney FC have launched a super value deal to attract fans to this year's Asian Champions League fixtures. The Sky Blues - grouped with glamour clubs Guangzhou Evergrande and Urawa Reds - are offering fans the opportunity to watch all three home games for a total of $45.

The $45 deal provides 'general admission' access for adults, while students and children can enter for less ($35 & $15 respectively). For those that prefer the premium seats (situated on the half-way line) you will pay a maximum of $75 to watch all three home fixtures.

Sydney FC's Allianz Stadium - seating plan.

It's a great initiative from Sydney FC as few A-League fans share the same enthusiasm East Asian Soccer bloggers do for the ACL. Though these clubs and players are the best in the Asian Football Confederation, none are household names, thus cut price deals are the order of the day. Hats off to the decision makers at the harbour city. 

Sydney's ACL campaign begins on February 24th, when they take on Urawa Reds in Japan. However, their first home game is against the mighty Guangzhou Evergrande on March 2nd. The full list of fixtures can be found below.

Meanwhile, the Sky Blues will have to compete without talented fullback Alex Gersbach. The 18 year old has left the A-League for Rosenborg in Norway.

Urawa Reds v Sydney FC (24th Feb)

Sydney FC v Guangzhou Evergrande (2nd March)

Play off winner v Sydney FC (16th March)

Sydney FC v Play off winner (5th April)

Guangzhou Evergrande v Sydney FC (20th April)

Sydney FC v Urawa Reds (4th May)

ROVERS CRASH OUT IN ASIAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUALIFIER

Singapore's Tampines Rovers have crashed out of the Asian Champions League. The 'Mighty Stags' were defeated 3-1 in India by Kolkata (Calcutta) outfit Mohun Bagan.

After spending up big through January, the Singapore club captured former EPL winger Jermaine Pennant and Canadian Jordan Webb. Unfortunately for them Pennant was unavailable for the Asian Champions League qualifier due to AFC squad nomination constraints.

Mohun Bagan got away to a great start with a 5th minute goal to 25 year old forward Jeje Lalpekhlua.      Import Cornell Glen of Trinidad & Tobago extended the hosts' lead in the 41st minute with an assist from Sony Norde. Earlier Glen had been hospitable enough to aim a penalty straight at the visiting Stags goalkeeper. This time he wasn't so kind.

All hope wasn't lost for the Singapore club though as they rallied with a late first half goal of their own (Hanapi, 43rd min). They remained in the contest until an 83rd minute goal from Japanese import Katsumi Yusa ensured victory for the Indians.

Mohun Bagan now head to China to face Shandong Luneng on February 2nd. On the same day a number of other Asian Champions League qualifiers take place on the east side of the draw. Thai clubs Chonburi and Muangthong United are in action as well Vietnamese champions Hanoi T&T. The full fixture list can be found below.

Shandong Luneng (CHN) v Mohun Bagan (IND)

Hanoi T&T (VIE) v Kitchee (HK)

Chonburi FC (THA) v Yangon United (MYA)

Muangthong United (THA) v Johor Darul Ta'zim (MAS)

MOOY STUNNERS SINK EDGEWORTH FC IN THE FFA CUP

Northern NSW NPL club Edgeworth FC crashed out of the FFA Cup last night. Taking on the A-League's richest club Melbourne City, the semi pros put in a stellar shift and could only be killed off with a free kick in injury time.

Currently leading the Northern NSW NPL, Edgeworth restored some pride for the region after locals Broadmeadow were sunk by Heidelberg last week.

Under the pump for most of the first twenty minutes, Edgeworth eventually found some rhythm against their well remunerated opponents. In the 25th minute the 2400 plus crowd were in raptures after a Kisnorbo challenge gifted the home side a penalty. Hammel's conversion from the spot had locals daring to dream.

City threatened soon after but usually through fast breaks rather than shoddy defending, and Edgeworth's ability to repel City's slick attack was a theme throughout the night. 

But when Mauk was fouled with some standard man-handling, Mooy duly punished Edgeworth. It was a taste of reality on the cusp of half time. 

However, the second half wasn't greatly different, and Edgeworth had an early chance when left back Aaron McLoughlin found the ball at his feet on the junction of the eighteen yard box. Facing just the keeper and no time to think, the defender's shot flew into row zed. 

Edgeworth continued to provide stiff opposition for the remainder of the match, ensuring no one left early despite the freezing conditions pitch-side. 

Melbourne City's new recruit Harry Novillo had Edgeworth players and fans nervous all night. It was the Frenchman who won the vital free kick in injury time that would send Edgeworth crashing out. 

Gutted by the cruel 2-1 defeat in the shadows of extra time, Edgeworth manager Damien Zane said, 

". . . I'm just so proud of them. The work they put in, and to still look dangerous . . ." 

Aaron Mooy's second stunning free kick ensured that Edgeworth pack away any FFA Cup dreams for at least another twelve months. 

KIT FIDDLERS MAY TINKER WITH NEWCASTLE IDENTITY

Former Newcastle Jets and Newcastle Knights owner Nathan Tinkler

The recent departure of Newcastle Jets owner Nathan Tinkler has been received positively by all who care for the Hunter region club. But the exit has opened the door for some rethinking on the identity of the team representing Newcastle.

Last week A-League chief Damien de Bohun announced plans for the club to hold two fan forums (18th June & 24th June) and a business leaders forum (10th June) this month. The moves to reconnect with the local community are a great initiative as Newcastle folk definitely feel detached and ignored, in terms of the club's direction.

FFA SENDING MIXED MESSAGES

De Bohun was also quoted at the ABC Australia online site hinting at a possible change of playing strip. Interviewed on 28th May, he said, ". . . in terms of the strip design, without giving anything away yet, there's a couple of things there that will give people a sense of where we're going."

This comes in contrast to the initial message to Jets fans by FFA CEO David Gallop on 21st May. In a mail-out issued to Newcastle Jets members Gallop said, "Next season (2015/16) the Club will retain the same name, colour and logos as existed in the past. The Club will play at Hunter Stadium."

David Gallop in his message to Jets fans.

In the space of seven days there's been a change of plans. What information is de Bohun privy to that FFA boss Gallop didn't have a week earlier?

Suddenly the team that sports the same blue & red as the Newcastle Knights side that competes in the NRL, needs a change.

It would seem a bizarre step from the FFA as the club has had 10,000 plus memberships for the last three seasons, despite the on field failings. 

A BRIEF HISTORY OF PROFESSIONAL SOCCER IN NEWCASTLE

But the subject of colours and playing strip is a touchy topic in Newcastle. There are some influential types championing a revival of the gold playing strip, and others that crave for a return of the traditional green, brown and white strip of Newcastle's initial NSL existence.

However, some close investigation of Newcastle's early existence in the NSL uncovers a very short 'tradition'. The famed Newcastle KB United often waxed lyrical about by FoxSports' Andy Harper, lasted only 6 and a half seasons before financial difficulties meant the team changed name to Newcastle Rosebud United (playing in green & black).

Newcastle KB United kit 1979

KB United were the team that sported the original green, brown and white strip, though the unique colours didn't equate to on field success. The club were at best mid table all through their existence to 1986 as Newcastle Rosebud United, and even the early record crowds dwindled to averages as low as 1500 in their final years, when the embattled NSL was divided into conferences.

Newcastle's next foray into the national soccer spotlight came under the guise of the Newcastle Breakers in 1991/1992. The Breakers with their blue & red strip lasted 8 seasons (absent in 94/95), up until 1999/2000. Once again the club could barely achieve a final placing above mid table, finishing 7th of sixteen teams the highlight.

Newcastle Breakers kit 1991/92

For the final 4 seasons of the poorly administered NSL, Newcastle was represented by Newcastle United. Once again the club sported blue & red; colours that were becoming synonymous with the industrial city. The latter years of the NSL saw Newcastle finally experience some success, finishing 2nd on the ladder in 2001/2002, and 4th on the ladder in 2002/2003.

When the A-League was born in 2005/06, Newcastle was present again. The Newcastle United Jets wore a predominantly gold strip with blue & red reserved for trim and shorts. Known as the Jets (a nod to the nearby RAAF Airbase), Newcastle won the A-League Championship of 2007/08.

But financial strife reared its head again. During the 2010/2011 season the club came under the ownership of Nathan Tinkler. By the next season Tinkler revived the familiar blue & red playing strip, ending the 6 seasons of gold with blue & red trim.

THE HATERS

As stated earlier the FFA is now in control of the club and they've promised to listen to the fans. While there are some who voice concern at the current blue & red playing strip, the majority are happy for the club to remain as they are. Even online fan forums where many hard-core Jets supporters congregate, have a less than overwhelming focus placed on changing the strip. Those that do argue for change, often accompany their comments with petty grievances about the city's NRL side the Newcastle Knights. 

The upcoming fan forums on 18th June and 24th June will offer a chance for the whole community to have a voice, that includes the hardcore, the families, and Novacastrians that just want a team they can be proud of.

END OF DAYS

So the story of professional soccer in Newcastle has a couple of strong themes: Financial woes and instability. As for the halcyon days of Newcastle KB United, well you can only recall them days gloriously if looking through rose coloured glasses.

The A-League is just ten years old and still building a history, a league that we may one day say possesses some traditions. Therefore any further fiddling or tinkering with of playing strips will only serve to disrupt what foundations the competition has already laid.

LEWDUB RETWEETS VOLUME 3

This week we go to the video. In a LewDub Retweets first, we feature all the important tweets and comments in East Asian Soccer over the last seven days, on video!

Look out for @SeongnamFC2014's controversial comments about Japanese Soccer teams including: Urawa Reds, Kashima Antlers and Gamba Osaka. Check the video to hear his gripe.

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@seankyaroru (the account of Sean Carroll) was at Kashima Stadium for the Antlers vs FC Seoul Asian Champions League clash. In previous ACL home matches Kashima couldn't manage 8000 fans onsite. The home team needed a win to secure qualification for the knockout stage of the competition. On the video you'll find out how many Antlers fans rocked up.

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@JSoccerMagazine spoke about the same match on Tuesday night. His summary took a more holistic stance, focusing on what the result meant for some of the other teams in Group H. Watch the video to hear a dodgy English accent, and find out who won through to the ACL Knockout Stage.

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@Franjic5 (the account of Ivan Franjic) sent his best wishes to his old teammates at Brisbane Roar. Last week they met Adelaide United in the A-League Elimination Final. Did Ivan's mates win? The video knows.

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@cantonfcnews reviewed the action from Shanghai last Friday night when Timmy Cahill's Shanghai Shenhua took on Guangzhou Evergrande. See, hear and read what happened - on the video.

LEWDUB RETWEETS!

This week East Asian Soccer and Lew Dub unveil: LewDub Retweets. In what is planned to be a weekly installment, the East Asian Soccer website in conjunction with Lew Dub's Twitter, account will trawl through what was retweet worthy over the last week. From there we will snatch the five most noteworthy re-tweets or favourites from the Lew Dub account and discuss their noteworthiness.

Without further ado, lets get stuck into LewDub Retweets Volume 1.

Number 1, comes from a favourite account of ours. It's the JSoccer Magazine Twitter account and the tweet that made us stand up and applaud gave reference to the painful Urawa Reds, and their ACL plight.

Truly tough times for Urawa fans who deserve more than they get from their beloved Reds. But who knows maybe 2015 will be their year 'domestically'.

Number 2 comes from Sebastian Hassett's account. The Sydney Morning Herald scribe paid tribute to Japan's Kashima Antlers after stealing victory in a second half schooling of Western Sydney Wanderers. It seems everyone wants to stick the boot into the Wanderers at the moment, but there is still some breath in the lungs of their Asian Champions League campaign.

WSW will need to defeat the already qualified Guangzhou Evergrande in China, and pray for a draw between Kashima Antlers and FC Seoul.




Number 3 comes from Peter Davis's account. News from the Chinese Super League. As the tweet says, Swedish international Tobias Hysen tops the CSL scorers list. But of just as much tweet-

worthiness is the fact Hysen's Shanghai East Asia (SIPG) - managed by Sven Goran Eriksson - are undefeated and top of the CSL table.




Number 4 via Seongnam's unofficial English twitter account, was a bit of lighthearted banter. The K-League team is faring better than any of their Korean counterparts currently, but the tweet could

backfire as Seongnam aren't assured of qualification for the knockout phase of the ACL while all other K-League teams are still in with a fighting chance.



Finally at Number 5 is Dean Heffernan's polite call for Wanderers' new recruit Kerem Bulut to lighten up on the gesticulation. The 'call out' came during the Asian Champions League tie with Kashima

Antlers, when the raw talent could be seen gesturing frustratedly whenever the ball didn't come to him.



No more here. That's a wrap!

JAPAN vs AUCKLAND CITY - Match Report

Though Auckland City had turned heads in the Club World Cup, they were clearly our of their depth against the Japanese national team.

In a first half where Auckland couldn't get the ball into the attacking third, it was a matter of how long. Played in the late afternoon of a sweltering hot Newcastle day both teams did seem a little off the pace at times. 

Until Yasuhito Endo's goal in the 33rd minute the best chances fell to Keisuke Honda and Shinji Okazaki. Honda lashing a bouncing volley wide, while Okazaki failed to get on the end of a teasing cross that crossed the face of goal.

With his goal coming off a deflected drive Endo bowed his head while receiving plaudits of his teammates. The Gamba Osaka midfielder showed his classy touch throughout the match but it was Keisuke Honda who had most influence over proceedings. 

Auckland looked to make amends in the second half and certainly acquitted themselves well. Nigerian Sanni Issa will surely have impressed any scouts on the lookout for a strong and speedy forward. His injection into the game ensured the Japanese defenders experienced some pressure prior to the tournament.

The Cessnock crowd full of Samurai Blue admirers were almost stunned when Issa found himself one on one with keeper Eiji Kawashima, after a quick counter down the kiwi left. The diagonal ball was met by Issa at the edge of the box, but the Nigerian could only spray the ball high and wide. A tough chance, but one that would light up the eyes of any footballer.

Japan took the warning in the 76th minute and Auckland never threatened again. With Kiyotake, Konno and Muto coming on 10 minutes into the second half, the changes proved a master stroke.

Kiyotake provided the assist for Okazaki's 90th minute goal after some clever interplay with Keisuke Honda. All that was left for the Mainz striker was to tap it in. 

Japan ending the match comfortable 2-0 winners after a minor scare in the 76th minute. 

CAN URAWA FINALLY PUT THE DOUBTERS TO REST?

Abe, Makino and Koroki are joined by an unknown Red.

This Saturday at 2pm Japan time, Urawa take on Gamba Osaka in the match that should end the argument over who will be this year's J-League champions.

With three matches remaining in the J-League, it's hard to deny Urawa their place as champions elect. They're currently five points clear of closest opponent Gamba Osaka and have led the competition for the past 13 rounds. The Reds had a shaky October, where they lost to Vegalta Sendai, and drew with Kofu and Kashima. But their win against Yokohama in the port city on 3rd November, could jolt the team in the right direction. Meanwhile, rivals Gamba gave up two points when they drew with Sendai in their most recent J-League fixture.

It's hard to believe that Gamba Osaka were in Japan's second tier last year, but five rounds into the 2014 season it was obvious. The blue half of Osaka was battling away in 14th position while city rival Cerezo Osaka was out of the boxes like an underfed greyhound. Gamba's rivals had gone on an off season spending spree that had this blogger so impressed I tipped them to be title challengers.

How wrong I was. Cerezo's early form went south, while Gamba turned a corner and have barely had their foot off the throttle. Since the mid season break in July, Gamba Osaka have won 13 of 17 J-League matches.

Poignantly, it was three rounds ago that the blue team did drop some points, and then again, unexpectedly against 14th placed Vegalta Sendai. It begs the question: Have Endo and co. peaked too soon? 

The above graph clearly illustrates how Gamba have stalked the Reds since round 27. But in round 30 the Kansai based team were within three points, now they lay five points away. Gamba simply must win today.

Critics of Urawa have branded them a reincarnation of the Sanfrecce Hiroshima outfit that Reds manager Mihailo Petrovic led until the end of 2011. The index of players that once wore violet but now sport red includes: Tomoaki Makino, Tadanari Lee, Ryota Moriwaki, Shusaku Nishikawa (GK), and Yosuke Kashiwagi, who elected to board the Shinkansen for Urawa before manager Petrovic. 

Perhaps most important of all Petrovic's recruits is Shinzo Koroki who actually arrived via Kashima. The 28 year old is top scorer for the Reds with 12 goals this season. 

Adding intrigue to today's clash is the injury cloud over Urawa's top scorer. Koroki was missing for the team's last J-League outing against Yokohama F Marinos, but the player himself was adamant he would get some game time even if he risked long term injury as a result. 

"I came to the Reds to help them win a championship. It would kill me if I couldn't even make the bench for the biggest game of the season with the title on the line," Koroki was quoted as saying in the Japan Times. 

Today we find out if Koroki and the other hand picked recruits can deliver Urawa's second J-League title.