Belt Up Amateur Premier Division: Irish twist to final day drama

The thrilling battle for the Belt Up Men’s Amateur Premier title reaches its conclusion this weekend with a distinctly green flavour to proceedings.

Emerald and East Perth, two clubs with strong Irish connections, go into the final week sitting first and second respectively, level on points and with the same goal difference.

What separates them is that Emerald have scored six more goals, something which could be decisive come Sunday evening.

Last week Emerald won 2-1 at South Perth United, while two goals from Ryan McCready helped East Perth to a terrific 3-0 victory at previous leaders North Perth United.

A twist is that East Perth are in action the day before Emerald. Colm Costello’s side travel to relegated South West Phoenix on Saturday night, not only looking to secure the three points but also trying to rack up as many goals as possible to put the pressure on Emerald, who host fifth-placed Jaguar at Fraser Park on Sunday.

There is also the question of promotion to State League Division Two. While Emerald have confirmed they are not interested in going up, East Perth are and will do so automatically if they are crowned champions. However, should they finish second, or even third, they will enter a one-game play-off with State League side Morley Windmills to determine who plays in the higher league next year.

While the title race is still officially a three-way scrap, last week’s damaging defeat to East Perth all but sunk North Perth’s hopes. They are now relying on both of their rivals to lose while they must win at Wembley Downs if they are to finish top on goal difference. North Perth have also confirmed they are not seeking promotion.