September 2, 2024 • 31 mins
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Piney offers his thoughts on how the All Blacks can use their bench better after a disappointing performance from the reserves at Ellis Park.
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Speaker 1 (00:09):
You're listening to a podcast from Newstalks EDB. Follow this
and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio. Football
Fever with News Talks, nb's Voice of Football Jason Paine
and Bonnie Jensen.
Speaker 2 (00:26):
Yes it is. It seems like a long time since
we sat in the Football Fever studio to bring you
a Football Fever episode and association with FIFA Plus stream
New Zealand football live and free on FIFA plus dot com.
I'm Jason Pine Bonnie Jensen here, So it's been too long, Bonnie,
how are you?
Speaker 3 (00:41):
We're back Piney, We're back. I'm so excited. It feels
like summer foot is right around the corner.
Speaker 2 (00:46):
Indeed it does. Heaps to get through today. Let's hope
for a bumper edition. There's a lot of stuff to
cover off. Can we start with summer football in the
form of the A League Men's competition starting officially next
month now winter September, less than fifty days away from
kickoff opening weekend, Auckland FC will play their first ever
A League men's game against Brisbane raw Mount Smart at
(01:08):
five o'clock on Saturday, October nineteen. The next day it's
the Phoenix against Western United sky Stadium four o'clock, so
home games for both sides to start. Then the first derby,
which we're really looking forward to, Saturday November two at
sky Stadium. Two more derbies in Auckland as the season
goes on. How are you feeling about Auckland FC in
terms of the squad they've put together for their debut season?
(01:30):
Are you feeling confident about them hitting the ground with
a bit of a bang?
Speaker 4 (01:34):
Yeah, I am.
Speaker 3 (01:36):
I think they've put together a really really strong roster
and it's kind of a statement roster in my opinion.
They've named a lot of Kiwi's probably kiwis that the
Phoenix have been trying to get for years, but just
potentially the connection to AFC Bournemouth and Auckland being potentially
(01:57):
a bit more of a destination. They seem to have
pulled a lot of good names in. So yeah, really
excited about Yeah, who's on this list?
Speaker 2 (02:06):
Yeah? I think it's good roster, really good roster, and
I guess one of the most exciting parts. But also
something I want to get your view on is the
fact that only one import's been confirmed so far, Hiroki Sarkai,
So that means there are four import spots left, which
is great. Even then they can come from anywhere in
the world. They can be any type of player. But
are we getting a bit close to the start of
(02:26):
the season for Steve Cariker to integrate them effectively into
his team in time? Yeah?
Speaker 4 (02:33):
I think.
Speaker 3 (02:33):
I think definitely it's concerning about the lack of imports
in saying that. Obviously the keywis have named have experience overseas,
but I'm sure Steve Coriker has a plan. And you
compare it to someone like the Phoenix though, and they've
just got more experience with this type of stuff. So yeah,
potentially leaving it cutting it fine.
Speaker 2 (02:55):
Yeah, but I still, as I say, I don't want
it to come across as being a bad thing because
you know this often happens. Players you know, need to
get clearance from their clubs or from wherever they are,
they need to get their work visa, all that sort
of thing. Had Terry mcfunn, the Director of football, on
the radio a couple of weeks ago, and he was
he said, look, we're down the track with these guys,
we just haven't announced them yet. So you look at
(03:16):
the squad. Auckland FC have got twenty two in the squad.
Seven of those are scholarship players though, and still four
import spots available. And as you say, there's some you know,
there's some good key we players there, the likes of
Logan Rogerson, Joey Champness, Max Marta, Cam Howison has been
a good player for a long time. Tommy Smith. There's
(03:37):
a bit of mail around about another center back perhaps
coming back to Auckland. Can you tell us anything there?
Speaker 3 (03:46):
Yeah, no, I am hearing Nando might potentially be back,
but you know he's left his club.
Speaker 4 (03:51):
Where is it Poney over in Ireland?
Speaker 2 (03:53):
Yes, Sligo Rovers they this morning. We're recording this on
Monday the second. This morning announced on the website that
he was leaving and in the release it said to
move to a club closer to home. So I guess
that means, well, that could be anywhay. They're twelve thousand
miles away. But yeah, I'm sort of hearing the same
things you are.
Speaker 4 (04:13):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (04:14):
No, yeah, definitely getting strong mail as you say around
this obviously need to wait for it to be confirmed.
But as you said with Terry, he seems to have
already made a lot of progress with players that they
just haven't announced it yet, so who knows.
Speaker 4 (04:28):
It could be in the coming days.
Speaker 2 (04:29):
Alex Paulson, of course will play for Auckland FC. This
has been the subject of a lot of chatter around
the place. Obviously he left Wellington. We all know the story.
He left Wellington's been excited for Born with Born that
have since loaned him back to Auckland f C. They
are the parent club, of course of Auckland f C.
Or they're in the same ownership group with Bill Foley.
The so called casira's clause has been relaxed, which previously
(04:51):
would have prevented this. Now it's allowed. How are you
feeling about this?
Speaker 3 (04:54):
Yeah, I'm obviously excited in terms of being a fan
and getting to watch Auckland this season up close. It's
going to be great for the derby. It's going to
be great for the team. In terms of him, gutted
for him not gonna lie. I think he was destined
for bigger and better things. He's moved on from the
A League, so it's a shame he has to come back.
(05:18):
Whether he's happy about it or not, I'm not too sure.
But in terms of what he will, you know, keep
and bring back to the A League is really exciting.
Speaker 2 (05:25):
Yeah, he's a name, he's a you know, he's he
was the best keeper in the league last season. And
while at the time, I think you and I spoke
and I said, look, I thought it was a shame
for him that he had this big, you know, this
big buzz of signing for Bournemouth. They put all the
social media out of him meeting all his teammates and
that sort of thing and being involved in a Premier
League club, and then all of a sudden he's back
in the A League. Look, I've sort of since changed
(05:48):
my view a little bit. I think he should be playing.
I would prefer that that was at a higher level
than the A League because I think he's kind of
he's clocked the A League for me, But I mean
to have him playing here is awesome for the Phoenix.
They've moved quickly to replace him. Josh Ollaway m me,
the English Nigerian goalkeeper has turned up from what I hear,
Bonnie an absolute unit, an absolute unit of a man
(06:13):
that's unreal.
Speaker 4 (06:13):
That's great for the Phoenix.
Speaker 3 (06:15):
I'm you know, they've obviously got big shoes to fill
and Alex Paulson, as we know, so yeah, really exciting.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
Apparently, when he took a shirt off in the change
room for the first time, people's eyes were popping out
of their heads.
Speaker 3 (06:26):
Wow, okay, I just hope he can get up and
down off the ground quickly, that those big muscles don't
weigh him now.
Speaker 2 (06:32):
Well, I don't think they will. I don't think they will.
As far as the Phoenix are consumed, we'll jump around
between the two franchises. It's great to have two to
talk about, isn't it. The Phoenix have signed two Japanese players,
Kazuki Nagasawa and today the announcement of Hideki a Shiga.
Of course, Auckland have their own Japanese player in Hiroki Sakai,
so it looks like there'll be a real Japanese influence
(06:54):
in the two New Zealand teams. Who knows Auckland might
sign one or two more as well. So yet interesting
the different markets that you know are turning up in
the A League. There have been a few Japanese players,
but Wellington had never had one. Now they've got two.
Speaker 3 (07:07):
Yeah, I'm really again about this. I just love the
way that Japanese players play. I've obviously watched a lot
of women's football, and I love the way that they play.
Speaker 4 (07:19):
The Japanese national team.
Speaker 3 (07:21):
I mean, I've also had Japanese imports come to my
club East and Suburbs and play and just their football.
Speaker 4 (07:27):
They're so smart.
Speaker 3 (07:28):
So I think, yeah, these players in the men's teams
will add a lot.
Speaker 2 (07:32):
How good would it be if in the future the
Wellington Phoenix and Auckland if C women's teams can attract
Japanese players. Because you're so right, I just absolutely love
watching the Japanese women's team play, and not just the
senior side, but the underage sides. They all seem to
be technically brilliant, don't they.
Speaker 3 (07:50):
Yeah, No, you're absolutely right, And I think you know,
New Zealand is such a destination place. Yes, so as Australia,
and there might be a little bit more money over
there might be a bit nicer weather, but you know,
New Zealand has a lot to offer, and I think
that's something Auckland and Wellington are seemingly playing off this
year like it's an opportunity for potentially more senior Japanese players.
(08:12):
I know Hiroki Sakai for Auckland f C is bringing
his family down and that's something they're really excited for.
So yeah, I think for the Phoenix and Auckland f
C to play off that more in the future will
be really promising.
Speaker 2 (08:24):
Good to see also some investment into Aukland f C
or further investment Winston Reed, Noahiki, Tim Brown, three former
all whites and three men who have gone on to
good things in the in the case of Tim Brown
and no Ahici big big things in the business world
since they've retired. Good to see them joining the Auckland
FC ownership group. Did you did you like this news
when you heard it?
Speaker 4 (08:45):
Yeah, no, it was It was good.
Speaker 3 (08:46):
Some big names there obviously, and I understand, you know,
I don't know specifics of the deal and the stake
that they've got in the club, but they were just
kind of like, sign me up. You know, it's going
to be super promising business prospect, I think for for Auckland.
So they were, you know, sign me on, all.
Speaker 2 (09:05):
Right, and okay, well, just before we move on from
the from the A League men's what's your prediction, Bonnie
for these two sides? Are we looking at two top
six rosters here?
Speaker 3 (09:15):
I'm nervous about the Phoenix just because they've lost, you know,
some of their key players from last season and saying
that we were sitting here this time last year saying
the same thing that we're not confident about the Phoenix roster,
and they proved us all wrong. So yeah, definitely capable.
I think Auckland f C without a doubt by the
(09:37):
names that they've signed, knowing that they've still got a
few more imports to sign, and I just think this
derby is going to push them, push each team more
and they're going to be super competitive.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
Yeah, I agree with you about the Phoenix because you're right,
they have lost players. But then you're right if we
looked at the at the twenty strong squad or whatever
it was at this time last year that the Phoenix had,
and you look at the names they've got now, yeah,
some of them are unknown. In terms of the two
Japanese guys and such like Bart, I actually think it's
a better squad than they had than what we thought
(10:07):
it was going to be next year. Whether it turns
out to be a better squad once they hit the
grass remains to be seen. But you know, you look
at as you say, the two Japanese players, a new goalkeeper,
and we weren't sure about Alex Paulson at this time
last year. We didn't even know if he was going
to be the first choice keeper. We thought Jack Duncan
might be up. I think Paul Rettrey is a great signing,
a guy with really good A League pedigree. And if
(10:29):
some of these you know Marko rohas, let's not forget him.
If he can recreate his form, some of these youngsters
Gabrielle Sloan Rodriguez, Luke Brooks, Smith and Luke Souper who
might get more of a chance this season. And then
you're right. You look at Auckland FC and you think, man,
that's a very very solid roster. I reckon they'll both
be top six.
Speaker 3 (10:46):
Yeah, I agree absolutely, Pioneer. As I mentioned, I think
this derby is going to push them even more. You know,
they're going to go into every game with a little
bit more hunger and wanting to get one up over
each other. I think as well, going back to the
Phoenix Chief, he has another season under his belt now
and he'll take so many lessons from last season where
(11:07):
they just unexpected unexpectedly performed. So that's another positive positive
out of that camp.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
Yep, seven weeks to go until the new A League
men's season gets under way.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
Can't wait the ff with Finy and Bonnie.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
Let's have a quick look at the Wellington Phoenix Woman
because their draw is not yet confirmed for the new season,
but the first round will be in the first weekend
of November, so two weeks after the men's season starts.
Grace Charlie back at the Phoenix. Bonnie, she was what
top goalscorer in their first season. What did you make
of Grace Jarlay's return.
Speaker 3 (11:40):
Yeah, I had a feeling this might be the case.
I did think when I saw the headline to come
through that it was a football Ferns forward. It may
have been Hannah Wilkinson. I thought maybe Grace Charlie would
have kept, you know, having another crack across the ditch.
But huge signing for the Knicks. I'm a real fan
of Grace's. She can play out wide, in the midfield,
(12:01):
or up the top.
Speaker 2 (12:02):
No, none of those, None of them, not the first two. Bonnie.
Let's be let's be let's be deadly serious from the
start about this. Grace Jarlay is a center forward. All
of this I can still not comprehend her playing in
other positions. Yes, she can, of course, She's got of
at a pace and is effective in a wide area.
But she's a center forward. She should have the number
(12:23):
nine on her back.
Speaker 4 (12:25):
She should have the number nine.
Speaker 3 (12:26):
I completely agree, party, and I got so frustrated during
the World Cup last year. Y yeah, k klem Kova
the football fantasy coached and back that.
Speaker 4 (12:36):
Yeah. No, I completely agree.
Speaker 2 (12:38):
But she is versatile, yeah, look, and versatility is a
great thing. I mean, chief, he just go back to
the men's team has talked about the two Japanese imports
being able to plan in about five different positions. So yes,
But if you are naming your best eleven from the
current sixteen players in the squad at Paul Temple's disposal,
I don't know a lot about Olivia Ferguson, the new
English striker, but unless she's a similar kind of player
(13:00):
to Grace Jarli, a big, strong number nine, then I'd
have Jarlay starting at nine every day of the week.
Olivia fergus and as I say, one of the new
imports and new goalkeeper too. We lost both goalkeepers from
last year, the first choice ones anyway. Riley Foster and
Brianna Rewards. In fact, I think their departures were announced
on the same day. So when from having two keepers
(13:21):
to none, Carolina Vilau from Portugal as their new goalkeeper.
I thought Brie might stay, but clearly there are things
happening behind the scenes. She's off to Sydney FC. I
was never really convinced by Riley Foster. I have to
say good pedigree obviously, but I was just never really
(13:41):
convinced by her as the Phoenix goalkeeper last year. In fact,
I thought Brian Edwards was actually a better keeper.
Speaker 4 (13:47):
No, I completely agree, Piney.
Speaker 3 (13:48):
I felt felt sad for Brie that she couldn't get
that number one jersey. You obviously felt a sense that
maybe because Riley Foster was the import that they had
to kind of give it to her. So yeah, massive
to lose bre Edwards from the Phoenix. But in terms
of for her, I'm really excited for her because I
THINKFC is there've always been a top club in this
(14:11):
woman's a league, so really really promising for her. Looking
forward to, you know, playing for New Zealand more.
Speaker 2 (14:17):
Real shame to see Marisa Vandamer ruled out for the season.
We know she suffered the ACL last season when she
was away with the football Ferns actually and then was
recovering from that, and I think, has she done the
same one or the other one? Regardless, she's out for
another season. Such a talented player, and what a shame
for Marisa vandamer I think you had the chance to
(14:37):
chat to it, didn't you. Yeah.
Speaker 3 (14:39):
I caught up with MARIEA. Just absolutely gutted for her.
I believe it was the same knee and she was
doing it while at physio, while rehabbing the existing aco.
I mean, what are the chances. The irony of all
of this is she's a physio herself, so yeah, just
just absolutely insane and she's she's gutted obviously, and that's
(15:00):
why she kind of well, they mutually terminated her contract
the Phoenix and Marisa because she kind of wanted to
not it, you know, down in Wellington for another season
not playing and she wanted to be up in Auckland
with family and friends and working. So's she's going to
be doing that up in Auckland and rehabbing as she
works as a physio.
Speaker 2 (15:20):
But if they've said, haven't they that if she recovers, okay,
she's got a contract for next season.
Speaker 4 (15:24):
Yeah, and smart by the Phoenix.
Speaker 3 (15:26):
I mean with the Auckland FC team supposedly coming in,
you know, they'll definitely have their eyes on Marisa and
I'm sure Maurice is probably considering that too. Should be silly,
not too so. Yeah, the Phoenix keeping that open is
really promising a.
Speaker 2 (15:42):
Lot of change in the Phoenix women's side from last season.
Four of the imports at least are gone. Riley Foster,
Hailey Davidson, Hope Briesland, Marty Anaspeckmyer all gone, Macy Fraser
has gone, Grace Wishnishki Kate Taylor, bri Edwards, and Kellie Brown.
I've got a couple of places here. I don't know
whether you know anything about whether they're coming back or not.
I've written down here Mickey Foster, Isabelle Cox, Mickey Robertson
(16:05):
and Annalie Longo. Do you know for sure whether any
of the those four are definitely coming back or definitely
not coming back?
Speaker 3 (16:12):
So the three Kiwi's Mickey Foster, Mickey Rowittson and Annale Longo,
I'm not sure on I haven't heard from them, but
I would suspect they're not returning if they haven't already resigned.
Speaker 4 (16:27):
I don't know.
Speaker 3 (16:27):
I just just feel like they've already. The Phoenix have
already re signed a lot of players and announced them,
and why why not? Probably the three with the most experienced,
So a few questions around that. One Isabel Cox. I
have a very good feeling she is not coming back
because she's signed for one of the new American teams
in the new league under the NWSL or alongside the
(16:52):
NWSL and the US and that's already been announced by
that club over there. So it's interesting why the Phoenix
haven't announced that yet. But yeah, she's she's over there,
I think playing for the same team as Hope Brislan.
Speaker 2 (17:06):
Oh good stuff. Okay, so the case then all five
imports from last year gone. We can add in Olivia Ferguson,
the English striker and Carolina Vilao the Portuguese goalkeepers. There
are still some spots up for grabs there as Paul
Temple wants to build a squad with a new assistant
coach as well. Amy Shephard is his new assistant coach,
(17:26):
with Callum Holmes moving into an academy role. I believe
with the Wellington Phoenix women set.
Speaker 1 (17:32):
Up Football Fever with Jason Vine and Bonnie Jensen.
Speaker 2 (17:36):
Let's move to international football. Two games for the All
Whites coming up on Sunday. They play Mexico in California,
then the United States in Cincinnati, two teams inside the
world's top twenty. We're currently ninety fourth, for what that's worth.
But the squad that was named by Darren Baisley, I
don't know about you, Bonnie, I think this is the
strongest all white squad I've seen for maybe ever.
Speaker 4 (17:57):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (17:57):
I mean I messedged you, Pinty and I was like,
one are the talking points and we both said there
are nothing. Really, there's no real names missing off this list,
and you know, just so many good players. And I'm
excited for these matchups. They're going to be They're going
to be a really good challenge for the All Whites
(18:17):
looking forward to that kind of twenty twenty six World Cup.
Speaker 2 (18:20):
I think the talking point is that a lot of
good players aren't there. You know. I made a list
of players who have played recently for New Zealand and
are playing at good clubs around the place, who aren't there.
I've got about twenty players who aren't there. And the
only one I can see as injured is Callumm Cowart.
But otherwise the twenty one strong squad is yeah, I
(18:41):
mean all the Ryan Thomas is the other one, and
I don't know what the situation is with his injury
or whether he will ever play for New Zealand again.
I hope he does. I would love to see him
play for New Zealand again. But they're all there, aren't they.
The ones playing in the UK, are the ones playing
in Europe Over in the United States. Darren Baseley's got
(19:02):
some thinking to do around naming his best eleven in
the squad, hasn't he.
Speaker 3 (19:06):
Yeah, well that's where the other main talking point is
going to come from is who who are the eleven
taking the pitch? I mean even goalies for a start.
You know, who do you put in there? I mean
you and I would probably I don't want to speak
for you, Pinty, but we'd probably back Alex Paulson, right.
Speaker 2 (19:24):
Yeah, I had goalkeeper written down as a question to
ask you, Oli sale, Max Crocum and Alex Paulson at
the Nation's Cup over and over in the Pacific Islands. Recently,
Max Crocum was the number one. Paulson was there, but
Max Crocum was the number one. I think all three
of them probably have a pretty good case, don't they.
(19:44):
So with only two games, I wonder how Days will
do it. You know, will he give two guys a game.
Will he say, Okay, you're my number one, it's your
jersey to lose. Eighteen months ago, Olie Sale was the
rusted on number one in the All Whites.
Speaker 4 (19:56):
Yeah, it's actually crazy.
Speaker 3 (19:57):
And there's so much depth in that goalkeeper role, which
is really really promising. I feel like something in the
past potentially we haven't had as much depth again this
whole roster, there's so much depth again, really really promising
heading into that World Cup cycle in two years time.
But yeah, I'm backing Alex Paulson, especially after the Olympics
(20:21):
that he just had. I know that's under twenty threes,
but he stood out.
Speaker 2 (20:25):
Even in midfield, Joe Bell, Matthew Garbett, Ben Old, Marco Staminitch,
Alex Rufer, who you know has has had a very
very good last eighteen months or so. You know, how's
he gonna And then you get up front, you know,
Chris Wood obviously plays He's probably one of the only
ones who is guaranteed him and probably Libby Cacaccio, I
(20:48):
would say, would be the two who are absolutely guaranteed
a spot in the best eleven. But you know you've
got the likes of Eli, just Ben Wayne knocking on
the door. Cost of barbarusis we know what a good
season he had. You know, it's everywhere you look in
this team. There are good quality players playing, you know,
at excellent clubs, getting lots of minutes. So yeah, it's
(21:10):
an exciting time and I think, I mean, what do
you want to see out of these two games? Normally
when we play teams in the top twenty, we're like, okay,
you know, let's just try and make sure that we
don't in the past anyway. Let's make sure that this
isn't in any way a cricket score. These players, I'm
sure go out there, you know, believing they can win
these games.
Speaker 3 (21:28):
Yeah, absolutely, And I think just talking about that roster Piney,
our expectations are now so high of the capabilities of
this side, and they should be.
Speaker 4 (21:38):
I think, you know, we've.
Speaker 3 (21:41):
Bays has talked for so long about how he's got
so many he's got such a big pool. Now of
players that are available that he can pick from. And
again I'm going to speak of the World Cup, but
needs to be becoming more competitive and we need to
be able to compete with these teams. So my expectations
are high for them. I would like to see them,
you know, if they don't get up on the result,
at least they're competing and they've got a share of
(22:03):
position or shots on goals or things like that.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
Ironically enough, the path of the win next week World
Cup is easier than it's ever been with the direct
entry for Oceania. You know, you look at the squad
that we've just been talking about and you back that team,
and it's a continental playoff against someone like Costa Rica
that probably in all likelihood won't need to be to
be undertaken because with an expanded World Cup and direct
entry for Oceania, all New Zealand have to do and
(22:28):
I don't want to put the car before the horse,
but all they have to do is when the Oceania
World Cup qualifiers and they're there, so that starts next
month as well. They play Tahiti and Vanahatu, then then
Vana Watu in Hamilton and then one of the Round
one qualifiers in Auckland. That's group play. The top two
from that group and the top two from the other
(22:50):
group FIGI, Solomon's P ANDNG and New Caledonia go to
the Semis and then a final. The Semis in the
final are in New Zealand in March, so you know
home conditions. So yeah, this could well be a team
that that you know, fairly comfortably qualifies for the World Cup.
And then they've got a couple of years or a
year and a half to make sure that once I
get there, that they are competitive, not just making a
(23:11):
World Cup but being competitive at a World Cup gold fever.
Can we get talk a bit about the football Ferns
at the Olympic Games. Losses to Canada to one, Columbia
to Neil, France two to one. On the face of things,
those results don't look too bad. What did you make
of the football Ferns performances in Paris?
Speaker 4 (23:30):
I was impressed.
Speaker 3 (23:31):
I think, yes, the results speak for themselves, really really good,
not really good, but promising results against three very very
top teams and saying that I thought they played some
good football by their standards, by the football fern standards, Yes,
they really lacked position, they really lacked shots on goals.
(23:53):
But I found it an improvement and this was me
kind of reaching for positives. I was confused afterwards when
you know, most of the players posted saying really disappointed
with how the tournament went, So that was that was
confusing again considering what we know from the Ferns in
the past and how this seemed like an improvement. So
(24:15):
I don't know, something's just the mood doesn't feel right
in that camp.
Speaker 2 (24:18):
Don't you think though, that that might be that that
now there is a shifting of the mindset and that
you know, they're no longer happy just being there, that
that losses, regardless of whether they're close and regardless of
whether they're as a result of an improved performance, are
still losses.
Speaker 3 (24:32):
Yeah, I think you're absolutely right, Piney, And it's it's
you know, for so long, I mean, as a journalist
interviewing these players and the coaching stuff, and they talk
about processes, and they talk about how we're moving, you know,
towards something bigger and things like that, even though we're
challenging the challenging them so many times on the lack
(24:53):
of goals and things like that. So I completely agree
with you, Piney that potentially that their natag seed is
a loss is a loss.
Speaker 2 (25:03):
Michael Maine took the side in Paris. What's your gut
feel on whether yet Kaklimkova will return as head coach.
Speaker 3 (25:10):
I think the longer we're not hearing anything about it
is the longer it's you know, she's probably out. I mean,
we know she's on a seven year contract or something
like that, and I'm not even sure she's halfway through yet.
So that's obviously probably what New Zealand footballer feeling challenged
with right now is keeping her on that contract, not
(25:33):
keeping her on that contract. But yeah, the longer we
wait for an announcement, the more I feel that she's
not coming back.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
I agree. If I had to pick it, I'd say
she's not. And that's based on nothing other than exactly
what you just said. The longer she's out, the least
likely it feels like she's coming back. I don't know
anything about the you know, the ins and outs of
why she's not there. It was a very odd announcement
just before the Olympics saying, you know, because she'd obviously
missed those previous games, hadn't she went against Japan that
(26:04):
she'd missed and Michael Mayne had taken over. Basically he
found out when he got on tour that he was
in charge. At least got a couple of weeks or
a month or so this time to get used to
the idea. I don't know, it just it just seems
like it just doesn't seem like the most likely outcome
to me, this feels like a chance to reset things.
There are some players who are now retired, who have
(26:26):
you left the set up? Isn't this just a chance
for a full reset ahead of the next World Cup?
Speaker 3 (26:31):
Absolutely agree, Piney. Yeah, I don't know the announcers as well.
They've kept things pretty tight lipped, which makes me feel
like it's quite serious. And yes, one hundred percent the
chance for a reset. You know there's senior players potentially
not one hundred percent locked in a spot, and maybe
(26:52):
this is the chance to kind of bring in a
new wave of young players. We know that there's some
really really good younger players already playing overseas and things
like that, so probably now's the time for a full reset.
Speaker 2 (27:08):
I don't think there any game scheduled either. I couldn't
see any record of games coming up. I mean there
will be games obviously, but I can't see any anything
that's scheduled at the moment. So maybe it is just
time to sort things out with ye, just to shake
hands and walk off in separate directions and then reset
what's happening in the Football Ferns environment because there are
(27:28):
a lot of good young players coming through. We're about
to see the best under twenty players in New Zealand
take part in their World Cup. They'll have designs on
getting up into the full side as well. So yeah,
it just feels to me as though you bang on it,
it might be time just to just to reset things
and look towards the future of the Football Ferns without
Yetka comkover.
Speaker 1 (27:49):
This is football fever.
Speaker 2 (27:51):
Running out of time. There's a lot of keys playing
around the world, but we can get to those on
the podcast next week. But Heaps and Heaps are key.
He's playing and playing well for their clubs. Just wanted
to ask you, Hannah Wilkinson, still unattached. You haven't heard
anything about where she might turn up.
Speaker 3 (28:06):
No, I haven't, and I had a feeling Wellington would
be the answer, But maybe you know she's one of
the older senior players in the football Ferns. She's obviously
not returning to Melbourne City, so maybe she's someone that's
hanging up her boots. Who knows, I'll do something. I'll
do some digging this week, Piney.
Speaker 2 (28:23):
That'd be good. Yeah, if you could bring that to
the podcast audience next week, that would be greatly appreciated.
I see Kate Taylor has turned up at Dijon in
the top league in France. I've seen a lot of
social media content out of that club and she's front
and center. So great to see kay Taylor settling and well.
Her season starts on the twenty second of September, just
before we go. The under twenty women about to undertake
(28:44):
their campaign in Columbia for the World Cup. They played Japan,
Austria and Ghana in group play. They need to finish
in the top two or be one of the four
best third placed finishers. Leon Bernie's the coach. She's got
sixteen of the squad that went to the Under seventeen
World Cup a couple of years ago. Just quickly ken
(29:05):
Japan obviously, as we said before, very good at every level.
Austria seeing like they'll be good Garner maybe might be
a game where New Zealand could sense a result. Can
you see us getting out of this group? What are
you hearing? Yeah?
Speaker 3 (29:18):
I mean I don't think it's a super threatening group
of group of oppositions, So positive there. And I just
refeek back to the under seventeen World Cup guard that
would have been over five six years ago now, but
where they the junior football Ferns went on to win
bronze at that World Cup. So yeah, I'm confident about
(29:39):
this group of players. And you know there's so many
names that have been other capped for the football Ferns,
been caught up to squads or play professional football already,
So yeah, confident about what this group can do.
Speaker 2 (29:50):
Yep. Looking forward to their group games in the week
ahead and this coming Saturday at Albany. You'll be in
the commentary box for Chantham Cup and Kate Shepherd Cup
finals Kate shepperd Cup Western Springs Auckland United at four
o'clock and Chatham Cup Final Auckland City Wellington Olympic at
seven o'clock. Who you got in these two games? Who
are you picking?
Speaker 4 (30:09):
Yeah?
Speaker 3 (30:09):
Well, Piney'll obviously be channeling my inner Jason pine As
I call these games but big, big shoes to fill there.
But I think I have a feeling Wellington Olympic get
up over Auckland City. Yes, they've probably had an easier
regional season in the Central League, but I just feel
(30:30):
like Auckland City aren't what there used to be, and
in the women's Auckland United one hundred percent. They're so
so dominant in the women's competition.
Speaker 2 (30:39):
It's Mickey Foster play for them at the moment.
Speaker 3 (30:41):
Yes, I believe. So there's obviously as well, like Chloe
not gosh, just so so many strong players. I think
Ruby Nathan's been there as well since she's been back.
She obviously won't be she's at the World Cup right now.
But yeah, they've got some really really strong players domestically
or her, we've kind of stood out and probably could
(31:02):
be knocking on the Phoenix door.
Speaker 2 (31:03):
All right, Well, enjoy the calls of those two games,
looking forward to hearing those and watching it play out.
That brings to an end a bumper edition of Football Fever.
Sorry we have been away so long. We will bring
you episodes weekly again from now on as the New
A League season draws closer and Keywis continue to play
football all around the world in various different capacities. Thanks Bonnie,
(31:26):
we'll chat you again next Monday.
Speaker 1 (31:28):
We'll see it in Football Fever with Jason Vine and
Bonnie Jensens. For more from News Talks at b listen
live on air or online, and keep our shows with
you wherever you go with our podcasts on Irradio.
You're listening to a podcast from Newstalks EDB. Follow this
and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio. Football
Fever with News Talks, nb's Voice of Football Jason Paine
and Bonnie Jensen.
Speaker 2 (00:26):
Yes it is. It seems like a long time since
we sat in the Football Fever studio to bring you
a Football Fever episode and association with FIFA Plus stream
New Zealand football live and free on FIFA plus dot com.
I'm Jason Pine Bonnie Jensen here, So it's been too long, Bonnie,
how are you?
Speaker 3 (00:41):
We're back Piney, We're back. I'm so excited. It feels
like summer foot is right around the corner.
Speaker 2 (00:46):
Indeed it does. Heaps to get through today. Let's hope
for a bumper edition. There's a lot of stuff to
cover off. Can we start with summer football in the
form of the A League Men's competition starting officially next
month now winter September, less than fifty days away from
kickoff opening weekend, Auckland FC will play their first ever
A League men's game against Brisbane raw Mount Smart at
(01:08):
five o'clock on Saturday, October nineteen. The next day it's
the Phoenix against Western United sky Stadium four o'clock, so
home games for both sides to start. Then the first derby,
which we're really looking forward to, Saturday November two at
sky Stadium. Two more derbies in Auckland as the season
goes on. How are you feeling about Auckland FC in
terms of the squad they've put together for their debut season?
(01:30):
Are you feeling confident about them hitting the ground with
a bit of a bang?
Speaker 4 (01:34):
Yeah, I am.
Speaker 3 (01:36):
I think they've put together a really really strong roster
and it's kind of a statement roster in my opinion.
They've named a lot of Kiwi's probably kiwis that the
Phoenix have been trying to get for years, but just
potentially the connection to AFC Bournemouth and Auckland being potentially
(01:57):
a bit more of a destination. They seem to have
pulled a lot of good names in. So yeah, really
excited about Yeah, who's on this list?
Speaker 2 (02:06):
Yeah? I think it's good roster, really good roster, and
I guess one of the most exciting parts. But also
something I want to get your view on is the
fact that only one import's been confirmed so far, Hiroki Sarkai,
So that means there are four import spots left, which
is great. Even then they can come from anywhere in
the world. They can be any type of player. But
are we getting a bit close to the start of
(02:26):
the season for Steve Cariker to integrate them effectively into
his team in time? Yeah?
Speaker 4 (02:33):
I think.
Speaker 3 (02:33):
I think definitely it's concerning about the lack of imports
in saying that. Obviously the keywis have named have experience overseas,
but I'm sure Steve Coriker has a plan. And you
compare it to someone like the Phoenix though, and they've
just got more experience with this type of stuff. So yeah,
potentially leaving it cutting it fine.
Speaker 2 (02:55):
Yeah, but I still, as I say, I don't want
it to come across as being a bad thing because
you know this often happens. Players you know, need to
get clearance from their clubs or from wherever they are,
they need to get their work visa, all that sort
of thing. Had Terry mcfunn, the Director of football, on
the radio a couple of weeks ago, and he was
he said, look, we're down the track with these guys,
we just haven't announced them yet. So you look at
(03:16):
the squad. Auckland FC have got twenty two in the squad.
Seven of those are scholarship players though, and still four
import spots available. And as you say, there's some you know,
there's some good key we players there, the likes of
Logan Rogerson, Joey Champness, Max Marta, Cam Howison has been
a good player for a long time. Tommy Smith. There's
(03:37):
a bit of mail around about another center back perhaps
coming back to Auckland. Can you tell us anything there?
Speaker 3 (03:46):
Yeah, no, I am hearing Nando might potentially be back,
but you know he's left his club.
Speaker 4 (03:51):
Where is it Poney over in Ireland?
Speaker 2 (03:53):
Yes, Sligo Rovers they this morning. We're recording this on
Monday the second. This morning announced on the website that
he was leaving and in the release it said to
move to a club closer to home. So I guess
that means, well, that could be anywhay. They're twelve thousand
miles away. But yeah, I'm sort of hearing the same
things you are.
Speaker 4 (04:13):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (04:14):
No, yeah, definitely getting strong mail as you say around
this obviously need to wait for it to be confirmed.
But as you said with Terry, he seems to have
already made a lot of progress with players that they
just haven't announced it yet, so who knows.
Speaker 4 (04:28):
It could be in the coming days.
Speaker 2 (04:29):
Alex Paulson, of course will play for Auckland FC. This
has been the subject of a lot of chatter around
the place. Obviously he left Wellington. We all know the story.
He left Wellington's been excited for Born with Born that
have since loaned him back to Auckland f C. They
are the parent club, of course of Auckland f C.
Or they're in the same ownership group with Bill Foley.
The so called casira's clause has been relaxed, which previously
(04:51):
would have prevented this. Now it's allowed. How are you
feeling about this?
Speaker 3 (04:54):
Yeah, I'm obviously excited in terms of being a fan
and getting to watch Auckland this season up close. It's
going to be great for the derby. It's going to
be great for the team. In terms of him, gutted
for him not gonna lie. I think he was destined
for bigger and better things. He's moved on from the
A League, so it's a shame he has to come back.
(05:18):
Whether he's happy about it or not, I'm not too sure.
But in terms of what he will, you know, keep
and bring back to the A League is really exciting.
Speaker 2 (05:25):
Yeah, he's a name, he's a you know, he's he
was the best keeper in the league last season. And
while at the time, I think you and I spoke
and I said, look, I thought it was a shame
for him that he had this big, you know, this
big buzz of signing for Bournemouth. They put all the
social media out of him meeting all his teammates and
that sort of thing and being involved in a Premier
League club, and then all of a sudden he's back
in the A League. Look, I've sort of since changed
(05:48):
my view a little bit. I think he should be playing.
I would prefer that that was at a higher level
than the A League because I think he's kind of
he's clocked the A League for me, But I mean
to have him playing here is awesome for the Phoenix.
They've moved quickly to replace him. Josh Ollaway m me,
the English Nigerian goalkeeper has turned up from what I hear,
Bonnie an absolute unit, an absolute unit of a man
(06:13):
that's unreal.
Speaker 4 (06:13):
That's great for the Phoenix.
Speaker 3 (06:15):
I'm you know, they've obviously got big shoes to fill
and Alex Paulson, as we know, so yeah, really exciting.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
Apparently, when he took a shirt off in the change
room for the first time, people's eyes were popping out
of their heads.
Speaker 3 (06:26):
Wow, okay, I just hope he can get up and
down off the ground quickly, that those big muscles don't
weigh him now.
Speaker 2 (06:32):
Well, I don't think they will. I don't think they will.
As far as the Phoenix are consumed, we'll jump around
between the two franchises. It's great to have two to
talk about, isn't it. The Phoenix have signed two Japanese players,
Kazuki Nagasawa and today the announcement of Hideki a Shiga.
Of course, Auckland have their own Japanese player in Hiroki Sakai,
so it looks like there'll be a real Japanese influence
(06:54):
in the two New Zealand teams. Who knows Auckland might
sign one or two more as well. So yet interesting
the different markets that you know are turning up in
the A League. There have been a few Japanese players,
but Wellington had never had one. Now they've got two.
Speaker 3 (07:07):
Yeah, I'm really again about this. I just love the
way that Japanese players play. I've obviously watched a lot
of women's football, and I love the way that they play.
Speaker 4 (07:19):
The Japanese national team.
Speaker 3 (07:21):
I mean, I've also had Japanese imports come to my
club East and Suburbs and play and just their football.
Speaker 4 (07:27):
They're so smart.
Speaker 3 (07:28):
So I think, yeah, these players in the men's teams
will add a lot.
Speaker 2 (07:32):
How good would it be if in the future the
Wellington Phoenix and Auckland if C women's teams can attract
Japanese players. Because you're so right, I just absolutely love
watching the Japanese women's team play, and not just the
senior side, but the underage sides. They all seem to
be technically brilliant, don't they.
Speaker 3 (07:50):
Yeah, No, you're absolutely right, And I think you know,
New Zealand is such a destination place. Yes, so as Australia,
and there might be a little bit more money over
there might be a bit nicer weather, but you know,
New Zealand has a lot to offer, and I think
that's something Auckland and Wellington are seemingly playing off this
year like it's an opportunity for potentially more senior Japanese players.
(08:12):
I know Hiroki Sakai for Auckland f C is bringing
his family down and that's something they're really excited for.
So yeah, I think for the Phoenix and Auckland f
C to play off that more in the future will
be really promising.
Speaker 2 (08:24):
Good to see also some investment into Aukland f C
or further investment Winston Reed, Noahiki, Tim Brown, three former
all whites and three men who have gone on to
good things in the in the case of Tim Brown
and no Ahici big big things in the business world
since they've retired. Good to see them joining the Auckland
FC ownership group. Did you did you like this news
when you heard it?
Speaker 4 (08:45):
Yeah, no, it was It was good.
Speaker 3 (08:46):
Some big names there obviously, and I understand, you know,
I don't know specifics of the deal and the stake
that they've got in the club, but they were just
kind of like, sign me up. You know, it's going
to be super promising business prospect, I think for for Auckland.
So they were, you know, sign me on, all.
Speaker 2 (09:05):
Right, and okay, well, just before we move on from
the from the A League men's what's your prediction, Bonnie
for these two sides? Are we looking at two top
six rosters here?
Speaker 3 (09:15):
I'm nervous about the Phoenix just because they've lost, you know,
some of their key players from last season and saying
that we were sitting here this time last year saying
the same thing that we're not confident about the Phoenix roster,
and they proved us all wrong. So yeah, definitely capable.
I think Auckland f C without a doubt by the
(09:37):
names that they've signed, knowing that they've still got a
few more imports to sign, and I just think this
derby is going to push them, push each team more
and they're going to be super competitive.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
Yeah, I agree with you about the Phoenix because you're right,
they have lost players. But then you're right if we
looked at the at the twenty strong squad or whatever
it was at this time last year that the Phoenix had,
and you look at the names they've got now, yeah,
some of them are unknown. In terms of the two
Japanese guys and such like Bart, I actually think it's
a better squad than they had than what we thought
(10:07):
it was going to be next year. Whether it turns
out to be a better squad once they hit the
grass remains to be seen. But you know, you look
at as you say, the two Japanese players, a new goalkeeper,
and we weren't sure about Alex Paulson at this time
last year. We didn't even know if he was going
to be the first choice keeper. We thought Jack Duncan
might be up. I think Paul Rettrey is a great signing,
a guy with really good A League pedigree. And if
(10:29):
some of these you know Marko rohas, let's not forget him.
If he can recreate his form, some of these youngsters
Gabrielle Sloan Rodriguez, Luke Brooks, Smith and Luke Souper who
might get more of a chance this season. And then
you're right. You look at Auckland FC and you think, man,
that's a very very solid roster. I reckon they'll both
be top six.
Speaker 3 (10:46):
Yeah, I agree absolutely, Pioneer. As I mentioned, I think
this derby is going to push them even more. You know,
they're going to go into every game with a little
bit more hunger and wanting to get one up over
each other. I think as well, going back to the
Phoenix Chief, he has another season under his belt now
and he'll take so many lessons from last season where
(11:07):
they just unexpected unexpectedly performed. So that's another positive positive
out of that camp.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
Yep, seven weeks to go until the new A League
men's season gets under way.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
Can't wait the ff with Finy and Bonnie.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
Let's have a quick look at the Wellington Phoenix Woman
because their draw is not yet confirmed for the new season,
but the first round will be in the first weekend
of November, so two weeks after the men's season starts.
Grace Charlie back at the Phoenix. Bonnie, she was what
top goalscorer in their first season. What did you make
of Grace Jarlay's return.
Speaker 3 (11:40):
Yeah, I had a feeling this might be the case.
I did think when I saw the headline to come
through that it was a football Ferns forward. It may
have been Hannah Wilkinson. I thought maybe Grace Charlie would
have kept, you know, having another crack across the ditch.
But huge signing for the Knicks. I'm a real fan
of Grace's. She can play out wide, in the midfield,
(12:01):
or up the top.
Speaker 2 (12:02):
No, none of those, None of them, not the first two. Bonnie.
Let's be let's be let's be deadly serious from the
start about this. Grace Jarlay is a center forward. All
of this I can still not comprehend her playing in
other positions. Yes, she can, of course, She's got of
at a pace and is effective in a wide area.
But she's a center forward. She should have the number
(12:23):
nine on her back.
Speaker 4 (12:25):
She should have the number nine.
Speaker 3 (12:26):
I completely agree, party, and I got so frustrated during
the World Cup last year. Y yeah, k klem Kova
the football fantasy coached and back that.
Speaker 4 (12:36):
Yeah. No, I completely agree.
Speaker 2 (12:38):
But she is versatile, yeah, look, and versatility is a
great thing. I mean, chief, he just go back to
the men's team has talked about the two Japanese imports
being able to plan in about five different positions. So yes,
But if you are naming your best eleven from the
current sixteen players in the squad at Paul Temple's disposal,
I don't know a lot about Olivia Ferguson, the new
English striker, but unless she's a similar kind of player
(13:00):
to Grace Jarli, a big, strong number nine, then I'd
have Jarlay starting at nine every day of the week.
Olivia fergus and as I say, one of the new
imports and new goalkeeper too. We lost both goalkeepers from
last year, the first choice ones anyway. Riley Foster and
Brianna Rewards. In fact, I think their departures were announced
on the same day. So when from having two keepers
(13:21):
to none, Carolina Vilau from Portugal as their new goalkeeper.
I thought Brie might stay, but clearly there are things
happening behind the scenes. She's off to Sydney FC. I
was never really convinced by Riley Foster. I have to
say good pedigree obviously, but I was just never really
(13:41):
convinced by her as the Phoenix goalkeeper last year. In fact,
I thought Brian Edwards was actually a better keeper.
Speaker 4 (13:47):
No, I completely agree, Piney.
Speaker 3 (13:48):
I felt felt sad for Brie that she couldn't get
that number one jersey. You obviously felt a sense that
maybe because Riley Foster was the import that they had
to kind of give it to her. So yeah, massive
to lose bre Edwards from the Phoenix. But in terms
of for her, I'm really excited for her because I
THINKFC is there've always been a top club in this
(14:11):
woman's a league, so really really promising for her. Looking
forward to, you know, playing for New Zealand more.
Speaker 2 (14:17):
Real shame to see Marisa Vandamer ruled out for the season.
We know she suffered the ACL last season when she
was away with the football Ferns actually and then was
recovering from that, and I think, has she done the
same one or the other one? Regardless, she's out for
another season. Such a talented player, and what a shame
for Marisa vandamer I think you had the chance to
(14:37):
chat to it, didn't you. Yeah.
Speaker 3 (14:39):
I caught up with MARIEA. Just absolutely gutted for her.
I believe it was the same knee and she was
doing it while at physio, while rehabbing the existing aco.
I mean, what are the chances. The irony of all
of this is she's a physio herself, so yeah, just
just absolutely insane and she's she's gutted obviously, and that's
(15:00):
why she kind of well, they mutually terminated her contract
the Phoenix and Marisa because she kind of wanted to
not it, you know, down in Wellington for another season
not playing and she wanted to be up in Auckland
with family and friends and working. So's she's going to
be doing that up in Auckland and rehabbing as she
works as a physio.
Speaker 2 (15:20):
But if they've said, haven't they that if she recovers, okay,
she's got a contract for next season.
Speaker 4 (15:24):
Yeah, and smart by the Phoenix.
Speaker 3 (15:26):
I mean with the Auckland FC team supposedly coming in,
you know, they'll definitely have their eyes on Marisa and
I'm sure Maurice is probably considering that too. Should be silly,
not too so. Yeah, the Phoenix keeping that open is
really promising a.
Speaker 2 (15:42):
Lot of change in the Phoenix women's side from last season.
Four of the imports at least are gone. Riley Foster,
Hailey Davidson, Hope Briesland, Marty Anaspeckmyer all gone, Macy Fraser
has gone, Grace Wishnishki Kate Taylor, bri Edwards, and Kellie Brown.
I've got a couple of places here. I don't know
whether you know anything about whether they're coming back or not.
I've written down here Mickey Foster, Isabelle Cox, Mickey Robertson
(16:05):
and Annalie Longo. Do you know for sure whether any
of the those four are definitely coming back or definitely
not coming back?
Speaker 3 (16:12):
So the three Kiwi's Mickey Foster, Mickey Rowittson and Annale Longo,
I'm not sure on I haven't heard from them, but
I would suspect they're not returning if they haven't already resigned.
Speaker 4 (16:27):
I don't know.
Speaker 3 (16:27):
I just just feel like they've already. The Phoenix have
already re signed a lot of players and announced them,
and why why not? Probably the three with the most experienced,
So a few questions around that. One Isabel Cox. I
have a very good feeling she is not coming back
because she's signed for one of the new American teams
in the new league under the NWSL or alongside the
(16:52):
NWSL and the US and that's already been announced by
that club over there. So it's interesting why the Phoenix
haven't announced that yet. But yeah, she's she's over there,
I think playing for the same team as Hope Brislan.
Speaker 2 (17:06):
Oh good stuff. Okay, so the case then all five
imports from last year gone. We can add in Olivia Ferguson,
the English striker and Carolina Vilao the Portuguese goalkeepers. There
are still some spots up for grabs there as Paul
Temple wants to build a squad with a new assistant
coach as well. Amy Shephard is his new assistant coach,
(17:26):
with Callum Holmes moving into an academy role. I believe
with the Wellington Phoenix women set.
Speaker 1 (17:32):
Up Football Fever with Jason Vine and Bonnie Jensen.
Speaker 2 (17:36):
Let's move to international football. Two games for the All
Whites coming up on Sunday. They play Mexico in California,
then the United States in Cincinnati, two teams inside the
world's top twenty. We're currently ninety fourth, for what that's worth.
But the squad that was named by Darren Baisley, I
don't know about you, Bonnie, I think this is the
strongest all white squad I've seen for maybe ever.
Speaker 4 (17:57):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (17:57):
I mean I messedged you, Pinty and I was like,
one are the talking points and we both said there
are nothing. Really, there's no real names missing off this list,
and you know, just so many good players. And I'm
excited for these matchups. They're going to be They're going
to be a really good challenge for the All Whites
(18:17):
looking forward to that kind of twenty twenty six World Cup.
Speaker 2 (18:20):
I think the talking point is that a lot of
good players aren't there. You know. I made a list
of players who have played recently for New Zealand and
are playing at good clubs around the place, who aren't there.
I've got about twenty players who aren't there. And the
only one I can see as injured is Callumm Cowart.
But otherwise the twenty one strong squad is yeah, I
(18:41):
mean all the Ryan Thomas is the other one, and
I don't know what the situation is with his injury
or whether he will ever play for New Zealand again.
I hope he does. I would love to see him
play for New Zealand again. But they're all there, aren't they.
The ones playing in the UK, are the ones playing
in Europe Over in the United States. Darren Baseley's got
(19:02):
some thinking to do around naming his best eleven in
the squad, hasn't he.
Speaker 3 (19:06):
Yeah, well that's where the other main talking point is
going to come from is who who are the eleven
taking the pitch? I mean even goalies for a start.
You know, who do you put in there? I mean
you and I would probably I don't want to speak
for you, Pinty, but we'd probably back Alex Paulson, right.
Speaker 2 (19:24):
Yeah, I had goalkeeper written down as a question to
ask you, Oli sale, Max Crocum and Alex Paulson at
the Nation's Cup over and over in the Pacific Islands. Recently,
Max Crocum was the number one. Paulson was there, but
Max Crocum was the number one. I think all three
of them probably have a pretty good case, don't they.
(19:44):
So with only two games, I wonder how Days will
do it. You know, will he give two guys a game.
Will he say, Okay, you're my number one, it's your
jersey to lose. Eighteen months ago, Olie Sale was the
rusted on number one in the All Whites.
Speaker 4 (19:56):
Yeah, it's actually crazy.
Speaker 3 (19:57):
And there's so much depth in that goalkeeper role, which
is really really promising. I feel like something in the
past potentially we haven't had as much depth again this
whole roster, there's so much depth again, really really promising
heading into that World Cup cycle in two years time.
But yeah, I'm backing Alex Paulson, especially after the Olympics
(20:21):
that he just had. I know that's under twenty threes,
but he stood out.
Speaker 2 (20:25):
Even in midfield, Joe Bell, Matthew Garbett, Ben Old, Marco Staminitch,
Alex Rufer, who you know has has had a very
very good last eighteen months or so. You know, how's
he gonna And then you get up front, you know,
Chris Wood obviously plays He's probably one of the only
ones who is guaranteed him and probably Libby Cacaccio, I
(20:48):
would say, would be the two who are absolutely guaranteed
a spot in the best eleven. But you know you've
got the likes of Eli, just Ben Wayne knocking on
the door. Cost of barbarusis we know what a good
season he had. You know, it's everywhere you look in
this team. There are good quality players playing, you know,
at excellent clubs, getting lots of minutes. So yeah, it's
(21:10):
an exciting time and I think, I mean, what do
you want to see out of these two games? Normally
when we play teams in the top twenty, we're like, okay,
you know, let's just try and make sure that we
don't in the past anyway. Let's make sure that this
isn't in any way a cricket score. These players, I'm
sure go out there, you know, believing they can win
these games.
Speaker 3 (21:28):
Yeah, absolutely, And I think just talking about that roster Piney,
our expectations are now so high of the capabilities of
this side, and they should be.
Speaker 4 (21:38):
I think, you know, we've.
Speaker 3 (21:41):
Bays has talked for so long about how he's got
so many he's got such a big pool. Now of
players that are available that he can pick from. And
again I'm going to speak of the World Cup, but
needs to be becoming more competitive and we need to
be able to compete with these teams. So my expectations
are high for them. I would like to see them,
you know, if they don't get up on the result,
at least they're competing and they've got a share of
(22:03):
position or shots on goals or things like that.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
Ironically enough, the path of the win next week World
Cup is easier than it's ever been with the direct
entry for Oceania. You know, you look at the squad
that we've just been talking about and you back that team,
and it's a continental playoff against someone like Costa Rica
that probably in all likelihood won't need to be to
be undertaken because with an expanded World Cup and direct
entry for Oceania, all New Zealand have to do and
(22:28):
I don't want to put the car before the horse,
but all they have to do is when the Oceania
World Cup qualifiers and they're there, so that starts next
month as well. They play Tahiti and Vanahatu, then then
Vana Watu in Hamilton and then one of the Round
one qualifiers in Auckland. That's group play. The top two
from that group and the top two from the other
(22:50):
group FIGI, Solomon's P ANDNG and New Caledonia go to
the Semis and then a final. The Semis in the
final are in New Zealand in March, so you know
home conditions. So yeah, this could well be a team
that that you know, fairly comfortably qualifies for the World Cup.
And then they've got a couple of years or a
year and a half to make sure that once I
get there, that they are competitive, not just making a
(23:11):
World Cup but being competitive at a World Cup gold fever.
Can we get talk a bit about the football Ferns
at the Olympic Games. Losses to Canada to one, Columbia
to Neil, France two to one. On the face of things,
those results don't look too bad. What did you make
of the football Ferns performances in Paris?
Speaker 4 (23:30):
I was impressed.
Speaker 3 (23:31):
I think, yes, the results speak for themselves, really really good,
not really good, but promising results against three very very
top teams and saying that I thought they played some
good football by their standards, by the football fern standards, Yes,
they really lacked position, they really lacked shots on goals.
(23:53):
But I found it an improvement and this was me
kind of reaching for positives. I was confused afterwards when
you know, most of the players posted saying really disappointed
with how the tournament went, So that was that was
confusing again considering what we know from the Ferns in
the past and how this seemed like an improvement. So
(24:15):
I don't know, something's just the mood doesn't feel right
in that camp.
Speaker 2 (24:18):
Don't you think though, that that might be that that
now there is a shifting of the mindset and that
you know, they're no longer happy just being there, that
that losses, regardless of whether they're close and regardless of
whether they're as a result of an improved performance, are
still losses.
Speaker 3 (24:32):
Yeah, I think you're absolutely right, Piney, And it's it's
you know, for so long, I mean, as a journalist
interviewing these players and the coaching stuff, and they talk
about processes, and they talk about how we're moving, you know,
towards something bigger and things like that, even though we're
challenging the challenging them so many times on the lack
(24:53):
of goals and things like that. So I completely agree
with you, Piney that potentially that their natag seed is
a loss is a loss.
Speaker 2 (25:03):
Michael Maine took the side in Paris. What's your gut
feel on whether yet Kaklimkova will return as head coach.
Speaker 3 (25:10):
I think the longer we're not hearing anything about it
is the longer it's you know, she's probably out. I mean,
we know she's on a seven year contract or something
like that, and I'm not even sure she's halfway through yet.
So that's obviously probably what New Zealand footballer feeling challenged
with right now is keeping her on that contract, not
(25:33):
keeping her on that contract. But yeah, the longer we
wait for an announcement, the more I feel that she's
not coming back.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
I agree. If I had to pick it, I'd say
she's not. And that's based on nothing other than exactly
what you just said. The longer she's out, the least
likely it feels like she's coming back. I don't know
anything about the you know, the ins and outs of
why she's not there. It was a very odd announcement
just before the Olympics saying, you know, because she'd obviously
missed those previous games, hadn't she went against Japan that
(26:04):
she'd missed and Michael Mayne had taken over. Basically he
found out when he got on tour that he was
in charge. At least got a couple of weeks or
a month or so this time to get used to
the idea. I don't know, it just it just seems
like it just doesn't seem like the most likely outcome
to me, this feels like a chance to reset things.
There are some players who are now retired, who have
(26:26):
you left the set up? Isn't this just a chance
for a full reset ahead of the next World Cup?
Speaker 3 (26:31):
Absolutely agree, Piney. Yeah, I don't know the announcers as well.
They've kept things pretty tight lipped, which makes me feel
like it's quite serious. And yes, one hundred percent the
chance for a reset. You know there's senior players potentially
not one hundred percent locked in a spot, and maybe
(26:52):
this is the chance to kind of bring in a
new wave of young players. We know that there's some
really really good younger players already playing overseas and things
like that, so probably now's the time for a full reset.
Speaker 2 (27:08):
I don't think there any game scheduled either. I couldn't
see any record of games coming up. I mean there
will be games obviously, but I can't see any anything
that's scheduled at the moment. So maybe it is just
time to sort things out with ye, just to shake
hands and walk off in separate directions and then reset
what's happening in the Football Ferns environment because there are
(27:28):
a lot of good young players coming through. We're about
to see the best under twenty players in New Zealand
take part in their World Cup. They'll have designs on
getting up into the full side as well. So yeah,
it just feels to me as though you bang on it,
it might be time just to just to reset things
and look towards the future of the Football Ferns without
Yetka comkover.
Speaker 1 (27:49):
This is football fever.
Speaker 2 (27:51):
Running out of time. There's a lot of keys playing
around the world, but we can get to those on
the podcast next week. But Heaps and Heaps are key.
He's playing and playing well for their clubs. Just wanted
to ask you, Hannah Wilkinson, still unattached. You haven't heard
anything about where she might turn up.
Speaker 3 (28:06):
No, I haven't, and I had a feeling Wellington would
be the answer, But maybe you know she's one of
the older senior players in the football Ferns. She's obviously
not returning to Melbourne City, so maybe she's someone that's
hanging up her boots. Who knows, I'll do something. I'll
do some digging this week, Piney.
Speaker 2 (28:23):
That'd be good. Yeah, if you could bring that to
the podcast audience next week, that would be greatly appreciated.
I see Kate Taylor has turned up at Dijon in
the top league in France. I've seen a lot of
social media content out of that club and she's front
and center. So great to see kay Taylor settling and well.
Her season starts on the twenty second of September, just
before we go. The under twenty women about to undertake
(28:44):
their campaign in Columbia for the World Cup. They played Japan,
Austria and Ghana in group play. They need to finish
in the top two or be one of the four
best third placed finishers. Leon Bernie's the coach. She's got
sixteen of the squad that went to the Under seventeen
World Cup a couple of years ago. Just quickly ken
(29:05):
Japan obviously, as we said before, very good at every level.
Austria seeing like they'll be good Garner maybe might be
a game where New Zealand could sense a result. Can
you see us getting out of this group? What are
you hearing? Yeah?
Speaker 3 (29:18):
I mean I don't think it's a super threatening group
of group of oppositions, So positive there. And I just
refeek back to the under seventeen World Cup guard that
would have been over five six years ago now, but
where they the junior football Ferns went on to win
bronze at that World Cup. So yeah, I'm confident about
(29:39):
this group of players. And you know there's so many
names that have been other capped for the football Ferns,
been caught up to squads or play professional football already,
So yeah, confident about what this group can do.
Speaker 2 (29:50):
Yep. Looking forward to their group games in the week
ahead and this coming Saturday at Albany. You'll be in
the commentary box for Chantham Cup and Kate Shepherd Cup
finals Kate shepperd Cup Western Springs Auckland United at four
o'clock and Chatham Cup Final Auckland City Wellington Olympic at
seven o'clock. Who you got in these two games? Who
are you picking?
Speaker 4 (30:09):
Yeah?
Speaker 3 (30:09):
Well, Piney'll obviously be channeling my inner Jason pine As
I call these games but big, big shoes to fill there.
But I think I have a feeling Wellington Olympic get
up over Auckland City. Yes, they've probably had an easier
regional season in the Central League, but I just feel
(30:30):
like Auckland City aren't what there used to be, and
in the women's Auckland United one hundred percent. They're so
so dominant in the women's competition.
Speaker 2 (30:39):
It's Mickey Foster play for them at the moment.
Speaker 3 (30:41):
Yes, I believe. So there's obviously as well, like Chloe
not gosh, just so so many strong players. I think
Ruby Nathan's been there as well since she's been back.
She obviously won't be she's at the World Cup right now.
But yeah, they've got some really really strong players domestically
or her, we've kind of stood out and probably could
(31:02):
be knocking on the Phoenix door.
Speaker 2 (31:03):
All right, Well, enjoy the calls of those two games,
looking forward to hearing those and watching it play out.
That brings to an end a bumper edition of Football Fever.
Sorry we have been away so long. We will bring
you episodes weekly again from now on as the New
A League season draws closer and Keywis continue to play
football all around the world in various different capacities. Thanks Bonnie,
(31:26):
we'll chat you again next Monday.
Speaker 1 (31:28):
We'll see it in Football Fever with Jason Vine and
Bonnie Jensens. For more from News Talks at b listen
live on air or online, and keep our shows with
you wherever you go with our podcasts on Irradio.
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