Issue_#27-Round Ball Round-Up
Hits, Headlines and Heartbreak
GOODWIN NAMED SKIPPER
It’s official – Craig Goodwin will wear the armband for Adelaide United again. Fourth stint at the club, second time as skipper – and honestly, it just feels right.
This current Reds squad has been crying out for a natural leader. Ryan Kitto gave his all, and deserves respect for stepping up, but there’s a difference between someone who leads by example and someone who embodies what a club is about – on and off the pitch. Kitto was solid, respected, and loved by the group – and that matters – but Goodwin brings that next level of presence.
Goodwin is Adelaide United. Face of the club. Fans love him, players look up to him, and when he talks, people listen. He’s experienced, composed, and carries himself exactly how you’d want a captain to.
As for Kitto, I actually think stepping away from the armband could be the best thing for him. There’s been a bit of noise about whether he’s been enjoying his football – fair call – and without that extra weight on his shoulders, we might just see him get back to his best.
Let’s hope Goody’s leadership can bring a bit of stability and positivity back to the club. Because let’s be honest, the vibe around Adelaide United hasn’t exactly been electric lately.
SUITED AND BOOTED
How bloody good is Suited and Booted?
Look, I’ll put my hand up – I was late to the party. But now? Hooked. These lads are absolutely flying the flag for Aussie football content and doing it their way – no filters, no fluff, just pure love for the game mixed with sharp analysis and a whole lot of banter.
What I love most? They’re not afraid to dive into the real stuff. The big issues, the uncomfortable questions, the nitty gritty of the game here at home. But they still keep it light and entertaining. That balance is tough – and they nail it.
The recent road trip to cover the Avondale v Heidelberg top-of-the-table clash? Outstanding. Felt like you were right there in the stands with them. Proper community footy vibes mixed with elite-level passion and storytelling. I watched the whole thing with a massive grin on my face.
To the Suited and Booted crew – keep smashing it. The game is better with you in it, and your love for Aussie football is infectious. If you’re not following them already, go do it now: @suitedandbootedtv
SAPSFORD FIRES
Zak Sapsford – remember the name, because he’s turning heads in Scotland!
We saw glimpses of his talent in the A-League – sharp movement, a proper striker’s instinct, and that knack for popping up at the right place at the right time. Now he’s taken that to Europe and is absolutely flying.
After netting the winner on debut in the Conference League qualifier for Dundee United, he’s backed it up with another massive performance – grabbing an assist and a vital equaliser away to Rapid Wien in the third round. That’s no small feat – hostile crowd, big European night, and he’s out there bossing it like a seasoned pro.
Scottish fans are starting to realise what we’ve known for a while – this kid has something about him. You just love to see Aussies making waves overseas, and Zak’s doing the green and gold proud.
Wouldn’t be surprised at all to see Popa, or even Arnie, hopping on a plane soon to check in on him and the other Aussie boys in Scotland. The pathway’s clear – perform consistently, and doors will open.
Let’s hope he stays fit and keeps riding this wave. Big things ahead.
WESTERN UNITED
Sad, sad day for Aussie football.
Western United are staring down the barrel, with the league stepping in and stripping the club of their licence. It’s a tough one to swallow.
Just a few seasons ago, they were lifting the A-League Men’s championship – a moment of triumph that, in hindsight, feels almost surreal. But let’s be honest – despite the silverware, WU always felt like they were fighting an uphill battle. No home ground. Limited fan engagement. A club without a clear identity, bouncing around venues.
The intention behind their inclusion made sense – expand the league, tap into new markets, bring fresh energy. But in the end, execution is everything, and they just never quite nailed the foundations – particularly infrastructure and community connection.
This isn't just a Western United issue – it reflects on the league as a whole. It’s a brutal reminder of how fragile things can be without long-term vision, support, and stability.
My heart genuinely goes out to everyone affected – especially the players and staff left in limbo. Hopefully, we can find a way to keep those people in the game because the sport is poorer without them.
Big questions need asking. And even bigger answers need to be found if we’re going to move forward and rebuild faith in the league’s direction.