Giants retain prize
THE Socceroos are poised to reprise the blueprint for World Cup success from 2005, using a charter flight to whisk the players back to Australia from the first leg of their World Cup qualifier with Syria in Malaysia.
As Football Federation Australia still waits to learn the kick off time for the first leg, to be played at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Melaka on October 5, advanced plans have been drawn up for a bespoke flight back to Sydney after the game.
The plan would mimic the Qantas 747 that flew Guus Hiddink’s side back from Montevideo in 2005 after the first leg of the playoff with Uruguay, and would involve a six- figure investment in the hopes of making the World Cup.
A dedicated plane would allow space for medical treatment and massages on the plane, as well as return the players to Sydney far more quickly than a commercial flight ahead of the second leg at ANZ Stadium on October 10.
It’s believed that the kick off time for the Syria game in Melaka has provisionally been set for 8pm local time ( 11pm AEST), though there are thought to be concerns within the Asian Football Confederation that the relatively late start time. The 2005 flight became a significant weapon in Hiddink’s successful bid to lead Australia to a World Cup for the first time since 1974. GREATER Western Sydney have re- signed Josh Kelly, with the race to recruit the AFL’s most in- demand youngster put on hold for a further two seasons.
Rival clubs were lining up to lure Kelly home to Victoria, with North Melbourne dangling a nine- year contract thought to be worth approximately $ 10 million.
But the gifted midfielder has opted to remain a Giant, extending his contract until the end of the 2019 season.
GWS expressed confidence throughout 2017 that Kelly would stay but confirmation only came two days after their semi- final win over West Coast.
The 22- year- old’s stocks have soared during a season in which he has averaged 29 disposals, with a string of impressive performances re- sulting in selection.
Kelly, whose father played 61 VFL games for the Kangaroos between 1981- 85, says Sydney is now home. All- Australian
“This club has been my home for four years and I’m thrilled this will continue,” Kelly said yesterday.
“It’s been a big year but the time was right now to make a decision ahead of what is no doubt going to be a really big game.
“I love this club and being part of building what we’re working to create here.”
Kelly’s re- signing comes as the Giants prepare to face Richmond in a blockbuster preliminary final at the MCG on Saturday.
He had 33 touches in the club’s 67- point victory over the Eagles at Spotless Stadium.
Kelly joins Dylan Shiel, Jon Patton, Lachie Whitfield, Jacob Hopper and many other teammates to recommit this year.
“It’s a huge endorsement for our football club that this is where he wants to be,” GWS football manager Wayne Campbell said.
“We know it was a big decision for him and one he didn’t take lightly.
“We’re thrilled. He’s already a leader of our club and we’re really looking forward to his next few seasons.”